Kansas City Welcomes The Dub: A Women’s Sports Bar Like No Other
Excitement is brewing in Kansas City as the city prepares to welcome its very first women’s sports bar, aptly named The Dub. Owners Monica Brady and Rachel Glenn, who recently relocated from Omaha, are hard at work transforming the space at 107 W. Ninth St. This spot, which was previously home to Banksia, aims to create a vibrant atmosphere dedicated to showcasing women’s athletics. With a planned opening by the end of the year, residents are already marking their calendars.
Focusing on Women’s Sports
When most people think of a sports bar, they might envision screens showcasing everything from football to basketball. But The Dub is breaking the mold. “Our goal is to prioritize women’s sports,” Monica explains enthusiastically. Expect to see live games featuring local teams like the KC Current, as well as major leagues like the WNBA. Fans can look forward to an impressive lineup of lesser-known sports that are gaining traction, including women’s professional rugby and hockey, collegiate events, and even some local teams broadcasting their games online.
And don’t worry, traditional fans! If the Chiefs are playing or if it’s Super Bowl Sunday, you can still catch those exciting games. The Dub wants to create an inclusive atmosphere, with plans for educational sessions to help newcomers understand the rules of various sports. “We want everyone to feel comfortable here,” Monica shares, “whether you’re a lifelong fan or just starting to dip your toes into sports.”
Monica and Rachel’s Journey
The couple’s journey to Kansas City has been an exciting one. Originally from Denver and Omaha, they landed in KC after Rachel got a job with the city’s public schools. Monica’s background in sales and customer service, along with their shared experience in hospitality during college, set the groundwork for their bold venture.
With the recent surge in interest for women’s sports, Monica felt inspired to create a unique space dedicated to female athletes. “The concept is cropping up in several cities, and I realized Kansas City was missing out,” she says. Notably, other women-focused sports bars have been establishing their own identities in cities like Portland, Seattle, and Minneapolis. “I walked into A Bar of Their Own and was overwhelmed with emotion. It felt like home,” Monica recalls, hinting at her dreams for The Dub.
Community Engagement and Pop-Ups
In the lead-up to opening, Monica and Rachel have been hosting pop-up events at various local venues, including No Other Pub and Big Rip Brewing. These gatherings have been essential in spreading the word, showcasing their merchandise, and—most importantly—uniting fans to watch games together. According to Monica, they have plans to continue with more pop-ups during the upcoming WNBA games and KC Current matches. Keep an eye on their Instagram, @thedubkc, for the latest updates.
A Bright New Space
The Dub will have a fresh and inviting feel, featuring two distinct rooms and an outdoor patio. Monica describes the space as “bright” and “open,” with a colorful design and plenty of TVs for sports enthusiasts to enjoy. “We want to create an atmosphere that feels welcoming, not like you’re walking into a cave,” she emphasizes. With high-top and low-top tables, there’s something for everyone, whether you want to enjoy a game with friends or hold a private event.
What’s on the Menu?
As for food, Monica is already thinking about a menu filled with goodies like hot sandwiches, flatbreads, and nachos. “We’re steering clear of burgers and fries, just to keep things a little different,” she laughs, hinting at their aim to offer a unique dining experience.
Looking Ahead
While the specific hours of operation are still in the works, The Dub aims to open its doors by the end of the year. Assuming everything goes smoothly with city permits, Monica and Rachel can’t wait to finally realize their vision for a women’s sports bar in Kansas City. Their hope is not just to create a bar, but a community hub where fans can gather, celebrate women’s sports, and learn something new all at the same time. “We’re just really excited!” Monica beams, and who could blame her? Kansas City is ready to embrace its groundbreaking new sports bar.
