Veteran Sports Executive Wittenberg Named NWSL NJ/NY Gotham President
Thursday, August 3, 2023 at 08:04PM By Barry Janoff
August 3, 2023: Following what was called “an extensive nationwide search,” Mary Wittenberg has been named president of the NWSL NJ/NY Gotham FC, effective immediately.
Wittenberg is a veteran sports executive who is well-versed in New York area sports.
In 2005, she was the first woman named president and CEO of New York Road Runners and then became the first woman race director for the TCS New York City Marathon.
In 2015, Wittenberg departed NYRR and was named founding CEO for Richard Branson’s Virgin Sport. She also has served as president of the Tour de France EF Pro Cycling team, and founding president of start-up league, League One Volleyball.
According to the club, “Wittenberg will lead the business, collaborating with general manager and had of soccer operations Yael Averbuch West to establish an environment that inspires continued player success and makes Gotham FC a world-class club both on and off the field, inspiring Gotham FC fans everywhere.”
“After carefully evaluating an extremely talented and diverse field of candidates, the ownership group is delighted to have attracted such a well-recognized leader in the sports industry,” Gotham FC chair Tammy Murphy, wife of New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, both founding owners of the team, said via the club.
“Mary is an industry trailblazer. Her extensive experience, transformative mindset, and people-first leadership style reflect our club’s values of integrity, diversity, and inclusion.”
The club, which rebranded as Gotham FC in 2021, has been part of the NWSL since the league launched in 2013. It plays home games in Red Bull Arena, Harrison, NJ (home to the MLS New York Red Bulls).
“I am thrilled to join Gotham FC as President,” Wittenberg, a graduate of Notre Dame Law School, said via the club. “It's a one-of-a-kind opportunity to build a world-renowned women's football club that inspires.
“Hats off to our owners, players, staff, and fans. I can't wait to start supporting this incredible community at this transformative time for the club and league, to serve our fans, and welcome vision-aligned brands that want to grow with us.”
Team investors include Sue Bird, Kevin Durant, Eli Manning and Carli Lloyd.
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