Former Sounders executive named president of Seattle’s XFL franchise

Seattle’s XFL franchise now has its team president; Ryan Gustafson was named to the position on Tuesday.

A Washington native, Gustafson was previously the Seattle Sounders VP of Business Strategy and Development. While with the Sounders, Gustafson led all planning for the organization revenue-generation initiatives that included ticket sales, corporate partnerships and suites. Gustafson joins head coach and general manager Jim Zorn as the leadership for the yet-to-be-named Seattle franchise.

“I’m excited to help bring the XFL to the Pacific Northwest and build a team that makes a lasting impact in our community,” said Gustafson in a press release. “I’d like to thank Adrian Hanauer and the entire Sounders family for the chance to be part of such a great organization. Growing up less than ten miles from CenturyLink Field, and with a love of all things connected to Seattle sports, I know how special fans are here, and I’m grateful to the XFL leadership for this truly unique opportunity.”

Seattle’s XFL team will kick off their season in February of 2020.

This story was originally published March 26, 2019 at 10:38 AM.