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News

TSSA Crowns Spring State Cup Champions in Murfreesboro

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) Spring State Cup has come to a close, crowning a new class of state champions. After a season full of competitive Tennessee State League play, teams from across the state converged on the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro for two weekends of State Cup action. And when the final whistles blew on championship weekend, the top teams had proven themselves on the biggest stage of the spring season.

From the 12U 11v11 brackets to the 19U Girls Finals, championship weekend showcased the competitive depth that continues to define youth soccer across Tennessee. Tight matches, clutch performances, and the energy of clubs competing for a state title made for a memorable conclusion to a strong spring season.

“State Championship weekends remind me exactly why I love what I do,” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “Moments like these are what Tennessee State League is built for. Congratulations to every team that competed, and to our champions — you earned every bit of it. Good Luck to all teams advancing to USYS Nationals and Presidents Cup!”

Spring 2026 TSSA State Cup Champions and Finalists

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

  • 12U Boys NCS: Champion – 2014 Lobos Rush Blue (Finalist – TSC Williamson 2014 Boys Showcase Blue)
  • 12U Boys PCUP: Champion – Stones River FC 2014 Black (Finalist – OLE FC 14B PREMIER)
  • 12U Boys GC: Champion – TSC Murfreesboro 2014 Boys Showcase (Finalist – TUSC 2014 Boys)
  • 12U Boys MC: Champion – 2014 Cleveland Flames Maroon (Finalist – MTFC 2014 Boys Mythic)
  • 12U Girls NCS: Champion – MCFC Girls 2014 Navy (Finalist – TSC Williamson 2014 Girls Showcase LM)
  • 12U Girls PCUP: Champion – NUSA G14 Brentwood Navy (Finalist – 2014 Redoubt Lady Generals)
  • 13U Boys NCS: Champion – 2013 Lobos Rush TSL D1 (Finalist – Stones River FC 2013 Black)
  • 13U Boys PCUP: Champion – Emerald Real Madrid 2013 Boys (Finalist – Clarksville SC B2013 Maroon)
  • 13U Boys GC: Champion – Stones River FC 2013 Red (Finalist – Rampage SC 13 Boys)
  • 13U Boys MC: Champion – Armada FC 2013B Red (Finalist – GSC Rangers 2013 Boys Force Gold)
  • 13U Girls NCS: Champion – TSC 2013 Girls-Jordan (Finalist – TSC 2013 Girls-Mayes)
  • 13U Girls PCUP: Champion – All-In FC TN 13G Eclipse (Finalist – Ole FC 13 G Premier)
  • 13U Girls MC: Champion – KHA ARIS G13-1 (Finalist – GSC Lady Rangers 2013 Girls Force)
  • 14U Boys NCS: Champion – 2012 Lobos Rush TSL (Finalist – One Knox 12B-TSL D1)
  • 14U Boys PCUP: Champion – JSC 2012 Boys (Finalist – BURSC 2012 Hammers)
  • 14U Boys GC: Champion – Clarksville SC 2012 Maroon (Finalist – USA North 2012 Boys Select)
  • 14U Boys MC: Champion – Stones River FC 2012 Red (Finalist – AYSO Alliance 14U Boy Orange)
  • 14U Girls NCS: Champion – 2012 Lady Lobos Rush TSL (Finalist – TSC Murfreesboro 2012 Girls-Lewis)
  • 14U Girls PCUP: Champion – Ole FC 12 G (Finalist – JSC 2012 Girls)
  • 14U Girls GC: Champion – FC Alliance 2012 Girls TSL (Finalist – 2012 Redoubt Lady Generals)
  • 14U Girls MC: Champion – USA North 2012 Girls (Finalist – TSC Williamson 2012 Girls Showcase)
  • 15U Girls NCS: Champion – TSC 2011 Girls-Kappler (Finalist – Chattanooga Red Wolves 2011 Girls)
  • 15U Girls PCUP: Champion – TSC Williamson 2011 Girls-Santamaria (Finalist – Armada FC 2011G)
  • 15U Girls MC: Champion – 2011G-COLUMBIA FC (Finalist – Rc3 FC Renegades 11/12G)
  • 16U Girls NCS: Champion – TSC Murfreesboro 2010 Girls CL (Finalist – FC Alliance North 2010 Girls)
  • 16U Girls PCUP: Champion – Armada FC 2010G (Finalist – TUSC 2010 Girls)
  • 16U Girls MC: Champion – Germantown Lady Legends 2010 White (Finalist – East TN FC 2010-2012G)
  • 17U Girls NCS: Champion – Kononia Lady Fire 2009/10’s (Finalist – TSC Murfreesboro 2009 Girls-Suarez)
  • 17U Girls PCUP: Champion – NUSA G09 Maroon (Finalist – TUSC 2009 Girls)
  • 17U Girls MC: Champion – 2009 Redoubt Lady Generals (Finalist – Armada FC 2009G)
  • 19U Girls NCS: Champion – Chattanooga Red Wolves U19 Girls
  • 19U Girls PCUP: Champion – KH Elite Murfreesboro G0708-R (Finalist – TSC Sumner 2007/2008 Girls-Sidebottom)
  • 19U Girls MC: Champion – TN Tempo FC Academy HS U19G (Finalist – Rc3 FC Reliance 07-10G)

