Kentucky

Elizabethtown, KY – Elizabethtown Youth Soccer Association hosted an event celebrating and encouraging girls in recreational youth soccer on April 28th. The night featured games with over 30 teams from multiple leagues participating and having fun on the pitch.

“Our goal at PlayHER Night is to increase girls soccer at the rec level, all the way from U6 to high school,” said EYSA’s Vice President Dan Vance. “We came up with the idea of Pink Night, and it’s helped a lot. It’s increased awareness.”

EYSA has gained additional girls rec teams in the last year with the success of their first “Pink Night” in October, and they hope to grow more with these continued events recognizing the ladies of the league.

“We started it because it seemed to be dropping off a little bit in rec, but there were dads and coaches that have their own girls that wanted the teams to continue and we needed teams to play,” said EYSA President Jess Blount. She added, “It was nice to invite outside leagues that had girls and keep those girls signing up.”

The event was held at Michael Carroll Soccer Complex, with all fields filled with games starting at 5:30 pm. Players worked on their soccer skills and were cheered on by a large crowd of spectators. There was fun off the pitch as well with the event including food trucks, vendors, face-painting, music and lots of pink.

EYSA plans to have these events twice a year and will host their next “Pink Night” in the fall.

LEXINGTON, KY – Kentucky Youth Soccer Association is thrilled to welcome Trace as its new Official Sideline Video partner.

Trace, established in 2011, is revolutionizing the use of video by leveraging AI technology to seamlessly identify, follow, and spotlight each player on the field, automatically delivering a personalized playlist of individual highlights for every player after each game. Additionally, Trace cameras are specifically designed to provide an enhanced viewing experience, allowing parents, coaches, and scouts to zoom in and follow a player throughout the match. Account users can also rewatch their plays, use video to develop their skills, and share highlight playlists with friends, family, and recruiters.

In a landmark move, KYSA and Trace have joined forces to offer every team competing in a KYSA-sanctioned league, grassroots and competitive alike, with a complimentary sideline camera and PlayerFocus™ Pro subscription. Proof of membership will be required for each team via submission of an official league roster at checkout. Instructions are provided as teams complete the process.

“Kentucky Youth Soccer has always believed that access to great tools should not be limited to a select few. Partnering with Trace gives our teams, whether they are just starting out or competing at the highest level, the ability to use the same technology that was once out of reach for most. We are excited to see what our players and coaches do with it.” said Kris Zander, Executive Director, Kentucky Youth Soccer Association.

“Kentucky has a passionate soccer community, and KYSA has done a tremendous job building something that serves everyone from the youngest grassroots players all the way up to ODP athletes. We wanted to find a way to add real value to that, and giving every eligible team access to automated video felt like the right fit. We are thrilled to be part of what they are building.” stated Gentry Contreras, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Trace.

Teams interested in requesting their free Trace camera and PlayerFocus™ Pro subscription should click here to begin. Use code KYSAFREE at checkout. Must be redeemed at checkout with a new camera. 

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association

Kentucky Youth Soccer Association is the governing body for youth soccer in the Bluegrass State, dedicated to growing and promoting the game at every level. With programs spanning grassroots development, elite competition, coaching education, and player identification, KYSA provides opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. 

About Trace

Trace is the leader in automated sports video, using AI technology to film, edit, and deliver personalized highlight playlists to every player after every game. Designed for teams at all levels, Trace cameras require no operator and no manual editing, giving players, coaches, and parents instant access to game footage from any device. Learn more at https://traceup.com/partner/kysa

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEXINGTON, KY – Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is excited to continue its partnership with Publix, reaffirming the regional grocery chain as the Official Supermarket of KYSA.

Publix now has seven locations across the Commonwealth, making it more accessible and convenient for local communities. This ongoing collaboration emphasizes a common goal of supporting Kentucky’s youth athletes and families both on the field and in their communities.  

With most of the KY stores open for about a year now, Publix has established itself as a major grocery competitor in the Bluegrass. KYSA Executive Director Kris Zander is excited about the continued partnership saying, “Our members will notice a greater presence at events with Publix’s commitment to community and wellness. And we’re excited to see the positive impact our teamwork will continue have across the state.”

