USL League One’s FC Tucson has filled a front office leadership position, naming former New Mexico United Chief Operating Officer Amanda Powers as its first president. Powers is the second female club president in U.S. men’s professional soccer history.
“I love this game, I love this city, and I’m honored and excited to use soccer as a vehicle to build community and to honor the unique heritage that makes Tucson special,” said Powers. “We’re not trying to recreate the success of New Mexico United. We’re trying to find that same authentic spirit and build a team and game experience around that, for us, by us.”
During Powers’ tenure with New Mexico United, the club led the USL Championship in attendance as well as ticket and merchandise sales. The expansion club capped off one of the most successful first seasons in league history with a trip to the postseason.
“Amanda brings the right level of dedication to this team, and a unique skill-set that will serve this community well,” said Phoenix Rising FC General Manager Bobby Dulle. “Her background in marketing and community activism, coupled with her business acumen and league-specific experience, are exactly what this club needs.”
Phoenix Rising FC purchased FC Tucson in 2018 and joined USL League One to help advance the sport throughout Arizona.
Powers is a former member of the USL Board of Governors and has served as a trusted adviser and franchise builder for USL Championship clubs across the country. With a background in international economics, Powers has advised teams on stadium feasibility, go-to-market strategies, and building foundational systems that meet the needs of pro sports teams.
“We have an amazing front office and talented technical team [that includes] one of FC Tucson’s Founders, Jon Pearlman,” said Powers. “We’re thinking big, and when you think big, the world gets bigger.”
Under Powers’ leadership, FC Tucson will focus on growing its fan base and creating coalitions among the entire patchwork of the community. The club expects to unveil its plans for ticketing, promotions, and game day experience in the coming weeks.
Image courtesy FC Tucson.