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Four Tennessee Teams Crowned Southern Regional Champions

The state of Tennessee enjoyed an incredible run at the US Youth Soccer Southern Regional Championships in Dallas, with four Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) teams being crowned Southern Regional Champions and three additional squads finishing the tournament as finalists.

Lifting the trophy as winners in their age divisions were Tennessee Soccer Club 2011 Girls (14U Girls), Kononia Lady Fire Memphis 2009/10s (16U Girls), Chattanooga Red Wolves 08G (17U Girls) and NUSA 07 Boys Maroon (18/19U Boys). Also reaching the finals at the regional competition were Tennessee United SC 2012 Boys (13U Boys), One Knox SC 09G (16U Girls) and 06/07 Germantown Legends Premier (18/19U Boys).

Tennessee Soccer Club 2011 Girls started the USYS Southern Regional Championships by going unbeaten in group play and not allowing a single goal across three matches. Their 2-0-1 record and 7-0 goal differential secured the top seed from their bracket and advanced them into the semifinals. In that next round, TSC 2011 Girls faced Solar East 11G Reese FDL (North Texas) and punched their ticket to the championship match with an impressive 4-1 result. Awaiting them in the final was JIYSC 11 Girls D (South Carolina), with the Tennessee side delivering a dominant performance and earning a 3-0 victory. Following the win, TSC 2011 Girls lifted the 14U Girls Southern Regional Championship Trophy, officially booking their reservation in the USYS National Championships later this month in Orlando.

Kononia Lady Fire Memphis 2009/10s dominated their group in the opening round of action, recording three straight shutouts across three victories while outscoring their opposition, 13-0. The team then carried that momentum into the semifinals, where they registered a fourth consecutive clean sheet against Solar South 09G Naizer FDL (North Texas), 3-0, claiming their spot in the championship game. In an all-Tennessee final, Kononia Lady Fire Memphis 2009/10s emerged victorious in a highly competitive 3-2 battle over One Knox SC 09G, lifting the 16U Girls Trophy and extending their postseason journey to the USYS National Championships in Orlando.

Chattanooga Red Wolves 08G were also outstanding in group play, earning three straight victories and winning their bracket with a 10-1 goal differential. The Scenic City representatives then moved into the semifinals and defeated Renegades 08G FDL (North Texas), 3-1, to advance to the championship match. Opposite them in the final was SSC 08G Storm Elite (Louisiana), and Chattanooga Red Wolves 08G blanked their opponent, 2-0, to capture the 17U Girls Southern Regional Championship and earn their place at the USYS National Championships later this month.

NUSA 07 Boys Maroon also recorded three straight wins in group competition, winning their division after outscoring the opposition by a tally of 9-3. Awaiting them in the semifinal round was Little Rock Rangers 2006 Boys (Arkansas), where NUSA 07 Boys Maroon topped their opponent by a scoreline of 2-1. The 18/19U Championship featured a second all-Tennessee final, with 06/07 Germantown Legends Premier also booking a reservation on the last day of the tournament. After a hard-fought game, NUSA 07 Boys Maroon lifted the 18/19U Trophy with a 2-1 victory at the final whistle. Next up for NUSA 07 Boys Maroon is a trip to Orlando for the USYS National Championships.

Tennessee enjoyed an incredible run at the Southern Regional Championships, with four TSSA teams being crowned Southern Regional Champions.

The country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament, the USYS National Championships Presented by New York Life will take place from July 22–27 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. Each summer during this event, US Youth Soccer crowns a 13U–19U boys and girls national champion following a year-long series of competitions at the state and regional levels. With approximately 185,000 players on 10,000 teams across the 54 USYS State Associations, the National Championships provide a platform for players to showcase their talent against the best competition in the country.

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

Seven TSSA Teams Punch Tickets to National Presidents Cup

Seven Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) teams punched their tickets to the US Youth Soccer (USYS) National Presidents Cup after reaching the final round of the USYS Southern Presidents Cup in Plano, Texas. Raising the trophy as champions for their respective age groups were TSC Williamson 2012 Girls Showcase (13U Girls), FC Alliance North 2010 Girls (15U Girls), USA North G17U (17U Girls) and PSA Pedro Jrs (19U Boys). Also booking a reservation to the National Presidents Cup as finalists in Texas were JSC 2012 GIRLS (13U Girls), TSC Williamson 2009 Girls Showcase (16U Girls) and TSC Williamson 2006/2007 Girls Showcase (19U Girls).