The Supermarket also partners with seven other state youth organizations across the southeastern U.S., providing parents with the foods their young athletes need to help them reach their full potential. With 1,433 stores across 8 states, the grocery chain focuses on customer service, employee ownership, operational pillars and community & sustainability with a mission to be the premier quality food retailer in the world.

With its continued commitment to community service, Publix is also a Feeding America Visionary Partner, which uses in-store donation programs to fight food insecurity. Since 2020, Publix has donated over 150 pounds of fresh produce to local food banks. Along with food donations, Publix has contributed over $78 million to charities since 2015 to reduce homelessness, end hunger, improve communities, support education and encourage youth.

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

About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) 

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.

Lexington, KY – Two players from Kentucky have both made ODP National Teams for their respective age groups, making it the first time the state has had multiple players on the National Team rosters. For each age group, only 18 players (boys and girls) are selected from all over the United States. Eli Bennett, from Georgetown, was selected for the U15 Boys team, and Emma Buhr, from Lexington, has been selected for the U14 Girls team.

This is Bennett’s second time making the national team, following his first appearance last year. Bennett plays for GFC Black and Scott Co High School, where he started all 16 games for the Varsity squad in the Fall 2025 season as the center back. He was one of only two players last year who played every minute for the national team in the Copa Rayados Tournament in Orlando, FL. Bennett will be playing in Portugal in end of March through the first week of April in the IBERCUP for the U.S.

For Buhr, this is her first appearance for the National Team and at the youngest age bracket to qualify for. Playing an age group up for Lexington Sporting Club ECNL U14, Buhr plays center attacking mid and forward. She played every game at regionals last July, and at inter-regionals in January, she had four goals and one assist in only three games.  Buhr will be representing the U.S. at the Copa Rayados Easter International Tournament in Orlando the first week of April.

Congratulations & good luck to Eli and Emma!

To stay up-to-date on the National Team, visit https://www.usyouthsoccer.org/news/.

Louisville, KY – Two teams from Mockingbird Valley Premier Soccer Club out of Louisville, Ky, have already qualified for the USYS National Tournament this coming summer in Utah. They are the first teams from Kentucky to enter the national competition in five years.

The national qualification process changed recently allowing automatic qualification for champions of National League winter events held in Mesa, AZ. Both the U14 and U16 boys teams went undefeated in each of their three games, with the U14 team competing last November while the U16 team played this past January.

Club Director Corey Johnson said allowing every player to be able to travel was their focus. “It’s a collaborative effort being committed to this; it’s not just the players but the coaches and parents. It’s costly and time consuming. We made sure every kid could go.”

U14 Coach Andrew Oyler, from Louisville, was happy and relieved with the results. “We struggled in the fall, so this was a good way to finish the season,” noting that the team hadn’t played their best during the regular season. He added, “We’ve already put ourselves in a good position, and now we can focus on the spring and Utah.”

For the U16s, Coach Tyler Joy-Brandon said, “It’s kind of weird that it’s in the middle of the season, but it’s interesting and exciting.” Now that the team has already qualified, he wants the team to pretend like it’s a normal season. “The most important is not being satisfied with what we have.”

Training and keeping up the excitement for a tournament months away is now the focus for each team. Coach Oyler said he plans to give his players structured training schedules as well as organize friendlies after the State Cup Tournament as nationals aren’t until mid-July. “We need to make sure we maintain fitness levels.”

Coach Joy-Brandon added, “It’s been tough the last month because of the snow, and we’ve been training indoors.” The former Transylvania University player will also keep a schedule for his team post spring and State Cup play by having the best few weeks of training and focusing on energy leading up to the national stage.

As one of the captains of the U16 team, Dylan Ortiz said, “The mindset going into the rest of the season isn’t going to change. We know there are so many key things to work on and improve on. Continue to work hard, build confidence with the team, and win games to soon reach our high potential in July.”

Both native Kentuckians, Oyler and Joy-Brandon are excited to represent their home state on the national stage. “Showing we can compete on a national level is cool. I don’t think most states think we’ll be as competitive” said Oyler. He explained that with their qualification, they get to play in the top division in the tournament adding that, “it shows we have talented kids here.”

Johnson is proud of both teams, noting that many players have been there their entire youth career. 25 of the 36 players going to nationals have only played for Mockingbird Valley Premier SC. “It’s a testament when kids stay together and that our club develops players. We’ve attracted players because of the coaches and environment.”

