At a ranch located one hour south of Kansas City, Sporting KC coach Peter Vermes dined with club ownership last winter. Over a steak dinner, he presented his five-year forecast, broaching on senior team projections, the development of academy prospects and international player acquisitions.
At some point, Sporting Club co-owner Mike Illig interjected.
“What do you think about re-upping your deal?” Illig asked, later explaining, “We are discussing the future of our club, and for us as owners, we don’t see a future without Peter as the CEO of the technical (component).”
Five months later, the deal became reality.