Days after the Philadelphia Union lost the U.S. Open Cup final for the second year in a row, a big change has occurred within the organization.
After helping to start the club back in 2007, CEO Nick Sakiewicz and the Union have parted ways. Union Chief Revenue Officer Dave Rowan will assume day-to-day business operations in the interim.
“Nick was instrumental in helping bring a team to Philadelphia and building our organization from the ground up, and we thank him for the dedication and perseverance he showed in those efforts along with his passion for the club,” said Union Chairman and Majority Owner Jay Sugarman in a release. “It’s time to move forward now and execute on our plan to bring a winning team to Philadelphia and its fans.”
CBSlocal.com's Kevin Kinkead originally reported on Thursday that club CEO Nick Sakiewicz "would be removed from his duties on Friday morning."
Late on Thursday evening, ESPN reporter Jeff Carlisle added to the reports with comments from Sakiewicz:
Sakiewicz helped to found the Union, joining the nascent organization in 2007 and helping the club enter Major League Soccer in 2010. While with Philadelphia, the Union built their own stadium, PPL Park, reached the MLS Cup Playoffs in 2011, and were two-time US Open Cup finalists, the past two years.
