FEBRUARY2026 BOARDMEETING
TABLEOF
VYSA BOARD MEETING AGENDA
Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 7:00 PM
via Zoom
Welcome and Call to Order
Roll Call
Approval of the Previous Board Minutes
• January 26, 2026
Reports
Officer Reports
President’s Report
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary Report
Committee Reports
Finance
Hall of Fame
Top Soccer
Staff Reports
State Cup and President’s Cup
Technical Director
Executive Directors Report
Unfinished Business
New Business
Good of the Game
Adjournment
Bill Phillips
Tom Lewis
Richard Smith
Anne Thompson
Adele Dolansky
John Schlenker
Ray Ford
Gordon Miller
Serkan Orsan
Note: The next Board of Directors Meeting is March 18, 2026
VYSA MID YEAR ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
February 7, 2026
The Mid-Year Annual General Meeting of the Virginia Youth Soccer Association, Inc. was called to order at 1:00 PM by President Bill Phillips.
The following thirty-three (33) members were represented (in person, via Zoom or by proxy): Member Organization
Board of Directors Present:
Bill Phillips
Anne Thompson
Tom Lewis
Richard Phillips
Corky Webster
John Davis
Brad Powell
David Glass
Staff Present:
Don Rawson
Gordon Miller
Robert Carey
Ray Ford
Kristeen Osteen
A quorum was established and noted by President Phillips.
It was further noted that:
A matter that requires a simple majority vote of those members present would require 31,767 affirmative votes.
The total number of votes eligible to be cast is 89,794. (VYSA Bylaws, Article IX)
A majority of votes eligible to be cast is 44,898. (VYSA Bylaws, Article IX)
BOARD REPORTS
The Treasurer’s Report was provided by Tom Lewis and is attached. The report indicated the Budget vs Actuals is positive through the month of December. Th report also indicated cash flows are down since the same time last year.
The Secretary Report was provided by Richard Smith. The report is attached. The report highlighted several new board approved clubs and highlighted the increase in travel players and significantly lower number of recreational player registrations.
The President’s Report was provided by Bill Phillips Bill thanked long-serving volunteers- especially recognizing Adele Dolansky’s long service. Bill also thanked the staff and board members for their service to the game. Bill announced Executive Director Don Rawson’s impending departure to begin a new role with U.S. Soccer Growth and Sta-Strategy Group. Bill also introduced the new Executive Director, Serkan Orsan, who will begin on February 16th .
STAFF REPORTS
Technical Director Report is attached
Don Rawson offered the highlights of the Technical Director’s Report on behalf of Gordon Miller. Don emphasized the desire of both Gordon Miller and Paul Shaw to visit member clubs (especially recreational members) to help in the education and development of coaches. Don also reported that several ODP players from Virginia were nominated to be on the USYS National ODP Team. The report is attached.
Executive Director Report documents are attached
Don Rawson offered the Executive Director’s Report. He highlighted the US Soccer Forward “Fests” program- designed to drive participation and celebrate the joy of the game while highlighting the upcoming Men’s World Cup this summer.
Ray Ford, Director of Events, also spoke about the success of the State Cup and Presidents Cup this past fall Ray also noted there are 140 teams registered to participate in the State Cup and 137 teams in Presidents Cup this spring. Ray also mentioned the new format for The National Championship Series State Cup winner go directly to the National Finals) and the new region for Presidents Cup (Regionals will be in Loudoun this summer)
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Adjudication Committee Report is attached.
Finance Committee Report is attached.
Grassroots Committee Report is attached.
TOPSoccer Committee Report is attached.
Virginia-DC Soccer Hall of Fame Committee Report is attached.
NEW BUSINESS
A motion was made by Brad Powell, seconded and unanimously approved to ratify the 2025-2026 board actions from July 2025 to January 2026. There was no discussion.
A motion to approve the changes to member fees (effective with the 2026-27 seasonal year) as recommended by the Board of Directors was made by Brad Powell and seconded.
The vote was:
63,017 Yes
515 No (Colonial Heights, Chesapeake Ninjas, VA Velocity)
There were 89,794 votes eligible to be cast. The number of “Yes” votes required to pass the motion was 44,898 (a majority of eligible votes to be cast). 63,017 voted “Yes”. 70.18% of the eligible to be cast voted to approve. (Note: Over 99% of the 63,532 members who were represented at the meeting voted to approve the motion).
The motion was approved.
For the Good of Soccer
Bill Phillips noted the Adjudication Committee Report indicated generally positive behavior with limited instances of referee abuse over the last year. Bill also expressed his appreciation for how the committee handled matters brought before them.
A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting. The motion was approved.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:42 pm.
Virginia-DC
Soccer Hall of Fame Committee Report
Co-Chair: Adele Dolansky
Co-Chair: Larry Monaco
February 12, 2026
The VYSA 2026 Awards Gala, held on Saturday, February 7th at the Fredericksburg Convention Center was without a doubt an outstanding event. The ballroom was a beautiful setting for the Gala and the VYSA staff had everything organized and very inviting for all who were attending. They orchestrated a very succesful event. In addition, the Fredericksburg Convention Staff went above and beyond for all VYSA needs. It was the first time to have a buffet setup for dinner, and convention staff had it well organized for all attendees. There were a lot of comments by the people seated at my table on how good the food was. Job well done by convention staff.
Congratulations to our Class of 2026 Inductees: Player: Taline Tahmassian Morais. Meritorious Service: Aaron Brunner, Donald H. McElhone, Posthumously, and Alan Ross. Representing Donald H. McElone was his widow Maggie McElhone, and his daughters Jess and Kate McElhone.
