News

Spring State League Kicks Off with Strong Participation and High Stakes Ahead

Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) teams are back in action as the Spring 2026 season of the Tennessee State League officially gets underway. With the new four-division structure introduced last fall now fully in place, participation across the league remains at an impressive level, a testament to the continued momentum of youth soccer across the state and the strength of TSSA’s growing membership base.

The spring season features girls teams competing in the 12U through 19U age groups, alongside boys teams in the 12U through 14U divisions.

“Now that all the older boys’ teams have been crowned State Champions, we’re excited to see what the spring TSL season brings on the girls’ side!” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “We’re also wrapping up our first-ever year-round divisions for 13U–14U Boys and Girls, and it’s been an incredible start. Lots of big-time games still ahead — can’t wait to see how it all plays out!”

A New Structure, The Same Competitive Spirit

This past fall, TSSA introduced a revamped four-division format fully aligned with US Youth Soccer naming conventions. That structure carries forward into the spring.

National Championship Series (NCS): Formerly Division 1, NCS champions earn a direct berth into the US Youth Soccer National Championships, the country’s most prestigious youth soccer event.
President’s Cup (PCUP): Formerly Division 2, President’s Cup champions advance to the USYS Presidents Cup National Qualifier and, from there, the USYS National Presidents Cup.
Governor’s Cup (GC): Introduced last fall, this division was created to balance levels of play and open up more competitive opportunities for teams across the state.
Mayor’s Cup (MC): Formerly Division 3, designed for newer or developing teams, with promotional opportunities possible for future seasons.

Tennessee State Cup: May 16-17 and May 23-24

Following the completion of league play, the Tennessee State Cup will take center stage across two consecutive weekends in May at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro.

The first weekend, May 16-17, features quarterfinal and semifinal action across all four divisions for 13U-14U Boys and 13U-19U Girls in the National Championship Series, President’s Cup, Governor’s Cup, and Mayor’s Cup brackets.

Championship weekend arrives May 23-24, when all roads lead to the title matches. The weekend opens with semifinal and final action for all 12U Boys and Girls in the 11v11 State Cup, while 13U-14U Boys and 13U-19U Girls across all four divisions will play their semifinals and finals to crown the TSSA State Cup champions.

The Road Beyond Tennessee

For many teams that emerge as TSSA State Cup champions, the journey does not end in May. The stakes could not be higher, with national competition on the horizon for both the National Championship Series and President’s Cup divisions.

National Championship Series winners will advance to the US Youth Soccer (USYS) National Championships, taking place from July 13-23, 2026. In a particularly exciting development for Tennessee soccer, the girls’ competition will be held right here in Murfreesboro at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex, making it a true home-state showcase for the nation’s best teams. Boys National Championship Series champions will compete in Salt Lake City, Utah.

President’s Cup champions will first compete at the USYS Presidents Cup National Qualifier during June 11-14 in Loudoun, Virginia, with 13U-19U Boys and Girls all taking the field. Teams that advance from there will move on to the USYS National Presidents Cup from July 7-11 in Wichita, Kansas.

Big Games, Bigger Stakes

With a modernized divisional structure, strong participation numbers, and a pathway that brings national competition to Murfreesboro this summer, the Spring 2026 Tennessee State League season has all the ingredients for something special. The games are being played, the standings are taking shape, and Tennessee’s best teams are gearing up for a run at a state title, and potentially much more!

To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

Blount United’s Briana McDaniel Named USYS Administrator of the Year

There is a version of Briana McDaniel’s story that never happens. The one where a competitive youth soccer player grows up, moves on, and never looks back at the club that helped shape her. However, that version is not the one that unfolded.

Instead, the former youth player at Blount United Rush SC in Maryville, Tennessee, decided to come back. Not just as a volunteer or a part-time helper, but as the club’s Director of Soccer Operations, pouring the same energy and commitment she once gave on the field into every corner of the organization off the pitch. It is a full-circle journey that has now earned her recognition at the highest levels of the sport she loves.

