Renowned Soccer Champion to Take on Key Role with North Carolina Team
Lauren Holiday, a decorated soccer star and philanthropist, is poised to join the North Carolina Courage in a prominent capacity, pending the completion of the team’s sale to Avenue Capital Group. Sources close to the negotiations revealed that Holiday will assume a vital role on the team’s board and contribute to operational decisions, with a specific focus on nurturing player talent.
Holiday is scheduled to visit Cary, North Carolina, this weekend to gain a deeper understanding of the franchise’s needs and aspirations. The Courage will host the San Diego Wave on Saturday at WakeMed Soccer Park.
Avenue Capital Group, led by chairman and CEO Marc Lasry, has been in advanced talks to acquire the Courage, with a reported offer valuing the team at $108 million. Lasry, a former NBA team owner, has expressed his ambition to grow women’s soccer, stating that the sport should experience a significant surge in value over the next decade.
Holiday, a 2015 World Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. She was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2023 and has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the sport, including winning the inaugural NWSL MVP and Golden Boot awards in 2013.
Beyond her impressive athletic achievements, Holiday is also celebrated for her philanthropic efforts, particularly through the JLH Social Impact Fund, which she founded with her husband, Jrue. The fund focuses on empowering Black and Brown communities through education and entrepreneurship. Holiday’s commitment to giving back to her community has earned her numerous accolades, including the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian ESPY Award.
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