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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.

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.

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!

TSSA Partners with Clym to Enhance Digital Accessibility and Compliance

Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is pleased to announce a partnership with Clym, a global leader in digital compliance solutions. This collaboration empowers TSSA membership with tools to facilitate website accessibility, data privacy and legal compliance, ensuring an inclusive online experience for all visitors.

“Helping to make sure that ALL our soccer participants have a solution to finding soccer on our website is important to us, no matter the disability,” said Hans Hobson, Chief Executive Officer of the Tennessee State Soccer Association. “Clym and their services have helped us to move in that direction.”

By working with Clym, TSSA reinforces its commitment to equal access, both on and off the field of play. With Clym’s member-specific pricing, clubs and organizations can qualify for a complimentary solution to seamlessly improve their websites for individuals with disabilities while also meeting evolving consumer data regulations.

“We are proud to partner with TSSA to help their members navigate accessibility and data privacy regulations,” said Johnathan Brabson, Referral Partner Manager at Clym. “Soccer is about bringing people together, no matter their background or challenges, and we believe the digital space should reflect that inclusivity. Our mission is to create a more transparent and accessible online experience for everyone, and we’re excited to support TSSA in making that vision a reality for all clubs, players, coaches and fans.”

Partnering with Clym aligns directly with TSSA’s mission to create a welcoming environment for all while providing members with the resources needed to enhance digital transparency and inclusivity. To learn more about how Clym can support your organization, visit them online today at clym.io.

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

TSSA and Futsal Factory Academy Bring New Event to Tennessee

Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) recently partnered with Futsal Factory Academy (FFA), a nationally recognized leader in futsal training and events, to host the Nashville Futsal Invitational in Franklin, Tennessee. The collaboration aims to expand player development opportunities for TSSA membership while showcasing the benefits of futsal as a powerful vehicle for skill enhancement.

“The purpose of this collaboration with FFA is to provide support to an event that we do not have the bandwidth to run on our own,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of Tennessee State Soccer Association. “By partnering with FFA, together we can run a supported USSF version of soccer that we believe can bring value to players and their development. We would love to partner with others across the state to do the same.”

A Successful Kickoff Event

Organized by Lee Hudson, Director of Tennessee Operations for Futsal Factory Academy, the Nashville Futsal Invitational surpassed expectations, reflecting an overwhelming interest and enthusiasm for futsal in the region. In its inaugural year, the event drew 92 teams to reach maximum capacity, with an additional 20 teams joining a waiting list. Over 1,000 players and coaches flooded into Franklin, accompanied by more than 3,000 spectators coming through the doors as well.

The Nashville Futsal Invitational was not only a showcase of athletic talent but also provided a significant economic boost to the local community. A financial impact analysis conducted by the city revealed that businesses in Franklin experienced a remarkable 65% increase in revenue compared to the same weekend in previous years.

“Not only were we obviously helping players develop, but we were also helping businesses in the immediate area benefit from this event being held,” said Hudson of the dual impact from the event. “From every perspective, this was a major win for the city of Franklin.”

Creating A Unique, Inclusive Experience

The Nashville Futsal Invitational featured hydration stations, complimentary drinks from TSSA sponsor PRIME Hydration, and medical trainers were on-site to keep players safe and performing at their best. Additionally, technical training opportunities were provided in collaboration with local soccer training specialists, allowing players to sharpen their skills off the field as well. Discounted food options further enhanced the overall experience, ensuring affordability and accessibility for all attendees.

“We really made this tournament for everybody,” continued Hudson. “It was the complete experience for players, coaches, siblings and parents alike. We wanted to go beyond just another soccer event and truly make this memorable.”

For information on the next regional event hosted by Futsal Factory Academy, make sure to visit the Nashville Futsal Invitational website.

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

Tennessee State Soccer Association Renews Partnership with Publix

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) announced today an official renewal of its partnership with Publix Super Markets, which will continue to be the presenting sponsor of the Tennessee State League and TSSA State Cup. Publix also maintains its support of TSSA through a variety of community initiatives and other programs that enhance the game throughout the state.

“We are super excited to renew this incredible partnership with Publix Super Markets,” said Hans Hobson, Chief Executive Officer of the Tennessee State Soccer Association. “We simply could not serve our volunteers and players at our many events without their support. The supplies provided by Publix serve 30% of our budget for these events. Thank you!”

Through its support of the Tennessee State League, TSSA State Cup and other programming, Publix has played a significantly important role in the growth and development of youth soccer in Tennessee. The longstanding relationship between TSSA and Publix originated in 2009 and is now further strengthened by this partnership renewal.

“Publix is passionate about supporting the communities where we live, work and play, and it is an honor to continue our support of the Tennessee Youth Soccer Association,” said Nicole Maristany Krauss, Media Relations Manager (Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee) for Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Publix started as a single store in 1930 and now manages nearly 1,400 locations throughout the Southeast, including 59 stores in Tennessee. The largest employee-owned company in the United States, Publix has been named to Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For List over the past 27 consecutive years, earning Publix recognition as one of their Great Place to Work Legends.

Now nearly a century into operation, Publix has always maintained a profound commitment to community service, which includes a Publix Serves Week each year that sees more than 6,000 associates dedicate 36,000 hours of service to their local communities. Further, Publix has donated more than 100 million pounds of fresh produce from local farmers to food banks through their Feeding More Together Initiative, and its Tools for Back to School Program continues to provide learning materials for needy students ahead of each school year.

If you are interested in learning more about Publix community programs, or if you would like to find the Publix location closest to you, make sure to visit them online at Publix.com.

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

TSSA Achieves New Registration Record for Spring State League

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) has consistently seen its number of registrations increase in recent years for the Tennessee State League, and that trend is continuing once again for the Spring 2025 competition. Following a record-breaking year in both the spring and fall of 2024, an increase of more than 11% in participating teams are competing in the Tennessee State League during the spring season.

“We are proud to host the Fall and Spring TSL (State League) to our Member Clubs,” said Hans Hobson, CEO of the Tennessee State Soccer Association. “The State League is the largest league within Tennessee and allows every club within Tennessee the opportunity to participate if they desire. This league has spanned the last 20+ years and has been the avenue to promote State Champions to the USYS Southern Regional Championships and the USYS Regional President Cup.”

The spring season of Tennessee State League is played amongst girls teams in the 12U-19U divisions, along with boys teams in the 12U-14U age groups. Following the completion of the State League season, TSSA Spring State Cup will kickoff during the weekend of May 17-18 with quarterfinal and semifinal action in the Division 1 and Division 2 brackets for 13U-19U girls, as well as 13U-14U boys at the Division 1 and Division 2 level. Championship matches for the Division 1, Division 2 and Division 3 competitions will all then take place the following weekend at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro.

“The steady growth of our TSL has allowed more and more teams at every level an avenue to play meaningful matches,” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “Looking forward to seeing what clubs/teams advance to the State Championship in May. Will be some great matches to watch!”

Division 3 is considered the final level of TSSA State Cup competition, with many of the participants being newly formed teams or coming from a more recreation-based environment. Open to all member clubs and their teams, the 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!