Michael Creuzer is an accomplished entrepreneur, dedicated youth soccer coach, and the new owner of Winnebago Storm. Over the past twenty-plus years, he has built and led multiple companies in the technology, media, and entertainment industries — including growing a business to more than 25 employees and guiding it through a successful acquisition. He brings a rare combination of business leadership, financial resources, and genuine passion for the game to the club.
And this is personal for Michael. He has been coaching youth soccer for over a decade and has been part of the soccer community for as long as he can remember. A goalkeeper who played through high school and into college in the Rockford and Chicago areas, he understands player development from the inside — not just as a business owner, but as someone who has lived the game. He and Head Coach Christian have partnered and played alongside each other on multiple teams over the years, and their shared vision for the club is what makes this moment so exciting for both of them.
So what does this mean for families in the program? In short — more. More investment in top-level coaching. More structure around player development. More competitive opportunities at higher levels of play. Clear pathways to college soccer and beyond. Deeper connections across the youth and club soccer landscape. And the professional, accountable leadership that comes from someone who has built and run organizations at a high level for two decades.
Michael's goal is not to change what's already working — it's to unlock the full potential of this club and every player in it. He believes the talent and dedication are already here. His job is to provide the platform, the resources, and the vision to take it further than it's ever gone.
Michael is excited to meet every family, answer every question, and get to work building something special together.
A Note from Samantha Engh
The genesis of Winnebago Storm evolved from a few soccer players who wanted to be better as a team in a park district league. We began as a large organization, and almost grew too quickly. We are in need of a reboot and new focus. We started this group seven seasons ago with great aspirations, but we have grown to the point of needing additional resources, partnership, and leadership to sustain our quality and ambition. For this reason, I believe Mike's leadership, entrepreneurship, and expertise will enhance our club.
Mike is the new owner of Winnebago Storm. He has grand ideas for our future as mentioned in his biography. We are aiming at having 4 to 5 teams this summer 2026. We will add goals and learning levels for all age groups, in addition to coaching staff. We will also play in a few tournaments. My hope is that you continue to invest in the organization's future.
Over the years, it hasn't been flawless, but we created something special: a platform to increase soccer fundamentals and camaraderie. Our successes show up in our current level of play in various leagues. We are competing with some of the best players in Rockford in an intermediate league.
As for myself, I will continue to be part of the organization as Operations Director. I will be in the same position as before — organizing teams to play in the league. However, I will have greater support that will benefit each player and family. It has been, and will be, an honor to be part of your lives. I am blessed to have found additional resources and mentorship.
This summer we will have the following age groups for the International League: Varsity (2008–2009), JV (2010–2011), U14 (2012), U13 (2011), and HS Girls (2008–2013).
If you are a returning player for Storm Winter 2026, you will not need to try out. If you are a returning player from a previous season or a new player for our soccer club, tryouts are mandatory. Tryouts are February 25th from 5 to 8 PM.
Our spring meeting will be on March 18th, 2026 at 6 PM at 213 S. Elida from 6 to 8 PM. Please attend the meeting for any additional questions, information, and registration. Only existing players/parents and players/parents who successfully made the team from tryouts will need to attend the meeting.
I am excited about our new soccer journey! It is now time to take it to the next level. We look forward to seeing you at tryouts and registration meetings.
Thank you to everyone who has been involved in this process for the past four years. Cheers to a reboot!
— Samantha Engh (previously Wright)