Ryan Harnetiaux & Katie Harnetiaux - Owners of Spokane Velocity (USL 1) & Spokane Zephyr FC (USL S)

How do you launch professional soccer clubs from the ground up?

In this episode of the One Soccer Nation Podcast, host Kareem Rae sits down with Ryan Harnetiaux, founder of Aequus Sports LLC, to share the inside story of building Spokane Velocity (USL League One / USL 1) and Spokane Zephyr FC (USL Super League / USL S) in Spokane, Washington.

Ryan opens up about the unique challenge of launching both men’s (USL 1) and women’s (USL S) teams at once, the importance of community-driven soccer, and why inclusivity is central to Aequus Sports’ vision. He also breaks down stadium development, the role of authentic partnerships, and how the 2026 FIFA World Cup will elevate the sport across the U.S.

Key Takeaways:
- Authentic relationships drive success in sports.
- USL’s community-based model fuels growth.
- Men’s + women’s simultaneous launch = a bold challenge.
- Community engagement defines club identity.
- Stadium partnerships and location are make-or-break.
- Ryan and his wife balance leadership roles effectively.
- Soccer club building is a long-term commitment.
- Inclusivity in soccer is central to Aequus Sports.
- The 2026 World Cup will supercharge soccer in the U.S.
- Promotion/relegation is a major topic among USL owners.

-------------------------------------------------

🔔

👉 Interested in appearing on the podcast or partnering?

Reach out directly via email to Kareem Rae: kr@onesoccernation.com

One Soccer Nation Website: onesoccernation.com

-------------------------------------------------

© 2025 One Soccer Nation, under exclusive license to One Soccer Nation LLC.

-------------------------------------------------

DISCLAIMER: Kareem Rae runs One Soccer Nation (OSN) all views expressed by him and the guests on his podcast are solely their opinions and do not reflect the views of One Soccer Nation. You should not treat any opinion expressed by Kareem or his guests as a specific inducement to make a particular investment or follow a particular strategy, but only as an expression of his personal opinion. This podcast is for informational purposes only.

Investment opportunities are offered through One Soccer Nation LLC.

The information contained herein is provided for informational and discussion purposes only and is not intended to be a recommendation for any investment, service, product, or other advice of any kind, and shall not constitute or imply an offer of any kind. Any investment opportunities and/or products or services shown here will only be completed pursuant to formal offering materials, a letter of intent, and/or any other agreements as determined by One Soccer Nation containing full details regarding risks, minimum investment, fees, and expenses of such transaction. The terms of any product, service, or particular investment opportunity, including size, costs, and other characteristics, are set forth in the applicable constituent documents for such product, service or particular investment opportunity and may differ materially from those presented in this presentation. Such terms are subject to change without notice. Quotes included in these materials related to One Soccer Nation’s services should not be construed in any way as an endorsement of One Soccer Nation's advice, analysis, or other service rendered to its clients/investors.

-------------------------------------------------

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Ryan Harnetiaux
02:48 The Importance of Human Relationships in Sports
04:43 Why USL? The Community-Based Approach
09:58 Launching Both Men's and Women's Teams Simultaneously
11:54 The Journey of Building a Soccer Club
16:33 Community Engagement and Inclusivity in Soccer
23:41 The Role of the Stadium and Community Partnerships
30:10 The Unique Dynamics of a Family-Owned Club
33:50 Ryan's Background and Experience in Soccer
38:54 The Future of Soccer in the U.S. and Pro/Rel
50:24 Anticipating the 2026 World Cup Impact