McDaniel was recently named by Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) as its Soccer Village Administrator of the Year at the 2026 TSSA Annual General Meeting, honored among a class of coaches, volunteers, referees, and administrators whose collective dedication fuels youth soccer across the state. But the recognition did not stop there. Following her state honor, McDaniel was submitted as Tennessee’s nominee for the national award, and US Youth Soccer selected Briana McDaniel its National Administrator of the Year.

“It is honestly surreal,” McDaniel said. “Coming up as a competitive youth player, you never realize how many people are behind the scenes making sure you can step on the field. I am blessed to work in the sport I love, and I have my dream job. I am just extremely grateful for the opportunity, recognition, and the people around me.”

A Club That Spans Generations

To understand why this recognition resonates so deeply with McDaniel, you have to understand what Blount United Rush SC means to her. She was a player there. She learned the game there. And when she eventually returned as a staff member, she found that the culture she remembered was still very much alive, passed down through coaches and leaders across decades.

“Our club is such a special place because it has core values and leadership that spans generations,” McDaniel said. “From my coaches in the early 2000s to our current DOC, T.J. McCallum, our board, coaching staff, and even our national partner, Rush Soccer, everyone embodies and teaches the same core values: leadership, tenacity, and respect, to name a few.”

Those values, she explained, are not just words on a wall. They are the standard by which Blount United measures everything it does, from how coaches interact with players to how the club designs its programming and approaches player development.

“We hold ourselves to a high standard and expect our leaders and coaches to live by our core values,” McDaniel said. “Doing so ensures that everything we build and all our player development maintain the same standards, vision, and core values.”

That foundation, rooted in something authentic and multigenerational, is what McDaniel has been working to honor and expand since taking on her role as Director of Soccer Operations.

Service as a Way of Life

Before McDaniel returned to Blount United in a leadership capacity, she took a different kind of detour. One that speaks to who she is at her core. She joined the United States Air Force.

“I joined the Air Force because I felt called to serve,” she said. “But also because I missed the culture and values I gained while playing at Blount United.”

The connection between military service and her club experience is not incidental. Both are built on discipline, shared purpose, and a commitment to something larger than oneself, all of which are values that McDaniel has carried with her throughout her life.

Today, as she looks to complete her Master’s Degree in Strategic Leadership this spring and take on a new role as a Technical Sergeant in the Air National Guard, McDaniel is in many ways still that same person who felt called to serve. Only now, her field of service is youth soccer in East Tennessee.

Building Something Special

Now in her third year as Director of Soccer Operations, McDaniel is quick to deflect personal credit and redirect it toward the team around her.

“I could go on for a while about this one,” she said when asked about the initiatives she’s most proud of over the past year. “But to summarize it all, I am most proud of the team of dedicated servant-leaders we have at Blount United Rush SC. Together, we make the operational, developmental, and community-focused aspects of our club succeed.”

And that team has been busy. Since late spring of 2024, Blount United Rush SC has developed intentional programming across virtually every corner of the game. That list includes a summer 5v5 league, a recreational adult league, goalkeeper training, skills nights, recreational winter futsal, TOPSoccer, tournaments, camps, community days, a college advisory program, girls nights, and numerous regional, national, and international player pathway opportunities through Rush Soccer.

“Without knowledgeable, hardworking, loyal, and simply amazing people on our board, leadership team, and coaching staff, we would not have the capacity to elicit the incredible organizational growth and development that has taken place at our club,” McDaniel said.

Eyes on the Horizon

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup coming to the United States, McDaniel sees a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the sport to reach new families, new communities, and new players who might otherwise never have considered picking up a soccer ball.

“I am excited to witness the impact of the World Cup being in the United States and help create an intentional, professional, and fun place for new players to experience the game,” she said.

Looking further ahead, McDaniel is not just thinking about Blount United, but about Tennessee soccer as a whole. And about the message her story sends to the next generation.

“I still consider myself a young director, beginning my third year, so I hope to continue learning from experienced directors in my field,” she said. “I plan to continue working with our team to make Blount United Rush SC the best club it can be. I hope to collaborate with fellow Tennessee clubs and TSSA to continue building a soccer ecosystem that puts players first. Nationally, I would love to work with Rush Soccer and USYS to show young female athletes that they can be leaders, too.”

