Kentucky

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEXINGTON, KY – The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with Publix, naming the regional grocery chain as the Official Supermarket of KYSA.

This continued collaboration underscores a shared commitment to supporting Kentucky’s youth athletes and families both on and off the field. KYSA Executive Director Kris Zander expressed enthusiasm about the future of the partnership.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Publix,” said Zander. “With their Kentucky locations now up and running, our members will begin to see more from Publix at events and through exciting initiatives. Publix shares our values of community, health, and family, and we look forward to the positive impact this partnership will continue to have across our state.”

Publix, which began as a single store in 1930, now operates nearly 1,400 locations throughout the Southeast—including three new locations in Kentucky. As the largest employee-owned company in the U.S., Publix has built a reputation for excellence, having been named to Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For list for the past 27 consecutive years, and earning the distinction of being one of their Great Place to Work Legends.

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

Beyond the soccer field, Publix’s longstanding commitment to service includes programs like Publix Serves Week, where more than 6,000 associates contribute 36,000 hours of volunteer service annually. Through its Feeding More Together Initiative, the company has donated over 100 million pounds of fresh produce from local farmers to food banks. In addition, their Tools for Back to School Program provides essential learning supplies to students in need each year.

To learn more about Publix’s community programs or to find a location near you, visit Publix.com.

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) 

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

Media Contact:

Karrington True 

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEXINGTON, KY – The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is proud to announce a multi-year partnership with Southland Dairy Farmers, bringing together two organizations committed to supporting young athletes, promoting nutrition, and growing the game of soccer across Kentucky.

As part of this collaboration, Southland Dairy will serve as an official partner of KYSA, providing educational programs, sponsorship, and on-site activations at key events throughout the year. This partnership will focus on promoting the importance of nutrition for young athletes, sharing engaging digital content, and offering KYSA members the opportunity to connect with Southland Dairy at various events, including this year’s President’s Cup Finals.

“We are excited to welcome Southland Dairy as a partner of Kentucky Youth Soccer,” said Kris Zander, KYSA Executive Director. “This partnership will allow us to provide valuable nutritional resources to our players, coaches, and families while continuing to support the development of youth soccer across Kentucky. We look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will bring to our soccer community.”

“Southland Dairy Farmers are thrilled to partner with the Kentucky Youth Soccer Association. We know the importance that athletes place on a healthy lifestyle, and we are able to educate on why dairy helps play a vital role in nutrition and performance. We look forward to bringing the message of dairy to athletes that they can use on and off the soccer field,” said Amanda Phelps, Chief Operating Officer, Southland Dairy Farmers.

Through this partnership, KYSA members will gain access to Southland Dairy Farmer’s nutritional education programs and on-site activations at events, as well as engaging digital content that highlights the role of dairy in an athlete’s performance and overall health.

For more information about this partnership and other KYSA sponsors, visit the KYSA Marketplace.

About Southwest and Southland Dairy Farmers

The Southwest Dairy Farmers and Southland Dairy Farmers are an alliance of dairy farmers from Texas, Arizona, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Tennessee.  Member dairy producers pool their resources to provide consumer education programs in dairy nutrition, to promote dairy product use, and provide dairy product information. All initiatives of the Southwest and Southland Dairy Farmers are directed by the members.

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) 

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

Media Contact:

Karrington True 

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lexington, KY– The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association is excited to announce the teams participating in the 2025 Spring Season of the Kentucky Premier League (KPL). As the premier soccer league in the state, KPL continues to provide top-level competition for clubs committed to excellence in player development and competitive play.

This spring season is set to be an exciting showcase of Kentucky’s top youth soccer talent, featuring elite teams from across the state. With a focus on high quality competition, KPL provides a pathway for teams to challenge themselves against the best, fostering growth and preparing players for the next level of their soccer journey.

“KPL continues to be the gold standard for youth soccer competition in Kentucky, and this spring season is shaping up to be one of our most competitive yet,” said Steven Murry, Kentucky Premier League Commissioner. “Our participating teams are dedicated to excellence both on and off the field, and we’re excited to see them compete.”

The 2025 Spring KPL Season will officially kick off this weekend with teams competing in age divisions ranging from U13 to U19. Full schedules and match details are available at www.kysoccer.net/kentucky-premier-league

Congratulations to the following teams who have been accepted into the KPL for the Spring 2025 Season:

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA)

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

Media Contact:

Karrington True

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEXINGTON, KY – Kentucky Youth Soccer is proud to announce that Eli Bennett-Toro of Georgetown, Kentucky, has been selected to the 2011 Boys National ODP Team. Eli, a standout center-back, also plays for Georgetown FC in addition to his participation in the Kentucky Olympic Development Program (ODP).