The inductees were honored to have been selected to be a Virgina-DC Soccer Hall of Fame Member. They were especially impressed with the presentation of the award ceremony and were pleased to have had the opportunity to address the audience.
VYSA, Staff Member, Chloe Sullivan, Manager of Marketing and Communications did another outstanding job of preparing each inductee’s video. The video was a real treasurer for each Inductee and their families. Also, they loved the posters and the photos the photograher took.
My thanks to VYSA Staff Member, Kristen Osteen, Manager of Member Services for providing me with answers to all my Gala set-up and dinner questions.
The VYSA Awards Gala was a great evening of celebration for all VYSA award winners, Hall of Fame inductees, their families, friends, VYSA Officials, and Hall of Fame Members. The Gala created a real sense of comradery among those involved.
Special Thanks to Virginia Youth Soccer Association president, Bill Phillips and to Metro-DC Virginia Soccer Association president, Jim Sawdowski for welcoming the inductees to the stage and presenting them with their prestigious awards and posing for pictures.
To Don Rawson, outgoing VYSA Exective Director, a Special Shout Out of Thanks, for introducing me to new ideas for the inductee awards. Best wishes to you in your next endevor. See you at the next Gala.
Virginia-DC Soccer Hall of Fame Golf Tournament Announcement
The Hall of Fame Committee’s Golf Tourament will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026 at the Pleasant Valley Golf Club in Chantilly, Virginia. To register your foursome, you must do so online by Thursday, September 17, 2026. Hall of Fame Website: www.vadcsocerhof.org
EAST REGION COUNCIL MEETING
Friday, February 20, 2026, 10:00 a.m., ET TheWestinPeachtreePlaza•Atlanta,Georgia MeetingRoom:AugustaAB
AGENDA
I. CalltoOrder
II. Credentials
III. ApprovalofMinutes
(a) July25,2025(willbesentseparately)
IV. Reports-None
V. OldBusiness-None
VI. NewBusiness (a) ODP
• WhatisthefutureofODP (b)NewCompetitionLeague
• NCS
• StatusofNCSregardingtheNewCompetitionLeague
• StateCuprequirementforNewCompetitionteams
• ApathwayforNewCompetitionteamsintoNCS
• NationalLeague
• NationalLeagueCupstatus
• DoNationalLeagueteams(P1andP2)needtoapplytoNew Competition
• WhatisthestatusofClubPremier1and2regardingtheNew Competition
• DistrictsandRegions
• RegionstatuswiththecreationofNewCompetitionDistricts
• PlayerRegistration
• Willregistrationtakeplaceviathestates
• IfECNL/RL/MLSNextarepartofthepathway,willUSYS/State Associationsbesanctioningthosecompetitions
• Remainingmilestonesandduedates
VII. GoodoftheGame
VIII.NextRegionalMeeting–August2026
IX. Adjourn
VYSA TOPSoccer – Committee Report
Submitted by: John S. Schlenker, VYSA TOPSoccer Chair
February, 2026
TOPSoccer is US Youth Soccer’s outreach program for athletes with developmental and or physical disabilities. The continued success and growth of this important program remain a high priority for VYSA.
As a reminder, all VYSA clubs should register TOPSoccer athletes.
Working closely with USYS to develop a tagline for the TOPSoccer logo. The idea is to better describe this program by adding the words “disAbility soccer…so all kids can play!”. Note the important emphasis on “Ability”.
The following TOPSoccer volunteers were recognized by VYSA at the Annual Awards Gala for their outstanding service:
TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year: Maddie Ashpole
TOPSoccer Coach of the Year: Ava Hecker
Dave Williams TOPSoccer Exempary Service: Todd and Jennifer Andrew
Outreach with leaders from VSA, PWSI, Blue Ridge United, and SYA. Joined Zoom call with SYA to discuss starting a new TOPS program in Centreville / Chantilly.
Working on a March “Touchline” article featuring TOPSoccer athletes with Down syndrome -- March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day.
Phone conversation with the new Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (Alain Noriega). Mr. Noriega will be attending a TOPSoccer session in Warrenton in March, so he can observe TOPS in person. He is very interested in promoting TOPS to his members.
Virginia’s first “Every Kick Counts” Footgolf event will take place on Sunday, October 4 at Long Park in Haymarket. The goal is to bring more community awareness to TOPSoccer, raise funds, and provide a great day of footgolf fun for participants. Funds from the Hall of Fame Golf Tournament donation will be used to purchase the Footgolf equipment for this and future events.
VYSA is trying to identify an “Official TOPSoccer Sponsor” that can help provide financial support to this important program. Please refer anyone interested to VYSA State TOPSoccer Chair John Schlenker at PiedmontTOPSoccer@gmail.com
We wanted to share an update with those of you that are set to receive a payment distribution in 2026 under U.S. Soccer’s International Games Policy.
As a reminder, this annual distribution is funded by international games held in the United States during the prior calendar year. For the 2026 cycle, which reflects games held in 2025, U.S. Soccer is forecasting a total member distribution of approximately $1.3 million. As a result, the total amount eligible for member distribution is approximately 38% lower year-over-year compared to the prior two cycles due to a lower number of games in 2025.
We recognize that the forecast outlined below may be disappointing for some members, and we want to provide early transparency and context on the factors impacting this year’s distribution. In addition, the Soccer Growth team is here to answer any questions you have – you can reach us at memberprograms@ussoccer.org
For more details about this policy and context for this year’s distribution, please see below.
Distribution Overview
· International Games Revenue is generated by eligible international matches played in the U.S. and is not directly controlled by U.S. Soccer. While interest in soccer in the United States continues to grow, the number of matches eligible under the policy can fluctuate year over year based on the global competition calendar.