A Season Built on Opportunity

This spring marked the second full championship cycle under TSSA’s new four-division competitive structure, a system introduced last fall to create clearer pathways, strengthen competitive balance, and align more closely with US Youth Soccer naming conventions. From nationally ambitious programs competing in the National Championship Series to developing clubs finding their footing in the Mayor’s Cup, the format continued to deliver meaningful competition at every level.

  • National Championship Series (NCS): Formerly Division 1, NCS champions earn a direct berth into the US Youth Soccer National Championships.
  • 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 to expand competitive opportunity and balance levels of play across the state.
  • Mayor’s Cup (MC): Formerly Division 3, designed for newer and developing teams, with promotional opportunities possible for future seasons.

“We want to thank the players, coaches, and spectators for an incredible tournament,” said Hans Hobson, CEP of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “This year saw more clubs lift a State Cup trophy — including several first-time champions — than in any recent memory. The growth in talent across our member clubs was on full display.”

TSSA Crowns Spring State Cup Champions in Murfreesboro

The Road Ahead for TSSA State Cup Champions

For many of the State Cup champions, their journey is far from over. National Championship Series winners advance to the US Youth Soccer National Championships from July 13-23, which will be hosted at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro. Boys NCS champions will compete in Salt Lake City, Utah.

President’s Cup champions will first head to the USYS Presidents Cup National Qualifier from June 11-14 in Loudoun, Virginia, before top qualifiers move on to the USYS National Presidents Cup, which will be held from July 7-11 in Wichita, Kansas.

A New Class of Champions

As another Tennessee State Cup closes, TSSA congratulates every champion, finalist, and participant who competed this spring. The State Cup has been a cornerstone of TSSA programming since 1976, and this year’s competition added another memorable chapter to that long history. For every team that took the field, from the first match of State League play to the final whistle in Murfreesboro, the Spring 2026 season was a testament to the incredible talent and depth across youth soccer in Tennessee.

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

TSSA Announces Partnership with White House Sport Psychology

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is proud to announce a new partnership with White House Sport Psychology as its Official Sport Psychology and Mental Health Partner. Through this partnership, White House Sport Psychology will provide mental health support, sport psychology services, training programs, and resources for soccer athletes, coaches, clubs, and families across Tennessee.

“We are excited about this opportunity to provide such a valuable resource to our membership,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “The ability to enhance performance through this partnership is a tool our players will truly benefit from.”

White House Sport Psychology helps athletes build confidence, stay focused, handle pressure, and bounce back from challenges so they can consistently perform at their best. The organization teaches athletes proven mental skills to address areas including stress, fear of failure, confidence, motivation, focus, teamwork, leadership, and injury recovery.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment between White House Sport Psychology and the Tennessee State Soccer Association to support the mental and physical growth of soccer athletes across the state.

“We are excited to partner with the Tennessee State Soccer Association and support athletes throughout Tennessee,” said Tim White, Owner and Sport Psychologist at White House Sport Psychology. “Mental health and mental training are important parts of success in sports. Our goal is to help athletes learn how to handle pressure, overcome challenges, compete with confidence, and perform at the highest level they can.”

