Corning, NY, July 22, 2010 - Michael Radecke tendered his resignation as president of New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) during the July 21 board meeting.   He shared with the board of directors that professional duties and family obligations were demanding more time and he no longer could give 100% to his office.   The board accepted his resignation with great appreciation for his service to the organization and regret.

During Radecke’s term of office NYSWYSA achieved many milestones including phenomenal growth in membership, sound financial management, and purchase of a permanent headquarters building in Corning, NY.   “From the first day Mike came on the board he has been a true leader in advancing the game of soccer in New York.  He pushed for greater professionalism in running the organization, providing more service to our members, and leaves NYSW far better than when he arrived.  All on the board are grateful for his service, extraordinary commitment, and friendship.  He will be missed,” shared Rich Wagner.

Rich Wagner was the first vice president and assumes the president’s role.   He has served on the NYSW board of directors for many years and is also an active volunteer with Corning United Soccer Club.    He is employed by Corning Incorporated.    As first vice president he oversaw the State Championship Tournament (State Cup) a key step in the advancement of teams from western New York as they advanced to regional and sometimes national competition.

New York State West Youth Soccer Association governs youth soccer in upstate NY west of Interstate 81 and has 100,000 members.   NYSW is the largest youth sports association in western New York.   NYSW is one of the 55 member associations of US Youth Soccer Association, America’s largest youth sports organization with over 3 million registered athletes.   To learn more about NYSW Youth Soccer visit the web at www.nyswysa.org.  For more information on US Youth Soccer and the national championship series see www.usyouthsoccer.org.