KANSAS CITY (Jan. 11, 2017) – The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) announced today that Elam Baer, CEO of North Central Equity, LLC would be taking over operation of FC Kansas City (FCKC). The team enters into its fifth season with plenty of reason for optimism.

Brad Likens, one of FC Kansas City’s founders said, “This is a good day for Kansas City, one of the greatest sports towns in the United States. With Elam and his partners committed to the club and our region, I know our organization will be stronger than ever and that this move is not only good for the team, and our fans, but the league as a whole. While there are no certainties in sports, I know FC Kansas City will take the field on opening day poised to compete for another NWSL championship.”

“I’m honored to be a part of the future of FCKC, whether that is on game day or in the greater Kansas City community,” said Baer. “I am fortunate to be joined by exceptional partners who want the same thing that I do, and that’s a club built for long-term stability and success in Kansas City.”

Baer added that he has spoken with Head Coach Vlatko Andonovski and supports his goal to find the right mix of players to bring his team back to championship form.

“On behalf of the league and its owners, I welcome Elam to the NWSL and look forward to working with him and his partners as a new era begins for FC Kansas City,” NWSL Commissioner Jeff Plush said. “Elam is committed to strengthening FC Kansas City’s roots throughout the entire Kansas City metropolitan area and beyond. Elam and his partners will look to build off of what has been started by the Likens family, whose support of and many contributions to the establishment and growth of the league will never be forgotten.”

Newly named General Manager, Jean-Yves Viardin, also joins Andonovski on the Executive Staff. Viardin brings with him both executive management and playing experience.

While Andonovski puts together the most productive team on the field, Baer and Viardin will work to fill out their front office staff. The current staff has split their time between FC Kansas City and the Kansas City Comets of the Major Arena Soccer League. The Comets will remain under the ownership of Chris, Brad and Greg Likens and some of the staff will be retained by the group.