As its Official Sport Psychology and Mental Health Partner, White House Sport Psychology will work with TSSA to offer workshops, training sessions, consultations, and support services for athletes, coaches, clubs, and families. The partnership also aims to increase awareness about athlete mental health and encourage those who need support to seek it. By making mental training a part of athlete development, both organizations hope to promote mental strength, resilience, and overall well-being for soccer athletes across Tennessee.

White House Sport Psychology was established by Tim White in 2014 to help athletes, performers, and high achievers strengthen their mindset, improve performance, and build healthier, more successful lives. Services through their agency are available for athletes at all levels, including youth, college, elite, and professional.

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

Tennessee State Cup Championship Weekend Arrives at Richard Siegel Soccer Complex

The opening weekend of the TSSA Spring State Cup delivered everything Tennessee soccer fans have come to expect in competitive matches, standout performances, and no shortage of memorable moments. And now, the teams that advanced through quarterfinal and semifinal action have their sights set on becoming state champions.

State Cup Championship Weekend gets underway this Saturday and Sunday, May 23-24, at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro. All 12U Boys and Girls will compete in semifinal and final action in the 11v11 State Cup, while 13U-14U Boys and 13U-19U Girls across all four divisions return to settle the score and crown the Spring 2026 TSSA State Cup champions.

“The moment teams have been working toward all season is finally here,” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “This weekend, the Tennessee State Soccer Association crowns 33 new State Cup Champions. Play hard, leave it all on the field, and may the best team win. Good luck to all!”

Four Divisions, Four Championships

When Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) introduced its revamped four-division structure last fall, the goal was to provide more teams with more opportunities and more meaningful soccer. That vision has played out all spring and now reaches its culmination this weekend. Here is what is at stake across each division:

  • 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.

“We are excited to welcome all our qualifying teams to Murfreesboro,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “The State Cup continues to provide a quality environment and experience that we can be proud of.”

The Road Beyond Tennessee State Cup

For many teams that leave Murfreesboro with a championship, their journey is just beginning. Winners of the National Championship Series will advance to the US Youth Soccer National Championships, taking place this summer from July 13-23. In a moment that hits especially close to home for Tennessee soccer, the girls’ competition will be held at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro, putting the state champions on a national stage in their own backyard. Boys NCS champions will compete in Salt Lake City, Utah.

President’s Cup champions will first head to the USYS Presidents Cup National Qualifier from June 11-14 in Loudoun, Virginia, before the top qualifiers move on to the USYS National Presidents Cup on July 7-11 in Wichita, Kansas.

Champions Will Be Crowned This Weekend

The Tennessee State League built the foundation. The opening weekend of State Cup narrowed the field. Now, championship weekend delivers the exclamation point. With state titles on the line across four divisions and national competition waiting for the teams that emerge at the top, this is Tennessee soccer at its very best. And it all comes down to the action this weekend in Murfreesboro!

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

Tennessee Spring State Cup Kicks Off this Weekend

The Tennessee Spring State League season was full of compelling matches, tight standings, and memorable moments. And now, teams advancing from State League competition have their sights set on bringing home a state championship.

The TSSA Spring State Cup kicks off this weekend, May 16-17, at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro, as the tournament’s opening rounds bring together 13U-14U Boys and 13U-19U Girls competing across four divisions. Quarterfinal and semifinal action will take place in the National Championship Series, President’s Cup, Governor’s Cup, and Mayor’s Cup brackets, with every result bringing teams one step closer to a state title.

“I’m excited for another incredible weekend of competitive soccer at State Cup!” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “The energy, passion, and talent on display are always amazing. Which teams and clubs will come out on top remains to be seen, but it’s sure to be an awesome weekend of soccer!”

Four Divisions, One Stage

When TSSA introduced its revamped four-division structure last fall, the goal was simple: more teams, more opportunities, more meaningful soccer. That vision is now playing out on the State Cup stage. Here is what is at stake across each division this weekend:

  • 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.

Championship Weekend: May 23-24

This weekend’s quarterfinal and semifinal action sets the table for what promises to be an electric championship weekend on May 23-24, back at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex. All 12U Boys and Girls will compete in semifinal and final action in the 11v11 State Cup, while 13U-14U Boys and 13U-19U Girls across all four divisions return to settle the score and crown the Spring 2026 TSSA State Cup champions.

