Ryan Foley Joins the FYSA Team as New Executive Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Florida Youth Soccer Association Welcomes Ryan Foley as New Executive Director
Auburndale, FL (July 29, 2025) — Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is pleased to announce Ryan Foley as its new Executive Director. A seasoned leader in the youth soccer space, Foley brings nearly a decade of state association experience and a deep commitment to community-driven development, operational excellence, and strategic growth.
In his most recent role as Director of Operations & Strategy at New Jersey Youth Soccer, Foley led efforts that transformed the organization’s member experience and positioned it for long-term success. He was instrumental in driving an increase in player participation—with the growth of membership from 95,000 players in recent years to an anticipated 130,000 players in the coming season—and expanding access to State Cup competitions, which more than doubled in size during his tenure. Foley also played a key role in developing alternative revenue streams and building strategic partnerships, resulting in a significant increase in sponsorship revenue.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ryan to the FYSA family,” said FYSA President, Daragh Cullen. “His vision, expertise, and genuine love for the sport will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission and deliver value to our members across Florida.”
Beyond day-to-day operations, Foley helped lead the successful affiliation of a 20,000-player league from a different governing body, oversaw risk management and registration modernization initiatives, and established statewide programming including futsal and small-sided competitions. His work helped build a more inclusive, streamlined, and responsive state association that better served its diverse membership.
“I’m honored to lead FYSA into its next chapter,” said Foley. “I believe we have a unique opportunity to build on our strong foundation to better serve members, support our programs, and reimagine the role of our state association in the soccer landscape. My focus is on sustaining a member-forward organization that’s deeply connected to the evolving needs of the Florida soccer community.”
Foley’s passion for soccer extends well beyond the administrative side. He has served as President of a 500-player recreational soccer club and First Vice President of a competitive, community-based travel league with more than 10,000 players. A former USSF referee, he officiated matches at the US Youth Soccer National Championships, the National Presidents Cup, early stages of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, and in pre-professional leagues—such as USL League Two, National Premier Soccer League, and the Women’s Premier Soccer League— giving him a holistic view of the sport from grassroots to elite levels.
Foley earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sport Management from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, and is widely recognized for his strategic mindset, collaborative leadership style, and passion for growing the game.
He succeeds Joel Dragan, who served as FYSA’s Executive Director for the past five years. Dragan’s dedication and leadership left an indelible mark on the organization, helping to guide FYSA through significant growth and operational advancements. His impact on the association and its members has been profound, and his legacy will continue to shape FYSA’s future.
“I want to thank Joel for his steady leadership and the groundwork he laid over the past five years,” said Foley. “FYSA is in a strong position because of the time, energy, and care he put into the association. I’m looking forward to building on that foundation as we take the next steps forward.”
About FYSA:
Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the promotion and development of youth soccer in the state of Florida. FYSA is a member of the United States Youth Soccer Association (USYS) and currently serves more than 200,000 registered players, coaches, and volunteers across the state.