Kentucky

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Owensboro, KY- Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is excited to announce that Owensboro, Kentucky, will be the host city for the 2024 Kentucky Presidents Cup Final on May 25th and 26th at the scenic Thompson Berry Park. This esteemed tournament is part of the US Youth Soccer Presidents Cup series, offering a unique and competitive platform for teams seeking additional challenges.

The move of the Kentucky Presidents Cup Final to Owensboro is a testament to KYSA’s commitment to providing an exceptional soccer experience. Owensboro, known for its safety and warm hospitality, will create an ideal backdrop for this prestigious tournament. The event aligns with KYSA’s mission to offer unique opportunities for teams that might not otherwise get the chance to participate in a series of competitions leading from the state to regional and national levels of US Youth Soccer.

“We are thrilled to bring the Kentucky Presidents Cup Final to Owensboro. Our collaboration with Visit Owensboro has been instrumental in ensuring that our athletes and parents will have an unforgettable experience,” said Bryan Brooks, Kentucky Youth Soccer Director of Operations and Tournaments. “We are looking forward to the 2024 Presidents Cup and the unique atmosphere that Owensboro will contribute to this exceptional event.”

Owensboro hosts “Friday After Five,” an award-winning event that transforms the riverfront into a celebration of music and community spirit. Athletes and parents can unwind along the beautiful riverfront, enjoying over a mile of free musical entertainment before the intense competition kicks off Saturday morning.

“This premier tournament not only showcases the soccer talent of Kentucky’s athletes, but also provides an opportunity for everyone to experience the warmth and vibrancy of our riverfront community,” said Mark Calitri, President of Visit Owensboro.

Ty Stauffer, Founder, Sports Tutor and Head Coach Kentucky Wesleyan Soccer, said, “We are excited to welcome teams from across the state to showcase our city’s hospitality, convenience, and facilities.”

“Our guests can experience our vibrate revitalized downtown along with the traditional barbecue restaurants our city is known for.  Stauffer added, “Combine these items with great soccer it should make for a fantastic weekend for soccer fans and families!”

The US Youth Soccer Presidents Cup is designed for those teams seeking additional challenges to play against teams of similar abilities for the ultimate goal of State, Regional, and National titles. The cup provides a progressive, competitive experience to teams that might not otherwise get the opportunity to participate in a series of unique experiences highlighting competition, camaraderie, and community from the state to regional to national levels of US Youth Soccer.

The 2024 Presidents Cup Final in Owensboro promises to be a celebration of youth soccer, embodying the spirit of competition and fostering a sense of community among participants and their families.

For more information and updates on the 2024 Presidents Cup Final, please visit www.kysoccer.net/presidents-cup.

ABOUT KENTUCKY YOUTH SOCCER

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.

ABOUT VISIT OWENSBORO

Owensboro is Kentucky’s fourth-largest city, nestled on a scenic bend of the Ohio River in western Kentucky. Owensboro is the culinary and cultural hub of western Kentucky, with a wide variety of wonderfully delicious, locally owned restaurants and a thriving arts community. No trip to Owensboro is complete without enjoying Owensboro’s signature hickory-smoked barbecue mutton and flavorful burgoo, sampling some of Kentucky’s finest bourbons, and exploring our ties to the roots of bluegrass music. Owensboro was designated as the Sports Illustrated 50th Anniversary Sportstown for the state of Kentucky for its sports and recreation options. Owensboro offers outstanding facilities and complexes capable of hosting youth and adult tournaments for baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, hockey and more, and individual options include ice skating, disc golf, hiking, and trail biking. In short, Owensboro is one of the best places in Kentucky and the U.S. to participate in or watch sporting activities. Learn more about Visit Owensboro at www.visitowensboro.com

Press Contact:

Karrington True

Director of Marketing and Events, Kentucky Youth Soccer

karringtontrue@kysoccer.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lexington, Kentucky — Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is proud to announce that two exceptional players, Brady Stockton, and Knox Foster, have been selected to represent Kentucky on the prestigious 2024 National Olympic Development Program (ODP) 2008 and 2006 Teams.

Brady Stockton, a standout talent from Nicholasville, Kentucky, currently plays for Lexington Sporting Club in addition to his contributions to Kentucky ODP. Known for his skill and dedication on the field, Stockton has earned his spot on the 2008 Boys National ODP Team.

