Nationwide Celebrates 100th Anniversary by Supporting Women's Soccer in Columbus

Nationwide Partners to Launch Women's Soccer in Columbus

As part of its centennial celebrations, Nationwide has made a significant commitment to enhancing women’s sports in its home city of Columbus, Ohio. Alongside the Haslam Sports Group and the Edwards family, the company has been awarded a franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), marking a historic moment for both Nationwide and the local community.

Kirt Walker, Nationwide’s CEO, expressed the sentiment behind this initiative, stating, “Nationwide was born in Columbus, and we've grown up together over the last 100 years. As we prepared to celebrate our centennial, we knew we wanted to do something big to give back to the city that has given us so much.” Choosing to support a new professional women’s sports franchise is seen as a unique opportunity to invest in the community.

The new women's soccer club is set to kick off its inaugural season in 2028, playing at the ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in the heart of Columbus' Arena District. This state-of-the-art facility not only promises a world-class experience for fans but also includes a women-specific training environment and improvements catered specifically to NWSL teams.

Walker highlighted the importance of representation in sports, especially for young athletes: “When young athletes in Central Ohio can see women competing at the highest level right in their own backyard, it sends a powerful message about what's possible.” The new club aims to inspire future generations by showcasing top-tier professional women’s soccer.

Since 2021, Nationwide has been the exclusive insurance partner of the NWSL, a collaboration that has seen several initiatives come to fruition. These include the establishment of the Lauren Holiday Impact Award, given to an NWSL player who exemplifies exceptional service in her community, and the creation of Experience Nationwide, a professional development program designed for NWSL players to help them prepare for life beyond sports.

With Columbus emerging as a national hub for women's sports, the introduction of this franchise is expected to further stimulate economic activity within the area. The initiative aims not only to enhance local sports culture but also to provide additional pathways for girls and young women inspired by the rapid global growth of women’s soccer.

“This club is a celebration of the Columbus Way—public and private partners, businesses, civic leaders, and passionate fans all coming together to do something significant for our community,” added Walker. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts that have made this project a reality and emphasized the broader economic implications, stating, “We are strengthening the foundation for economic growth and opportunities in Central Ohio.”

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company, is committed to supporting its local communities through long-term investments beyond its core business practices. The introduction of the NWSL team is expected to increase downtown visitation, boost local businesses, and foster community engagement, ensuring the Arena District remains vibrant year-round.

This addition aligns with Nationwide’s extensive portfolio of sports relationships, which includes partnerships across various leagues such as the NFL, MLS, and PGA TOUR. Through these efforts, Nationwide continues to deliver value to its members while reinforcing its status as a community builder in Columbus.

As they celebrate their centennial milestone, Nationwide's initiative to support women's soccer in Columbus may serve as a catalyst, promoting greater visibility and encouragement for future generations of women in sports. It’s more than just a new team; it’s an investment in dreams and aspirations for countless individuals in the region.