That last line may be the most important one. In a sport where behind-the-scenes leadership often goes unnoticed, McDaniel is proof that the people running clubs, building programs, and investing in communities are every bit as vital as what happens on the field. And now, with both state and national recognition to her name, she is also proof of something else: that you can come home, give back, and help create something truly incredible.

Briana McDaniel serves as Director of Soccer Operations at Blount United Rush SC in Maryville, Tennessee. Blount United Rush SC is a member club of the Tennessee State Soccer Association.

TSSA Honors ‘Of The Year’ Award Winners at 2026 AGM

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!

TSSA Crowns Fall 2025 State Cup Champions in Murfreesboro

Hosted by Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA), the Fall 2025 Tennessee State Cup wrapped up in Murfreesboro this past weekend with championship finals that brought out the very best in youth soccer across the state. After advancing through last week’s quarterfinal and semifinal rounds, teams arrived at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex determined to close out their seasons on the biggest stage of the year, and the level of play across all divisions matched the moment.

From the 15U–19U boys finals to the standout performances in the 12U 9v9 brackets, State Cup Championship Weekend showcased disciplined soccer, high-pressure execution and the competitive depth that continues to elevate the game in Tennessee.

“What a great weekend! We proudly crowned 22 Tennessee State Champions across our four divisions,” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “We’re looking forward to cheering on our boys’ NCS Champions as they compete in the new USYS Nationals next July, and our PCUP winners as they head to the new Presidents Cup Mid-Atlantic National Qualifier next June. Big things are ahead for all of our Tennessee State Champions!”

This fall marked the first championship cycle under the Tennessee State League’s new four-division competitive structure, a system designed to create clear pathways, strengthen competitive balance and align more closely with US Youth Soccer naming conventions. That framework set the stage for a championship environment that brought together elite programs, rising clubs and developing teams competing at the level best suited for their progression.

To provide clarity on the competition structure, below is an overview of each division:

National Championship Series (NCS): Formerly known as Division 1, state champions in this division advance directly to USYS National Championships next summer.
Presidents Cup (PCUP): Formerly known as Division 2, state champions in this division move on to the USYS Mid Atlantic Presidents Cup National Qualifier next summer.
Governor’s Cup (GC): A brand-new division created to balance levels of play and give more teams competitive opportunities. Champions in this division do not advance to another level of play beyond the state tournaments.
Mayor’s Cup (MC): Formerly known as Division 3, this competition is designed for newer or developing teams, with promotional opportunities possible for future seasons.

Across all four divisions, teams delivered results shaped by composure and the relentless drive that defines championship soccer. Tight scorelines, late-game momentum swings and standout individual performances underscored how much was on the line. Since its first edition in 1976, the Tennessee State Cup has served as a proving ground for the state’s top programs, and this year’s competition continued to raise that standard.

Following is the complete list of champions and finalists from TSSA State Cup Championship Weekend:

12U Boys 9v9 NCS: Champion – One Knox 14B Yellow 1 (Finalist – TSC Williamson 2014 Boys Showcase Blue)
12U Boys 9v9 PCUP: Champion – NUSA B14 Donelson Maroon (Finalist – One Knox 14B Yellow 2)
12U Boys 9v9 GC: Champion – Wilson United SC 2014B Black (Finalist – NUSA B14 Brentwood Gold)
12U Boys 9v9 MC: Champion – 2014 CSA (Finalist – TUSC 2014 Boys Blue)
12U Girls 9v9 NCS: Champion – 2014 Lady Lobos Rush Blue (Finalist – MCFC Girls 2014 Navy)
12U Girls 9v9 PCUP: Champion – FC Alliance North 2014 Girls Johnson City (Finalist – KH PreElite Murfreesboro G14-1)
12U Girls 9v9 MC: Champion – Wilson United SC 2014/15G Black (Finalist – WHSC 2014 Girls)
15U Boys NCS: Champion – Stones River FC 2011 Black (Finalist – NUSA B11 Maroon)
15U Boys PCUP: Champion – Wilson United SC 2011B Feature (Finalist – PSA Express)
15U Boys GC: Champion – TN Tempo FC Academy 2011B Blue (Finalist – Ole FC 11 B)
15U Boys MC: Champion – MIFC U15B (Finalist – Emerald AJAX 2011 Boys)
16U Boys NCS: Champion – TN Tempo FC Academy 2010B Blue (Finalist – TSC 2010 Boys Kahn)
16U Boys PCUP: Champion – PSA Tornadoes (Finalist – JSC 2010 Boys)
16U Boys GC: Champion – 2010 Lobos Rush Elite (Finalist – AYSO Alliance 16U Boy Orange)
16U Boys MC: Champion – MIFC U16B (Finalist – Lakeway Gunners 16UB)
17U Boys NCS: Champion – Pats 2009 Blue (Finalist – NUSA B09 Maroon)
17U Boys PCUP: Champion – JSC 2009 Boys Gold (Finalist – TSC Williamson 2009 Boys Pollock)
17U Boys MC: Champion – TSC Williamson 2009 Boys Showcase (Finalist – Emerald Bayern Munich 2009 Boys)
19U Boys NCS: Champion – TN Tempo FC Academy 2008/2007B Blue (Finalist – NUSA B07 Maroon)
19U Boys PCUP: Champion – One Knox 07/08B Sevierville (Finalist – PSA River City)
19U Boys GC: Champion – One Knox Sevier 08/09 (Finalist – 2007 Redoubt Generals)
19U Boys MC: Champion – Action Elite 07/08B (Finalist – BURSC 2007/08 Hammers)

As another TSSA State Cup comes to a close, Tennessee recognizes a new class of champions that rose to the challenge and earned their place in the state’s competitive history. For every team involved, the State Cup journey remains a powerful benchmark of growth, preparation and the passion that fuels soccer across the Volunteer State.

The Tennessee State Cup has been a defining part of TSSA programming since 1976. Open to all member clubs, the event brings together teams that qualify through Tennessee State League play to compete for a state title. From nationally ambitious sides in the National Championship Series and Presidents Cup to first-time contenders in the Governor’s Cup and Mayor’s Cups, State Cup continues to offer meaningful competition for every level of play across Tennessee.

To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

Tennessee State Cup Championships Set for Murfreesboro this Weekend

The chase for a Tennessee State Championship reaches its peak this weekend as the Fall 2025 Tennessee State Cup returns to Murfreesboro for its final rounds. After a hard-fought quarterfinal and semifinal slate last weekend, the state’s top 15U–19U boys teams will step onto the fields at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex with a goal of finishing their journey as champions.

In addition to the 15U–19U boys championships, the weekend will also feature semifinal and final play for the 12U 9v9 boys and girls divisions, adding another layer of excitement as younger teams get their moment on the state stage.

“Now’s the time for teams to give it everything and see who rises to the top,” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “With our updated league-play format, over 20 clubs from across the state will compete for their division championship to become State Champions. Good Luck to all teams competing!”

Hosted by the Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA), State Cup Championship Weekend represents the culmination of months of hard work inside league play, training sessions, film rooms and travel. Teams that advanced through last weekend’s knockout rounds now face their toughest test yet in a winner-takes-all battle for one of the most storied titles in Tennessee youth soccer.

This year’s State Cup arrives at a moment of growth and evolution for TSSA. Following four consecutive years of rising participation numbers, 2025 marked the first full season under the Tennessee State League’s restructured four-division model. Aligned with US Youth Soccer naming conventions, the format has brought clearer pathways, stronger competitive balance and expanded postseason opportunities for clubs statewide. State Cup now mirrors that structure, sending teams from all four divisions into a championship environment that reflects the depth and diversity of soccer talent across Tennessee.

“TSSA has around 65,000 players participating in this great sport,” said Hans Hobson, TSSA Chief Executive Officer. “Some of the very best competitive/select players from across our state will be crowned state champions this weekend. We are excited to honor them!”