Knox Foster, hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, currently plays for the Louisville City FC Academy in addition to his contributions to Kentucky ODP. Known for his commanding presence in goal, Knox has been named to the 2006 Boys National ODP Team.

“We are thrilled to see Brady and Knox, two exceptional talents, earn their spots on the National ODP Team”, said Derek Willis, KYSA Technical Director and Olympic Development Program Director. “This achievement not only reflects their dedication and hard work but also showcases the strength of the soccer programs here in Kentucky. We wish them the best as they represent our state on the national stage.”

Stockton’s journey to the National ODP Team began with an impressive debut at the regional camp, where he showcased his skills to secure a spot on the Midwest Team. Subsequently, his outstanding performance at the Interregional Event in Florida solidified his role as a key player for the region, highlighting his continuous improvement and commitment to excellence.

Foster has achieved a remarkable feat by securing his spot on the ODP National Team for the second consecutive year. His exceptional performance in the ODP environment over the past several years is a testament to his dedication and hard work, and he is now reaping the well-deserved rewards for his sustained efforts.

Both players will bring their skills to the forefront as they participate in upcoming National ODP events. Their selection highlights not only their individual accomplishments but also the commitment of Kentucky Youth Soccer to nurturing and developing top-tier soccer talent.

For more information about Kentucky Youth Soccer and its Olympic Development Program, please visit www.kysoccer.net/odp.

To see the full list of National ODP Teams, please visit https://www.usyouthsoccer.org/olympic-development-program/

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 Association is delighted to announce the remarkable achievements of two of its alumni, Summer Denigan and Amanda Schlueter, who has been honored with prestigious conference awards this fall season. Both athletes, who previously played for KYSA member club King’s Hammer, have showcased their talent and dedication at the collegiate level.

Summer Denigan (2003), former King’s Hammer standout, marked her triumphant return after being sidelined due to an injury last fall, completing her freshman season at the University of Georgia. Denigan showcased her incredible talent by contributing to crucial goals in several pivotal matches, earning her the title of SEC Co-Freshman of the Year. She was also recognized with positions in the Second Team All-SEC and the SEC All-Freshman Team. Currently, Denigan and her Georgia teammates are competing in the Southeastern Conference Tournament and will take on Texas A&M Thursday, November 2nd at 8:30pm ET. The Georgia Bulldogs advance to the semi-final round after defeating the University of Kentucky.

Amanda Schlueter (2005), another product of King’s Hammer, delivered an exceptional performance during her freshman season at the Ohio State University. Schlueter tallied an impressive total of five goals and seven assists, demonstrating her significant impact on the team. Her outstanding efforts were acknowledged as she was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team. The Buckeyes now await their fate in the upcoming NCAA Tournament, following their participation in the competitive Big Ten Conference Tournament.

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association takes immense pride in the accomplishments of Summer and Amanda, both of whom began their soccer journey’s with King’s Hammer and Kentucky Youth Soccer. Their dedication to excellence in collegiate soccer serves as an inspiration to aspiring youth athletes and highlights the tremendous talent cultivated within the Kentucky Soccer Community. Congratulations to both of these outstanding young women for their well-deserved recognition. We are so proud of your hard work and success!

ABOUT KENTUCKY YOUTH SOCCER

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 Association (KYSA) is excited to announce the date and open registration for the highly anticipated Soccer Learning University 2024. SLU is the flagship event of the year, providing a unique and immersive experience for soccer enthusiasts, coaches, club administrators, and more.

Soccer Learning University is more than just a seminar; it’s a day dedicated to the game, where camaraderie, shared knowledge, and the spirit of soccer unite us all. Attendees can except a diverse range of educational opportunities, including live field demonstrations, engaging classrooms sessions, networking opportunities, and more. This year’s event will feature inspiring speakers, exclusive giveaways, and opportunities to learn from top-level experts in the soccer world.

Event Details:

Date: January 27^th, 2024

Location: Central Bank Center, Lexington KY

Why SLU 2024?

The event reflects KYSA’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the growth of soccer across the state of Kentucky. It’s the only opportunity of its kind in the area, bringing together individuals passionate about soccer and committed to its growth. Whether you’re a coach looking to elevate your skills, a club administrator seeking new strategies, or simply a soccer enthusiast, SLU 2024 promises to deliver.

“Soccer Learning University is where passion meets knowledge and the opportunity to elevate your game to new heights,” said Karrington True, Director of Marketing and Events at Kentucky Youth Soccer. “We encourage everyone to mark your calendars, register early, and don’t miss out on an amazing experience.”

