How the NSL plans to fuel Canadian women’s soccer
Summary
This episode explores the Northern Super League’s rapid growth as Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league. Host Jillian Zakowitz interviews journalist Melanie Anziday and NSL Chair Mark Cohen about record attendance, a $30 million investment, and infrastructure plans. Olympic legend Desiree Scott discusses co-founding the new Winnipeg franchise and her vision for the league becoming a top global destination.
Topics discussed
Desiree Scott preview: NSL's future as a top global league
Show intro and overview of the Northern Super League
Melanie Anziday on reporting goals and league investment
Year one wins: attendance, national team calls, and expansion
Mark Cohen on $30M Apex investment and infrastructure plans
Priorities: building a pipeline to the Canadian national team
Impact of the 2026 Men's World Cup on Canadian soccer
2027 Women's World Cup potential and fan engagement
NSL vs NWSL: intercontinental tournaments and competition
Sponsor break: Amazon Prime
NSL Winnipeg promotional video
Desiree Scott on NSL year one standards and NWSL comparison
Year two growth: Apex deal and major player signings
World Cup buzz and the hunger for women's national team success
What makes the NSL unique: small league dynamics
Desiree Scott on founding the Winnipeg expansion team
Fan attendance and atmosphere in the NSL
Desiree Scott's transition from player to businesswoman
NSL's long-term vision and potential NWSL merger
Show outro and listener mailbag promotion
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