TSC Williamson 2012 Girls Showcase registered three consecutive shutouts to win their group at the Southern Presidents Cup, posting a 6-0 goal differential over three straight wins. They continued their incredible run with a 2-0 victory over Auburndale Scream 2012 U13 Girls (Florida) in the semifinals before earning the 13U Championship with a 1-0 victory over TSSA team JSC 2012 GIRLS. With that result, TSC Williamson 2012 Girls Showcase completed the regional competition without conceding a single goal, recording five clean sheets and a perfect 9-0 goal differential.

FC Alliance North 2010 Girls dominated their group with three straight shutouts and a 10-0 tally across their opening round matches. They carried that momentum into the semifinals, where the Tennessee side topped Mustang United 2010 G (Oklahoma) by a score of 2-1. In the championship game, FC Alliance North 2010 Girls secured their fourth clean sheet of the tournament to lift the 15U Girls Trophy, blanking CSA North/Hville King G (North Carolina) by a final of 2-0.

USA North G17U played top-class soccer in the group stage, winning their bracket on three consecutive shutouts and a 10-0 goal advantage over three straight victories. Next on the slate was a semifinal pairing with Alabama FC 08G (Alabama), where they battled for a hard-fought 2-1 decision and advanced to the championship match. BH 2008G (Louisiana) was their opponent in the final, and USA North G17U prevailed over the Louisiana side by a tally of 2-1 to raise the 17U Girls Southern Presidents Cup.

PSA Pedro Jrs opened the Southern Presidents Cup with three victories to win their group, outscoring the opposition by a scoreline of 13-3. In the semifinal round, they found themselves opposite Blitz Academy FC 06 Boys Premier (Oklahoma), defeating the Oklahoma team by of result of 2-1 in their favor. They continued their success into the final, earning a 2-0 victory over EDLL MC 2006 (South Texas) to claim the 19U Boys Championship.

JSC 2012 GIRLS won all three of their group stage matches on a 12-2 goal differential, setting up a semifinal game with OK Energy FC 12G Navy (Oklahoma). That back-and-forth match saw JSC 2012 GIRLS eventually best the Oklahoma team, 2-1, setting up an all-Tennessee final against TSC Williamson 2012 Girls Showcase. In a tightly contested championship match, TSC Williamson came out on top with a 1-0 result.

TSC Williamson 2009 Girls Showcase won their group following three consecutive victories and a goal advantage of 7-2. After securing the top seed from their bracket, the Tennessee side advanced to a semifinal contest with Lakeland Toros 9/10 Girls (South Carolina), where TSC Williamson 2009 Girls Showcase topped their opponent by a tally of 1-0. The final pairing of their Southern Presidents Cup run was against IFC 09/10 Girls Premier (Mississippi), with the Mississippi representative edging out the 2-1 result.

TSC Williamson 2006/2007 Girls Showcase went unbeaten in group play, securing the top seed from their bracket behind a 2-0-1 record and 7-2 goal differential in their favor. That placed them opposite TSSA representative Rc3 FC Reign 06-09G in the semifinals, with TSC Williamson 2006/2007 Girls Showcase earning a 3-1 result. In the final round of the 19U Girls Tournament was a meeting against New Orleans DFC 06G (Louisiana), where the Louisiana side was able to come out on top.

Also representing Tennessee at the Southern Presidents Cup was EFSC 2011 Everton Girls (14U Girls), Clarksville SC G2011 Maroon (14U Girls), Tri-Cities United U18 Girls (18U Girls), Rc3 FC Reign 06-09G (19U Girls), JSC 2012 BOYS GOLD (13U Boys), BUSC 2011 Hammers Navy (14U Boys), Armada FC 10B Red (15U Boys), 2009 Redoubt Generals Royal (16U Boys), 2008 Lobos Rush ECNL RL (17U Boys) and NUSA B07 Navy (18U Boys).

