New Houston Dynamo, Houston Dash, and BBVA Compass Stadium minority partner Jake Silverstein—a private investor based in Portland, Oregon—spoke with HoustonDynamo.com about his decision to acquire the team from AEG and what he sees in store for the organization moving forward.
HoustonDynamo.com: When Gabriel Brener approached you about joining the new ownership group, what was your initial reaction?
Jake Silverstein: Excitement. I’m a lifetime soccer fan and it’s been extraordinary to watch the growth of MLS and soccer in America. The success of the league in recent years has been well-documented. New television contracts, growing attendance and ratings, expansion … it’s an authentic soccer experience that rivals any other sports experience in America.
HD: Why Houston?
JS: Houston is a dynamic and diverse city. It’s on the verge of becoming the third largest city in America. A lot of people likely think of Texas and relate it to American football, but really, when considering the international makeup of Houston’s population and the young professionals moving in at a high rate, soccer is a perfect fit. It’s the most popular game in the world, attracting multicultural millennials. When you consider the city’s makeup in with what the Dynamo and Dash have already accomplished, I believe Houston can be a model city for soccer in America.
HD: You said you’re a lifetime soccer fan. What excites you most about the Dynamo on the field in the near future?
JS: Matt (Jordan) and Owen (Coyle) have a very clear plan for how they want to play and the players we need on the pitch to execute. They have already done some outstanding work to solidify the roster headed into 2016. I’m looking forward to seeing the plan come to life. This is a franchise and fan base that isn’t used to being outside looking in when playoffs roll around. I don’t expect that to be the case in 2016.
HD: This transaction also includes the Houston Dash, BBVA Compass Stadium and operation of Houston Sports Park. Talk about the vision for each of those three as well.
JS: Great soccer is great soccer and there is no one playing better right now than Carli Lloyd. I’m excited to watch her and the Dash this summer. The Dash allows us to reach an even more diverse soccer audience and provides great role models for young female players.
The stadium really speaks for itself. It’s a world-class venue for soccer and allows us to bolster the entertainment options in downtown Houston with concerts, international friendlies, etc.
Houston Sports Park is a tremendous facility as well, for our teams, the Academy and most importantly, the community. It connects soccer players of all ages to the Dynamo and Dash and allows us to foster the growth of the sport in Houston through youth programs and training. It’s a vital piece to our continued growth.