Teams from each of TSSA’s competitive levels will be represented during State Cup Championship Weekend.

National Championship Series: Formerly known as Division 1, state champions in this division advance directly to USYS National Championships next summer.
Presidents Cup: Formerly known as Division 2, state champions in this division move on to the USYS Mid Atlantic Presidents Cup National Qualifier next summer.
Governor’s Cup: A brand-new division created to balance levels of play and give more teams competitive opportunities. Champions in this division do not advance to another level of play beyond the state tournaments.
Mayor’s Cup: Formerly known as Division 3, this competition is designed for newer or developing teams, with promotional opportunities possible for future seasons.

The Tennessee State Cup, first held in 1976, remains a defining piece of the state’s competitive pathway. With opportunities for nationally competitive programs and emerging teams alike, the event continues to celebrate the ambition, hard work and community spirit that shape the game across Tennessee.

To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

Tennessee State Cup Kicks Off with Quarterfinal and Semifinal Action

The road to a Tennessee State Championship runs through Murfreesboro this weekend as 15U–19U boys teams from across the state arrive at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex for the opening rounds of the Fall 2025 Tennessee State Cup. Hosted by the Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA), the tournament begins with single-elimination play in its quarterfinal and semifinal rounds, where every match becomes a direct step toward next weekend’s finals.

This fall marks another milestone season for TSSA. After four straight years of rising registrations, the Tennessee State League debuted a revamped four-division structure aligned with US Youth Soccer naming conventions. The updated format has created more competitive balance, clearer pathways and additional opportunities for players to compete for a championship. The State Cup now reflects those enhancements, welcoming teams from all four divisions into an expanded postseason environment.

“Forty clubs from all corners of the state come together to compete for a championship,” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “With 118 teams — some brand-new, others proudly returning — best of luck in your chase of the Cup!”

This weekend’s matches will feature teams from each level of TSSA’s new competitive structure:

National Championship Series: Formerly known as Division 1, state champions in this division advance directly to USYS National Championships next summer.
Presidents Cup: Formerly known as Division 2, state champions in this division move on to the USYS Mid Atlantic Presidents Cup next summer.
Governor’s Cup: A brand-new division created to balance levels of play and give more teams competitive opportunities. Champions in this division do not advance to another level of play beyond the state tournaments.
Mayor’s Cup: Formerly known as Division 3, this competition is designed for newer or developing teams, with promotional opportunities possible for future seasons.

Across two days of intense competition this weekend, quarterfinal and semifinal winners will earn their spots in State Cup Championship Weekend on November 22–23. Next weekend will also showcase the semifinals and finals for teams in the 12U 9v9 boys and girls divisions.

To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

USCSA And WAGS Announce U.S. Soccer All-Female National B License

The United States Consortium of State Associations (USCSA) and Women and Girls in Soccer (WAGS) have teamed up to launch the first ever All-Female U.S. Soccer National B License Course for youth soccer coaches. This all-female offering demonstrates the strong collaboration between WAGS and the 16 State Association members of the USCSA to increase female participation in sports, further highlighting their dedication to empowering women in coaching.

The U.S. Soccer National B License Course is a high-level coaching program designed to challenge and elevate coaches who are dedicated to advancing their expertise and leadership in the game. This opportunity not only provides female coaches with access to top-tier education but also creates a supportive, collaborative environment where women can learn, share and grow together in their professional journeys.

“WAGS is privileged to sponsor our first-ever All-Female National B Course, advancing our mission to empower and support female coaches in their educational journey,” said Kerry Diederich, WAGS Executive Director. “We look forward to our collaboration with the USCSA and its 16 State Association members to provide this pathway to higher license for female coaches, ensuring their personal goals in soccer can be realized. Fulfilling this initiative also reflects the long-standing vision of our Chairwoman, Lula Bauer, who has long championed expanding access to the highest-level coaching education for women in the game.”