Qualifying for the most elite tournament is already an incredible accomplishment for Mockingbird Valley Premier SC, but both teams want to show the nation they can go further.  “It’s a great achievement, and I hope we can do more,” said Joy-Brandon. “It would prove a big point, and it would help the state.”

The Boys’ Nationals are held July 13-23, 2026, in Salt Lake City & Provo, UT.

Mockingbird Valley Premier Boys U14 National Qualifiers

Mockingbird Valley Premier Boys U16 National Qualifiers

*All photos credit – Mockingbird Valley Premier Soccer Club*

KYSA, along with US Youth Soccer, AYSO and US Club Soccer, will return to an age group formation based on Aug. 1-July 31 (School Year), rather than Jan. 1-Dec. 31 (Birth Year), beginning with the 2026-27 registration season. Please refer to the table and document link below for player age divisions as well as birth year and season matrix. More information can be found here.

	2025-26 SEASON	2026-27 SEASON
U-6	Born between Jan 1, 2020 – Dec 31, 2020	Born between Aug 1, 2020 – July 31, 2021
U-7	Born between Jan 1, 2019 – Dec 31, 2019	Born between Aug 1, 2019 – July 31, 2020
U-8	Born between Jan 1, 2018 – Dec 31, 2018	Born between Aug 1, 2018 – July 31, 2019
U-9	Born between Jan 1, 2017 – Dec 31, 2017	Born between Aug 1, 2017 – July 31, 2018
U-10	Born between Jan 1, 2016 – Dec 31, 2016	Born between Aug 1, 2016 – July 31, 2017
U-11	Born between Jan 1, 2015 – Dec 31, 2015	Born between Aug 1, 2015 – July 31, 2016
U-12	Born between Jan 1, 2014 – Dec 31, 2014	Born between Aug 1, 2014 – July 31, 2015
U-13	Born between Jan 1, 2013 – Dec 31, 2013	Born between Aug 1, 2013 – July 31, 2014
U-14	Born between Jan 1, 2012 – Dec 31, 2012	Born between Aug 1, 2012 – July 31, 2013
U-15	Born between Jan 1, 2011 – Dec 31, 2011	Born between Aug 1, 2011 – July 31, 2012
U-16	Born between Jan 1, 2010 – Dec 31, 2010	Born between Aug 1, 2010 – July 31, 2011
U-17	Born between Jan 1, 2009 – Dec 31, 2009	Born between Aug 1, 2009 – July 31, 2010
U-18	Born between Jan 1, 2008 – Dec 31, 2008	Born between Aug 1, 2008 – July 31, 2009
U-19	Born between Jan 1, 2007 – Dec 31, 2007	Born between Aug 1, 2007 – July 31, 2008
U-20	Born between Jan 1, 2006 – Dec 31, 2006	Born between Aug 1, 2006 – July 31, 2007