· Due to a reduced number of eligible international matches in calendar year 2025 including impacts from the global competition calendar and preparations surrounding the FIFA World Cup we are forecasting a lower total distribution for members from calendar year 2025 games.
· Based on this forecast, members should expect to receive approximately 60% of the distribution amount received in 2025 from games held in calendar year 2024.
Distribution Calculation
Consistent with Policy 521-1:
· Distribution amounts for eligible Member Organizations are calculated based on the player registration fees paid to the Federation in the prior calendar year.
· Disabled Service Organizations will continue to receive the median distribution amount, in accordance with policy.
Distribution Timing
U.S. Soccer plans to issue International Games distributions to eligible members by July 1, 2026, subject to:
Good standing with U.S. Soccer membership requirements
· Compliance with player registration rules and procedures
Payments will be made electronically to reduce administrative costs.
Required Information
To ensure timely payment, organizations will be asked to confirm key contact and banking information via an electronic form. Additional details and deadlines will be shared closer to distribution.
Please note that a U.S. Soccer staff member may contact your organization to confirm banking information prior to payment.
Looking Ahead
Given the current international match landscape and anticipated global competition schedules, this lower distribution level may represent the new standard in future cycles. U.S. Soccer will continue to monitor eligible matches annually and communicate proactively with members regarding forecasts and expectations.
Relevant Policy Information for Awareness Policy 521-1, Section 4:
· (A) The Federation will collect and hold for annual distribution an amount equal to 2.5% of gross ticket sales for international soccer competitions that include at least one foreign club team.
· (G) Distribution of funds to members will be calculated based on annual player registration fees paid to the Federation by each eligible Organization Member in the prior calendar year.
Thank you,
Soccer Growth Team
Spring Cup February VYSA Board Report
U11-U14 Boys & Girls open State Cup has 140 teams competing this Spring Season.
Draw & game schedule: CLICK HERE!
Single elimination competition will have over 130 games from Play In Rounds, Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals & Finals.
U11-U14 Boys & Girls VYSA Presidents Cup has 137 teams competing this Spring Season.
Draw & game schedule: CLICK HERE!
Group play competition will have 200 games from Play In Round, Group Play games (3 per team), Semifinals & Finals.
U13-U19 Champions from the Fall & Spring Presidents Cup will attend Mid-Atlantic Presidents Cup in Loudoun County June 11th to 14th, 2026. The Mid Atlantic Presidents Cup includes the state associations of: DE, VA, WV, KY, TN, NC, and MD. Registration per team is $1500.00 for Regionals and $0 fee if you advance to Nationals.
U13-U19 State Cup Nationals will be held in two locations between July 13th to 23rd. Boys compete in Salt Lake City & Provo, UT and the Girls compete in Murfreesboro & Smyrna, TN. Registration is $2600.00 per team.
Maryland State Youth Soccer Association is offering a regional type competition for U11 & U12 Champions for the weekend of June 27th & 28th, 2026 at Ellicott City.
Technical Director’s Board Report-Feb. 15, 2026
By: Gordon Miller VYSA Technical Director
ODP
➢ 10 Virginia players made their respective ODP National Teams from the inter-regional event in Orlando last month.
➢ VA Friendlies are this weekend in Williamsburg with teams from NC, WVA, PA MD and NJ coming in to compete.
➢ Four VA teams (2012G, 2010G & 2012B, 2011B) travel to the South of Spain March 31April 9. Parent Orientation meeting planned for March 15.
➢ Training resumed this past weekend after 2 weeks off…great job by Dave & DJ.
COACH EDUCATION
Up Coming Courses
➢ Coach For Community
Sterling Soccer Club - Mar 14
Culpeper Soccer Club - Mar 14
Northern Piedmont Sports Club - Mar 14
➢ Grassroots
Tri-Cities Soccer Club 7v7 - Feb 15
Tri-Cities Soccer Club 9v9 - Feb 15
Colonial Heights Soccer Club 9v9 - Mar 7
Colonial Heights Soccer Club 11v11 - Mar 7
Chesapeake United Soccer 9v9 - Feb 21
Chesapeake Unites Soccer 11v11 - Feb 21
Northern Piedmont Sports Club 7v7 - Mar 21
Great Falls Reston Soccer Club 11v11 - Mar 28
Great Falls Reston Soccer Club 9v9 - Mar 28
➢ D Courses
Loudoun Soccer Club - finishing
Sterling Soccer Club - finishing
Colonial Heights Soccer Club - finishing
Northern Virginia Soccer Club - finishing
Valley United - Jan 26-Mar 24
Alexandria Soccer - Feb 3-Mar 31
Fury FC - Mar 9-May 4
Arlington Soccer Association - Apr 27-Jun 29
➢ National Licenses
Spring 26 B - Jan 5-Jun 19
Spring 26 C - Feb 9-May 23
Fall 26 B - Jul 6-Dec 20
Fall 26 C - Sep 7-Dec 19
➢ Coach Educator Workshop
March 4-Fredericksburg (National Staff)
Other Highlights
Club Visits and Clinics-Chesapeake United, SYC, FFC, Richmond United (1 postponed), VB City, VA Valour
TREASURER REPORT (02-18-26)
Tom Lewis, Treasurer
Overview of YTD Budget vs. Actuals
As of 01-31-26
Cash and Equivalents 12-31-25.
o Insured Cash Sweep Account $ 248,653
o Operating Account $50,000
o Vanguard Account $2,003,874 Total: $ 2,302,527
o VYSA/ODSL CD $ 330,422 Total: $2,632,949
● Accounts Receivables Update as of 02-13-26.
o Total A/R - $134,475.45
Additional Comments related to the VYSA Budget and Financials
• Outstanding checks are accounted for through 07/31/25.
• Player registration for recreational member clubs is down over 8.45% from the fall 2024. This could have a significant impact on end-of-year revenues.
