Tennessee State Soccer Association

News

Tennessee State Cup Kicks Off with Quarterfinal and Semifinal Action

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tennessee ODP Announces Innovative Collaboration with Refine Soccer and Footie Fit

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

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

Honoring ODP’s National Legacy

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

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

Refine Soccer: Advancing Technical Development

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

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

Footie Fit: Redefining Sports Performance

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

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

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

A Unified Approach to Player Growth

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

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

Commitment from TSSA Leadership

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

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

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

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

Tennessee State League Continues Growth with New Division and National Alignment

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

New Division, New Names

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

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

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

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

Fall 2025 State Cup

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

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

Pathway to Nationals

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

Commitment to Growth

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

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

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

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

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

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

One Knox’s Role in the Movement

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

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

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

More About Project Inspire

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

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

A National League with Local Impact

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

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

What’s Next

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

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

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

National Developmental Soccer League Launching Exhibition Schedule in Fall 2025

A New Chapter in American Soccer

A bold new player development pathway is emerging on the American soccer landscape. Launching with an exhibition schedule in Fall 2025, the National Developmental Soccer League (NDSL) is a U23 amateur/pre-professional league built to bridge the gap between youth and professional soccer, offering structure, opportunity and sustainability for players and clubs alike.

“The landscape for Men’s Soccer players in our country has changed drastically over the last several years,” said Bryan Johnson of the National Developmental Soccer League. “With the advent of the College Soccer Transfer Portal and NIL, along with the significant impact the House vs. The NCAA Settlement has had and will have on College Soccer, the pathway for players from 17 to 23 years old is more complicated than ever. When you add in the addition of more professional teams every year, it is clear that the opportunities available in the traditional pathways are moving in opposite directions. The NDSL is here to address this issue through a longer, more developmentally focused calendar and regional based play to ensure economic feasibility and access to all. We are excited to begin these next steps in the journey to provide additional pathways to players who aspire to be professionals in soccer, either on or off the field of play.”

The NDSL will debut with an exhibition schedule this fall, which will officially kickoff in September. Following the fall slate of matches, the NDSL will host its first fully sanctioned season in 2026 from February through May, with playoffs then being held in early June. Starting in Fall 2026, the NDSL will feature teams competing in a 10-month season from September through May, again followed by playoffs in early June. Each team will play one match per week, totaling 12–16 matches in both the fall and spring. This format ensures a developmentally focused training-to-match ratio of at least 4:1, promoting consistent growth and performance.

Designed for players who are serious about the game but may not have turned pro by age 17, the NDSL offers a critical step forward. Whether individuals are pursuing professional playing contracts, exploring careers in coaching, refereeing or soccer administration, or seeking developmentally appropriate college opportunities, the league provides a vital platform for progression.

The NDSL also serves athletes who may not have access to college soccer due to financial limitations, academic eligibility or geographic isolation. The league can provide a new home for student-athletes who have exited college programs and need a clear next step, without the burden of relocating across the country or navigating limited transfer options.

Beyond individual players, the NDSL is designed to benefit organizations at all levels of the game:

  • For professional clubs in leagues like Major League Soccer and the United Soccer League, it offers a ready-made talent development platform.
  • For youth soccer organizations, it provides a credible post-high school pathway, without the high costs or infrastructure demands of professional teams.

To remain accessible and efficient, the league is regionally structured, minimizing travel costs while maximizing competitive balance. By initially focusing on the Southeast, the NDSL is laying a foundation for scalable growth and long-term success.

With a clear vision and strong developmental purpose, the National Developmental Soccer League is more than just a new competition. It is a strategic movement toward more inclusive player development in the United States.

To learn more about the National Developmental Soccer League, please visit their official website: ndslu23.com

Pair of TSSA Teams Reach USYS National Championship Semifinals

The US Youth Soccer National Championships Presented by New York Life recently concluded at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, with Kononia Lady Fire Memphis 2009/10s (16U Girls) and Chattanooga Red Wolves (17U Girls) finishing the competition as national semifinalists. Tennessee State Soccer Association was well represented at the USYS National Championships, with a total of eight teams advancing to the national tournament.

Kononia Lady Fire Memphis 2009/10s arrived at the USYS National Championships after recently capturing the USYS 16U Girls Southern Regional Championship earlier this month in Dallas. They kicked off the National Championships by winning their group on a cumulative 2-0-1 record and 7-4 goal differential over three matches. The team then advanced to a semifinal pairing with Elmbrook United 09G Elite 64 (Wisconsin), where they capped off a tremendous postseason as national semifinalists.

Chattanooga Red Wolves 08G also lifted the trophy for their age group at the USYS Southern Regional Championships, and they carried that momentum to the national stage. They opened the competition with three consecutive victories in group play, only allowing a single goal on an 8-1 differential. After winning their group, they faced Ambassadors FC 2008 Girls (Ohio) in the semifinal round. In a hard-fought contest, Chattanooga Red Wolves 08G eventually fell by a razor-thin 2-1 decision, completing their deep postseason run as national semifinalists.

