Denver Summit FC's General Manager, Curt Johnson, defines the foundation of the burgeoning club with the mantra of "51 great people," emphasizing the importance of talent, leadership, and collaboration. As the franchise prepares for its inaugural season, Johnson reflects on the strategic partnerships formed, particularly with head coach Nick Cushing, who brings a wealth of experience from Manchester City and NYC FC. Together, they prioritize building a roster defined by intensity and character, not just skill, to shape the team's identity and culture as they embark on a journey from expansion to competition.

By the Numbers
  • Johnson's strategy is rooted in assembling a team of 51 great individuals, consisting of 26 players and 25 staff members.
  • Cushing emphasized the need for players with speed and intensity as they evaluated options in free agency and international markets.
State of Play
  • Johnson and Cushing have laid the philosophical groundwork for the team, focusing on an attacking style of play.
  • The preseason includes hiring essential staff, with a focus on enhancing the sporting department and scouting capabilities.
  • The team's roster development is marked by collaboration, aiming for not just skill but also character and physical ability.
What's Next

As the season unfolds, Denver Summit will debut its roster in front of over 40,000 supporters, with expectations set for both performance and cultural integrity. The team aims to establish its identity early on with a focus on intense play and a strong community connection.

Bottom Line

In building Denver Summit FC, success hinges not just on wins, but on cultivating a strong, unified culture through careful selection of players and staff. The collaboration between Johnson and Cushing serves as a foundational element for a project that aspires to thrive beyond immediate results.