Kentucky

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lexington, Kentucky – Kentucky Youth Soccer is proud to announce that the Fall 2025 Kentucky Premier League (KPL) season has officially kicked off. This season will feature competition for age groups 9U through 14U, showcasing some of the top youth talent from across the Commonwealth.

Teams from all corners of Kentucky will compete in a league designed to provide developmental and competitive environments for players and clubs. The KPL continues to serve as the state’s top competitive league, helping prepare athletes for success at state, regional, and national levels.

“We are thrilled to kick off another season of the Kentucky Premier League,” said Steven Murry, KPL Commissioner. “The fall marks an exciting time for our 9U-14U players to test themselves against top competition, grow as athletes, and enjoy the game. We wish all our participants the very best of luck this season and look forward to watching them compete.”

Participating Teams – Fall 2025 KPL 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, Kentucky – Kentucky Youth Soccer is proud to announce that 10 players from across the Commonwealth have been selected to represent the Midwest Region in their respective age groups. These talented players earned their spots at the Midwest Regional ODP Camp held in July in Rockford, Illinois.

By being chosen for the Midwest Regional Teams, these players will advance to compete at the US Youth Soccer Interregional Events in Orlando, Florida, this coming January. The Boys Interregional Event will take place January 15-19, 2026, while the Girls Interregional Event will follow on January 22-26, 2026, both hosted at the prestigious Omni Champions Gate Resort.

At these events, the Kentucky standouts will face off against players from three other US Youth Soccer regions, all while being evaluated for potential opportunities to join the US Youth Soccer ODP National Teams in their respective age groups.

“We are incredibly proud of these athletes and the hard work they have put into reaching this level,” said Jeremy Anderson, Assistant Technical Director for Kentucky Youth Soccer. “Being selected to a Regional Team, is a tremendous accomplishment, and we know they will each represent Kentucky with excellence on and off the field.”

These players’ selection highlights the continued growth and success of the Olympic Development Program (ODP) in Kentucky, which provides top players with opportunities to train, develop, and showcase their talents on a regional and national stage.

Congratulations to the following players on their selection to the Midwest Regional ODP Teams:

• 2013 Older Boys – Ari Adamchik (Falls City)
• 2012 Older Boys – Lyndon Mulcahy (Lexington Sporting)
• 2012 Older Boys – Sebastian Grandison (Eastern Elite)
• 2012 Older Boys – Ronan Sallie (CSC 2012 Maroon)
• 2011 Boys – Eli Bennett (Georgetown FC)
• 2010 Boys – Eoin Marrinan (Louisville City)
• 2010 Boys – Jaxon Morgan (Kings Hammer)
• 2010 Boys – Roberth Tinoco (BGFC)
• 2013 Younger Girls – Emma Buhr (Lexington Sporting)
• 2012 Younger Girls – Kinley Jackson (Tennessee United)

As these players prepare to compete on the national stage, Kentucky Youth Soccer encourages the next generation of players to begin their own ODP journey. Registration for ODP tryouts is now open! Take advantage of the early bird discount by registering before October 9^th. Final registration closes on November 3^rd. Don’t miss the opportunity to take your game to the next level through ODP. More information can be found on the Kentucky Youth Soccer website at 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, Kentucky- Kentucky Youth Soccer is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 John & Sue Gompper Founders Scholarship. This year, ten outstanding high school seniors have been named Gompper Scholars, each receiving a one-time $1,000 scholarship to support their pursuit of post-secondary education.

Now in its sixteenth year, the Gompper Scholarship honors the legacy of John and Sue Gompper, founders of Kentucky Youth Soccer, whose dedication to youth sports and education helped shape the future of soccer in the Commonwealth. The scholarship program has awarded more than $125,000 since its inception in 2009, celebrating student-athletes who exemplify academic achievement, leadership, community service, and a deep commitment to giving back to the game.

The 2025 Gompper Scholars are:

• Cameron Alexander – Richmond, KY | Attending Asbury University
• Mary Beth Bolen – Ashland, KY | Attending Mars Hill University
• Knox Foster – Louisville, KY | Attending Carnegie Mellon University
• Anna Graves – Louisville, KY | Attending Spalding University
• Katherine McCain – Owensboro, KY | Attending the University of Kentucky
• Tessa Miles – Lawrenceburg, KY | Attending Centre College
• Jack Quisenberry – Owensboro, KY | Attending the University of Southern Indiana
• Eli Redpath – Madisonville, KY | Attending Asbury University
• Riley Varisco – Louisville, KY | Attending the University of Louisville
• Erica Wurth – Paducah, KY | Attending the University of Kentucky

“These ten students represent the very best of what it means to be a Gompper Scholar,” said Karrington True, KYSA Director of Marketing and Events and Chair of the Gompper Scholarship Selection Committee. “They are well-rounded individuals who have excelled academically, served their communities off the field, and embodied the values that makes Kentucky soccer so special. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and wish them the very best in this next chapter.”

The 2025 Gompper Scholars will be formally recognized at the Kentucky Youth Soccer ‘Of the Year’ Awards Luncheon on Saturday, August 9th at the Marriott Griffin Gate in Lexington, KY.

