The Osos de Monterrey, a professional football team competing in Mexico's Liga de Fútbol Americano Profesional (LFA), is under new ownership. This pioneering group includes American businessmen Al Tylis and Sam Porter, actress Eva Longoria, and former Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil. The team, formerly known as the Fundidores de Monterrey, has undergone a significant transformation with its new leadership. Their vision extends beyond the field, as they seek to expand the sport's reach and engage a broader audience in Mexico.
The new ownership group is not just focused on the sport itself but also on telling the stories behind it. In collaboration with American actor Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Tylis and Porter plan to produce a documentary that will explore their experiences as team owners. This project will also spotlight the players' lives and careers, providing an intimate look into the world of the Osos de Monterrey.
The documentary aims to offer insights into the journey of these athletes, many of whom have played college football at the NCAA level. The team's roster includes 20 such players, highlighting the high caliber of talent within the squad. According to Ryan Kalil, these players are "journeymen who, for whatever reason, haven't gotten their shot. They're incredibly talented."
Beyond storytelling, the owners have ambitious plans to grow the sport in Mexico. They are aiming to build a strong fan base by holding their annual draft in Mexico City and by introducing flag football on the women's side. Their commitment to expanding professional football in Mexico is evident in their strategic initiatives and investments.
In addition to Tylis and Porter, the ownership group boasts other notable investors, including three-time Cy Young winner Justin Verlander, model Kate Upton, and former NBA star Shawn Marion. This diverse group brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the venture, combining their love for sports with strategic business acumen.
The owners' involvement with Necaxa, another football team, has inspired them to create a similar show that captures their experiences and insights. This initiative aligns with their overarching goal of introducing professional football to a new audience in Mexico.
The Osos de Monterrey's quarterback, Diana Flores, serves as a prominent ambassador for the sport. Her visibility extends beyond the field; she was featured in a Super Bowl halftime commercial in 2023. Flores's role underscores the team's commitment to promoting football's growing popularity in Mexico.
Blake Griffin's involvement adds another layer of credibility and excitement to the project. He emphasized his approach, stating, "For me, it's about being additive in any way possible." Griffin's passion for supporting athletes who play "for the love of the game" resonates with the team's ethos. His admiration for his peers is evident: "As athletes, we all know that the struggle of trying to get to the place that you want to get to, they all play for the love of the game."
Griffin's engagement with the project highlights his dedication to fostering talent and creating opportunities for athletes who have yet to receive their due recognition. His comment on Luka's language skills—"I knew [Luka's] Spanish was pretty good"—adds a touch of humor and camaraderie to his involvement.
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