FSE soccer ventures case study

When the Rochester Rhinos ceased operations in 2017, FSE Founding Partner Mark Washo was determined to bring professional soccer back to Rochester validated by the positive business growth the Rhinos experienced in two short seasons. Mark created a "pitch deck" business plan and began searching for new investors.  In 2020, Mark met with the National Independent Soccer League right before Covid and learned of a professional league model optimal for the Rochester market. 

FSE Soccer Ventures co-founded Flower City Union with then CEO of Aphex Dave Weaver (clubs original investor), as well as Todd Harrison lead professor of St. John Fisher Sport Management.  Todd, who also had a pro soccer business plan integrated with a new masters program the University was launching. FSE raised the initial club capital, attracted new investors and negotiated with NISA.  FSE was heavily involved all elements of the brand launch, which led to an outsourced management relationship with the club to maximize revenue, which includes continuing to raise investor and fan ownership capital to maintain club operations.

In late 2015, Rochester native and FSE agency founder was recruited by the new owners of the Rochester Rhinos, who were fresh of the 2015 USL Championship to lead the "Return of the Rhinos" to past glory days.  Despite inheriting a challenging situation (as well as a negative PR campaign at the end of the 2017 season), under Mark's leadership the Rhinos experienced growth in all measurable aspects of the business, including ticket sales, group sales, sponsorship and merchandise.  The club operating losses were also reduced from the first to the second season.  The return of the fans was encouraging, and the Rhinos ended as the club was gaining momentum, including increased PR coverage.  This success led to the exploration of returning professional soccer back to Rochester & the launch of Flower City Union fast forward 4 years later.

Mark left the Chicago Fire in 2009 to join the Washington Freedom as the clubs President, GM and Primary Board of Governor.  During his tenure, the Washington Freedom was in the top third of the WPS in ticket sales, attendance and sponsorship revenue.  The team was stacked on the field with many US National Team and other foreign players.  Notable players included Abby Wambach, Allie Krieger, Ashlyn Harris, Cat Whitehill, Sawa, Sonia Bompastor, Alex Singer, Allie Long, Becky Sauerbrunn, Erin McLoud, Lori LIndsey.  Up until present day, the Washington Freedom remain one of the most iconic brands in women's professional soccer.