The Vermont Soccer Association (VSA) is proud to announce the appointment of Jason Marika as its new Technical Director, ushering in a new era of innovation and excellence in player and coach development across the state.
Jason brings to VSA a deep and diverse background in player development, performance analysis, and coaching education, with professional experience spanning the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. His previous roles include positions with Hartford Athletic (USL Championship), New England Revolution (MLS), and top-tier MLS NEXT programs at Oakwood SC and Beachside SC.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jason to the VSA team,” said Andrew Minnis, Executive Director of the Vermont Soccer Association. “Jason joins us with a global perspective and proven success in building player pathways and cultivating coaching excellence. His work across elite youth and professional environments brings a level of expertise and vision that will significantly enhance our developmental infrastructure.”
Jason holds a Ph.D. in Sport Leadership, multiple U.S. Soccer Federation National Coaching Licenses, and advanced certifications in scouting, performance analysis, and talent development. His approach combines academic rigor with on-field practicality—an ideal fit for Vermont’s growing soccer community.
“Jason brings a modern, player-centered lens to our technical leadership,” Minnis added. “He is deeply committed to inclusivity and long-term holistic development. His appointment signals a renewed investment in unifying Vermont’s soccer landscape under a shared standard of excellence.”
Known for his thoughtful leadership and collaborative style, Jason will oversee VSA’s player development pathways, coach education initiatives, and technical programming at all levels. His work will be instrumental in shaping a sustainable and ambitious soccer culture statewide.
Additionally, VSA extends its sincere thanks to John Curtis and Curtis Consulting, LLC for the leadership of the Vermont Olympic Development Program (ODP) and Coaching Education initiatives over the past five years. John guided the ODP program through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and worked diligently in the years that followed to rebuild and expand participation across the state. John also developed the Vermont Development Program, a fall training and identification platform that served as a feeder into the main ODP pool, leading to increased representation by our Vermont players at regional and national events and he facilitated the creation of the New England ODP Select Program in collaboration with New Hampshire and Maine, providing Vermont players with the opportunity to train and compete internationally.
Vermont soccer is incredibly excited for this step forward with Jason Marika at the helm of technical development and leadership. VSA’s commitment to fostering a true environment of development, opportunity, and accessibility is unwavered and moving in a forward direction both on and off the pitch.
Please join us in welcoming Jason Marika to the Vermont Soccer Association family.