News

Vermont Soccer Association and National Life Group Announce Statewide Partnership

Vermont Soccer Association (VSA) and National Life Group, two organizations deeply rooted in Vermont’s communities, have announced that, beginning in 2026, National Life Group will be the Official Life Insurance Sponsor of Vermont Soccer Association, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening soccer development at all ages and levels across the state.

Built on mutual dedication to Vermont families, the sponsorship reflects a unified vision of promoting active, healthy lifestyles for participants of all ages and competitive levels throughout the Green Mountain State.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome National Life Group to the Vermont Soccer family,” said Andrew Minnis, Executive Director of Vermont Soccer Association. “This sponsorship brings together two Vermont-rooted organizations that believe in investing locally. It deepens the connection between business leadership and our soccer community, while reinforcing our shared commitment to creating more opportunities and continuing to grow the game across the state.”

Minnis added, “National Life Group’s deep commitment to excellence and community engagement makes them an ideal partner for Vermont Soccer Association. Together, we are building a positive and supportive environment where players, coaches, and families can develop, succeed, and thrive—on the field and far beyond it.”

“Joining forces with Vermont Soccer Association is meaningful for National Life Group,” said Christina D’Agostino, Community Relations Manager at National Life Group. “Our values are Do good. Be good. Make good. and this sponsorship unites two Vermont-rooted organizations dedicated to the health, wellbeing, and long-term vitality of our communities. By supporting VSA, we can continue to deepen our local relationships while making a positive impact on the soccer community across our home state.”

National Life Group’s sponsorship will help support mental health resources for players, coaches, and referees statewide, while expanding community programming in urban and underserved areas. The organizations will also collaborate to create employee volunteer opportunities that support member programs and events—helping ensure that soccer in Vermont remains inclusive, fun and rewarding for everyone.

About National Life Group

National Life Group has been keeping promises since 1848, providing access to flexible, secure life insurance and annuities for families, businesses, educators, and first responders nationwide. With an independent, entrepreneurial spirit, our values are to “Do good, Be good, Make good” for our customers, agents, employees, and the communities we serve. Learn more at NationalLife.com.

About Vermont Soccer Association

Vermont Soccer Association is dedicated to enriching the lives of young athletes across the state through the sport of soccer. Our mission is to provide a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters long-term holistic development of youth players both on and off the field. Committed to the principles of Fun, Belonging, and Development, VSA strives to cultivate a lifelong love for soccer while instilling core values to all of our members.

Guided by a commitment to accessibility, we aim to make soccer a widely accessible and affordable opportunity for all Vermont youth, regardless of background or ability. Through holistic development, intentional programming and competition, education, and collaborative partnerships, VSA seeks to empower young athletes to reach their full potential on and off the field.

USCSA And WAGS Announce U.S. Soccer All-Female National B License

The United States Consortium of State Associations (USCSA) and Women and Girls in Soccer (WAGS) have teamed up to launch the first ever All-Female U.S. Soccer National B License Course for youth soccer coaches. This all-female offering demonstrates the strong collaboration between WAGS and the 16 State Association members of the USCSA to increase female participation in sports, further highlighting their dedication to empowering women in coaching.

The U.S. Soccer National B License Course is a high-level coaching program designed to challenge and elevate coaches who are dedicated to advancing their expertise and leadership in the game. This opportunity not only provides female coaches with access to top-tier education but also creates a supportive, collaborative environment where women can learn, share and grow together in their professional journeys.

“WAGS is privileged to sponsor our first-ever All-Female National B Course, advancing our mission to empower and support female coaches in their educational journey,” said Kerry Diederich, WAGS Executive Director. “We look forward to our collaboration with the USCSA and its 16 State Association members to provide this pathway to higher license for female coaches, ensuring their personal goals in soccer can be realized. Fulfilling this initiative also reflects the long-standing vision of our Chairwoman, Lula Bauer, who has long championed expanding access to the highest-level coaching education for women in the game.”

Women and Girls in Soccer (WAGS) is a 50-year-old charitable organization dedicated to empowering girls and women through soccer, with roots as one of the first all-girls soccer leagues in the United States, founded in the Metro DC area. Today, WAGS officially partners with the USCSA, which has a mission to maximize the potential of its member State Associations by building a highly effective network that fosters collaboration, shares resources and reduces costs. WAGS’ goal is to sponsor, develop and provide educational and character-building programs that benefit girls and women while promoting a lifelong passion for soccer. WAGS has also led from the front in female coach education initiatives, hosting the first All-Female Coach Education D License in partnership with U.S. Soccer in 2018.

The USCSA’s participation in this effort is also thanks to a Growing the Girls Game grant from U.S. Soccer’s Innovate to Grow initiative.

“At Vermont Soccer Association, we believe that empowering women through education and opportunity strengthens the entire soccer community,” said Andrew Minnis, Executive Director of Vermont Soccer Association. “Supporting our female coaches in pursuing the National B License is a reflection of our commitment to creating pathways that are inclusive, impactful, and inspiring. We are excited to partner with WAGS and the U.S. Consortium of State Associations in providing meaningful opportunities that help women achieve their coaching goals and beyond.”