The National Presidents Cup will take place from July 11-15 in Tampa, Florida. Hosted by US Youth Soccer, the Presidents Cup provides a progressive, competitive environment for teams seeking a series of unique challenges highlighting competition, camaraderie and community.

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

TSSA Selects Kwik Goal as Official Soccer Goal Provider

Partnership Set to Boost Field Quality and Player Safety Across Tennessee

Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is proud to announce Kwik Goal, a long-time leader in the soccer equipment industry, as its Official Soccer Goal and Equipment Provider.

This partnership reflects a mutual commitment to raising the standard of soccer in Tennessee. By teaming up, TSSA and Kwik Goal aim to improve field safety and performance while supporting the development of players, coaches and clubs throughout the state.

“TSSA is committed to giving every player and coach the opportunity to grow in a safe and supportive environment,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “Our new partnership with Kwik Goal helps us do just that by equipping our fields with the best goals in the game.”

The partnership is built on shared values of quality, safety and a desire to see soccer grow in local communities. For TSSA, aligning with a company known for its durable and trusted equipment ensures their members have the best possible tools for training and competition.

“It’s an honor to be chosen as the official goal provider for TSSA,” said Sean Irey, Kwik Goal Director of Sales. “TSSA plays a vital role in building and strengthening the soccer community in Tennessee, and we’re excited to contribute by delivering safe, high-quality equipment that supports the game at every level.”

This collaboration is another step in Kwik Goal’s broader initiative to support state associations and clubs across the country. For over four decades, the company has worked closely with soccer communities at all levels, from grassroots programs to national teams.

About Kwik Goal

Founded in 1981, Kwik Goal is a recognized industry leader in soccer goals and training equipment. As the official goal and field equipment supplier to U.S. Soccer, the company provides innovative, reliable products trusted by players, coaches, and organizations across the country.

Champions Crowned at TSSA Spring State Cup

After an incredibly competitive spring season, Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) officially crowned its State Cup Champions last weekend at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro. Girls champions were determined in the 12U-19U age groups for all three divisions of play, along with boys teams in the 12U-14U age brackets.

“Another exciting State Cup is in the books,” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “Great competition with 22% of the 169 matches decided in extra time! We had it all. Signing bracket boards as teams advanced, 36 champions raised the Cup, players named to the All-Tournament Team and medals honoring our elite referees chosen for finals. We could not have asked for a better ending to an exceptional season. Good luck to all the teams advancing to Southern Presidents Cup and Southern Regionals this summer in TX. I know they will represent TN well!”

TSSA State Cup Champions – Division 1

  • 12U Boys (9v9): One Knox 14B Yellow 1
  • 12U Boys (11v11): NUSA B13 Brentwood Maroon
  • 12U Girls (11v11): Germantown Lady Legends 2013 Black
  • 13U Boys: TUSC 2012 Boys NPL
  • 13U Girls: TSC Murfreesboro 2012 Girls Showcase
  • 14U Boys: Chattanooga FC 2011B Navy
  • 14U Girls: TSC 2011 Girls ECNL RL
  • 15U Girls: Chattanooga FC 2010G Navy
  • 16U Girls: One Knox 09G GA
  • 17U Girls: Chattanooga Red Wolves 2008 Girls
  • 19U Girls: Chattanooga Red Wolves 2007 Girls

TSSA State Cup Champions – Division 2

  • 12U Boys (9v9): EFSC 2013 Real Madrid Yellow Boys
  • 12U Girls (9v9): JSC 2013 GIRLS GOLD
  • 12U Boys (11v11): OLE FC 13 B Premier
  • 12U Girls (11v11): Midsouth TSA 2013 Girls Navy
  • 13U Boys: JSC 2012 BOYS GOLD
  • 13U Girls: JSC 2012 GIRLS
  • 14U Boys: Music City FC 11B Premier
  • 14U Girls: EFSC 2011 Everton Girls
  • 15U Girls: FC Alliance North 2010 Girls
  • 16U Girls: TSC Williamson 2009 Girls Showcase
  • 17U Girls: USA North G17U
  • 18U Girls: Tri-Cities United U18 Girls
  • 19U Girls: TSC Williamson 2006/2007 Girls Showcase

Champions at the Division 1 level of Tennessee State Cup (13U and older) now advance to regional play in the US Youth Soccer (USYS) National Championships Presented by New York Life, which is the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament. The USYS Southern Regionals are set for June 27 to July 2 in Dallas, Texas. Champions at the Division 2 level (13U and older) continue onto regional play in the USYS Presidents Cup, which provides a progressive and competitive environment to teams that might not otherwise get the opportunity to participate in a series of unique experiences highlighting competition, camaraderie and community. The USYS Southern Presidents Cup is scheduled for June 13-17 in Plano, Texas.

