Benno Nagel, Co-Founder and Project Director of WPSL Pro, recently emphasized the existing strength of soccer-specific infrastructure in the U.S. women's soccer landscape, advocating for immediate action over prolonged development timelines. Nagel's statement underscores a strategic approach to leveraging current resources for the rapid expansion of professional opportunities. He highlighted that while "owning your own dirt" and building mixed-use projects are long-term goals, waiting "5-10 years for widespread development" means "missing the opportunity to get into things today."
Nagel, a key figure in the upcoming WPSL Pro league, noted the prevalence of suitable facilities across America, particularly through college partnerships. "Not all colleges make for good partners but the facilities are clearly out there and spread pretty well across America," Nagel stated, pointing to a readily available network for growth. This perspective aligns with WPSL Pro's mission to launch as a Division II professional league in 2026, aiming to bridge a critical player development gap.
WPSL Pro, an offshoot of the long-standing amateur Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL), is designed to provide a professional pathway for elite athletes. The league, which has already confirmed 15 teams, has attracted significant investment, including a lead funding round from Cleveland Soccer Group. Co-founder Sean Jones described WPSL Pro as "the bridge that’s been missing," emphasizing its role for players, clubs, and communities.
The league's business model features a lower $1 million expansion fee compared to other top-tier leagues, aiming to allow clubs to invest more directly into their operations and sustainability. WPSL Pro also plans a club/athlete profit-sharing model, giving players a direct stake in the league's financial success. This strategy, championed by Nagel, seeks to capitalize on existing infrastructure and a robust talent pool to foster immediate and sustainable growth in women's professional soccer.