• AUB Sweep account interest rate reduction in Jan. 2026 from 3% to 2.75% in accordance with the FED Rate reduction in December 2025.
The Bottom Lines
Cash Flow and Equivalents (excluding ODSL $$ in that restricted fund) decreased from $2,341,277 on January 31, 2025, to $2,224,318 on January 31, 2026. That is Y-O-Y a decrease of $116,959.
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT (2-18-26)
Anne Thompson, Chair
● The member fee changes (to begin in 2026-27) were approved at the mid-year AGM by the VYSA membership:
A motion to recommend that the VYSA membership approves player registration fees beginning with the 2026/27 seasonal year are as follows:
Recreational Player (> 6 yrs old)
Recreational Players (6 and younger)
Players (U11 and Younger*)
Note: *Change to U12 and Younger
Players (U12 and older *
Note: *Change to U13 and older
The Finance Committee also recommended the additional changes below to VYSA fees. These fees were approved by the VYSA Board of Directors to begin with the 2026-27 Seasonal Year.
Also Approved at the Mid Year VYSA AGM
1 $17 or $22
● Renner and Co. have provided the final audit report.
o There are no adverse findings.
▪ The report does mention the SRC still using the VYSA EIN number and the auditor still supports the SRC using its own EIN number or VYSA exercising more direct control over its operations.
● The Finance Committee still plans to meet with senior staff to review and evaluate the YTD 2025-26 budget vs actuals, cash flows etc.
This spring, PVSTC will have the greatest use by events since the facility was opened. This will result in significant revenues in the spring/early summer of 2026.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT – February 18, 2026
INITIAL STEPS
Week of February 17 - 20
• To Do: Onboarding, BOD Meeting, and US Soccer AGM Prep, Website review and Update
Week of February 23 - 27
Purpose-Driven All-Staff Meeting - Connection Before Direction Alignment, Trust, and Energy for Synergy.
Objectives:
• Establish a safe team environment
• My role in a nutshell
• Connect team’s work to the bigger mission
• Next steps for the team
Personal Story
• Why I said yes to this role – Looking back, looking forward
• What I believe youth soccer should represent
• What excites me about serving clubs across the state
State the North Star
“We exist to serve, elevate, and empower every member organization in this state.”
Main goal is to reinforce the shift from “running programs” to “serving clubs.”
Team Connection Exercise
Closing
Set expectations for the next 90 days:
• Listening tour
• Operational review
• Strategic alignment conversations
Weeks of February 23 - March 6
Conduct 1-on-1 Listening Sessions
CONSIDERATION:
“GAME ON VIRGINIA” - VYSA WORLD CUP COMMUNITY PROJECT
OVERVIEW: The 2026 FIFA World Cup presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to elevate awareness of the sport and expand youth participation across Virginia. U.S. Soccer marketing research consistently identifies the 90 days leading into and the 90 days following the World Cup as the most impactful window for grassroots engagement.
VYSA’s World Cup Community Project is designed to capitalize on this momentum by introducing the game to new audiences and strengthening community connections.
Office: 4805 Lassen Ln Suite 200A, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
MARKETING CAMPAIGN – IDEAS:
“90 Days to the First 90 Minutes: Virginia Is Ready.”
“90 Days. 90 Minutes. One Commonwealth. One Game.”
“The World Kicks Off in 90 Days. We Kick Off Today.”
“Countdown to Kickoff: 90 Days, 90 Minutes, Unlimited Dreams.”
“From Virginia to the World: 90 Days to the First 90 Minutes.”
• Host VYSA “Game on Virginia” – VYSA World Cup Community Project, 90 Days leading to the World Cup and 90 Days after to engage communities statewide and drive participation, access, and excitement around the sport during the World Cup cycle.
• Expand reach beyond traditional soccer channels by partnering with schools, local youth-serving nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and other community groups not historically engaged with VYSA, establishing a pipeline for future participation with existing VYSA affiliates.
• Register the “Game on Virginia” World Cup Community Project with U.S. Soccer as “Soccer Forward Fests” (at no cost), aligning VYSA with a nationally recognized initiative and amplifying visibility through a unified, nationwide celebration of soccer.
• Leverage the Fests as a catalyst for philanthropic engagement, launching a donation and sponsorship strategy targeting individuals, local businesses, and high-net-worth supporters motivated by the World Cup’s global spotlight.
• Create a lasting legacy initiative that positions the “Game on Virginia” Community Project as a long-term driver of participation growth, access, and community impact beyond 2026.
• Deliver a compelling marketing and storytelling platform that highlights VYSA’s stewardship of the game, its commitment to access and inclusion, and its leadership role in growing soccer across Virginia.
STRUCTURE:
VYSA Hosted Events
12 Total Fests (Approximately 3 Per Region) Hosted by VYSA between March and October. Each event will engage with a specific community (e.g., School, Local Youth Non-Profit, VYSA Affiliate, Community Organization).
FREE to participate – NO REFEREES.
Club Hosted Events
VYSA to develop a toolkit for affiliates. Affiliates can host their own event, utilize VYSA branding, and request coach educator support.
SESSION FORMATS TO BE DEVELOPED BY VYSA TECHNICAL TEAM:
“GAME ON VIRGINIA - “Celebrating What Matters Most”
As a cornerstone of the World Cup Community Project, VYSA will track outcomes that reflect the program’s impact and purpose. These “goals” will be displayed in a visual and meaningful way throughout the events
Sample “Goals” to Target and Track
Total minutes of active play for players:
Office: 4805 Lassen Ln Suite 200A, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Number of first-time soccer players:
Number of attendees:
Number of volunteers:
Number of zip codes or neighborhoods represented:
Number of new or strengthened relationships with schools, clubs, or local leaders:
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS:
$36K budget request to cover the cost of paid facilitators (where necessary), initial equipment (order of pop-up goals, balls, signage), and staffing costs (event support/operations).