In addition to Division 1 and Division 2 tournaments, champions were also crowned at the Division 3 level of TSSA State Cup. Many of the teams at the Division 3 level are newly formed teams or coming from a more recreation-based environment.

TSSA State Cup Champions – Division 3

  • 12U Boys (9v9): JCFC 2014B Black
  • 12U Girls (9v9): Clarksville SC G2014 Maroon
  • 12U Boys (11v11): Stones River FC 2013 Red
  • 12U Girls (11v11): East TN Futbol Club 2013G
  • 13U Boys: NFC 2012/13 Boys
  • 13U Girls: JCFC 2012G
  • 14U Boys: FC Alliance Knoxville 2011B ECNL-RL
  • 14U Girls: WHSC 2011 Girls
  • 15U Girls: USA North G15U
  • 17U Girls: 2009 Redoubt Lady Generals
  • 19U Girls: 2007 Lady Arsenal

Presented by TOA, TSSA State Cup is the culmination of the spring season for Tennessee State League. Following a record-breaking year in both the spring and fall of 2024, an increase of more than 11% in participating teams competed in the Tennessee State League during this past spring season. Open to all member clubs and their teams, TSSA has hosted the Tennessee State Cup since 1976. Games are played at competitive levels within three divisions (Division 1, Division 2 and Divisions 3).

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

Soccer Club of Oak Ridge Leads by Example with Sideline Project Success

A Commitment to Positive Sidelines

Soccer Club of Oak Ridge (SCOR) has continued to prove that leadership starts both on and off the field. One such instance came when SCOR was recently named the winner of the Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) Sideline Project, a campaign developed in partnership with Soccer Parenting to promote supportive sideline behavior among parents, coaches and referees. SCOR’s commitment to creating a respectful playing environment, and their creative partnership with local Eagle Scouts, stood out as a model of collaboration and community spirit.

“SCOR was inspired to join The Sideline Project when it was introduced by TSSA,” said Elise Morris from Soccer Club of Oak Ridge. “We hoped it would promote positive sideline behavior among parents, coaches and referees, and foster a supportive and respectful environment within our club. This is important for the development and enjoyment of youth sports.”

The Sideline Project

Presented in collaboration with Soccer Parenting, participants in The Sideline Project took a 15-minute online course that emphasized the importance of proper sideline etiquette to improve the youth soccer experience. SCOR had the largest number of members complete the course, and the club received a $3,000 check from Tennessee State Soccer Association as a reward for their high level of participation.

“We are thankful for the clubs that saw value in this initiative and supported it,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “SCOR did an excellent job pushing to parents and is a deserving winner.”

Soccer Club of Oak Ridge Leads by Example with Sideline Project Success

Building Community Through Service

After winning The Sideline Project, SCOR used the funds to make an immediate impact in their local area. Recognizing an opportunity to further strengthen community ties, the club partnered with Eagle Scouts in Oak Ridge who were seeking meaningful projects to complete as part of their requirements for the prestigious Eagle Scout Rank and Merit Badges.

One of SCOR’s former players, Elena Vogt, approached the club about revitalizing a heavily used field, which was an old softball infield now serving as a soccer pitch. The Scouts took the lead, independently planning and executing efforts to aerate, overseed and restore the field, helping breathe new life into a vital community resource.

“I think this project has meant a lot to not only Scouts and SCOR but the broader community as well,” Morris continued. “The field we are renovating is in constant use whether from competitive teams or pick-up games. I know the City’s Parks and Rec Department was very happy to hear about this project. They have had struggles in the past keeping up with the demand for soccer fields. They were excited to know two prominent organizations within the city (Scouts and SCOR) were trying to help.”