Women and Girls in Soccer (WAGS) is a 50-year-old charitable organization dedicated to empowering girls and women through soccer, with roots as one of the first all-girls soccer leagues in the United States, founded in the Metro DC area. Today, WAGS officially partners with the USCSA, which has a mission to maximize the potential of its member State Associations by building a highly effective network that fosters collaboration, shares resources and reduces costs. WAGS’ goal is to sponsor, develop and provide educational and character-building programs that benefit girls and women while promoting a lifelong passion for soccer. WAGS has also led from the front in female coach education initiatives, hosting the first All-Female Coach Education D License in partnership with U.S. Soccer in 2018.

The USCSA’s participation in this effort is also thanks to a Growing the Girls Game grant from U.S. Soccer’s Innovate to Grow initiative.

“As the sport of soccer continues to evolve, it’s important to embrace and recognize the significant talent that women bring to the game and specifically to the profession of coaching,” said Sammy Giraldo, TSSA Director of Coaching. The collaboration between USCSA and WAGS follows along this trend and allows for additional opportunities so that women can continue to be leaders in the sport and inspire future generations, strengthening the game for all. My hopes are that opportunities like this will become the norm in the coming years, and we continue to celebrate the talented women coaches that are helping to grow the game in extraordinary ways.”

Registration for the six-month course is now open (click here to access the U.S. Soccer Learning Center listing) and will remain open through November 14th, 2025. The course begins in January 2026 and will be hosted by New Jersey Youth Soccer.

In order to be considered for this course, candidates must complete the Formsite application first (click here). This Formsite application is also listed on the U.S. Soccer Learning Center course registration page.
All accepted applicants will be notified by December 8th. Once accepted, the coach will have until December 22nd to register for the course.
This course status is listed as “Invitation Only” in the U.S. Soccer Learning Center.

The National B License Course runs for six months and follows a blended learning format. It includes two in-person meetings and, on average, one virtual meeting per week. The online portion features live webinars with guest speakers, individual meetings with assigned coach educators, and independent learning assignments. The in-person sessions emphasize small group activities and individualized field work.

The course is sponsored by WAGS and USCSA, and it guarantees placement for at least one member coach from each of the USCSA’s 16 State Associations. Coaches accepted into the course will receive full reimbursement of the $2,900 course registration fee upon successful completion of the program, courtesy of the Jill Ellis Scholarship Fund and sponsorship from WAGS and the USCSA. Travel expenses, including hotel accommodations and meals for the in-person component, are the responsibility of the course candidate. A travel stipend may be made available. If so, details will be communicated to candidates.

Tennessee State Soccer Association is a founding member of the United States Consortium of Soccer Associations, which was established in early 2024 with a vision to create a highly functioning network of state associations focused on growing soccer participation.

To learn more about the USCSA, visit ConsortiumOfSoccerAssociations.org. Also make sure to follow our official LinkedIn page. Further, we encourage you to visit WAGS online and follow them on social media: @wagsinsoccer

About WAGS
WAGS is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Its mission is to provide opportunities to sponsor, develop, or provide educational and character-building programs for the benefit of girls and women through teaching and promoting an interest in the game of soccer. WAGS is on the web at womenandgirlsinsoccer.org. WAGS Tournament is on the web at wagstournament.com.

Tennessee ODP Announces Innovative Collaboration with Refine Soccer and Footie Fit

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) has announced a new collaboration aimed at raising the standard of player development within the Tennessee Olympic Development Program (ODP). In partnership with Refine Soccer and Footie Fit, Tennessee ODP is introducing a comprehensive model that unites advanced technical training with elite sports performance.

This initiative underscores TSSA’s commitment to delivering the best possible environment for our athletes, blending tradition with innovation to help players reach their full potential.

Honoring ODP’s National Legacy

Since its launch in 1977, the Olympic Development Program has been the nation’s original pathway for identifying and preparing future national team players. Guided by US Youth Soccer and the U.S. Soccer Federation, ODP gives athletes opportunities to progress from local to national stages while gaining exposure to college scouts, high-level coaches and professional resources.

By launching this new partnership, Tennessee ODP is building on that legacy and redefining what a modern player pathway can look like.

