Brad Estes is stepping down as Louisville Soccer Holdings president after launching and running Louisville City FC (USL Championship), Racing Louisville FC (NWSL) and Lynn Family Stadium.
Estes is stepping down to pursue a local business opportunity outside of soccer, according to a press release issued by Louisville City. James O’Connor has been appointed Soccer Holdings’ interim president.
Since Estes began work with the USL Championship’s Louisville City FC in 2016, Soccer Holdings has grown to include the NWSL’s Racing Louisville FC and a burgeoning youth academy. Teams also call home the new Lynn Family Stadium and Lynn Family Sports Vision & Training Center.
“We thank Brad for his efforts these last five years and know that we wouldn’t be where we are today without his diligence and leadership,” said John Neace, Soccer Holdings’ Chairman and CEO, via press release. “We wish him well and know that he will continue to do great things in his career. As we all know, you don’t replace a Brad. He will always be a part of the purple family.”
Estes is a Louisville native who originally connected to the club as a consultant through his previous role as Neace Ventures’ president. He soon afterward came on full time, leveraging a finance background during LouCity’s swift ascent on and off the field.
“Working for this organization has been the most rewarding five years of my career,” said Estes via press release. “I’m excited to start my next adventure, which will allow me to be a supporter on the weekends. I owe a massive debt of gratitude to our board, ownership, players, staff, supporters, sponsors and Metro government. I’m proud of what we have been able to accomplish together.
“I wouldn’t be leaving unless this business was set up for success. It is thriving, and it will continue to do so under John and James’ leadership.”