Also representing Tennessee in Orlando were TSC 2011 Girls (14U Girls), Chattanooga FC 10G Navy (15U Girls), One Knox 09G (16U Girls), Chattanooga FC 11B Navy (14U Boys), Pateadores SC Nashville 08B Blue (17U Boys), and NUSA 07 Boys Maroon (19U Boys).

Hosted by US Youth Soccer, the National Championships Presented by New York Life is the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament. The competition provides winners from each state with the opportunity to showcase their soccer skills against the best competition in the nation while emphasizing teamwork, discipline and fair play. 

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

Three TSSA Teams Reach National Presidents Cup Semifinals

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) delivered an impressive performance at the US Youth Soccer (USYS) National Presidents Cup in Tampa, with three teams advancing to the semifinals of the national competition. Earning spots in the knockout stage were TSC Williamson 2009 Girls Showcase (16U Girls), USA North G17U (17U Girls) and Tri-Cities United (18U Girls). Also representing Tennessee at the National Presidents Cup were TSC Williamson 2012 Girls Showcase (13U Girls), JSC 2012 Girls (13U Girls), FC Alliance North 2010 Girls (15U Girls) and PSA Pedro Jrs (19U Boys).

TSC Williamson 2009 Girls Showcase finished second in their group at the National Presidents Cup to secure a spot in the semifinals, posting a 1-1-1 record and 6-5 goal differential. That set up a matchup with Premier 09G (Eastern Pennsylvania) in the next round, where TSC Williamson 2009 Girls Showcase completed their tournament run as national semifinalists.

USA North G17U had a dominant showing in group play at the National Presidents Cup, winning their bracket on three consecutive victories and a 10-2 goal differential. In the semifinals, they faced FC Stars 2008G Academy (Illinois), falling just short in a razor-thin 2-1 result.

The Tri-Cities United 18U Girls earned a spot in the semifinals after finishing second in their group with a 1-1-1 record and 3-2 goal differential. In the next round, they faced eventual national champions Cannons 07/08G (Eastern Pennsylvania), narrowly falling 2-1 in a hard-fought contest.

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 Partners with GANI Group to Enhance Operations and Build for Long-Term Growth

Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is proud to announce a partnership with GANI Group, a team providing hands-on operational support as their trusted project management partner. Together, the organizations have developed and implemented a custom project management system that supports TSSA’s internal staff and evolving needs across key programs—including tournaments, player development, club engagement, coaching education, Olympic Development Program (ODP), and state leagues.

“Our partnership with GANI Group has been a game-changer,” said Hans Hobson, Chief Executive Officer of TSSA. “They’ve helped us bring structure, clarity, and long-term strategy to our operations. This isn’t just a one-time fix—they helped us build a foundation for the future. I would strongly encourage other state associations and clubs to explore working with GANI Group. Their team truly understands the nuances of our space and brings a level of professionalism and care that’s hard to find.”

What began as a focused discovery effort quickly evolved into a collaborative engagement to reimagine how TSSA tracks and manages work across departments. GANI Group facilitated strategy sessions with TSSA’s 10-person staff to identify priorities, align goals, and select a project management platform tailored to their day-to-day operations—while also planning for future growth. The resulting system includes custom workflows, process mapping, and cross-team alignment, equipping TSSA to manage initiatives with greater accountability, transparency, and long-term impact.

“The system GANI Group built allows us to work smarter, track what matters, and stay aligned across departments,” said Hilary Pate, Chief Operating Officer of TSSA. “Even more importantly, it’s built with growth in mind. As we continue to expand our programs and reach across the state, we now have a structure in place that supports that growth.”

However, this partnership does not stop at this project. With the growing needs for marketing, operations, program launches, and more in youth sports, GANI Group is now offering exclusive dynamic pricing models to the member clubs and associations of TSSA. Potential services include logo/branding, website creation, social media & email marketing, program launch, operational system build out, and more.

“We’re proud to partner with TSSA and to support the incredible clubs and associations that make up its growing network—as well as the expanding community of youth and adult players across the state,” said Greg Priode, Managing Partner at GANI Group. “Part of our mission is to empower organizations with the best tools and resources to positively impact those they serve in a measurable way.”

GANI Group is a nationwide team that brings expertise in planning and executing marketing, operations, and growth strategy to businesses across the country. From short-term project support to long-term partnerships, GANI Group helps organizations build clarity, capacity, and momentum so they can focus on what matters most: delivering on their mission and driving real results.

For more information about GANI Group, visit ganiconsulting.com.

About GANI Group Consulting
GANI Group Consulting is a people-first consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations drive measurable, lasting results. Specializing in marketing strategy, product strategy, revenue operations, and project management, GANI Group partners with businesses and nonprofits to design solutions that are tailored, actionable, and focused on sustainable growth. With a collaborative approach and a commitment to transparency, GANI Group empowers clients to align teams, optimize performance, and achieve their biggest goals. Learn more at ganiconsulting.com.  

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!