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

KPL G11U Premier Division
FC Kentucky 2015 Girls Blue	FC Kentucky	Female U11 Premier
Javanon 2015 Girls Red	Javanon FC	Female U11 Premier
Javanon 2015 Girls Black	Javanon FC	Female U11 Premier
MVP G15 Gold	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Female U11 Premier
Lex Sporting Club 15G Black	Lexington Sporting	Female U11 Premier
Lex Sporting Club 15G Black 2	Lexington Sporting	Female U11 Premier
Lexington Sporting Club Pre ECNL 15G	Lexington Sporting	Female U11 Premier
KPL G11U First Division
CKY Storm 2015 Girls Black	Central Kentucky Storm SC	Female U11 First
Georgetown FC 2015 Girls	Georgetown FC	Female U11 First
IAM3rd PDA 2015 Girls	I AM 3RD SOCCER	Female U11 First
Racing Academy 15 Black	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Female U11 First
SKY Academy Select 2015 Girls	SKY Soccer Club	Female U11 First
FCSC 15G GOLD	Falls City Soccer Club	Female U11 First
Southern Indiana United 2015 Girls Red	Southern Indiana United	Female U11 First
KPL G12U Premier Division
Eastern Elite 2014G Blue	Eastern Elite Soccer Academy	Female U12 Premier
Nelson Elite 2014 Girls	Nelson Elite	Female U12 Premier
Racing Academy 14 Black	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Female U12 Premier
Racing South 14 Black	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Female U12 Premier
Lexington Sporting Club Pre ECNL 14G	Lexington Sporting	Female U12 Premier
KPL G12U First Division
IAM3rd PDA 2014 Girls Black	I AM 3RD SOCCER	Female U12 First
Eastern Elite 2014G Orange	Eastern Elite Soccer Academy	Female U12 First
FC Kentucky 2014 Girls	FC Kentucky	Female U12 First
14 LSC	Louisville Soccer	Female U12 First
SKY Academy Select 2014 Girls	SKY Soccer Club	Female U12 First
MVP G14 White	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Female U12 First
MUSA Flyers 2014 Girls	Madison United	Female U12 First
Southern Indiana United 2014 Girls Red	Southern Indiana United	Female U12 First
KPL G13U Premier Division
Nelson Elite 2013 Girls	Nelson Elite	Female U13 Premier
Georgetown FC 2013 Girls Black	Georgetown FC	Female U13 Premier
IAM3rd PDA 2013 Girls Black	I AM 3RD SOCCER	Female U13 Premier
Racing Oldham 13 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Female U13 Premier
Racing South 13 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Female U13 Premier
MVP G13 Gold	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Female U13 Premier
Nedo SC G2013 Gold	Nedo SC	Female U13 Premier
FCSC 13G GOLD	Falls City Soccer Club	Female U13 Premier
KPL G14U Premier Division
IAM3rd PDA 2012 Girls Black	I AM 3RD SOCCER	Female U14 Premier
SKY Academy Select 2012 Girls Black	SKY Soccer Club	Female U14 Premier
BSC 12G Hall	Bluegrass Soccer Club	Female U14 Premier
FC Kentucky 2012 Girls	FC Kentucky	Female U14 Premier
Nelson Elite 2012 Girls	Nelson Elite	Female U14 Premier
2012 CKY Storm Girls Black	Central Kentucky Storm SC	Female U14 Premier
MVP G12 Gold	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Female U14 Premier
FCSC 12G GOLD	Falls City Soccer Club	Female U14 Premier
KPL B11U Premier Division
SKY Academy Select 2015 Boys Black	SKY Soccer Club	Male U11 Premier
Owensboro United 2015 Boys White	Owensboro United SC	Male U11 Premier
IAM3rd PDA 2015 Boys Black	I AM 3RD SOCCER	Male U11 Premier
LouCity Academy 15 Black	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U11 Premier
Javanon 2015 Boys Black	Javanon FC	Male U11 Premier
MVP B15 Gold	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Male U11 Premier
Javanon 2015 Boys Red	Javanon FC	Male U11 Premier
Lex Sporting Club 15B Green	Lexington Sporting	Male U11 Premier
KPL B11U First Division
Eastern Elite 2015B Blue	Eastern Elite Soccer Academy	Male U11 First
Javanon 2015/16 Boys Black	Javanon FC	Male U11 First
CKY Storm 2015 Boys Black	Central Kentucky Storm SC	Male U11 First
LouCity Oldham 15 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U11 First
MVP B15 White	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Male U11 First
MVP B15 Black	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Male U11 First
Lex Sporting Club 15B Black	Lexington Sporting	Male U11 First
Nedo SC B2015 Blue	Nedo SC	Male U11 First
FCSC 15 GOLD	Falls City Soccer Club	Male U11 First
KPL B11U Second Division
BGFC Golden Lions Academy 2015 Gold	Bowling Green FC	B11U Second
