Michal, Jakob (not pictured) and Noah
What is your role within the organization? Co-owner
When did you fall in love with the game? Growing up in Poland, I played - and watched - futbol pretty much my whole life. Attending Sweden - Brasil World Cup '94 match at the Silverdome was great - I still remember Swedish and Brazilian (and American) fans celebrating together before and after the game at the parking lot. Interning at Chicago Fire during that club's inaugural MLS season helped me gain appreciation to all the "behind the scenes" work required to build a team. It's really great to see how far soccer has come in the US over that time.
What do you love most about this club? The impact we already are seeing it has on the community. Long lines of kids waiting for autographs after each home game. Excitement and pride in their club.
How do you share this experience with your family? Every game is a family affair. Having my boys Noah (11) and Jakob (15) be involved with the club and help out before, during and after every match is really special, as is traveling with them to away games.
What has been the biggest surprise to you in the 3 + years of being involved with AFC? Overall quality of soccer played at that level. Players (and coaches) we are able to recruit to play for AFC are really, really good. We've definitely turned some heads and forced other local clubs to step up their soccer operations - which only improves overall quality of the game.
What is your most memorable moment since starting the club? So many come in mind: coming back vs Lansing United, heartbreaking loss to DCFC during last year's playoffs... but our Inaugural Match still tops the list - we really did not know what to expect and were overwhelmed with the reception and welcome from the community.
