KALAMAZOO, Mich. – A new era of summer sports and entertainment is officially arriving in Kalamazoo. Kzoo Soccer announced today that it has taken over local semi-pro soccer operations to launch a revamped men’s team in USL League Two and a women’s team in the USL W League, kicking off in May 2027.
The new club succeeds Kalamazoo FC, whose owner Dave Shufelt recently stepped down after eight seasons to pass the torch to new stewards. The club is owned by Brian Colopy, owner of the Kalamazoo Growlers and Outlier Events, and Aaron Guerrero, a 13-year sports management veteran who will serve as club president and oversee daily operations.
While soccer is at the heart of the club, the new ownership group is building a brand anchored in total entertainment, fun, and community engagement.
“The match is why you show up, but the world-class entertainment, food, music, and community vibes are why you come back,” said Aaron Guerrero, president and co-owner. “We aren’t just running a soccer team; we’re building a premier entertainment experience for Kalamazoo. We’ve spent more than a decade learning what makes a great night out, and we’re bringing that exact energy to this entire project.”
A Complete Rebrand, Powered by the Fans
As part of taking over the team, the owners are completely rebranding the organization from the ground up. To ensure the identity belongs to the city, the club is handing the naming rights directly to the community. Starting today, fans can submit name ideas at kzoosoccer.com. Community submissions will shape a shortlist of five names to be revealed October 15, with the final club name, crest, and colors officially unveiled on November 5.
Big Stadium Renovation & Event Venue Plans
The club will continue to play at Soisson-Rapacz-Clason Field at Mayors’ Riverfront Park, but fans can expect a dramatically transformed venue. Kzoo Soccer is undertaking major site renovations designed to elevate the facility into a top-tier destination for soccer, massive community events, festivals, and year-round entertainment.
“This field won’t just be a place to watch 90 minutes of soccer. It’s being redesigned as a premier event venue for Southwest Michigan,” said Brian Colopy. “We have big plans for the site, and this initial renovation is just the beginning. Fans can expect several major announcements in the coming months regarding stadium upgrades, entertainment partnerships, and multi-use event programming.”
USL League Two and the USL W League represent the top pre-professional summer leagues in the country, showcasing elite college athletes competing on their path to the pros. Kalamazoo’s men’s team will compete in the Great Lakes Division alongside regional rivals like the Flint City Bucks.
Key Dates & How to Get Involved:
Now – Oct 13: Submit club name ideas at kzoosoccer.com
Oct 15: Top 5 name shortlist revealed & priority ticket deposits open
Nov 3: Official club name, crest, colors, and full season details unveiled
May 2027: Inaugural season kickoff
