Q: We’ve really enjoyed seeing some of the deals that have been made, in particular the new beer garden in collaboration with the Genesee Brewery. What has the response from local business been like to the Rhinos’ new ownership and direction?

Washo: Outreach to the local Rochester business community has also been a key priority for both myself, as well as our team owners David and Wendy Dworkin, since I arrived here in Rochester late last March. In additional to approaching literally hundreds of local companies, we’ve also focused on connecting with established Rochester “legacy companies”, which includes a company like the Genesee Brewery, but also brands such as Zweigle’s, who have been in business in Rochester for over 130 years. We’ve made good progress overall, and have also have new exciting local market partnership announcements on the horizon soon from Rochester-based companies.

All of that said, however, when examining the overall corporate roster here in Rochester, due to the size limitations of our market, we also must connect with regional brands where Rochester is a priority, as well as national brands. Our most recent naming rights partnership with Capelli Sport is a great step for us, for example. Even though they are not a Rochester-based company, they are interested in growing their brand presence all over our city, and want to have a stronger presence in Rochester to help us continue to support our local community.

Q: The team has obviously continued to do its part, again putting in a successful campaign in defense of its 2015 title. Is the success the side is seeing a good selling point for you on the business side?

Washo: Without question, having the team perform well on the field is important and can provide a lift on the business side. It helps us with our overall storytelling of our team, plus helps us create an identity for the club. Having a winning team on the field, and being able to boast that we were 2015 USL Cup champions helps our cause. Making the playoffs this past season helped us too. We learned who many true friends of the Rhinos were last season by identifying those who stepped up to support us for our home playoff game when we had less than one week to market and sell it.

We also need to be realistic about how much winning will positively impact our efforts on the business. We still have work to do gaining coverage from the local media. We must transition casual soccer observers into Rhinos fans. With greater media attention, more people will become aware of our strong team on the field, and this should help us increase our following. I’ve seen in other soccer markets I’ve been in, if the team is performing at a high level, with exciting players, the casual sports fan can have switched on because people like to follow a winning team, and are attracted to exciting players.