Snohomish County, WA
While the Fish have been relatively quiet during their off-season, significant developments have been unfolding behind the scenes. A recent article in the Everett Herald shed light on the future plans of the Steelheads, catching the attention of Snohomish County Council Vice-Chair Nate Nehring. This prompted President Dorian Lair’s formal invitation to the council’s main office to delve into the soccer landscape of Snohomish County. Discussions ranged from the limited options available to local athletes, leading many to either cease playing or journey to the Seattle metro area to play top level soccer, to sustainability concerns, local economic prospects, and the potential structure of a future USL 2 bid for the community.
“I was very interested to read the recent Herald article regarding your vision to bring USL2 soccer to Snohomish County with the Steelheads. I am a big fan of the team and am an advocate for athletics at the county level. There is lots to be excited about in Snohomish County…”
Snohomish County Council Vice-Chair Nate Nehring
In the end, these discussions spurred action from the council. Vice-Chair Nehring suggested working with Communications Manager Laura Tanis to draft a County Resolution. This resolution would be presented at a General Legislative Session on April 10th to determine whether the Snohomish County Council would endorse the efforts of the Snohomish County Football Club in their bid for USL League 2.
Ultimately, sponsored by Councilmember Nate Nehring of District 1, the council unanimously passed Resolution No. 24-012, expressing its backing for the initiative. But what does this mean for Snohomish County and its residents?
1. Promoting Health and Wellness: Soccer holds a special place in Snohomish County, promoting physical activity and positive engagement among youth and young adults. With a strong culture of soccer already present, the addition of a USL 2 club can further enhance opportunities for participation and development.
2. Filling a Gap in Competitive Soccer: Beyond high school, opportunities for competitive soccer often dwindle, leading many athletes to either quit the sport or seek opportunities elsewhere. A USL 2 club within the county provides a higher level of play for these athletes, without the need to incur additional costs or travel burdens.
3. Harnessing Local Talent: Snohomish County boasts a wealth of soccer talent waiting to be tapped into. By establishing a USL 2 club locally, the county can showcase and nurture this talent, potentially paving the way for professional opportunities in the future.
4. Community Engagement: The Snohomish County Football Club, spearheading this initiative, is deeply committed to serving the community. From partnering with local school districts to hosting free summer clinics, the club aims to be more than just a sports team but a catalyst for positive change.
5. Economic and Social Impact: The introduction of a USL 2 club can have far-reaching effects, both economically and socially. Drawing in tourism and businesses centered around soccer events, it can become a focal point for community gatherings, fostering a sense of unity and pride.
Looking Ahead: The passage of this resolution marks the beginning of an exciting journey for Snohomish County. As plans for the USL 2 club take shape, the community can anticipate a boost in soccer opportunities, community engagement, and economic vitality. With the backing of the County Council, the future looks bright for soccer enthusiasts across the region.
By endorsing this resolution, the Snohomish County Council has signaled its commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture and supporting initiatives that enrich the lives of its residents. As the vision of a USL 2 club becomes a reality, Snohomish County stands poised to become a hub for soccer excellence and community pride.
The Steelheads would love to thank the entire Council, Council Chair Jared Mead, Vice-Chair and resolution sponsor Nate Nehring, Councilmember Strom Peterson, Councilmember Sam Low, Councilmember Megan Dunn, and Communications Manager Laura Tanis for considering our resolution and supporting the mission!
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