In 2022, Jordan Jesolva, her husband Dylan Autran, and their friend Max Ornstil started the Neighborhood Sports Club, aiming to keep their passion for sports alive after retiring from their professional careers. Their vision included forming soccer leagues and selling sportswear, but they always dreamed of launching a physical location.
Fast forward to May 2026, just weeks before the World Cup kicks off, that dream became a reality for the Neighborhood Sports Club.
“It’s been a whirlwind these last three months,” Jesolva shared. “Many people have told us it feels like watching a game at a friend’s house.”
The NSC community cafe and bar was designed not just to be another sports bar but to serve as a gathering spot for the communities of Oakland and San Francisco. Jesolva emphasized that it’s more about creating a welcoming environment for everyone to play, watch, and enjoy soccer together.
Recently, Marketplace host Kai Ryssdal sat down with Jesolva to discuss the journey of bringing NSC to life and their excitement for the upcoming 2027 Women’s World Cup.
This venture is all about connecting people through sports and building a strong community around the love of the game.