Bennett-Toro’s selection to the National ODP Team is a significant achievement, highlighting both his individual talent and the strength of Kentucky’s developmental pathway for young athletes.

“We are very proud of Eli for earning a spot on the National ODP Team,” said Kris Zander, Executive Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer. “Being recognized at the national level is a tremendous accomplishment and speaks to the hard work and dedication he has put into his development. This is a great moment for Eli, for his club, and for Kentucky Youth Soccer.”

The U.S. Youth Soccer ODP Program is one of the nation’s premier identification and development programs for elite youth players. Athletes are selected based on their performances at the state, regional, and national levels, with only a select few earning the opportunity to compete at the highest stage of ODP competition.

“Eli has consistently shown his talent, composure, and leadership on the field, making him a strong candidate for this opportunity,” said Derek Willis, Technical Director and ODP Director for Kentucky Youth Soccer. “His selection to the National ODP Team is well-deserved, and we are excited to see him represent Kentucky on the national stage.”

When asked about his favorite part of ODP, Bennett-Toro shared, “Meeting new teammates and being able to play high-level competition with and against other skilled players, learning new ways to work on my game, and having the chance to showcase my abilities in a high-level environment to create opportunities for my future.”

Regarding his selection to the 2011 Boys ODP National Team, Bennett-Toro expressed, “I’m happy, excited, and proud of myself… and ready to work.”

Kentucky Youth Soccer extends its congratulations to Eli and his family on this incredible accomplishment. His success serves as an inspiration to young players across the Commonwealth and a testament to the high-level development opportunities available through Kentucky’s ODP program.

For more information about the Kentucky Olympic Development Program, visit www.kysoccer.net/odp 

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA)

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

Media Contact:

Karrington True

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEXINGTON, KY — Kentucky Youth Soccer is thrilled to announce the 2025 tournament schedule, including dates and locations for its signature events. These tournaments showcase the best of youth soccer across the Commonwealth, offering players and teams the opportunity to compete for State Championships and, for some, the chance to advance to regional competitions.

“We are excited to announce the 2025 tournament schedule,” said Kris Zander, Executive Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer. “These tournaments represent the best of youth soccer in Kentucky, and for many teams, are the first step on the path to Regional and National competitions. We can’t wait to see the talent, teamwork, and passion on the field next summer.”

2025 Kentucky Youth Soccer Tournament Schedule

• Kentucky Challenge Cup Preliminaries: May 10-11, 2025, at Elizabethtown Sports Park
• State Cup U18-U19 Preliminaries: May 10-11, 2025, at Elizabethtown Sports Park
• Presidents Cup Preliminaries: May 17-18, 2025, in Lexington, KY (Woodford Soccer Complex, Lexington Sporting Club, and Sayre Soccer Complex)
• Presidents Cup Finals: May 24-25, 2025, at Thompson Berry, Owensboro, KY
• State Cup U13-U19 Preliminaries: May 24-26, 2025, at Elizabethtown Sports Park
• State Cup U13-U19 Finals: May 31-June 1, 2025, at Elizabethtown Sports Park
• Kentucky Challenge Cup Finals: May 31-June 1, 2025, at Elizabethtown Sports Park
• Kentucky American Cup: June 7-8, 2025, at Elizabethtown Sports Park

The State Cup U18-U19 Preliminary matches will be scheduled over two weekends, May 10-11 and May 24-26, 2025, to provide greater flexibility for teams navigating busy spring schedules.

The decision to change the U18-U19 State Cup schedule was made with the understanding that many older players face multiple commitments during this time, including soccer, school, and graduation activities. By offering two weekends for preliminary matches, Kentucky Youth Soccer aims to accommodate these challenges while ensuring players have the opportunity to fully participate in the tournament and enjoy a quality experience.

Teams are encouraged to mark their calendars now and prepare for an exciting season of competition. Hotel information for each tournament will be released in mid to late January 2025, allowing teams to book accommodations at a discounted rate. Registration for teams to sign up for all tournaments is expected to open in late January to early February 2025 via GotSport.

For more information about the 2025 tournaments, visit www.kysoccer.net.

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA)

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

Media Contact:

Karrington True

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

LEXINGTON, KY — Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is pleased to announce the addition of Jeremy Anderson as its new Assistant Technical Director. Anderson brings a wealth of soccer experience to the state office team, having earned his US Soccer B License and qualifications as a US Soccer Coaching Educator. He also holds certifications through United Soccer Coaches, including Advanced National, Director of Coaching, and Goalkeeping. With a strong foundation in player development and coaching education, Anderson is well-positioned to elevate youth soccer across Kentucky.

In his new role, Anderson will primarily focus on advancing KYSA’s Olympic Development Program (ODP), with the goal of building a program that competes strongly within the region. “I’ve had the privilege of working with KYSA for several years, and this role allows me to reach even more players across the state and help spread the joy of the game,” he shared.