Refine Soccer: Advancing Technical Development

Refine Soccer delivers technology-driven training that is designed to sharpen skills and measure progress at every stage of a player’s journey. Led by current and former professional players, Refine Soccer creates an environment that challenges athletes while fostering confidence, precision and long-term growth.

“We are excited to collaborate with Tennessee ODP and Footie Fit in setting a new benchmark for player development,” said Christian Duke, Owner & CEO of Refine Soccer. “This partnership blends tradition, innovation, and expertise, creating an environment where athletes are challenged technically, physically, and mentally to prepare for success at the next level.”

Footie Fit: Redefining Sports Performance

A soccer-specific performance lab located in Franklin, Footie Fit specializes in speed, agility and durability for the modern game. Founded by Zlatko Hundur, who coaches programming alongside Carol Vieira, Footie Fit blends baseline testing with targeted training in strength, explosiveness and endurance. Each program is customized to position and season, ensuring athletes transfer gains directly onto the field.

This science-based, soccer-specific model aims to equip Tennessee ODP athletes with the physical foundation needed to compete at the highest levels.

“At Footie Fit, our mission has always been to prepare soccer athletes with the speed, strength, and resilience needed to thrive in the modern game,” said Zlatko Hundur, Founder of Footie Fit. “Partnering with Tennessee ODP allows us to bring that same soccer-specific performance model to some of the state’s most dedicated players, ensuring they have the physical foundation to reach their highest potential.”

A Unified Approach to Player Growth

Together, Refine Soccer and Footie Fit will provide Tennessee ODP athletes with a dual advantage of technical mastery paired with physical performance. This holistic approach places player development at the center of its programming, preparing athletes for success both now and in the future.

“Within the context of a constantly evolving landscape of Youth Soccer in our country, we are always on the lookout to bring new and better processes to the players who participate in our TN Olympic Development Program,” said Bryan Johnson, TSSA Director of Player Development. “Through these partnerships, our players are able to gain more information to help understand the context of their performance in ways that have never been available to them before. We are able to help provide them with a common lens through which they can evaluate their performance, both in improvement over time and in comparison to their peers.”

Commitment from TSSA Leadership

With this collaboration, TSSA continues its mission of growing the game statewide while creating meaningful opportunities for every player. By uniting trusted partners with proven expertise, Tennessee ODP is setting a new benchmark for development programs across the country.

“TSSA believes that the future of soccer includes partnering with innovative groups,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “The software and technology presented through Refine Soccer and Footie Fit is going to revolutionize how we use data to train and develop players.”

This initiative also reflects TSSA’s forward-thinking approach to player growth. By investing in both the technical and physical sides of development, Tennessee ODP is ensuring athletes have the tools they need to succeed today, and to lead the game into the future.

To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

Tennessee State League Continues Growth with New Division and National Alignment

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is building on years of steady growth as the Fall 2025 season of the Tennessee State League hits full swing. For the fourth straight year, registrations have risen, and 2025 also brings new major milestones. Starting this fall, TSSA has added a fourth division and a revamped competition structure that now fully aligns with US Youth Soccer naming conventions.

New Division, New Names

Beginning this season, the Tennessee State League is now operating under a new four-division structure:

National Championship Series: Formerly known as Division 1, state champions in this division advance directly to USYS National Championships.
President’s Cup: Formerly known as Division 2, state champions in this division move on to USYS Sub-Regionals.
Governor’s Cup: A brand-new division created to balance levels of play and give more teams competitive opportunities. Champions in this division do not advance to another level of play beyond the state tournaments.
Mayor’s Cup: Formerly known as Division 3, this competition is designed for newer or developing teams, with promotional opportunities possible for future seasons.

These changes ensure TSSA competitions are in step with the US Youth Soccer model while also continuing to expand opportunities for players across our state.

“I’m excited for the new brackets!” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “The structure gives more teams the chance at competing and winning a state championship.”

Fall 2025 State Cup

The fall slate of matches in the Tennessee State League will once again culminate with the Tennessee State Cup, featuring teams that advance past league play.