Apply for 12 (twelve) USYS State Association Community Festival support. Each approved Spring 2026 State Association Community Festival event will receive $3,000 in cash support (to be paid after the event has taken place). Applications will be accepted from February 17, 2026, through March 3, 2026, ONLY for events scheduled to run through July 31, 2026. Award recipients will be announced on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
Sponsorship and donation support will be solicited to reduce VYSA costs.
SAMPLE EVENT BRANDING:
REQUEST: Motion to approve the creation of a “Marketing” Account for this project and apply for the USYS State Association Community Festival Support.
CONSIDERATION: APPLICATION TO FREDERICKSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERSHIP
Explore Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce member application for mid-level membership:
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS: Innovator @ $1,575.00 (annually)
• Rotating Banner Ad on internal page of website of Member’s choosing (6 mo.)
• Attend exclusive VIP Annual Breakfast with Board of Directors
• 2 Tickets to each Member Meeting
• Up to 3 locations or categories in our online business directory
• 3 half days of Chamber Conference room usage
• Ability to join a Chamber Committee and LeadShare
• Celebrate business milestones with a ribbon cutting annually (Grand opening, groundbreakings, anniversaries) –Promoted on social media, event photography and premiered on Facebook
• Company press-releases and event submission (Unlimited)
• Rotating Banner Ad on internal page of website of Member’s choosing (3 months)
• Enhanced Listing in their Google optimized online directory
• Hot Deals and job opening submission (unlimited)
• Ability to sponsor and host chamber programs and events
• Member pricing at events
REQUEST: Motion to approve the application for Innovator (mid-level) membership @ $1,575.00 to Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce, to increase VYSA visibility to member organizations supporting business community representing Caroline County, King George, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania and Stafford.
Office: 4805 Lassen Ln Suite 200A, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Draft Regular Meeting Minutes
VYSA Board of Directors
January 21, 2026
The regular meeting (Via Zoom) of the Board of Directors of the Virginia Youth Soccer Association was called to order by President Bill Phillips @ 6:59 pm.
Roll Call was taken, and a quorum established.
Bill Phillips, President Present
Anne Thompson, Vice President Present
Tom Lewis, Treasurer Present
Richard Smith, Secretary Present
Corky Webster, North Recreational Commissioner Present
John Davis, North Recreational Commissioner Present
David Glass, West Recreational Commissioner Present
Brad Powell, Board Member Present
Staff Present:
Don Rawson, Executive Director
Gordon Miller, Technical Director
Ray Ford, Director of Events
SRC:
A.G. Gomez, SYRA
Meeting Agenda- Unanimously approved as presented
Approval of Previous Board Minutes
A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes of December 17, 2025 board meeting. The minutes were unanimously approved.
Officer Reports
President Report (Bill Phillips)
• The President noted:
o The success and efforts by staff in VYSA hosting of Presidents Cup Finals on December 7th
o Offred a brief recap of meetings at the United Soccer coaches C0nvention and asked David Glass to give his impressions of the event.
o The President also provided a brief update on the search process for a new Executive Director. Expecting a decision by 1-31-26
Treasurers Report (Tom Lewis)
• See the attached report
Secretary Report (Richard Smith)
• See the attached report
Committee Reports (See attached reports)
• Finance Anne Thompson
• Hall of Fame Adele Dolansky
Staff Reports (See attached reports)
• Technical Director Report Gordon Miller
• Executive Director Report Don Rawson
Unfinished Business
• John Davis advised of the Adjudication Committee efforts with US Soccer Policy 531-9 and advised of a coach that has received a second suspension (under RAP).
New Business
• A motion was made, seconded and unanimously approved to admit Ace Wellness and Fitness, LLC (DBA as Ace Academy) as a provisional member club.
• A motion was made, seconded and unanimously approved to admit Morsink Soccer Academy as a provisional member club.
• A motion was made, seconded and unanimously approved to admit Berryville FC (DBA as Summit Valley United Academy) as a provisional member club.
• A motion was made, seconded and unanimously approved to appoint Anne Thompson (President), Bill Phillips (Secretary), Tom Lewis (Treasurer) and Robert Carey (Board Member) to the VYSA FLP Board of Directors
Good of Soccer
• Bill P. advised of the passing of Michele Fernandor, TASL President. Michele’s family will be presented with a President’s Award at the Awards Celebration.
Action Items:
• John Davis to prepare a draft of revised VYSA Bylaws (This spring)
• State Office to send additional documents and another reminder of the 2-7-26 Midyear AGM (Kristen w/ help from Don by 1-23-26 and 2x/wk. between now and 2-7-26)
• Kristen to get an update from Tobes FC on their provisional status with VYSA (1-23-26)
• Interviews for the VYSA Executive Director role are ongoing (Bill Phillips chairing the search committee and he expects a decision by 1-31-26)
Adjournment
A motion to adjourn was made and seconded. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM
See Attached Reports and Documents:
• January 21, 2026, Board Meeting Agenda
• December 12, 2025 Approved Minutes
• January 21, 2026 Treasurer’s Report
• January 21, 2026 Secretary Report
• January 21, 2026 Finance Committee Report
• January 21, 2026 Hall of Fame Committee Report
• January 21, 2026 Technical Director Report
• January 21, 2026 Executive Director Report
See the following pages for additional materials.
