The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) recently welcomed club leaders, coaches, referees, and volunteers from across the state to the MTSU Student Union Building for its Annual General Meeting (AGM), a yearly gathering focused on celebrating progress, strengthening connections, and continuing to move the game forward throughout Tennessee.
The event provided an opportunity for the soccer community to reflect on the past year while looking ahead to new goals and initiatives. Leadership shared updates on programs, competitions and development efforts, highlighting the continued growth of youth soccer statewide. From expanding opportunities for players to enhancing coaching education and supporting referee development, the meeting reinforced a shared commitment to building a positive, accessible, and competitive environment for every family involved in the sport.
While the AGM serves as an important forum for collaboration and planning, it also offers something just as meaningful in the chance to recognize the individuals who make the game possible day in and day out. That spirit of appreciation took center stage with the celebration of the 2024-25 TSSA “Of The Year” awards, honoring coaches, volunteers, administrators, and referees whose dedication and service continue to leave a lasting impact on their clubs and communities. Whether working on the sidelines, behind the scenes or on the field of play, each recipient represents the passion and commitment that fuels youth soccer across Tennessee.
“The game in Tennessee does not exist without passionate coaches, administrators, and volunteers,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of the Tennessee State Soccer Association. “Every year, we seek to honor those that have stood out to help grow the game. We thank them and the ones who never get the recognition they deserve.”
2024-25 TSSA ‘Of The Year’ Award Winners
- TSSA Hall of Fame Inductee: Judy Jones
- Soccer Village Administrator of the Year: Briana McDaniel, Blount United Rush SC
- PRIME Volunteer of the Year: David Logan, Clarksville Soccer Club
- Wendy’s Girls Competitive Coach of the Year: Danny McBride, Chattanooga Redwolves Academy
- Kwik Goal Boys Competitive Coach of the Year: David Marmolejo, Tennessee Christian Soccer Association
- Cleveland Grimes Recreational Coach of the Year: Da’Shanell Garrett, Montgomery County Soccer Association
- Publix TOPSoccer Coach of the Year: David Powell, All In FC TN
- Pinnacle TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year: Analiese Ormiston, Kings Hammer Murfreesboro
- Young Male Referee of the Year: Connor Pachciarz
- Young Female Referee of the Year: Jordyn Tucker
- Referee Trailblazer: Walt Heatherly
Together, these recipients reflect every corner of the soccer ecosystem, from volunteers who give their time selflessly to coaches who mentor and referees who ensure the integrity of the game. Their leadership not only supports their own organizations, but also helps elevate the standard of youth soccer across the entire state.
A featured highlight of the AGM was a keynote from Majd Steitieh, Director of Growth Strategy at the U.S. Soccer Federation, who shared insights on expanding the game at every level and building pathways for players, coaches, and referees statewide. With a strategic background that spans management consulting and leadership roles focused on inclusive growth and development, Steitieh has been at the forefront of national efforts to elevate participation and access within the sport across the United States. Her remarks underscored the collaborative work needed across grassroots organizations and national bodies to shape the future of soccer, particularly as the sport prepares for new opportunities and challenges on the horizon.
The TSSA Annual General Meeting once again underscored the strength of our soccer community in Tennessee. The state features a network of committed leaders working together with a common goal of providing more opportunities for players to learn, compete and fall in love with the game.
To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!