A Lasting Impact

For SCOR, the initiative embodied everything the club stands for, including community, volunteerism and youth leadership. Several of the Scouts who participated were former SCOR players themselves, eager to give back to the program that helped shape them.

“SCOR is very grateful for this opportunity to partner with an Aspiring Eagle Scout,” Morris confirmed. “We are an organization driven by volunteers, and to work with a bright kid wanting to help aligns with SCOR’s mission. The Scouts really appreciate this opportunity as well. I know several of them were members of SCOR and are happy to pay it back to the program. I think these projects really prove how united this community is. From its organizations to the city, to even the children getting involved. It is amazing to see all of these things come together in this project.”

Leading the Way Forward

Through their dedication to The Sideline Project and their meaningful partnership with local youth leaders, Soccer Club of Oak Ridge is setting a powerful example. When clubs lead with positivity, teamwork and compassion, their impact reaches far beyond the soccer field and into the very fabric of the community they represent.

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

TSSA Hosting State Cup Championships this Weekend

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) Spring State Cup Championships will take place this weekend at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro. Finals will be contested for Division 1 and Division 2 girls teams in the 13U-19U age groups, along with Division 1 and Division 2 boys teams in the 13U-14U bracket. Additionally, Division 3 Semifinals and Finals will take place over the weekend, as will all 12U competitions.

“These teams have played hard this year to make it to this moment. Some familiar teams, and lots of new ones, are competing in the championship match,” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “This weekend, we will crown 36 state champions. D1 and D2 teams will continue play for their next quest – Southern Regional Champion. Excited to see so many teams represent TN!”

Division 1 Finals

13U Girls: TSC Murfreesboro 2012 Girls Showcase vs. TUSC 2012 Girls ECNL RL

13U Boys: TUSC 2012 Boys NPL vs. 2012 Lobos Rush ECNL

14U Girls: 2011 Lady Lobos Rush ECNL RL vs. TSC 2011 Girls ECNL RL

14U Boys: Chattanooga FC 2011B Navy vs. Stones River FC 2011 Black

15U Girls: Chattanooga FC 2010G Navy vs. TUSC 2010 Girls ECNL RL

19U Girls: Chattanooga Red Wolves 2007 Girls vs. Chattanooga FC 2006/2007/2008G Navy

Division 2 Finals

13U Girls: JSC 2012 GIRLS vs. TSC Williamson 2012 Girls Showcase

13U Boys: Stones River FC 2012 Black vs. JSC 2012 BOYS GOLD

14U Girls: Clarksville SC G2011 Maroon vs. EFSC 2011 Everton Girls

14U Boys: Music City FC 11B Premier vs. BUSC 2011 Hammers Navy

15U Girls: Aris FC G15U 2010 Predator vs. FC Alliance North 2010 Girls

16U Girls: TSC Williamson 2009 Girls Showcase vs. Chattanooga FC 2009G Navy

17U Girls: USA North G17U vs. TSC Sumner 2008 Girls Showcase

19U Girls: TSC Williamson 2006/2007 Girls Showcase vs. Rc3 FC Reign 06-09G

Division 3 Finals

14U Girls: WHSC 2011 Girls vs. 2011 Redoubt Lady Generals

17U Girls: 2009 Redoubt Lady Generals vs. USA North G16/17U

Note: The list above includes championship finals that are already set as of Friday, May 23rd. Some semifinal matches will take place on Saturday to determine the final pairings on Sunday.

Presented by TOA, TSSA State Cup is the culmination of the spring season for Tennessee State League. Following a record-breaking year in both the spring and fall of 2024, an increase of more than 11% in participating teams competed in the Tennessee State League during this past spring season.

Champions at the Division 1 level of Tennessee State Cup (13U and older) will advance to regional play in the US Youth Soccer (USYS) National Championships Presented by New York Life, which is the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament. The USYS Southern Regionals are set for June 27 to July 2 in Dallas, Texas. Champions at the Division 2 level (13U and older) will continue onto regional play in the USYS Presidents Cup, which provides a progressive and competitive environment to teams that might not otherwise get the opportunity to participate in a series of unique experiences highlighting competition, camaraderie and community. The USYS Southern Presidents Cup is scheduled for June 13-17 in Plano, Texas.

