The Rise of Multi-Club Ownership in USL: A Controversial Move?
In the world of USL, a bold decision by Texoma FC has sparked an intriguing debate. The club's self-relegation and subsequent establishment of a new team, Rodeo SC, has inadvertently led them into the realm of multi-club ownership. But is this a strategic realignment or a controversial step towards a multi-club future?
Ben Watson, the owner of Texoma FC, vehemently rejects the term 'self-relegation.' He sees it as a strategic move, a realignment to better fit the soccer landscape in Texas. Watson and his investors found themselves in a unique position, with a League One team and a League Two affiliate, each with its own distinct identity and market.
'We were the pioneers,' Watson told GOAL. 'It's unique because our League One team has an affiliate in a different market, creating a multi-club system in North Texas.'
But here's where it gets controversial... Texoma's inaugural season fell short of expectations. The small market of Sherman, Texas, couldn't sustain a professional soccer team. Watson had to make a tough choice. He decided to realign Texoma as an amateur club in USL League Two and focus on building a bigger, more successful club in a larger market - Celina, Texas.
'I think we realigned to fit the community better,' Watson explained. 'The Texoma community is smaller, and USL League Two suits it well.'
And this is the part most people miss... Watson's vision extends beyond just one club. He envisions shared academies, a talent pool for both teams, and a fully integrated system where multiple franchises can thrive. It's a bold move, one that could define the future of USL.
However, there are challenges. The human cost of demoting a club is significant. Many players had multi-year contracts, and the USL Players Association has raised concerns about the impact on players' livelihoods. Watson admits these conversations were difficult, especially given the connection between the players and the club.
'It's never easy,' Watson said. 'We got attached to our players, and it was hard to let them go.'
The natural question arises: will Texoma be sacrificed for the success of Rodeo SC? Some fans fear that Texoma might become an afterthought, with all efforts focused on the new club. Watson, however, assures that both teams will be given the resources and attention they need.
'We will upstaff and evaluate annually to ensure both teams operate at a high level,' he said.
And what about the possibility of the two teams facing off in the US Open Cup? Watson admits he doesn't know who he'd root for, but fans like Richard McKibbin are clear - their loyalty lies with Texoma.
'I'll always support Texoma,' McKibbin said. 'The new club is part of the Texoma extended universe, but my heart is with the original team.'
So, is Texoma's self-relegation a noble move or a controversial step? The answer might lie in the success of Rodeo SC and the realization of Watson's vision for a multi-club ecosystem. What do you think? Should clubs be allowed to self-relegate? Could this be a game-changer for USL? Let's discuss in the comments!
