Graham Zusi Takes on Community Ambassador Role at nbkc Bank in Soccer-Crazy Kansas City

Graham Zusi Takes Community Ambassador Role at nbkc Bank



As Kansas City braces for its moment in the global soccer spotlight, nbkc bank has appointed Graham Zusi, a celebrated former U.S. Men's National Team player and Sporting Kansas City icon, as their Community Ambassador. This announcement comes just over a year ahead of Kansas City’s co-hosting of one of the world's biggest soccer tournaments, enhancing local pride and unity.

Zusi, who has a rich history with over 15 seasons at Sporting Kansas City, is no stranger to massive events, having played in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, where he started all four matches for the U.S. His impressive career includes being a seven-time MLS All-Star and winning the MLS Cup in 2013 along with three U.S. Open Cup titles. His extensive experience and close ties to the community make him an ideal representative for nbkc bank during this pivotal time.

As Community Ambassador, Zusi will actively engage with the Kansas City community leading up to the tournament, making appearances and participating in events to foster a sense of togetherness among residents and visitors. He will also host a community-wide foosball tournament, details of which will be announced soon. His journey with nbkc starts immediately, aligned perfectly with the city’s preparations for its prominent role in the tournament scheduled to host matches on various dates from June 16 to July 11 in 2026.

Zusi expressed his enthusiasm about this new chapter, stating, "I'm excited to represent nbkc as Kansas City prepares to host the biggest soccer event in 2026." He praised the bank for its community focus and for making banking accessible to both individuals and businesses alike.

Michael Bartkoski, the CEO of nbkc bank, shared his excitement about having Zusi on board, remarking, "Graham shined on the world soccer stage and brings a unique connection to the sport and Kansas City." Bartkoski emphasized the importance of reinforcing ties within the community as they gear up for the global audience that the soccer event will attract.

Zusi’s transition into this role also speaks volumes about the synergy between sports and business. As he embarks on entrepreneurial ventures like developing a six-unit residential project, he credits his sporting career for instilling vital business skills, stating: "Soccer taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of teamwork—qualities that are just as important in business as they are on the field."

This development aligns with nbkc bank's recent community initiatives, which aim to uplift local events and bolster community ties. For instance, over the Memorial Day weekend, the bank sponsored free admission for active-duty military members and their families to the National World War I Museum. Additionally, nbkc bank is also set to play a vital role as the official banking partner and a gold-level sponsor for the Garmin Kansas City Marathon scheduled for October 2025.

Having celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024, nbkc bank has become a cornerstone in the Kansas City area, known for its unique blend of technology and personal service. With its motto of creating simpler and more transparent banking experiences, its comprehensive offerings include online mortgage solutions, consumer banking on a national scale, and local commercial banking. The bank also launched Fountain City Fintech®, an accelerator aimed at helping fintech startups navigate the complexities of the financial landscape.

With Graham Zusi as a spokesperson, nbkc bank is poised to deepen its connection to the Kansas City community while simultaneously enhancing the visibility of the soccer culture that is sure to thrive during the upcoming tournament. The collaboration underscores the bank’s commitment to not only serve its clients but also to engage meaningfully with the community it serves, making it an exciting time for both Zusi and nbkc bank as they pave the way to 2026.

In summary, as we march toward the grand soccer event in 2026, Graham Zusi’s appointment as Community Ambassador for nbkc bank heralds a new chapter in community engagement for both the organization and Kansas City at large. Through shared passions, collective efforts, and community spirit, Zusi and nbkc aim to create memorable experiences that associate soccer with camaraderie and growth in the heart of Kansas City.

Topics People & Culture)

【About Using Articles】

You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.

【About Links】

Links are free to use.