Kat for VP of USC Gains Another Endorsement

A person’s career is often intertwined with his/her passion or avocation. As a highly successful businessperson in the provision of software for airports worldwide…generating nearly 200 MUSD per annum…. my involvement in the sport of soccer facilitated business relationships above and beyond the actual value of the solution to which I was in charge. The rationale is simple: soccer after all is a global game. As such, being a retired National Referee (Professionally rated) in the original NASL, ASL, MISL and the NCAA in the United States, created a commonality with many of my C-level customers at major airports. For example, I recall vividly being advised by my sales staff in South America, that my time in the forthcoming meeting with the Senior VP (COO) of a major airport in Brazil would be limited to roughly one (1) hour; only to have that time tripled with lunch once he found out about my experience with the beautiful game.

Having immigrated to the United States as a toddler I was literally weaned on the pitch as my father, Harry Saunders, was active in the development of soccer in the United Sates from the early 1950s forward. He was enshrined in the United States Soccer Hall of Fame in 1981, in the Builders category, for his efforts to make soccer a major sport in this country.

I was also fortunate to be able to travel to Europe to witness numerous games in my teens & twenties, witnessing top level matches such as the WCs in 1966, 1970, the EUROS of 1972, invited to the farewell match of the great German striker, Uwe Seeler, etc. Of course, I played the sport, but opted to become an official; quickly rising through the ranks. My greatest honor was being assigned to the NASL Championship Final. There were other major tournaments and Open Cup matches, as well as being assigned to three (3) NCAA Men’s Division Finals during the course of six (6) years.

Since the end of my officiating career, I am now the Principal of LV Associates, a consulting firm addressing business opportunities for companies & individuals seeking to invest in soccer. To that end, I am currently engaged with the Athens Women’ Football Summit, LLC; an organization that addresses important strategic issues facing the growth of WoSo worldwide. Additionally, I am a member of the United States National Hall of Fame Selection Committee. Also, a member of the Society for American Soccer History (SASH), highlighting my extensive knowledge of American football history. Finally, I am a staff reporter for Soccer LI Magazine.

It was my business-entrepreneurial side that embraced WoSo back in the early 1990’s. From a pure growth opportunity perspective, the women’s demographic was sorely ignored by the world soccer bodies. That is no longer the case. The increased interest in new franchises and investment into the women’s game has been “ginormous” following WC 2019. Still understanding the different macro structures are difficult to navigate to which LV Associates facilitates the pathway to success.

It is with this background that I am endorsing the candidacy of KAT for the Vice President’s position for the United Soccer Coaches Association…….. Her resume speaks volumes from both her coaching experience, her dedication to the welfare of players under her charge and the development/growth of the women’s game overall. She has the respect of so many in the beautiful game.... There is no doubt that she earned it!

Michael as stated above brings a world of professional and soccer experience to bear in making his endorsement of KAT for VP of United Soccer Coaches.

Contributed by Michael Saunders