Open to all member clubs and their teams, TSSA has hosted the Tennessee State Cup since 1976. Games are played at competitive levels within three divisions (Division 1, Division 2 and Divisions 3).

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

Tennessee State Cup Commences this Weekend

The stage is now set for the opening rounds of the Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) Spring State Cup this weekend at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro. Division 1 and Division 2 girls teams in the 13U-19U age groups, along with Division 1 and Division 2 boys teams in the 13U-14U bracket, will compete in quarterfinal play on Saturday to earn their spot in the semifinals on Sunday.

Presented by TOA, Tennessee State Cup is the culmination of the spring season for Tennessee State League. Following a record-breaking year in both the spring and fall of 2024, an increase of more than 11% in participating teams competed in the Tennessee State League during this past spring season.

“With three TN teams already earning a spot into Nationals through NL PRO and four TN teams securing their spot in Southern Regionals though NL Conference play, we are excited to see which teams will join them!” said Jeannie Louk, Director of Leagues and Programs at the Tennessee State Soccer Association. “We have 204 teams from 50 different clubs across the state that have earned their spot into the State Championship, and we are excited to see how it all plays out on the pitch.”

After this run of matches in the state quarterfinals and semifinals, next weekend will showcase the finals in the Division 1 and Division 2 Tournaments, along with the semifinals and finals of the Division 3 Tournaments. Additionally, the semifinal and final rounds for all 12U boys and girls tournaments will take place.

Champions at the Division 1 level of Tennessee State Cup (13U and older) will advance to regional play in the US Youth Soccer (USYS) National Championships Presented by New York Life, which is the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament. The USYS Southern Regionals are set for June 27 to July 2 in Dallas, Texas. Champions at the Division 2 level (13U and older) will continue onto regional play in the USYS Presidents Cup, which provides a progressive and competitive environment to teams that might not otherwise get the opportunity to participate in a series of unique experiences highlighting competition, camaraderie and community. The USYS Southern Presidents Cup is scheduled for June 13-17 in Plano, Texas.

Open to all member clubs and their teams, TSSA has hosted the Tennessee State Cup since 1976. Games are played at competitive levels within three divisions (Division 1, Division 2 and Divisions 3).

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

Pateadores SC Strengthens Community Connections Through Mentorship and Service

Pateadores Soccer Club, part of the Sporting Global network, continues to make an impact both on and off the field through a series of recent community initiatives that reflect the club’s broader commitment to development, mentorship and service.

This season, the club hosted two Sports Buddies events in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle Tennessee, one in the fall and one this spring. The events paired youth from the organization with current Pateadores SC players for a day centered around connection, activity and support.

“Sporting Global and Pateadores SC aligned very well with Big Brothers Big Sisters by our shared interests in mentorship and community,” said Matt Tellez, General Manager of Pateadores SC, Nashville. “At Pateadores, we are committed to developing not only athletes but also well-rounded individuals. The Sports Buddies events have perfectly aligned with our mission by creating meaningful connections, promoting values and creating a supportive environment where children in the Nashville area can grow both on and off the field.”

According to Tellez, one of the most meaningful takeaways from the events has been how naturally relationships have formed between participants and players.

“Something memorable from our Sports Buddies events is how quickly our current players established a quick relationship with everyone,” he continued. “Being supportive, high-fives, laughs. You see bonds forming even in a short period of time.”

Beyond the Sports Buddies events, members of the club’s leadership team also visited Nashville State University for a collaborative session with Big Brothers Big Sisters focused on mentorship and financial literacy. The class was designed to provide college students with practical guidance and real-world insights as they prepare for their professional careers.

“At Nashville State University, our leadership team emphasized the importance of mentorship as a lifelong tool for growth and the value of financial literacy in building a stable future,” said Tellez. “We shared our personal and professional journeys with them, which helps them realize that they too have the potential to achieve great things. Lastly, we found the experience to be very helpful as the students asked insightful questions and were genuinely engaged in great conversation.”