VYSA BOARD MEETING AGENDA
Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM
via Zoom
Welcome and Call to Order
Roll Call
Approval of the Agenda
Approval of the Previous Board Minutes
• December 17, 2025
Reports
Officer Reports
President’s Report
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary Report
Committee Reports
Finance
Hall of Fame
SYRA
Staff Reports
Technical Director
Executive Directors Report
Unfinished Business
New Business
Bill Phillips
Tom Lewis
Richard Smith
Anne Thompson
Adele Dolansky
A.G. Gomez
Gordon Miller
Don Rawson
• A motion to admit Ace Wellness and Fitness, LLC (DBA as Ace Academy) as a provisional member club.
• A motion to admit Morsink Soccer Academy as a provisional member club.
• A motion to admit Berryville FC (DBA as Summit Valley United Academy) as a provisional member club.
• A motion to appoint Anne Thompson (President), Bill Phillips (Secretary), Tom Lewis (Treasurer) and Robert Carey (Board Member) to the VYSA FLP Board of Directors
Executive Session
Good of the Game
Adjournment
Note: The next Board of Directors Meeting is February 18, 2026
Approved Regular Meeting Minutes
VYSA Board of Directors
December 17, 2025
The regular meeting (Via Zoom) of the Board of Directors of the Virginia Youth Soccer Association was called to order by President Bill Phillips @ 7:00 pm.
Roll Call was taken, and a quorum established.
Bill Phillips, President Present
Anne Thompson, Vice President Present
Tom Lewis, Treasurer Present
Richard Smith, Secretary Present
Corky Webster, North Recreational Commissioner Present
John Davis, North Recreational Commissioner Present
David Glass, West Recreational Commissioner Present
Brad Powell, Board Member Present
Staff Present:
Don Rawson, Executive Director
Gordon Miller, Technical Director
Meeting Agenda- Unanimously approved as presented
Approval of Previous Board Minutes
A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes of November 17, 2025 board meeting. The minutes were unanimously approved.
Officer Reports
Treasurers Report (Tom Lewis)
• See the attached report
Secretary Report (Richard Smith)
• See the attached report
President Report (Bill Phillips)
• The President noted the success and efforts by staff in VYSA hosting of Presidents Cup Finals on December 7th. The President also provided a brief update on the search process for a new Executive Director.
Committee Reports (See attached reports)
• Finance
• Adjudication
• Grassroots
• Hall of Fame
Staff Reports (See attached reports)
• Technical Director Report
• Executive Director Report
Unfinished Business
New Business
Anne Thompson
Eric Highsmith
Marcelo Gangotena
Adele Dolansky
Gordon Miller
Don Rawson
• A motion was made, seconded and approved to admit the Freedom Futbol Club as a provisional member club. Anne Thompson abstained.
• A motion was made, seconded and unanimously approved to admit Virginia Phoenix Elite FC LLC as a provisional member club.
Action Items:
Richard W. Smith will motion to admit Freedom Football Club as a provisional member club on both the recreational and travel side. Completed
Richard W. Smith will motion to admit Virginia Phoenix Elite FC LLC as a provisional member in both recreational and travel. Completed.
Don Rawson will talk to Kristen about the non-league registration category and its implications. Completed.
Don Rawson will reach out to USYS and US Soccer to clarify the legal implications of publishing the adjudication committee's report. email sent to USYS and US Soccer 12-18-25
Don Rawson will contact with the state representative for the Fredericksburg area to get them to sign on for the license plate initiative to generate non-fee-based revenue.12-18-25
Bill Phillips will send the drafted bylaws to someone for review and potential tweaking.
What are the specific reasons for the NCSL Board's rejection of Freedom Football Club's application? This was a vote by the NCSL Board of Directors, which is a representative from each member club.
How long does a provisional club have to establish a league to play in before their membership is reconsidered? There is no mention in the bylaws or VYSA policy that Don can find. Currently, staff monitors for two seasons/one year.
What are the implications of the USYS Policy 201 changes on state associations? TBD
Adjournment
A motion to adjourn was made and seconded. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 8:33 PM
TREASURER REPORT (01-21-26)
Tom Lewis, Treasurer
Overview of YTD Budget vs. Actuals
As of 12-31-25
Cash and Equivalents 12-31-25.
o Insured Cash Sweep Account $ 357,987
o Operating Account $50,000
o Vanguard Account $1,979,350 Total: $ 2,387,337
o VYSA/ODSL CD $ 329,323 Total: $2,716,660
● Accounts Receivables Update as of 01-16-26.
o Total A/R - $202,966.95
o Additional Comments related to the VYSA Budget and Financials
• Outstanding checks are accounted for through 07/31/25.
• Player registration for recreational member clubs is down over 8.45% from the fall 2024. This could have a significant impact on end-of-year revenues.
• VYSA/ODSL CD matures Jan 24,2026.
• AUB Sweep account interest rate reduction in Jan. 2026 from 3% to 2.75% in accordance with the FED Rate reduction in December 2025.
The Bottom Lines
Cash Flow and Equivalents (excluding ODSL $$ in that restricted fund) decreased from $2,518,815 on December 31, 2024, to $2,352,796 on December 31, 2025. That is Y-O-Y a decrease of $166,019.
January 21, 2026
Notice of the VYSA Mid-Year AGM
As provided in Article IV, Section 3 of the VYSA Bylaws, on January 7, 2026, the VYSA membership was properly noticed that the Semi-Annual VYSA AGM will be held on February 7 @ 1 PM at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. Included in that notice was:
• The date, time and place of the AGM
• The proposed meeting Agenda
• An updated Proxy Form
• The current VYSA Bylaws
New Members
Three new applications for membership have been received since the last Board meeting.
