‘Don’t you dare count us out’: KC women’s sports mogul hails US rugby double-header
Angie Long, co‑owner of the Kansas City Current, celebrated the record‑setting attendance for the US women’s rugby double‑header at CPKC Stadium. Long, a former Princeton rugby player, highlighted the sport’s growth and the importance of proper venues and exposure.
On Friday night, the newly built CPKC Stadium in Kansas City became the stage for a different kind of excitement than the soccer matches it usually hosts. The Kansas City Current’s home ground welcomed a crowd that was expected to fill the venue to capacity for the Pacific Four Series double‑header featuring the United States women’s rugby team, the Eagles, against Australia’s Wallaroos. The event drew attention not only for the high attendance but also for the enthusiasm of a community that has long supported women’s professional sports.
From Soccer to Rugby: Angie Long’s Sporting Journey
Angie Long’s love for sports began in the playgrounds of Kansas City. Growing up, she played soccer, basketball, golf, swimming, and even backyard football with her brothers. She did not encounter rugby until college, when she joined Princeton’s team after realizing she missed the camaraderie and field play that defined her childhood sports.
At Princeton, Long quickly found her niche as a fly‑half and inside centre. Her background as a goalkeeper gave her strong kicking skills and a feel for the ball, qualities that translated well to rugby’s fast‑paced, team‑centric play. The Princeton squad, which included players from soccer, track, field hockey, and lacrosse, went on to win national championships in 1995 and 1996, with Long earning All‑American honors twice.
Building a Women’s Sports Empire in Kansas City
After college, Long pursued a career in finance, eventually co‑founding Palmer Square Capital Management. Her partnership with her husband, Chris Long—also a Princeton alumnus and former basketball player—led them to invest in women’s professional sports. They became co‑owners of the Kansas City Current, a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team that returned to the city in 2020 after the franchise moved to Utah in 2017.
The couple’s commitment to women’s sports extended beyond soccer. In 2023, they acquired HB Køge Women, a Danish top‑flight club, demonstrating their belief that women’s professional teams deserve the same resources and visibility as their male counterparts.
The Growing Popularity of Women’s Rugby in the US
Rugby, once a niche sport in the United States, has seen a surge in interest, especially after the Eagles’ historic World Cup win in 2015 and the continued success of the national team. The Pacific Four Series double‑header at CPKC Stadium is a testament to this growth, with attendance figures that rival those of major soccer events.
Last year’s match between the United States and Canada drew a record 10,518 spectators, and a subsequent game at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., attracted over 16,000 fans. The presence of high‑profile athletes like Olympian center Ilona Maher helped boost visibility, though Long notes that the sport’s appeal has broadened beyond individual stars.
Why the Venue Matters
Long emphasizes the importance of playing women’s sports in professional facilities. “When you put women on an even footing, you showcase them,” she says. “You need to broadcast them, tell their stories, and provide the same quality of venue that men’s teams enjoy.” The CPKC Stadium, with its modern amenities and capacity, offers a platform that elevates the game and enhances fan experience.
In addition to the stadium’s impact, Long highlights the role of strategic partnerships. The involvement of Kansas City royalty, including Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and his wife Brittany, has helped secure investment and media attention for the Current and other women’s teams in the city.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Women’s Rugby and Soccer
While the Eagles and Wallaroos are set to compete in a thrilling match, Long remains optimistic about the sport’s trajectory. She believes that consistent exposure, high‑quality venues, and strong storytelling will keep fans engaged and attract new supporters.
As the Pacific Four Series continues, the Kansas City Current’s ownership group plans to leverage the momentum to further promote women’s rugby and soccer in the region. They aim to build a sustainable model that combines professional sports standards with community engagement.
In sum, Angie Long’s enthusiasm for the double‑header reflects a broader shift toward recognizing and supporting women’s professional sports. Her experience as a former rugby player and current sports executive positions her uniquely to champion this growth.
Why it matters
The article showcases how strategic investment and proper venues can accelerate the popularity of women’s sports, providing a blueprint for other markets to follow.
Key points
- Angie Long’s transition from soccer to rugby at Princeton
- Co‑ownership of Kansas City Current and acquisition of HB Køge Women
- Record‑setting attendance for US women’s rugby at CPKC Stadium
- Importance of professional venues for women’s sports
- Strategic partnerships boosting visibility and investment
Frequently asked questions
What is the Pacific Four Series?
The Pacific Four Series is an international women’s rugby competition featuring teams from the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Why is CPKC Stadium significant for women’s sports?
CPKC Stadium offers modern facilities and a large capacity, providing a professional environment that elevates the visibility and fan experience for women’s soccer and rugby.
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