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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.

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!

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.”

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!

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!

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 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!

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!

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!