Larne FC, the current champions of the NIFL Premiership, has completed a minority investment round, welcoming the Veeck family into its circle of ownership.
This strategic move sees the Veeck family become minority owners, joining alongside American businessman Scott Krase. Kenny Bruce MBE continues as the majority owner. The club’s day-to-day operations will remain under the stewardship of its dedicated executive team, board, staff, and volunteers, who have been instrumental in the club’s remarkable transformation over the past six years.
The Veeck family, renowned in the United States for their involvement in baseball, have a storied history of owning Major League Baseball teams including the St. Louis Browns, Cleveland Guardians (formerly the Cleveland Indians), and the Chicago White Sox. Their extensive experience also encompasses Minor League Baseball.
Famed for their innovative approach to sales, marketing, and enhancing the matchday experience, the Veecks are particularly celebrated for their role in popularising independent baseball, notably with the St. Paul Saints. Their success story was documented in the Netflix documentary “The Saint of Second Chances,” showcasing the family’s influence in the sport.
Kenny Bruce MBE expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership. He stated, “I am absolutely delighted to welcome the Veeck family as investors in Larne Football Club as part of our ambitious phase two plans to continue bringing success and opportunity to Inver Park. The Veecks’ story within sport is one of dreaming big and achieving success, which aligns perfectly with the culture of those tasked with running our club on a daily basis.”
“The working relationship with the family has proven to be very strong so far, and we will look to use every ounce of knowledge and experience the Veecks can offer to improve areas of the club and ensure it remains at the top table within Northern Irish football.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, Night Train Veeck commented, “As a family, we are excited to make the step into football and support the great work already being carried out by everyone at Larne Football Club. Having paid a visit to Larne earlier this month, the community spirit within the town absolutely captured my heart and it was immediately obvious that the football club plays a key role within this community – which is something we place great importance in with all our investment projects.”
“The team, staff and everyone connected with Larne FC have done, and continue to do a great job in bringing success to the town while creating opportunities for those within the community, and I look forward to supporting this effort to ensure the club continues being successful and most importantly, bringing smiles to supporters’ faces.”