These ongoing efforts reflect a growing emphasis for Pateadores SC in using the platform of soccer to engage with the broader Nashville community in meaningful and lasting ways. Whether on the field or in the classroom, the club continues to build on its mission to positively influence the lives of young people through education, mentorship and character development.

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

Protecting the Future of the Game: Understanding the Updated Referee Abuse Prevention Policy

On March 1, 2025, the United States Soccer Federation officially updated its Policy on Referee Abuse Prevention (RAP), Policy 531-9, marking a crucial turning point in the ongoing effort to create a safer and more respectful environment for referees at all levels of the game.

Referee abuse has been steadily rising across the country. The data shows some rather shocking statistics.

  • 90% of referees report that abuse has increased over the last five years.
  • 60% of referees choose not to recertify due to consistent harassment and threats.
  • In Tennessee, 60% of our 3,500 referees are minors, many of whom are also players, which significantly reduces referee availability on weekends.

These are more than just statistics. They reflect a growing crisis that significantly impacts the future of youth soccer.

The Message Is Clear: Enough Is Enough

Referees are not just facilitators of the game. They are mentors, teachers and role models. When they are harassed or threatened, especially young referees, it sends a dangerous message that disrespect and aggression are acceptable in youth sports. This is not the example we want to set in Tennessee nor on a national level.

The updated USSF RAP Policy aims to shift the culture. It strengthens accountability, emphasizes education and promotes more productive dialogue between clubs, coaches, parents and players. At Tennessee State Soccer Association, we are fully aligned with this mission.

Our state-specific policy clearly outlines expectations:

  • Coaches are responsible for the behavior of their players and spectators.
  • Clubs are expected to assist in the discipline of coaches and spectators when violations occur.

Real Consequences, Real Change

Already in Tennessee, two individuals (a coach and a parent) have each been suspended for 18 games due to a Level 3 violation of the updated RAP Policy. The original penalty was six games for a violation, but because the incident involved a minor, the punishment was multiplied by three. These consequences reflect the seriousness with which we are treating referee abuse in Tennessee.

“The issues across the soccer landscape have increased to a level that the United States Soccer Federation is raising the bar related to punishments,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “The behavior of our fans in some instances is out of control, and something needed to be done. We will do our best to support this new effort supported by the Federation.”

A Collective Responsibility

With 60,000 players across Tennessee, every weekend represents a chance to grow the game in a positive direction. But that growth is only sustainable if we create an environment where respect is non-negotiable and safety is a shared priority.

The new RAP Policy is not just about referees. It is about everyone involved with the game, be it coaches, players, clubs, parents or fans. Together, we have the opportunity to lead by example and foster a culture that values sportsmanship over hostility, and learning over conflict. Please join us in our mission to make Tennessee a national leader in changing the game for the better.

For more information on this new policy, please visit the Referee Abuse Prevention (RAP) page on our website.

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

TSSA Hosting Spring Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup on May 17-18

Event Held in Memory of Cleveland Grimes, Former TSSA Board Member and Executive Vice President

Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) will be hosting its Spring Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup during the weekend of May 17-18. The recreation soccer festival will be held at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro, and the event is open to all Division 4 Recreational Teams that are registered with TSSA.

The TSSA Friendship Cup is held in memory of Cleveland Grimes, who previously served as a TSSA Board Member and Executive Vice President. Grimes made countless contributions to soccer throughout his lifetime, coaching and refereeing at all stages of the game in addition to his various leadership roles. However, it was at the recreation level that he truly found his love for the sport.

The Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup will host age groups ranging from 6U to 18U, but all teams and players must be registered with the Tennessee State Soccer Association as a Division 4 Recreation Team. Each team will play a minimum of three games over the weekend with boys, girls and coed sides all being invited to participate. The games will also be used as an opportunity for young referees to receive exposure to an event outside of their hometown club.

The theme of the Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup will be “all about having fun” and celebrating grassroots soccer, sportsmanship and the spirit of friendship. In addition to the soccer activity, there will be various forms of entertainment throughout the weekend to provide a full festival atmosphere.

Registration is currently open for the Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup, but a registration deadline has been set for Friday, May 2. For full details and pricing information, or to sign-up your team today, visit the Friendship Cup Registration Page online or email friendshipcup@tnsoccer.org.

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