Weekend of November 15–16: Quarterfinals and Semifinals for 15U–19U boys teams across all divisions.
Weekend of November 22–23: Semifinals and Finals for 12U 9v9 boys and girls teams, along with Finals for 15U–19U boys teams across all divisions.

Pathway to Nationals

TSSA champions at the National Championship Series level (formerly Division 1) will earn a direct spot in the US Youth Soccer National Championships, the country’s most prestigious youth soccer event. President’s Cup winners will advance to US Youth Soccer Sub-Regionals, while the Governor’s Cup and Mayor’s Cup offer competitive platforms for teams developing within the state.

Commitment to Growth

TSSA remains committed to providing meaningful opportunities for every player while continuing the rapid growth of soccer across Tennessee. With record registrations, a new divisional format and a system now fully aligned with national naming models, the Fall 2025 season marks a significant step forward for the game in our state.

To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

One Knox Joins Project Inspire in Launching First Pro League for Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities

Project Inspire has launched the nation’s first-ever professional soccer league for athletes with intellectual disabilities, a game-changing step for inclusion in sports. The nonprofit, which is dedicated to advancing well-being and opportunity through competition, is setting a historic precedent in American soccer.

Among the league’s four founding members is One Knoxville SC, proudly representing Tennessee on the national stage. Their participation highlights not only a belief in the transformative power of sport but also a commitment to building a more inclusive soccer community.

“As a founding member of Project Inspire, One Knoxville SC is honored to be providing a professional platform where athletes with intellectual disabilities can compete, grow and be celebrated at the highest levels,” said Drew McKenna, Managing Partner for One Knoxville SC. “This is an area we are passionate about as a club, but also as a city. Knoxville is a soccer town, for all athletes, and we believe in the power of sport to break down barriers. We could not be more excited to be on the forefront of this movement.”

One Knox’s Role in the Movement

One Knox is helping to shape the league from its inception. The club’s Project Inspire team, led by head coach Daniel Alexander and assistant coaches Leah Runyan and Cecilia Harvanek, began training in July and is preparing for competition modeled after the professional game.

Players will wear the same kits as the USL League One professional squad, with the team traveling three times during the fall season. The league officially kicked off during the weekend of August 22-24 in Colorado Springs with its first fixture of the season. One Knox will host a marquee event at Covenant Health Park from October 3–5, featuring three matches, opening and closing ceremonies, and a full professional gameday experience.

“We are excited for our local athletes with disabilities to have an opportunity to represent their club and community while they experience competition in a challenging and professional environment,” said Daniel Alexander, head coach of the One Knox Project Inspire club.

More About Project Inspire

Project Inspire was created to ensure athletes with intellectual disabilities could access the same pride, professionalism and competitive spirit as any other player. The league requires athletes to be 16 years or older, and all expenses are covered by the participating clubs and Project Inspire itself, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of opportunity.

Alongside One Knox, the other founding members of the league include Colorado Springs Switchbacks, Spokane Impact and United Genuine FC. Together, these clubs form the backbone of the inaugural league, demonstrating a shared commitment to inclusion and setting the stage for growth in the years to come.

A National League with Local Impact

The new Project Inspire league offers athletes a chance to compete, travel and represent their city at the highest possible level. For Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA), One Knox’s role presents an opportunity to elevate inclusive soccer statewide while opening doors for member clubs to expand programming and make the game accessible to even more athletes.

“Here at TSSA, we look to partner alongside our member clubs to serve them in inspiring the next generation of soccer enthusiasts. This includes those with intellectual disabilities who may process the game differently,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “Connecting these athletes to our member clubs who can support them and offer them pathways is our mission.”

What’s Next

To continue building momentum for the league, Tennessee State Soccer Association and One Knox are planning to host a webinar for member clubs that are interested in learning more about Project Inspire. The session will provide details about how the league is structured, what participation looks like for clubs and how organizations can explore opportunities to get involved or support similar initiatives within their own communities. Stay tuned for more information about the webinar.

To speak with One Knoxville SC regarding any questions or to receive more information on Project Inspire, please contact Claudia Dipasupil at claudia@oneknoxsc.com.

To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!