• Ace Wellness and Fitness LLC
o Application was received in December 2025.
o This is a for-profit club located in western Prince William County
o Ace Wellness and Fitness LLC was incorporated as a Virginia limited liability company on April 15, 2025, and is listed as active and in good standing with the State Corporation Commission.
o It markets itself as Ace Academy.
o The club reports it is applying for membership in travel only.
o The application shows intent to potentially register 2 travel teams (possibly just 1)
o The club reports that it intends to participate in NCSL. The club has not yet applied to NCSL and does not meet the minimum requirements of that league to do so.
o Club policies indicate teams may play in EDP.
o The application was submitted by Anthony Cuzmar.
Recommendation: A motion to admit Ace Wellness and Fitness LLC as a provisional member club.
• Morsink Soccer Academy, LLC
o Application was initially received in December 2025.
o This is a for-profit club located in Loudoun County/Ashburn.
o Morsink Soccer Academy, LLC, was formed as a Virginia limited liability company on October 9, 2014, and is listed as active and in good standing with the State Corporation Commission.
o It has received a Fictitious Name Certificate for the name “MSA.” It nevertheless markets itself as Morsink Soccer Academy.
o The club reports it is applying for membership in travel only.
o The application shows intent to register 2 U9 teams.
o The club reports that it intends to participate in NCSL. The club has not yet applied to NCSL and does not meet the minimum requirements of that league to do so.
o The application was submitted by Rodolfo Castropoland.
Recommendation: A motion to admit Morsink Soccer Academy, LLC as a provisional member club.
• Berryville FC Inc.
o Application was received about a week ago (January 2026).
o This is a not-for-profit club located in Winchester City, Frederick County, and Clarke County.
o Berryville FC Inc. was formed on August 5, 2025, as a Virginia nonstock corporation and is listed as active and in good standing with the State Corporation Commission.
o It markets itself under the name Summit Valley United Academy.
o The club reports it is applying for membership as a travel only club.
o The application shows intent to initially register 2-3 travel teams.
o The club reports that it intends to participate in NCSL. The club has not yet applied to NCSL and does not meet the minimum requirements to do so.
o The application was submitted by Liam Cleary.
o Note: The club’s statement of policies indicate that some teams may be registered through the West Virginia State Association, but WVSA does not currently list the club as a member.
• Recommendation:
o A motion to admit Berryville FC Inc. as a provisional member club.
Membership Identification and Management
The staff reports that clubs with current provisional membership that were expected to have registered players with VYSA have complied. The lone exception is Tobes FC, which was accepted in July 2025 and has yet to register players with VYSA.
• Overall registrations are down by 3% from last year but only 1.8% from two years ago.
• The percentage of travel registrations vs. recreational has jumped from 19% (2024-25) to 24% this year.
Travel
• Registrations are trending up by nearly 20% from this time last year, with the last two years essentially flat.
Recreational
• All recreational members that have submitted data have also submitted payments
• Player registrations to date are 68,565 Registrations are down 8.48% from Fall 2024, and 7.17% from Fall 2023.
• Sixty percent of the clubs that have entered registrations (approx. 50 clubs) reported registrations that declined by 2.5% or more from 2024.
Recreational Member Survey
• Staff contacted the 50 clubs that reported a significant (-2.5%) drop in recreational registrations to ask for information as to why numbers have declined. None of the responses were surprising.
• 19 clubs responded to the survey
• Primary explanations were as follows:
Increasing travel registrations (FFC, VSA, ABGC, BAC)
The government shutdown created financial distress (VSA, Arl SA, SYC, Hern)
General financial concerns (ABGC, Arl SA, SYC, Hern)
Concerns regarding ICE raids (First Touch, Arl SA, SYC, Hern)
Limited club resources (NPSC, NRU, Lake Gaston, CCYS, GFR)
Competition from other clubs/sports (NPSC, SOCA, NRU, Lake Gaston)
Free in-school programming reduced recreational registrations (Alex)
• Richmond United reported it registered its ADP players with US Club Soccer, not VYSA, and otherwise would have had a slight increase in registrations.
The full club narratives from the survey were circulated separately by Don Rawson.
Respectfully Submitted,
Richard Smith
Secretary
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT (1-21-25)
Anne Thompson, Chair
● The proposed member fee changes (to begin in 2026-27) were messaged to the VYSA membership:
o Four membership meetings in November and December
o Noticed in writing 30 days prior to the Midyear as part of the AGM Agenda
o Initially, staff reported no significant concerns were raised.
o New feedback is that a few clubs prefer one fee for travel player registration to make all payments to VYSA much simpler.
● Renner and Co. has provided the final audit report.
o There are no adverse findings.
▪ The report does mention the SRC still using the VYSA EIN number and the auditor still supports the SRC using its own EIN number or VYSA exercising more direct control over its operations.
● IRS tax filings were filed electronically by Renner by December 15.
● The Finance Committee still plans to meet with senior staff to review and evaluate the YTD 2025-26 budget vs actuals, cash flows etc.
o State Cup and Presidents Cup are the only departments that currently show some negative variances.
▪ The end-of-year revenues are highly dependent on the number of teams that register for the spring events.
▪ Registration for both Cups will be known in mid-February and at that time, any variable expenses can/will be reduced if needed.
o This spring, PVSTC will have the greatest use by events since the facility was opened. This will result in significant revenues in the spring/early summer of 2026.
▪ It is critical that the fields are in excellent condition for those national events!
▪ David Coffey is evaluating the maintenance needs to help ensure top quality conditions are maintained due to extremely high and unprecedented use in April, May and June.
▪ There may be a need for additional (maybe unbudgeted) expenses to the irrigation system (capitol expense)
Virginia-DC Soccer Hall of Fame Committee Report
Co-Chair: Adele Dolansky
Co-Chair: Larry Monaco
Golf Tournament Chair: Bill Willis
January 21, 2026
Congratulations to our Class of 2026 Inductees: Player Taline Tahmassian Morais, Meritorious Service Aaron Brunner, Donald H. McElhone, Posthumously, and Alan Ross.