Be the first to know about SLU 2024 speakers, giveaways and more by following @KYYouthSoccer on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter)!

Register Now:

Registration for SLU is now open! Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your game!

The first 20 people to register will receive a FREE water bottle from BAND, the Official Communication Partner of Kentucky Youth Soccer!

ABOUT KENTUCKY YOUTH SOCCER

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 – Barbie, the iconic doll that has inspired generations of children, announced “Women in Sports” as the 2023 Career of the Year. This initiative by Mattel aims to shine a spotlight on the achievements and opportunities for women in the sports industry. To commemorate this honor, Barbie launched a collection of four special dolls representing different roles within the world of sports.

The “Women in Sports” career collection includes dolls dressed to represent four-sports related careers and, more broadly, to encourage girls to pursue involvement in sports which can help develop life skills and raise confidence, the company said. Among the “team” of new dolls are General Manager Barbie, Coach Barbie, Referee Barbie and Sports Reporter Barbie.

“This year, knowing that women are severely underrepresented in the sports industry – from positions on the field to leadership in the locker room – Barbie is proud to introduce the Women in Sports lineup as the 2023 Career of the Year,” said Mattel in a release.

The importance of this initiative extends beyond the dolls themselves. It serves as an inspiring reminder for young girls everywhere, including those in Kentucky Youth Soccer (KYSA), that they can achieve greatness in any field they choose. It encourages them to dream big, break barriers, and pursue careers that may have seemed out of reach in the past.

“We’re thrilled to see Barbie championing women in sports. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission at Kentucky Youth Soccer, where we aim to empower young girls to excel in soccer and beyond. These dolls remind us all that the sky is the limit for young dreamers”, said Karrington True, Director of Marketing at Kentucky Youth Soccer. “I didn’t have anything like this growing up. Now a little girl takes Barbie out of the box and can see herself doing that job… it’s special.”

The “Women in Sports” Barbie dolls are more than just toys; they are symbols of empowerment and inspiration. As they find their way into the hands of children, they carry the message that girls can achieve greatness, no matter the field they choose to explore. To celebrate this, Kentucky Youth Soccer (KYSA) is giving away three sets of the “Women in Sports” Barbie Doll Collections. To enter to win, follow @KYYouthSoccer on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter), like the giveaway post on social media, and sign up HERE. The giveaway is open to individuals with athletes affiliated with KYSA and will close Tuesday December 19th @ 11:59pm ET.

ABOUT KENTUCKY YOUTH SOCCER

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 – The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association is excited to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, which aims to offer an enhanced and user-friendly experience for visitors. The website, with the same trusted URL www.kysoccer.net, has undergone a significant makeover, featuring a modernized design and a host of new features that provide valuable resources and insights to the Kentucky soccer community.

The redesigned Kentucky Youth Soccer website introduces a dynamic marketplace that allows members to connect with KYSA’s official partners, giving them insight into the invaluable services and benefits these partners bring to member clubs. Additionally, the website now boasts an engaging news section that serves as a hub for the latest stories and developments within the Kentucky soccer community. Kentucky Youth Soccer has also unveiled a comprehensive ‘Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)’ section about Kentucky Youth Soccer as well as Risk Management, empowering members to quickly find answers to their inquiries and stay informed.

“Kentucky Youth Soccer is thrilled to introduce our reimagined website, created with the goal of promoting and growing soccer throughout the state in mind,” said Karrington True, Director of Marketing at Kentucky Youth Soccer. “Through our partnership with NBC Sports Next and the utilization of the innovative SportsEngine technology platform, we can now share our mission and vision with a wider audience. This new platform enables us to celebrate the incredible achievements of our member clubs and foster a stronger sense of community within Kentucky soccer.”

As Kentucky Youth Soccer joins forces with USYS and NBC Sports Next to broaden the reach of soccer in Kentucky and beyond, the revamped website is poised to become a central hub for all things soccer-related in the state. The website’s fresh design, intuitive navigation, and robust content network make it an indispensable resource for players, coaches, administrators, and fans of the sport.

To explore the revitalized Kentucky Youth Soccer website and discover the wealth of resources it offers, visit www.kysoccer.net. For media inquiries or more information about KYSA’s online presence, please contact Karrington True at karringtontrue@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.