Chattanooga FC announced Friday that current Vice Chairman Sheldon Grizzle is taking on the role of interim GM for the organization. Grizzle is a co-founder of the club and played with the team in its inaugural season. He has been deeply involved in building Chattanooga’s entrepreneurial community in addition to serving on the boards of the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Visitors Bureau, Enterprise Center, and CO.LAB. He will now help guide the club he helped establish into its next chapter.
"Chattanooga FC has been homegrown from day one and we are committed to keeping it that way,” said Grizzle. “In concert with our supporters and community stakeholders, against all odds, we have a created something truly unique in Chattanooga. Professional and amateur soccer team ownership groups from around the country continue to look at Chattanooga as an inspiration for what can happen when something is created from the ground up."
In addition to Grizzle’s new leadership role, Tim Kelly remains the chairman and will share oversight of operations with executive committee members Paul Rustand, Thomas Clark. Grizzle. Krue Brock, Daryl Heald and Marshall Brock round out the board.
“In light of recent circumstances, it’s important to reiterate that Chattanooga FC was built and not bought,” said Tim Kell. “Our club was founded by Chattanoogans for Chattanoogans and, after 10 years, we are dedicated to growing Chattanooga FC.”
Officials said, "Chattanooga FC has been instrumental to the growth of soccer in the city. Over the last 10 seasons, it has helped support youth soccer and community development through Chattanooga FC Academy, Operation Get Active, and Chattanooga Sports Ministries. Chattanooga FC Women had an excellent fifth season this year, winning their first-ever Southeast Conference Championship. Chattanooga FC Foundation also supports Highland Park Commons to help create a safe place to play for the most diverse communities in the Chattanooga region. Just this week, Chattanooga Football League will launch in partnership with the organization to increase the quality of soccer for adults across the city."