Whether you’ve been a fan for years (looking at you Nordecke!) or the happenings over the past few years caught your attention, the past is history and the future is a victory when it comes to the evolution of the Columbus Crew. From the infamous “Save the Crew” movement to new owners and sponsors, the recently unveiled $230 million downtown stadium – renamed Lower.com Field – became home to not only passionate fans but a new coach and new president and general manager, Tim Bezbatchenko.

Tim stepped in to lead the Crew’s business and soccer operations in 2019 with an eye to transform the team and overall fan experience. Leading the initiative for record-breaking team sponsorship deals and doubling season-ticket memberships, there’s no question this Westerville native and former New York attorney had the experience to lead the team that would become known as the 2020 MLS Cup winners:

• Retired professional soccer player for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.

• Senior Vice President of Soccer Operations & General Manager for Toronto FC, considered the youngest general manager in MLS history at 31, doubling revenue in 5 years to more than $60 million

• Senior Director of Player Relations & Competition for Major League Soccer

In this episode of Empower Hour, you’ll quickly understand why Tim was named to the 2021 Forty Under 40 list by Sports Business Journal, designed to celebrate the best young talent in sports business.