How Rob Cohen's Ownership of Summit FC is Transforming Denver's Sports Scene

The Rise of Sports Ownership in Denver: Rob Cohen's Journey

In a remarkable pivot, Rob Cohen, a longtime figure in Denver’s sports promotion scene, has made a significant transition to sports ownership with his new National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team, Denver Summit FC. Cohen's career in the Denver sports arena began in 2001 with the establishment of the Denver Sports Commission, which successfully attracted high-profile events like the NCAA Final Four to the city. His ambitions reached new heights in 2022 when the Denver Broncos went up for sale.

A Shift in Focus: From Broncos to Summit FC

During the Broncos' sale process, Cohen was approached by various bidders seeking local insights. Although he entertained an offer to join as a limited partner, he did not proceed as the team was ultimately sold to the Walton-Penner family, a bidder who hadn’t initially reached out to him. In reflecting on this experience, Cohen realized that his interest lay not in merely owning a sports team, but in actively contributing to the Denver community. "It dawned on me that I wasn’t really, per se, interested in being a sports owner," he stated. Rather, he was eager to support the city that had been so beneficial for him and his family.

Building an Inclusive Sporting Environment

Denver Summit FC’s journey to establishment was characterized by a focus on inclusivity and dedicated facilities for women's sports. At the time of Cohen's interest, Denver had no professional women's teams, leading him to explore local fan clubs for women’s soccer. His findings were illuminating, revealing a strong and passionate community. "I walked into the bar, and it was completely packed with men, women, kids, and every TV was on the U.S. women’s national team," he recalled, affirming that there was a solid base of support for women's soccer.

Upon receiving the green light for his ownership bid in January 2025, Cohen and his investors undertook a massive real estate search to find a suitable location for the team’s dedicated stadium, something he deemed crucial for operating a successful franchise in women's sports. Traditionally, women’s teams have often been relegated to sharing facilities with men's teams, complicating revenue potentials vital for sustainability. Cohen emphasized that having a dedicated stadium would change this dynamic dramatically.

A Groundbreaking Investment in Women's Sports

The ambition to create a standalone stadium for Summit FC signals a bold step for women's professional sports in the United States, with Cohen investing a record-breaking $110 million expansion fee. Their plans for a permanent stadium in Denver include innovative designs focused on creating a vibrant atmosphere. "We’re making the largest investment in a women’s professional team that’s ever been made," Cohen proclaimed, underscoring the weight of this ambition.

Impact on the Community and Beyond

Cohen's motivations go beyond just financial investments; they reflect his dedication to uplifting the community. By involving local business figures and establishing scholarships for students through philanthropic efforts, Cohen has positioned Summit FC as not just a sports team, but also as a catalyst for change and opportunity in Denver. He believes that empowering women through sports can have profound societal effects, inspiring future generations.

Looking Ahead: Summit FC's Future

As Denver Summit FC gears up for its inaugural season, ticket sales indicate promising engagement, aiming to break attendance records for women’s sporting events. The team’s upcoming match at Empower Field is anticipated to draw significant crowds, and Cohen remains committed to ensuring that this venture thrives within the realm of women’s sports. Looking forward, he is excited about the possibilities and fervently hopeful that Summit FC will become a beloved pillar in Denver’s sports landscape.

Final Thoughts: The Evolution of Sports in Denver

Rob Cohen’s journey from sports promoter to team owner embodies the evolving landscape of sports in Denver. With a focus on community and inclusivity, Cohen strives to ensure that women’s sports get the recognition and support they deserve. For him, the risks associated with owning Summit FC are not just financial, but rather opportunities to foster a legacy that uplifts the community at large. As he would assert, a successful franchise can provide a platform for aspiring female athletes and inspire the next generation of sports lovers.