Des Moines Menace

Overview

The Des Moines Menace is Iowa’s premier soccer team, founded in 1994. Competes in USL League Two (4th tier of US soccer). Owned by the Krause Group.

Youth Programs

• Menace Youth Academy — select year-round program for ages 10+
• Junior Menace — introductory program for ages 3-9
• Camps and tournaments — three annual tournaments, seasonal camps/clinics
• Menace Soccer Foundation — nonprofit arm promoting youth participation

Leadership

• Laurie Calloway — Director of Soccer and PDL head coach. Former MLS head coach, 1,000+ pro matches.

Investment Thesis

Semi-professional adult team with youth academy. NOT a direct competitor to elite youth clubs like sporting-iowa or iowa-rush — operates at different tiers (pre-pro pathway vs. competitive youth). Krause Group ownership (Des Moines-based family office) makes acquisition unlikely and unnecessary.

Open Questions

• Does the Menace Academy compete with or complement Sporting Iowa/Iowa Rush for players?
• What is the Krause Group’s broader sports portfolio?