CT United FC is excited to announce the appointment of Ryan McGuinness as the club’s Vice President of Marketing & Fan Engagement. In this role, Ryan will lead efforts to elevate the club’s brand, deepen connections with fans and the community, and deliver memorable experiences both on and off the field.
Ryan brings a wealth of sports marketing experience to CT United FC, with a career spanning Major League Soccer (MLS), Soccer United Marketing (SUM), and ESPN’s X Games. Most recently, as Senior Director of Partnership Marketing at MLS/SUM, he managed premier partnerships across MLS, Leagues Cup, and the Mexican National Team, helping to drive fan engagement and grow the sport’s profile across the U.S. Earlier in his career, Ryan served as Director of Event Development and Marketing at ESPN’s X Games, where he expanded the festival model and developed new content initiatives to attract new audiences and partners. Ryan also secured host-city partnerships growing the X Games event portfolio both in the U.S. and globally. His track record of building strategic partnerships and delivering large-scale fan experiences makes him uniquely suited to lead marketing and fan engagement at CT United FC.
A Villanova University graduate, Ryan also holds an MBA from the University of Connecticut, blending his strategic business expertise with his passion for sports and live events.
“CT United FC represents an incredible opportunity to connect fans and the community to the game of soccer in new and meaningful ways,” said Ryan McGuinness. “As someone who grew up in Connecticut, I’m excited to help shape the fan experience and grow a club that is deeply rooted in its region and its supporters.”
“Ryan’s experience at the intersection of sport, entertainment, and fan engagement will be invaluable as we continue to grow CT United FC’s presence locally and nationally,” said Michelle Swanston, Co-Owner of CT United FC. “His proven ability to create meaningful experiences for fans aligns perfectly with our vision for the club and our community.”
Ryan McGuinness joins CT United FC at an exciting moment, as the club continues to expand its academy programs, community initiatives, and plans for a world-class stadium on Bridgeport’s waterfront. He will play a key role in shaping how fans connect with the club and experience the game day environment.