Owensboro United 2015 Boys Black	Owensboro United SC	B11U Second
BSC 15B Smith	Bluegrass Soccer Club	B11U Second
LouCity Oldham 15 Black	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	B11U Second
LouCity South 15 Black	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	B11U Second
LSA ’15 Red	Louisville Soccer	B11U Second
SKY Academy Select 2015 Boys Blue	SKY Soccer Club	B11U Second
Nedo SC B2015 Gold	Nedo SC	B11U Second
KPL B12U Premier Division
SKY Academy Select 2014 Boys Black	SKY Soccer Club	Male U12 Premier
IAM3rd PDA 2014 Boys Black	I AM 3RD SOCCER	Male U12 Premier
LSA ’14 Red	Louisville Soccer	Male U12 Premier
MVP B14 Gold	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Male U12 Premier
MVP B14 White	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Male U12 Premier
Javanon 2014 Boys Pre-MLS Next	Javanon FC	Male U12 Premier
Lex Sporting Club 14B Green	Lexington Sporting	Male U12 Premier
Javanon 2014 Boys Red	Javanon FC	Male U12 Premier
GFC Lex 2014 Boys Black	Georgetown FC	Male U12 Premier
KPL B12U First Division
BSC 14B	Bluegrass Soccer Club	Male U12 First
Eastern Elite 2014B Blue	Eastern Elite Soccer Academy	Male U12 First
LouCity Academy 14 KPL	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U12 First
LouCity Oldham 14 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U12 First
LouCity Oldham 14 Black	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U12 First
Nelson Elite 2014 Boys	Nelson Elite	Male U12 First
FCSC 14 GOLD	Falls City Soccer Club	Male U12 First
Nedo SC B2014 Gold	Nedo SC	Male U12 First
LouCity South 14 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U12 First
KPL B12U Second Division
BGFC Golden Lions Academy 2014 Gold	Bowling Green FC	B12U Second
SKY Academy Select 2014 Boys Blue	SKY Soccer Club	B12U Second
CKY Storm 2014 Boys Black	Central Kentucky Storm SC	B12U Second
MVP B14 Black	Mockingbird Valley Premier	B12U Second
GFC FKT 2014B Black	Georgetown FC	B12U Second
GFC Lex 2014 Boys Blue	Georgetown FC	B12U Second
Javanon 2014 Boys White	Javanon FC	B12U Second
KPL B13U Premier Division
LouCity Academy 13 KPL	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U13 Premier
KY Rush 2013B West KPL	Kentucky Rush SC	Male U13 Premier
Nedo SC B2013 Gold	Nedo SC	Male U13 Premier
MVP B13 White	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Male U13 Premier
FCSC 13 GOLD	Falls City Soccer Club	Male U13 Premier
SKY Academy Select 2013 Boys Black	SKY Soccer Club	Male U13 Premier
Javanon 2013 Boys Red	Javanon FC	Male U13 Premier
KPL B13U First Division
Bowling Green FC – BGFC Golden Lions Academy 2013 Gold	Bowling Green FC	Male U13 First
Eastern Elite 2013B Blue	Eastern Elite Soccer Academy	Male U13 First
IAM3rd PDA 2013 Boys Black	I AM 3RD SOCCER	Male U13 First
CKY Storm 2013 Boys Black	Central Kentucky Storm SC	Male U13 First
LouCity Oldham 13 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U13 First
LouCity South 13 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U13 First
LSA ’13 Red	Louisville Soccer	Male U13 First
MVP B13 Black	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Male U13 First
FCSC 13 GREEN	Falls City Soccer Club	Male U13 First
KPL B14U Premier Division
BGFC Golden Lions Academy 2012 Gold	Bowling Green FC	Male U14 Premier
Javanon 2012 Boys Red	Javanon FC	Male U14 Premier
LouCity South 12 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U14 Premier
MVP B12 White	Mockingbird Valley Premier	Male U14 Premier
2012 BGEFC	BG Elite FC	Male U14 Premier
FCSC 2012 Boys Gold	Falls City Soccer Club	Male U14 Premier
Nedo SC B2012 Gold	Nedo SC	Male U14 Premier
SKY Academy Select 2012 Boys Black	SKY Soccer Club	Male U14 Premier
GFC Lex 2012 Boys	Georgetown FC	Male U14 Premier
KPL B14U First Division
MUSA Flyers 2012 Boys	Madison United	Male U14 First
IAM3rd PDA 2012 Boys	I AM 3RD SOCCER	Male U14 First
LouCity Academy Grey 12 KPL	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U14 First
CKFA 2012 Boys	Marion County YS	Male U14 First
LouCity Oldham 12 Purple	LouCity / Racing Youth Academy	Male U14 First
Lex Sporting Club 12B Black 2	Lexington Sporting	Male U14 First
GFC FKT 2012B	Georgetown FC	Male U14 First
CKY Storm 2012 Boys – Sutherland	Central Kentucky Storm SC	Male U14 First

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 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.

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