Welcome to “We are Common,” our series where we showcase members of the Lansing Common community. In this special edition of the series, we introduce you to Erika Weadock, our Community Engagement Committee Chair. We are so grateful for Erika’s commitment to this club and this community, and excited to have her providing leadership for our community outreach efforts.
How long have you lived in the Lansing area, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I’ve lived in the Lansing area since 2006 when I started attending MSU. I left for a brief period but realized this was home. I can’t imagine being too far from campus and the Lansing area. I’m so grateful I left because it led me to the job that got me into soccer.
What was the moment or team that got you invested in Lansing soccer?
I lightly followed soccer previously as I love sports all across the board. But when I became the HR Manager for the since dissolved Lansing Ignite FC, I fell in love. From working with the players and coaching staff to interacting with the fans, I absolutely loved it all. There’s something so incredible about the sport and the community that comes with it. It truly is “The Beautiful Game!”
I was so impressed by the Supporters Group, not only their enthusiasm but their dedication & organization, and the alliances that soccer fans had with their teams across the world. It was a passion and energy that I couldn’t resist! I truly wish I would have found the soccer world earlier. When Lansing Ignite was ripped away from us, I was devastated, but knew I wanted to stay involved in the Lansing soccer community. I’m so proud to be a part of Lansing Common.
What made you want to a part of the Community Engagement Committee, and what are some of your goals for the committee?
I knew I wanted to be involved in the Community Engagement Committee as a lot of the non-profit work I’ve done in the past has been engagement focused. I found that building relationships within the community are a strength of mine and I hope to work with a variety of individuals and organizations to do as much good as possible! I also hope to show people who aren’t necessarily fans of soccer what a fantastic game it is and turn them into lifelong fans like myself.
What is something important that the team needs to do to be as successful as we want it to be?
As an HR Professional, I think it is crucial that our club be diverse in its outreach, inclusive to all, and supports a variety of local causes, ensuring that we are doing our best to give back to all who live and work in Lansing and the surrounding area. We are off to a great start and I’m honored to work with the board, the community outreach committee, and all of our fans to make certain that we fulfill this mission. I’d also like to see the team lead the way in becoming an eco-friendly sports organization – protect the Robin and everything it stands on at all costs!
Where do you see Lansing Common FC in 5 years?
I see a trophy-winning team with a big following that is not only doing big things on the pitch but also in our community. I hope to expand our board and committees and make LCFC a staple on the list of things to do and see in Lansing.
Lansing Common FC is committed to strengthening and supporting our community. If you’re interested in being a part of our outreach activities, or suggestions on how we can best support the Lansing area, please let us know.
