Announcing NISA Rochester NY

The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) has enthusiastically approved the Rochester Pro Soccer Club LLC application establishing a brand-new club in the Flower City. As noted in November when Rochester submitted its application, this will be NISA’s fourth new club in the last seven months.

“While this past year has been a significant challenge for everyone in sports, Rochester NISA is another example of NISA’s steady footing heading into 2021,” says NISA Commissioner John Prutch. “Five Member clubs/markets joined this year, with additional applicants to be announced in early 2021. We are actively bringing quality professional soccer to every city in the United States.”

The Rochester NISA club will hold a zoom chat tomorrow night at 6 p.m. ET to share the club name – decided by the Rochester community – with fans first. Fans can register at passion@nisarochesterny.com or visit nisarochesterny.com to register online.

Jenna Cottrell of 13WHAM ABC and FOX Rochester – will moderate an informal “soccer” chat with the new NISA soccer club principals. The club will continue to foster engagement and gain immediate feedback in the coming months as it develops club colors, crest and other brand elements.

“We are committed to being inclusive and supportive of our community from the start,” said David Weaver, ownership group leader. “The fans will play a big role in adding to the history of soccer in Rochester, and that starts this week.”

Weaver, CEO and founder of Rochester-based Aphex BioCleanse Systems Inc., is a 30-year New York State Emeritus soccer referee and former youth soccer administrator. He is joined in operations by Managing Director and Chief Commercial Officer Mark Washo, a long-time soccer executive having previously held senior leadership positions in Major League Soccer and Women’s Professional Soccer clubs, as well as the Rochester Rhinos.

The ownership group also has developed a strategic partnership with St. John Fisher College’s Sport Management Department, led by Dr. Todd Harrison, associate professor and chair, to provide faculty expertise and a variety of other support for the club.