From the UK to the USA: How AFC Bournemouth is Winning Hearts Across the Pond

From the UK Pitch to American Hearts: AFC Bournemouth's Bold New Venture for Fans Stateside

### The U.S. Connection: AFC Bournemouth's Quest for American Fans

In a strategic move designed to bolster its presence in the U.S., AFC Bournemouth, a staple in English football, has announced the launch of its official Instagram account tailored specifically for American fans. On February 13, 2025, the Foley Entertainment Group introduced **@afcbinusa**, a vibrant digital space that aims to connect the club with its growing supporter base across the United States. Emphasizing the tagline “Bourne in the UK, backed in the USA,” this account promises to showcase not only the thrilling gameplay of the Cherries but also the American personalities and activities linked to the team. This initiative marks an important step forward for the club, especially since its acquisition by Bill Foley’s Black Knight Football Club in 2022.

With the rise of social media, clubs are using platforms like Instagram to foster relationships with fans worldwide. The launch of @afcbinusa is a response to a burgeoning interest in Premier League football among American audiences. With the increasing number of American fans embracing the sport, Jim Frevola, President of Business Operations at AFC Bournemouth, expressed enthusiasm for the new outlet. “We are excited to offer this new platform for our fans in the States, a group that has swelled in numbers in recent years,” Frevola noted. The @afcbinusa account draws inspiration from the Premier League’s successful @plinusa profile, which boasts over a million followers, and is geared toward elevating the Cherries’ visibility in the U.S. market.

This ambitious endeavor is backed by the club's ongoing commitment to American engagement, as evidenced by its Premier League matches being broadcast across NBC Sports networks. This Saturday's match against Southampton will be one of the many opportunities for U.S. fans to cheer for the club, as fans can tune in on Peacock at 7 a.m. PT. By leveraging media partnerships and engaging with fans on social platforms, AFC Bournemouth is positioning itself as a formidable player in the competitive landscape of sports marketing and global audience engagement.

Founded in 1899, AFC Bournemouth has a rich history and has navigated the complex world of English football with remarkable resilience. The club has struck a chord in its journey from the lower leagues to the Premier League, achieving three promotions within six years and making its top-flight debut in 2015. Under Foley's ownership, there's a renewed sense of ambition and investment aimed at ensuring the club remains competitive at the highest level. The establishment of a cutting-edge training facility and the recruitment of emerging talent from elite clubs across Europe are pivotal steps that promise to elevate the club’s on-pitch performance and appeal.

Just as important as on-field success is the club's dedication to fostering a sense of community and family among its supporters. Throughout its history, AFC Bournemouth has prioritized building a loyal fanbase through impactful engagements that resonate beyond just the scoreboard. This community-centric approach reflects the values that Bill Foley has instilled in the club since taking the helm in 2022. The focus on keeping the essence of the club alive while also expanding its reach illustrates a dual commitment to tradition and transformation.

Moreover, Foley is no stranger to the world of sports entertainment. As the founder of Foley Entertainment Group—established in 2021—he manages a diverse portfolio that includes not only AFC Bournemouth but also the NHL's Vegas Golden Knights and various other sporting franchises. This expansive influence in the entertainment industry positions Foley ideally to leverage synergies across his ventures, creating unique opportunities for cross-promotion and fan engagement. Whether it's the Henderson Silver Knights in the AHL or the Vegas Knight Hawks in the Indoor Football League, Foley’s properties are united by a vision to offer world-class experiences to fans.

Through thoughtful investment and strategic marketing, Foley’s group seeks to build a lasting legacy in both sports and entertainment. The organization emphasizes five-star service and aims to create memorable experiences that resonate with fans. Each of the properties under the Foley umbrella not only serves its local community but also seeks to carve out an international identity, much like what AFC Bournemouth is now striving for in the U.S. This forward-thinking approach could resonate well with the new generation of sports fans who are as likely to follow teams across the globe as they are to support their local clubs.

In conclusion, AFC Bournemouth's launch of the @afcbinusa account is more than a marketing strategy; it represents a critical step in the evolution of English football's relationship with American fans. Bill Foley’s vision for the club blends a rich historical narrative with modern engagement strategies, positioning Bournemouth to not just compete in the Premier League but to also win the hearts of fans around the world. As the club continues its journey, maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation will be key to solidifying its place in the competitive landscape of global sports. The eyes of American fans are now firmly set on Bournemouth, and with dedicated efforts aimed at fostering connection and community, the club stands ready for a bright future.