About the John & Sue Gompper Founders Scholarship

The John & Sue Gompper Founders Scholarship is awarded annually to high school seniors from the Kentucky Youth Soccer membership. Recipients are not required to play soccer at the collegiate level. The scholarship celebrates individuals who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, service, and a lasting impact on their soccer community — a reflection of the legacy left by John and Sue Gompper

Media Contact

Karrington True

Director of Marketing & Events

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lexington, Kentucky – The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Of the Year Awards, recognizing outstanding individuals across the state who have made exceptional contributions to youth soccer. Honorees will be celebrated at the Of the Year Awards Luncheon on Saturday, August 9, immediately following the KYSA Annual General Meeting at the Marriott Griffin Gate in Lexington, KY.

The Of the Year Awards stand as a celebration that honors individuals, clubs, and organizations whose exceptional dedication, passion, and contributions have left an indelible mark on the soccer landscape of the Commonwealth. These awards are a testament to the tireless efforts and remarkable achievements that shape the growth and vitality of soccer in Kentucky.

Through these awards, Kentucky Youth Soccer pays tribute to those who embody the spirit of excellence, sportsmanship, and community engagement — serving as role models and sources of inspiration for all who cherish the game.

“Each Year, we are inspired by the incredible individuals who make youth soccer in Kentucky so special,” said Kris Zander, Executive Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer. “The 2025 award winners represent the very best of our game – both on and off the field – and we are honored to recognize their contributions.”

2025 Of the Year Award Winners

• Male Athlete of the Year – Johnny Mendoza
• Female Athlete of the Year – Kate Jacobs
• Goal of the Year – Aaron Alexander, Georgetown FC Tiburones Pele 2014 Boys
• Save of the Year – Will Swietek, SKY 2010 Black
• Girls Competitive Coach of the Year* – Rick Garr, Central Kentucky Storm
• Boys Competitive Coach of the Year* – Jeff Tomczek, Javanon
• Recreational Coach of the Year* – Cristy Dunn, Georgetown FC
• Young Female Referee of the Year* – Abigail Luttrell
• Young Male Referee of the Year* – Kaleb Eisenman
• TOPSoccer Coach of the Year* – Tim Majors, Lexington Youth Soccer Association
• TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year* – Luke Majors, Lexington Youth Soccer Association
• Volunteers of the Year* – Erin Meyer, KY Independence Soccer Club/BPYSL and Jessica Turley, Elizabethtown Youth Soccer Association
• Administrator of the Year* – Amy Masteller, KY Independence Soccer Club

*Select award recipients will be submitted to US Youth Soccer for consideration at the regional and national levels.

The Of the Year Awards are a longstanding tradition with Kentucky Youth Soccer, recognizing the hard work and dedication of individuals who elevate the sport and support player development at every level.

For more information about the Of the Year Awards, please visit kysoccer.net/awards

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) proudly announces the champion teams of the Spring 2025 Kentucky Premier League (KPL) season. This season brought together some of the most talented and dedicated youth soccer teams from across the Commonwealth to compete in one of the region’s most respected leagues.

The Spring 2025 season featured high-level matchups, standout individual performances, and a strong display of teamwork and sportsmanship across all age groups and divisions. After months of hard word and intense competition, the following teams have earned the title of Kentucky Premier League Champions:

BOYS CHAMPIONS

• LSA ’14 East
• Javanon 2014 Boys Red
• KY Rush 2014 Blue
• Lex Sporting Club 13B Performance Green
• NEDO SC B13 Gold
• BGEFC 2012 Boys
• BGFC Golden Lions Academy 2012 Gold
• Lex Sporting Club 11B Performance Black
• FCSC 10 Gold
• Lex Sporting Club 10B Performance Gray
• KHA1 Cincinnati South B09
• LouCity Oldham 09 Purple
• Owensboro United 2008 Boys
• Nelson Elite 2008 Boys
• Fusion FC NKY B07 Green
• KY Rush 2006 Boys U19

GIRLS CHAMPIONS

• Javanon 2014 Girls Black
• SIU 2014 Girls Red
• SKY Academy Select 2013 Girls Black
• I AM 3RD PDA 2013 Girls Black
• Lex Sporting Club 12G Performance Black
• Eastern Elite 2011G Blue
• KHA1 Cincinnati South G09
• Fusion FC NKY G10 Black
• Falls City 08G Gold
• Eastern Elite 2006G Blue

“The spring season was one of the most exciting we’ve seen,” said Steven Murry, KPL Commissioner. “From start to finish, the teams showed an incredible level of commitment, passion, and resilience. We commend our champions for their hard work, and we’re proud of every athlete, coach, and club that participated in making this season so successful.”

As we close out another successful season, teams are already looking ahead to what’s next. Registration for the Fall 2025 9U-14U KPL season is now open. Clubs and teams can find more information and begin the registration process by visiting www.kysoccer.net/kentucky-premier-league/ – the deadline to register for the Fall 2025 season is Friday July 18th, 2025.

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 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