The Simcoe County Rovers have announced that Canadian soccer star Doneil Henry has joined the organization as a co-owner.
Henry, a former Toronto FC (MLS) and West Ham United (EPL) centre back, has acquired a minority stake in Rovers Sports and Entertainment Group.
As per club policy, financial details of the transaction are not disclosed.
The Simcoe County Rovers were announced as a League1 Ontario expansion club in October; they will play their home games in Barrie. The 2022 season is scheduled to kick off in April.
Henry called the ownership a “once in a lifetime opportunity,” and shared his thoughts on joining the Rovers' ownership group in a statement issued by the team.
“It’s a dream to be involved in a project where you have a blank canvas to create a professional soccer team. These opportunities don’t happen often,” said Henry.
“Simcoe County and Barrie is an exciting location that has the potential to grow into a successful soccer region, especially when you’re partnered up with Athletes Institute Football Club, Aurora Football Club and Barrie Soccer Club.”
Henry said he has “gone to war” with fellow owners Julian de Guzman and Cyle Larin, so working together makes sense.
“As well, Peter Raco (CEO) and Will Devellis (COO) are supreme professionals in the game and it’s great to be involved with a solid circle of passionate and respected individuals,” said Henry.
Henry currently plays in the South Korean K League for Suwon Samsung Bluewings and was this country's U-20 Canadian player of the Year in 2012.
De Guzman added that bringing Henry into the leadership group is “another important strategic move to build a long-lasting foundation for the organization.”
With regards to 2022 plans, de Guzman said the club will be rolling out a big player announcement, additional ownership and technical staff announcements, and a venue announcement in January and February leading up to pre season.
The Rovers just held open trials that sold out quickly and the club’s Women’s Reserve squad is currently accepting players interested in trying out.
Rovers season tickets and club merchandise is available at www.roversfc.ca.
League1 Ontario is the third division in Canada’s soccer pyramid.
