Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber has remained a significant figure in the professional soccer landscape within Herriman, overseeing league developments that impact local sports infrastructure and ownership. As recorded in a 2022 announcement by Real Salt Lake, Garber announced that the Major League Soccer Board of Governors unanimously approved the sale of Real Salt Lake and its associated properties to David Blitzer and Ryan Smith’s Smith Entertainment Group. This transaction, which Garber announced on Wednesday, January 5, 2022, included various assets located in Herriman, Utah, such as the RSL Academy.
Garber's influence extends to the management and disciplinary actions within the league. According to a Real Salt Lake statement published on Tuesday, July 30, 2019, Garber issued a three-game suspension and a $25,000 fine to Real Salt Lake Head Coach Mike Petke. This disciplinary action followed conduct occurring during a Leagues Cup match against Tigres UANL on Wednesday, July 24, 2019. The league's decision was supported by the club, which stated at the time that it would work with the league to ensure professionalism and respect within the organization.
In addition to oversight of club sales and disciplinary matters, Garber has been present for major community milestones in Herriman. As reported by ESPN700 on February 28, 2018, Garber joined dignitaries in Herriman for the grand opening of the Zions Bank Real Academy. During that event, Garber addressed the media alongside Dell Loy Hansen. The academy was designed to serve as a facility for young talent and as the home for the Real Monarchs. Garber also praised the work of Hansen, noting the importance of deep connections with the community.
Garber has also been a vocal supporter of ownership transitions that aim to elevate the professional soccer experience. On Thursday, January 6, 2022, Garber referred to the new ownership group of David Blitzer and Ryan Smith as a "dream ownership group." This sentiment was echoed in a 2022 announcement regarding the acquisition of the club, where Garber noted that the owners understand the value sports teams bring to a community and are committed to Utah.
As the commissioner, Garber's role involves managing the intersection of professional athletics and community investment. Whether through the approval of major property transactions in Herriman or the oversight of league-wide standards, his presence is felt through the institutional growth of Major League Soccer and its constituent clubs. The expansion of facilities like the Zions Bank Real Academy, which was opened in 2018, represents a long-term investment in the regional soccer infrastructure that Garber oversees at the league level.
What this means for Herriman
For Herriman residents, the actions of Commissioner Don Garber shape the professional sports landscape. His oversight of league ownership and disciplinary standards influences the stability and growth of local assets like the RSL Academy. These administrative and league-wide decisions help determine the level of investment and professional infrastructure available to the local community through Real Salt Lake.
