Peter Wilt is leaving his gig as founding hero of upstart pro/rel league NISA to bring a USL D3 side to Wisconsin.
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Big Top Events announced the hiring of Wilt on Thursday, and the executive is leading a drive to name the club for Madison Pro Soccer.
NISA, the North American Soccer League who widely advocated promotion and relegation but has hit some bumps along the way, now seeks a new leader. The organization announced a committee of club owners will lead a search.“I wish the NISA teams and new leadership well,” Wilt said. “I am proud of the strong vision we developed and now others will need to carry it forward. I am hopeful that my stepping away will allow the disparate open system groups to unify around a shared vision.”
Wilt, who has launched five professional soccer teams in the closed system is returning to his roots the United Soccer Leagues. He will lead Madison Pro Soccer as Managing Director of Big Top Events’ soccer division. Previously, Wilt served as President, General Manager and part owner of the USISL (now USL) Minnesota Thunder. He has also launched USL’s Indy Eleven, NWSL’s Chicago Red Stars and MLS’ Chicago Fire.
NISA announced eight markets in August but has yet to announce a start date. It’s an intriguing idea, but -- for better or worse -- could undertake some monumental changes without Wilt in the driver’s seat.
As for Madison, Wilt knows what he’s doing when it comes to starting a club, so this is a solid get for the city.
#madisonprosoccer starts today. Public event @breese_stevens. Gates open at 5:30 pm, announcement at 6 pm. Free scarves to 1st 100. #jointheclub #nametheclub https://t.co/7haJ2ddAI0
— peter wilt (@PeterWilt1) May 17, 2018