The Inductees, their family and friends are looking forward to attending the VYSA 2026 Gala on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
Tbe Virginia-DC Soccer Hall of Fame Committee members are also looking forward to attending the Gala in 2026.
Two (2) Hall of Fame members recently passed away. Carolyn Rice, Class of 2016, passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2025 and Bill Lanza, Class of 2025, passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025.
Virginia-DC Soccer Hall of Fame 2026 Annual Golf Tournament Announcement
The Hall of Fame Committee’s Annual Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at the Pleasant Valley Golf Club in Chantilly, Virginia. Online Registration Deadline Date for the tournament is Thursday, September 17, 2026.
Report Respectfully submitted by:
Adele
Dolansky,
Co-Chair, Virginia-DC Soccer Hall of Fame Committee
Technical Director’s Board Report-January 19, 2026
By: Gordon Miller
VYSA
Technical Director
STATE ODP
• Very successful trip to NC for the NC Friendlies Jan 2-4. We took 22 boys and girls’ teams to compete against ODP programs from SC, GA, NC and NJ. Big kudos to Jessica who organized the hotels, buses and food over her Christmas holidays.
• The pools continue to train every Saturday at the facility.
• The boys Inter regional just took place in Orlando where 22 Virginia boys competed for the East and an opportunity to be selected for the National team in their respective age groups. The girls start today.
• VA Friendlies on the horizon, in Williamsburg, on Feb. 20-22.
• 72 Virginia players have now been selected for the trip to Spain on March 31-April 9. The 2012 and 2011 boys and the 2012 and 2010 girls will be traveling.
COACH EDUCATION
GR COURSES
Upcoming Courses through Jan. 2026
Loudoun, (D) Sterling (D), Southside (C4C), Chesapeake (9v9, 11v11) Colonial Heights (D), Manassas (D)
Other Highlights
• Beginning a new US Soccer B License
• Beginning a new US Soccer C License
• Clubvisitsandclubclinics:ValorFC,Loudoun,Alexandria,Staffordand RichmondStrikers
• PaulattendedtheUnitedSoccerConventiontogetupdatesontheGRLicenses
Executive Director’s Board Meeting Report
January 21, 2026
Member Services
o The VYSA Awards Dinner will be on February 7th in Fredericksburg
▪ Awards winners have been notified and their names sent to USYS.
▪ There are four HOF inductees
o Player Registration as of 1-9-26:
▪ Paid Recreational Player Registrations are 68,565 (68,535 are paid), which is down from 74,893 or 6,328 players (-8.45%) from last fall
▪ Travel players are 21,651, of which 21,259 are paid.
• The new travel league (VCSL) has over 200 teams and over 3,000 players registered this fall season.
• The 2025-26 budget includes 22,500 travel players- almost certainly being surpassed this year.
Events
o Presidents Cup
▪ 133 teams competed this fall (132 last fall)
▪ Semifinals and Finals held @ PVSTC December 6-7
▪ 80 teams registered thus far for the spring with the deadline in mid February.
o State Cup
▪ 164 teams participated (207 in fall 2024)
▪ Budgeted for 190 teams participating in the fall
▪ Boys and girls teams champions recognized in November
▪ 125 teams registered thus far for the spring (down from 150 last spring)
o Thank you to Bill Phillips for being the MC at all the State Cup and P Cup awards ceremonies.
o Referee fees for Cups for 2025-26 and 2026-27 are confirmed.
Publix Virginia Training Facility (PVTC) Update
o Evaluating the three leases for the office and 2 containers. The goal is to eliminate the leases and find a purchase option that makes sense (in terms of need and $$)
o Continuing to evaluate the option for VYSA staff self-perform more of the facility maintenance requirements- this would require purchasing and proper storage of new equipment and reduce ongoing costs related to field maintenance.
o The Fredericksburg Economic Development Commission has hired a third party to do research on the need for a sports facility.
o Spring 2026 will have the most field use and revenues at PVSTC since it opened.
Marketing/Communications
o Productive call with D.C. United about plans for 2026 (MLS has changed its competitive calendar to match FIFA!)
o Renewed the VEO contract for an additional 2 years.
o Touchline (sent to the entire membership):
▪ The next Issue to be sent on/about Wednesday, February 11
o Leadership Report
▪ The next issue is expected to be sent Friday January 23, 2026
VYSA Strategic Plans
o This document continues to get little attention But it is available.
US Soccer Update
o US Soccer has announced the Soccer Forward Fests- See the attached one-page overview. This has been and will continue to be shared with the VYSA membership.
USYS Update
o USYS has announced that the National League will enter into an agreement with NPL (US Club Soccer) to create a new pathway in a team-based format starting in the fall 2026.
o The 2026 East Region P Cup is contracted to be held in Leesburg, VA and hosted by Loudoun County. The event will be supported by VYSA.
o NCS format to begin in 2025-26 has been announced.
o VYSA Award winners submitted to USYS.
o At their recent board meeting on November 20, Policies 201 and 203 were amended
o The 2026 USYS AGM will be held in conjunction with the Grassroots Symposium in Frisco, TX August 27-30, 2026
Schedule/Action Items in the Next 60 Days
• January 14-17
United Soccer Coaches Convention and USYS/US Soccer Meetings in Phili
• January 19 Office Closed (Federal Holiday)
• January 23 Documents for the Midyear AGM to be sent to the VYSA Membership
• February 7
• February 7
VYSA AGM 1 PM
HOF Awards Celebration 5 PM
• February 20-22 Virginia ODP friendlies in Williamsburg