Will The Crew Stay Put? "Absolutely," New Owner Tells Mayor

The Columbus Crew have a new owner. The major league soccer team has been sold by the Hunt Sports Group to Precourt Sports Ventures. Crew management billed the announcement as the biggest in the club’s history. The news was delivered by Clark Hunt whose family has owned The Crew for almost 20 years. “We are officially announcing that we have sold the team to Anthony Precourt,â€? Hunt said. Precourt is a 43-year-old California businessman. There have been widespread rumors that the crew might relocate to another city. But Precourt said repeatedly during remarks at Crew Stadium that he has no plans to do so. “I see so much opportunity here in Columbus. It’s a dynamic growing city and we have all the resources we need to make The Crew relevant locally and nationally,â€? Precourt said. “All you need to know is that I’m very committed to Columbus and I’m here with you,â€? Precourt added. “We’re excited about rolling up our sleeves here in Columbus, being a part of this dynamic community and working hard to build the club’s reputation,â€? Precourt said. Columbus mayor Michael Coleman says he was personally assured by Precourt that The Crew would be staying. “You know my first question was, ‘Is The Crew staying in Columbus?’ And he said, ‘Absolutely. The Crew is in Columbus to stay,’â€? Coleman said. While Clark Hunt described the day as “bittersweet,â€? new owner Anthony Precourt was optimistic. “We want to be a playoff team every year and we want to win championships; that’s what we’re here for. I’d be lying if I didn’t say I’m here to win,â€? Precourt said. Precourt says he won’t be moving to Columbus from the Bay Area, but he promised not to be an absentee owner. Precourt declined to disclose the purchase price.