Take 5: Huntsville City FC’s Chad Emerson

Welcome to Take 5, a five-question Q&A feature of 256 Today.

This edition features Chad Emerson, managing director of Business Operations for Huntsville City Football Club. Before joining the first-year club, Chad served 9 years as CEO of Downtown Huntsville, Inc., where he helped create a vision and a brand for an underused and underappreciated part of Huntsville.

Now, he is helping guide Huntsville City, which begins its season Sunday in Charlotte. The club will make its home debut May 19 in a renovated Joe Davis Stadium.

1. What drew you from building an identity for downtown Huntsville to building a professional sports team? Do you have a sports background?

“Downtowns are similar to sports teams because people develop deep connections with both. There’s a sense of pride that many people realize for their city centers and their local pro teams. I find it very fulfilling to help lead efforts to make and grow these connections.  

“My sports background has been modest, playing soccer through high school, but I’ve been fortunate to remain involved in the beautiful game as a soccer parent and volunteer for the last 18 years.”

2. How do you compare your HCFC role with your former position with Downtown Huntsville Inc.?

“Both present the exciting opportunity to develop an organization from the ground up that is committed to creating a great and memorable experience for both Huntsville locals and our visiting guests.”

3. How much input do you, and/or the club staff have regarding personnel?

“My role is to lead the local business operations while we also have a great local team led by Liam Doyle to head our soccer operations. Liam is building our roster in close partnership with our General Manager Mike Jacobs and his team.”

4. How has the reception been with the city, area businesses and fans? 

“It’s been incredible! From youth soccer players to corporate and community leaders and everyone in-between, Huntsville is clearly excited to get behind Huntsville City FC. It’s been especially rewarding to see several local Supporters Groups already develop and loudly and proudly support our Boys in Blue!”

5. What can the fans expect on May 19 and the inaugural season?

“That we’ll work as hard as we can to bring them an evening filled with great memories. Our entire HCFC and Nashville Soccer Club family are working tirelessly toward May 19th!