Registration for the six-month course is now open (click here to access the U.S. Soccer Learning Center listing) and will remain open through November 14th, 2025. The course begins in January 2026 and will be hosted by New Jersey Youth Soccer.

In order to be considered for this course, candidates must complete the Formsite application first (click here). This Formsite application is also listed on the U.S. Soccer Learning Center course registration page.
All accepted applicants will be notified by December 8th. Once accepted, the coach will have until December 22nd to register for the course.
This course status is listed as “Invitation Only” in the U.S. Soccer Learning Center.

The National B License Course runs for six months and follows a blended learning format. It includes two in-person meetings and, on average, one virtual meeting per week. The online portion features live webinars with guest speakers, individual meetings with assigned coach educators, and independent learning assignments. The in-person sessions emphasize small group activities and individualized field work.

The course is sponsored by WAGS and USCSA, and it guarantees placement for at least one member coach from each of the USCSA’s 16 State Associations. Coaches accepted into the course will receive full reimbursement of the $2,900 course registration fee upon successful completion of the program, courtesy of the Jill Ellis Scholarship Fund and sponsorship from WAGS and the USCSA. Travel expenses, including hotel accommodations and meals for the in-person component, are the responsibility of the course candidate. A travel stipend may be made available. If so, details will be communicated to candidates.

Vermont Soccer Association is a member of the United States Consortium of Soccer Associations, which was established in early 2024 with a vision to create a highly functioning network of state associations focused on growing soccer participation.

To learn more about the USCSA, visit ConsortiumOfSoccerAssociations.org. Also make sure to follow our official LinkedIn page. Further, we encourage you to visit WAGS online and follow them on social media: @wagsinsoccer

About WAGS
WAGS is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Its mission is to provide opportunities to sponsor, develop, or provide educational and character-building programs for the benefit of girls and women through teaching and promoting an interest in the game of soccer. WAGS is on the web at womenandgirlsinsoccer.org. WAGS Tournament is on the web at wagstournament.com.

Vermont Soccer Association Welcomes Jason Marika as New Technical Director

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.

Vermont Soccer Association and USYS Europe Forge Groundbreaking Partnership

Partnership Focuses on Elevating Player and Coach Development Across Continents

Vermont Soccer Association (VSA) and USYS Europe are proud to announce a monumental partnership, marking a significant milestone in international collaboration for holistic player, coach, and experiential development. This joint initiative, under the shared umbrella of US Youth Soccer (USYS), symbolizes a unified vision to expand access, elevate standards, and foster opportunity for clubs, players, and coaches on both sides of the Atlantic.

At its core, this partnership is driven by a commitment to collaboration, access, development, and opportunity—providing unique pathways that enrich the experience and progression of youth athletes and coaches alike. Through mutual innovation and aligned values, VSA and USYS Europe are set to redefine what it means to develop within a globally-minded soccer ecosystem.

1. Holistic Player and Coach Development

Together, VSA and USYS Europe will create intentional, growth-focused environments that emphasize long-term player and coach development. With an emphasis on structured training methodologies, immersive match-day experiences, and robust coach education, this partnership will consistently raise the standard of excellence. Players and coaches will benefit from tailored opportunities designed to promote resilience, adaptability, and leadership—both on and off the field.

2. Player and Coach-Centric Philosophy

This initiative champions a person-first approach to development. By focusing on individual needs while balancing team-oriented goals, the collaboration introduces players and coaches to new challenges and perspectives. Whether it’s training in Vermont or competing in Europe, this partnership cultivates environments that encourage personal growth, cultural exchange, and enhanced decision-making—all central to building a more complete athlete and coach.

3. Strategic Alignment and Ongoing Support

This partnership is grounded in strategic alignment, ensuring consistency in programming, shared initiatives, and quality enhancement. VSA and USYS Europe are committed to continuous support across all levels of development. Whether through aligned curriculum design, international exchange opportunities, or shared best practices, this partnership fosters a unified structure to support every stage of the player and coaching journey.

About the Vermont Soccer Association

The Vermont Soccer Association is the official state affiliate of US Youth Soccer, dedicated to growing the game and enriching lives through soccer in Vermont. Serving thousands of youth players, coaches, and clubs, VSA provides quality programming, leadership development, and a community-first approach that fosters both individual growth and collective success. VSA continues to be a leader in innovation and inclusion, empowering the next generation of players and coaches.

About USYS Europe

USYS Europe is the European branch of US Youth Soccer, providing American military, diplomatic, and expat families with high-quality youth soccer experiences across the continent. USYS Europe connects American-style development with European competition, offering unmatched opportunities for cultural exchange, advanced training, and global-minded growth. With a strong focus on integrity, excellence, and education, USYS Europe equips players and coaches for success at every level.