Anderson’s commitment to fostering a love for soccer at all levels is evident. “I am passionate about spreading the love of the game,” he said, reflecting on his many memorable coaching moments, which he describes as watching former players walk across a graduation stage, compete at a higher level, or stand on the sideline giving the same guidance he once gave them.

Anderson also expressed his vision for the lasting impact he hopes to have on Kentucky’s youth soccer community: “My message to KYSA’s members, players, coaches, and families is to be a shadow that is cast for generations to come,” he shared, emphasizing his dedication to making a long-term difference in players’ lives.

Technical Director Derek Willis expressed his enthusiasm for Jeremy’s hiring: “Jeremy has been a valuable member of our ODP coaching staff and Coach Education team, bringing both expertise and a genuine passion for developing players and coaches across Kentucky. I am thrilled to welcome him to the state office team, where I know he will make an even greater impact on our programs and the growth of soccer in the Commonwealth.”

KYSA Executive Director Kris Zander also highlighted Anderson’s qualifications: “Jeremy brings a wealth of soccer knowledge and experience, and he’s a great fit for our team at the state office. We’re excited to have him on board and are confident that his expertise will greatly benefit all our programs and the growth of youth soccer across Kentucky.”

Anderson’s experience and dedication to the sport make him a valuable addition to Kentucky Youth Soccer as the organization continues to enhance and expand its programs for players and coaches alike.

For more information on Kentucky Youth Soccer and its initiatives, please visit www.kysoccer.net.

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA)

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

Media Contact:

Karrington True

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEXINGTON, KY — Kentucky Youth Soccer has been selected to host the U.S. Soccer C License Coach Education Course in 2025. This prestigious course was last held in Kentucky in 2023 and provides an exciting opportunity for coaches across the Commonwealth to further develop their skills, enhance their knowledge, and advance their coaching careers.

The C License is a vital part of U.S. Soccer’s coaching pathway, designed to help coaches develop their abilities to effectively teach, mentor, and lead youth athletes. This course combines online learning, in-person field sessions, and collaborative discussions, ensuring that participants leave with the tools and confidence to excel in their coaching roles.

“We are honored to have the opportunity to host the U.S. Soccer C License in Kentucky again,” said Derek Willis, Technical Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer, who will oversee the course. “This course is a fantastic opportunity for our coaches to advance their careers and become even more effective leaders on and off the field. I look forward to working with our participants and helping them grow throughout the process.”

Executive Director Kris Zander echoed Willis’s excitement: “Hosting the C License course in Kentucky is a huge win for our soccer community. We are committed to providing our coaches with high-quality education and development opportunities. This course will not only benefit the coaches who participate but will also have a lasting impact on the players and teams they lead. We are excited to see how our coaches take advantage of this opportunity to learn, grow, and advance.”

The U.S. Soccer C License course will take place in 2025 and offers a combination of virtual and in-person learning. This year’s in-person field sessions will be held at Lexington Sporting Club, providing participants with hands-on experience in an engaging, collaborative environment.

Coaches interested in taking the C License Course can now register on the U.S. Soccer Learning Center found HERE. KYSA will contact interested coaches directly to verify they have met the necessary requirements to take part in the course. To be eligible, coaches must have held a U.S. Soccer D License for a minimum of 6 month or meet the waiver requirements. Coaches must also have access to a team playing 11v11 (U13 or older) for the duration of the course. The cost to participate in the course is $1,650.00.

Kentucky Youth Soccer is proud to play a part in the development of the next generation of soccer coaches and leaders.

For more information about the U.S. Soccer C License or other coach education opportunities, please visit www.kysoccer.net or email Derek Willis at derekwillis@kysoccer.net

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA)

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

Media Contact:

Karrington True

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEXINGTON, KY — The Kentucky Premier League (KPL) is proud to announce the lineup of accepted teams for the U15-U19 age divisions for the upcoming 2024-2025 season. Building on the momentum from earlier age group announcements, this marks another key milestone in KPL’s ongoing commitment to providing a competitive, high-standard soccer environment for Kentucky’s youth athletes.

Since its inception in 2014, the KPL has established itself as a leading force in youth soccer across the state, offering a platform that nurtures talent through structured competition, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The league’s growth and focus on excellence ensure that players of all ages can thrive and reach their full potential in a supportive and challenging atmosphere.

“We are thrilled to welcome such a talented and diverse group of teams to the Kentucky Premier League for the U15-U19 divisions this season,” said KPL Commissioner Steven Murry. “These teams represent the highest levels of youth soccer in Kentucky, and we are confident that the upcoming season will be one of our most competitive yet. It’s always exciting to see the intensity, dedication, and passion these older age groups bring to the field as they prepare to take the next step in their soccer journeys.”