The Road Beyond Tennessee

For the teams that leave Murfreesboro with a championship, their journey is just beginning. National Championship Series champions will advance to the US Youth Soccer National Championships, which will take place this summer from July 13-23. In a moment that hits especially close to home for Tennessee soccer, the girls’ competition will be held right here at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro, putting the state’s best teams on a national stage in their own backyard. Boys NCS champions will compete in Salt Lake City, Utah.

President’s Cup champions will first head to the USYS Presidents Cup National Qualifier from June 11-14 in Loudoun, Virginia, before the top qualifiers move on to the USYS National Presidents Cup on July 7-11 in Wichita, Kansas.

It All Starts This Weekend

The Tennessee State League season set the stage. Now, the TSSA Spring State Cup takes over. With state championships on the line across four divisions and national competition waiting for the teams that emerge at the top, the spring season is entering its most exciting chapter yet. And it all gets started this weekend in Murfreesboro!

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

TSSA Named District Operator in NewComp League

Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) has been selected as a league operator for NewComp, a new competition jointly launched by US Youth Soccer and US Club Soccer that is set to premiere ahead of the 2026-27 season.

“We are excited about the NewComp League and believe that TSSA has the knowledge and experience to oversee a what has been called the top TEAM BASED all-inclusive league across the landscape,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association.

TSSA has been designated as the operator of Mid-Atlantic District 4, making Tennessee part of a select group of state associations and league organizations chosen to help develop the new league competition. The designation was part of a full operator announcement made in March, which revealed the national roster of operators across all eight conferences.

What Is NewComp?

NewComp is a new national league competition (temporarily operating under NewComp as working name) created through a historic collaboration between US Youth Soccer and US Club Soccer. It brings together two of the most prominent team-based competition platforms in the country, the USYS National League and the National Premier Leagues (NPL), uniting them under a single structure designed to serve 10,000 teams and more than 150,000 players nationwide.

The competition is organized across eight conferences (Northwest, West, Central, South, Midwest, Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast) featuring multiple districts within each conference. TSSA’s designation as the Mid-Atlantic District 4 operator places Tennessee within a conference that spans a significant and competitive stretch of the country.

The inaugural NewComp season will culminate in summer 2027 with a postseason operated by the Elite Club National League (ECNL), specifically through the newly announced ECNL Conference League Playoffs. The top-performing teams from NewComp will advance to that postseason alongside selected ECNL Regional League (ECNL RL) teams, creating a nationally significant stage for the country’s best programs.

A League Built Around Players and Families

One of the defining principles behind NewComp is its commitment to reducing travel burdens while expanding access and opportunity. By layering multiple districts within each conference, the competition is designed to keep games closer to home without sacrificing the quality or meaning of the competition.

NewComp also sits within the broader U.S. Soccer Pathways Strategy, an initiative aimed at making the sport easier to navigate and more accessible at every level. The structure creates promotion pathways from localized and state-level competitions up into NewComp, and from there into the ECNL RL, giving clubs a clear and transparent ladder for advancement.

“NewComp aligns with the broader goals of the U.S. Soccer Pathway Strategy,” said Marc Frankland, NewComp Commissioner. “The work to connect pathways into NewComp begins now. Our team will partner with selected operators and the respective state associations across the country to develop district-level pathways that are more inclusive and easier for players and parents to understand. The goal is not to disrupt local leagues, but to connect them into a clearer national structure. This work will take time, but we are committed to building it thoughtfully. Access to NewComp will not be tied to whether leagues, teams or players are registered with US Youth Soccer or US Club Soccer.” 

Operators across the country were selected based on their commitment to access and inclusivity, quality competition, and player-first decision-making, all of which are values that have long defined TSSA’s approach to growing the game across Tennessee.

What This Means for Tennessee Soccer

TSSA’s selection as a NewComp operator is a significant recognition of its standing within the national youth soccer community. With more than 100 member clubs and a track record of steady growth across both its competitive and developmental programs, TSSA is well-positioned to bring the NewComp model to life for clubs and players in the district.

League operators recently came together in Atlanta to further discuss details, and team registration officially opens this month. As that information takes shape, TSSA will continue to provide updates to its member clubs on what NewComp means for their teams and how to get involved.

For the latest information on NewComp, visit the TSSA NewComp Overview webpage. Also make sure to follow TSSA on social media!

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!

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