For more information regarding the Vermont Soccer Association, please contact Andrew Minnis: Andrew@vermontsoccer.org. For more information regarding USYS Europe, please contact Sebastian Korst: skorst@usyouthsoccer.org

Vermont Soccer Association and Roundglass Launch Statewide Partnership

Partnership Aimed at Prioritizing Mental Health, Holistic Well-Being and Youth Development

Vermont Soccer Association (VSA) is proud to announce a groundbreaking statewide partnership with Roundglass, a global leader in holistic well-being, to transform the way Vermont communities experience health, sport, and life. This collaboration marks a shared commitment to investing in the well-being of every player, coach, referee, family member, and community stakeholder connected to soccer in Vermont.

Through this partnership, VSA and Roundglass will provide unprecedented access to the Roundglass Living App—a digital platform offering expert-led resources in meditation, nutrition, fitness, emotional wellness, sleep, and more. Every Vermonter involved in soccer—from the youngest grassroots participant to veteran referees—will gain free, tailored tools to support their mental health and overall well-being.

“This partnership is about far more than soccer—it’s about people,” said Andrew Minnis, Executive Director of Vermont Soccer Association. “With Roundglass, we’re embedding well-being into the culture of soccer in Vermont. We’re creating a community where every individual is seen, heard, supported, and given the tools to thrive on and off the field.”

Roundglass, known for its mission to reimagine well-being and its deep investments in community-based development through sport, will work closely with VSA to implement statewide initiatives that focus on education, emotional resilience, mindfulness, and human development. These initiatives will be embedded within coaching education, referee support systems, parent engagement workshops, and youth player development pathways.

Key components of the partnership include:

Free access to the Roundglass Living App for all members of Vermont’s soccer ecosystem.
Well-being and mental health workshops integrated into VSA coaching and referee development programs.
Community activation events promoting healthy habits, mindfulness, and inclusive belonging.
Direct investments into youth programs that emphasize fun, development, and resilience.
Holistic resource development for families, volunteers, and administrators.
Ongoing support and content from world-class wellness experts and thought leaders.

This is not just a partnership or initiative—it’s a movement. Roundglass and VSA are co-creating an environment where every individual is supported as a whole person, beyond their roles as players, coaches, or fans. This holistic approach ensures that the Vermont soccer community is not only physically active but mentally strong, emotionally balanced, and connected to a greater purpose.

Together, VSA and Roundglass are setting a new standard for how sport can uplift communities and redefine success—not just in wins and losses, but in how we care for one another.

To get your free access code to the Roundglass Living app, please visit here.

VSA and Champlain Cable Announce Strategic Partnership

Vermont Soccer Association (VSA) is proud to announce a dynamic new partnership with Champlain Cable, uniting two organizations committed to empowering individuals, strengthening communities and creating accessible opportunities throughout the state of Vermont.

This collaboration represents a shared vision to support Vermont’s youth and families through meaningful programs, educational resources and career pathways. Both VSA and Champlain Cable are deeply rooted in service and community development, and this partnership will allow for expanded outreach, support systems and initiatives that bridge sports, workforce development and personal growth.

“This partnership is about more than soccer,” said Andrew Minnis, Executive Director of the Vermont Soccer Association. “It’s about coming together to uplift communities, create real opportunities and open doors for youth and adults alike. Champlain Cable’s commitment to people, their values and their support systems perfectly align with our mission, and we’re thrilled to work side by side with such a respected Vermont institution.”

Champlain Cable, a leading manufacturer of high-performance wire and cable, has been a cornerstone of Vermont industry since 1955. Known for their innovation and reliability across sectors including automotive, defense and energy, Champlain Cable also places high value on its employees, offering extensive benefits, career development programs and a workplace culture rooted in respect and advancement. Teamwork is one of Champlain Cable’s core values, and Champlain Cable believes athletics offers an outstanding opportunity to build confidence, foster collaboration and encourage participation in a fun and supportive environment. Their workforce initiatives and internal growth pathways present incredible opportunities for those interested in building a meaningful, long-term career. Champlain Cable believes that when companies are active in their communities, they help create a stronger, more resilient environment—for both residents and employees.

“Partnering with the Vermont Soccer Association is an exciting step in our ongoing commitment to the people of Vermont,” said Kyle Koenig, Vice President at Champlain Cable. “We believe in empowering individuals both on and off the field, and we are proud to help foster a stronger, more connected community through this collaboration.”

Vermont Soccer Association, established in 1976, is the state’s official soccer governing body, committed to growing the game while instilling values of Fun, Belonging and Development. Serving thousands of young athletes, coaches and volunteers, VSA continues to lead with integrity and a community-first mindset.

Together, VSA and Champlain Cable will work to:

Increase access to soccer and enrichment programs across Vermont communities.
Provide educational and career resources to youth and families across Vermont.
Highlight workforce pathways and benefits at Champlain Cable for those seeking stable, rewarding employment.
Promote inclusion, accessibility, and lifelong success and holistic development both on and off the field.

Both organizations are deeply invested in Vermont’s future and are excited to take actionable steps that support individuals of all backgrounds. This partnership symbolizes a long-term commitment to growing stronger, healthier and more connected communities through collaboration, shared values and service.