Columbus is getting a National Women’s Soccer League team—and with it, a powerful new chapter in the region’s sports story begins. Set to begin play in 2028, the franchise brings major-league momentum, prominent ownership, and growing excitement around the future of women’s sports in Central Ohio. But this moment is about more than soccer. As plans move forward for a new training facility and upgrades to ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, we’ll explore what the team could mean for fans, neighborhoods, public investment, and the local economy.
How did Columbus land the bid, and how can the region make the most of the opportunity? How are leaders navigating both the opportunities and tensions surrounding the project? As anticipation builds, we’ll examine not just what it takes to win a team—but how to turn that win into lasting and equitable public value.
Featuring Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, City of Columbus; Linda Logan, CEO & President, Greater Columbus Sports Commission, Mary Shepro, President of Business Operations, Columbus Crew, with moderator Kristen McFarland, News Reporter, WBNS 10TV.
If you would like to dive more deeply into this topic, our friends at the Columbus Metropolitan Library suggest checking out The Fast Track, by Jane McManus, 2025.
June 10, 2026
Lunch is served Livestream is free and open to anyone, but we appreciate viewers purchasing a “virtual seat” to help us continue our mission