The KPL’s U15-U19 divisions are critical in the player development pathway, providing these athletes with opportunities to showcase their skills and compete at a high level as they prepare for collegiate or advanced club play. With the league’s emphasis on maintaining high standards and its commitment to offering competitive matchups, players have a platform to challenge themselves, develop further, and demonstrate their abilities in meaningful competition.

“We look forward to seeing these teams in action and watching them push each other to new heights,” added Murry. “Our mission has always been to create an environment where players can excel, and these older age groups are a testament to the success of our efforts.”

Congratulations to the following teams who have been accepted in the Kentucky Premier League for the 2024-2025 Season:

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA)

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

Media Contact:

Karrington True

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lexington, KY – Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is proud to announce that it has been awarded the opportunity to host a U.S. Soccer B License Coaching Course beginning in January 2025. This prestigious coaching course is designed to advance the development and expertise of soccer coaches and will be the first time Kentucky has hosted this level of certification, marking a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to elevating youth soccer.

“We are honored to be selected to host the U.S. Soccer B License Course,” said Derek Willis, Technical Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer, who will be supervising the course. “This opportunity will allow us to continue building a strong community of knowledgeable and qualified coaches right here in Kentucky. By providing advanced licensing opportunities in our state, we are ensuring that our coaches have the resources they need to support player development at the highest levels.”

Kris Zander, Executive Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer, also shared his enthusiasm: “Hosting a course of this caliber speaks volumes to the growth of soccer in Kentucky. This course will not only strengthen our local coaching pool but will also serve as a platform for aspiring coaches to learn and network with some of the best in the field. It’s an exciting time for soccer in our state.”

The U.S. Soccer B License Course is a cornerstone in the coaching pathway and is targeted toward experienced coaches looking to enhance their skills in developing players and teams. The course will run from January 6th through June 21st and will consist of virtual sessions along with two in-person field and classroom sessions. These in-person sessions will be hosted at LouCity/Racing in Louisville, KY, providing an ideal setting for coaches to gain hands-on experience in an elite training environment.

Applicants interested in participating must sign up for the waitlist (Interest Form can be found HERE). KYSA will contact interested coaches directly to verify they have met the necessary requirements to take part in the course. To be eligible, coaches must have held a U.S. Soccer C License for a minimum of one year or meet the waiver requirements. Coaches must also have at least three years of coaching experience and be actively coaching a team training at least three times per week at the U13 age level or older. The cost to participate in the course is $2,750.00 and payment plans are available.

For questions about the B License course, please email Derek Willis at derekwillis@kysoccer.net

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA)

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Karrington True, Director of Marketing and Events

Kentucky Youth Soccer Announcements

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEXINGTON, KY — The Kentucky Premier League (KPL) is excited to announce the lineup of teams for the U11-U14 age divisions for the upcoming Fall 2024 season. This announcement marks another significant step in KPL’s commitment to fostering competitive and high-standard soccer across the state.

Since its inception in 2014, the KPL has been at the forefront of elevating youth soccer in Kentucky, providing a platform that nurtures young talent through rigorous competition and sportsmanship. The league’s continued growth and dedication to excellence ensure that both male and female athletes have the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and challenging environment.

“We are thrilled to welcome such a dynamic group of teams to the Kentucky Premier League this fall. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the diversity and capability of these teams. We are confident that this season will be one of our most exciting yet, showcasing the tremendous talent and dedication of our KYSA athletes,” said KPL Commissioner, Steve Murry.

The KPL also continues to invest in future generations through the KPL Academy. Targeting U9 and U10 players, the Academy provides a foundational experience that emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and a deep love for soccer. This nurturing environment ensures that every young athlete has the tools and support necessary to pursue their passion for soccer and potentially transition into the higher echelons of the KPL as they grow.

“Entering its second season, the KPL Academy has quickly become a cornerstone of our developmental efforts,” stated Steve Murry, KPL Commissioner. “We’re witnessing remarkable progress in our athletes who transitioned from the Academy to our competitive league teams. Their development over the past year has been impressive, underscoring the Academy’s effectiveness in enhancing foundational skills and understanding of the game. It’s exciting to see these young players apply their learned skills on a larger stage, truly embodying the KPL’s dedication to nurturing future soccer talents.”

The Kentucky Premier League and its Academy stand as pillars of youth soccer development, reinforcing Kentucky’s position as a leader in fostering sporting excellence and character in its athletes.

Congratulations to the following teams who have been accepted in the Kentucky Premier League for the Fall 2024 Season:

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA):

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. KYSA’s mission is to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, inspiring excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With a network of over 83 local member associations, KYSA is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. For more information about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events, visit www.kysoccer.net.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Karrington True, Director of Marketing and Events

Kentucky Youth Soccer Association

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net