Annual Awards

Ohio Soccer Association recognizes individuals who positively impact the game of soccer in Ohio. In conjunction with our Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the beginning of the year, an awards ceremony is held to honor nominated individuals for their support and dedication in growing the game.

Nominated individuals are also eligible for recognition by US Youth Soccer during their National Annual Awards Gala.

Recent Regional & National Winners

Dr. Tom Turner, Ohio Soccer Association, 2024 USYS Dr. Fleck Award
Simon Davis, Columbus United, USYS National and Midwest Girls Competitive Coach of the Year 2023
Joseph Schmidt, St. Clairsville Area Soccer Association, Midwest Boys Recreational Coach of the Year 2023
Sheila Eifert, Dayton Kroc Center, USYS National Administrator of the Year 2022
Steve McCollum, Cincinnati TOPSoccer, USYS National TOPSoccer Coach of the Year 2021
Maya Ryder, USYS National Female Young Referee of the Year 2020
Zach Cline, Ohio Fusion, Midwest Volunteer of the Year 2020

The OSA award ceremony will take place at the 2024 Annual General Meeting.

The following categories are available for nomination:

Volunteer of the Year [pdf]
Coach of the Year [pdf]
- Recreational (boys)
- Recreational (girls)
- Competitive (boys)
- Competitive (girls)
Administrator of the Year [pdf]
Young Referee of the Year [pdf]
TOPSoccer Coach of the Year [pdf]
TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year [pdf]

The deadline to send in your nominations is October 15, 2023.

Please send all nominations using the available form(s) to office@ohio-soccer.org with the title of ‘2023 Annual Award Nomination for [category]’. Ex: 2023 Annual Award Nomination for Coach of the Year

Winners will be announced via email and the OSA social media channels in mid-October. The award ceremony will take place at the 2024 AGM.

2023 Award Winners

Simon Davis
Columbus United
Girls Competitive Coach of the Year (Ohio & US Youth Soccer National Winner)

Simon is an extraordinary individual and youth soccer coach who has been coaching for more than 20 years. Simon has coached many highly competitive teams in the top events across the country. As a Club Director and coach with Columbus United, Simon is an excellent representative for youth soccer who is dedicated to player development and sportsmanship. Specifically in 2023, Simon coached the Columbus United G10 Lions to a State Cup Championship, Midwest Regional Championship, and the U13 National Championship

Joseph Schmidt
Saint Clairesville Area Soccer Association
Recreational Coach of the Year (Ohio & US Youth Soccer Midwest Region)

Joe has coached for 10 years starting with several years of indoor play. He coaches multiple age groups for both indoor and outdoor teams. Joe tries to get players to realize their full potential. He encourages players to work on their individual skills in practice. He always has a practice plan for his team and try’s to make sure all players are involved and understand expectations.

John Boesing
Cincinnati TOPSoccer
TOPSoccer Coach of the Year

John has been involved with Cincinnati TOPSoccer for 16 years. He began as a parent of player and quickly volunteered to coach a team. When the former director of the West location was ready to step down, John was the clear choice to take over as the director. Since that time John has been a strong proponent of the program recruiting. His compassion and genuine interest in each and every player is evident at all times. The players love and respect him greatly.

Emma Wainscott
Young Female Referee of the Year

Soccer is an essential part of Emma’s life. She began playing soccer at a very young age for the Pacesetter Soccer Club in Sylvania. She had a great experience with soccer growing up, so when the opportunity to become a referee was presented to her, it was an easy decision. She has been USSF certified for 5 years. Soccer has shaped her into the person she is today because of her experiences both playing and refereeing and all of the lifelong relationships she has made along the way. She is a hardworking, exceptional young referee who has participated in State soccer events and who was selected to go to Midwest Presidents Cup in 2023.

Ed Kenney
Cincinnati United
Boys Competitive Coach of the Year

Ed has been a soccer coach for 25 years. He has a U.S. Soccer license, NSCAA Goalkeeping 1 and 2, Grassroots 9v9 and 11v11, and a Director of Coaching Diploma. Ed’s philosophy is that the players should have a sense of accomplishment by improving as a person and a player. He develops their love for the game. He makes practices entertaining and fun.

Daniel Pierron
Butler United
Administrator of the Year

Dan has brought exceptional leadership and organizational skills to his role as a soccer administrator. He has worked tirelessly to create welcoming and supportive environment for players, coaches, and parents, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. Dan is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that the soccer program runs smooth. In addition to his exceptional administrative skills, Dan has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the development of young soccer players. He has implemented innovative programs and techniques that have helped to improve the skills and confidence of countless young athletes. His dedication to the sport and the community is truly inspiring.

Tristan Geske
Toledo TOPSoccer
TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year

Tristan is phenomenal buddy and shows his love and compassion for the program every time he steps on the field. He has proven himself to be extremely dedicated to the missions of TOPSoccer with his giving, caring, and supportive nature. Tristan is currently a freshman and multi-sport athlete in high school but yet still shows his commitment and devotion to every “Soccer Sunday”. He is a true asset to the Toledo TOPSoccer group.

Akash Ravipati
Young Male Referee of the Year

Akash began playing soccer at the age of 4 and refereeing at the age of 14. He started off in recreational leagues with friends, and then started to make his way into more and more competitive leagues. Through his involvement in soccer he become a better decision maker and developed better ways to work with others. Within the past 2 years he started consulting mentors and referee assignors on ways to improve. He has officiated in the Ohio Presidents Cup and also officiates adult leagues such as UPSL an CPSL. Through these higher-level games, he has met many new people who have been essential to his growth as a person and a referee.

2022 Award Winners

Paul Driesen
ODP/Shaker Youth Soccer Association
Girls Competitive Coach of the Year

Paul Driesen is a players’ coach, with a coaching style focused on creating a positive learning and playing environment for all players. Coach Paul’s enthusiasm for the game motivates his players to be excited to practice, to play their best, to build relationships with each other, and to promote the love for the game. Paul learns about the game of soccer by keeping his licenses current, by watching soccer, by coaching soccer, and by sharing his love for the game.

Dion Baccus
Dublin Soccer League
Recreational Coach of the Year

Dion has thrown himself fully into youth soccer. He has two young daughters, and he works very hard to install a passion for the game and strong fundamentals. He creates a fun and competitive practice environment. He is very focused on building up the girls’ confidence and does exactly that by respecting them and teaching them to respect others on the field. He has multiple coaching certifications and ensures he learns and teaches about the game in multiple formats. He is a great leader and great coach.

Jim Sturm
MOSSL
Volunteer of the Year

Jim has been involved with youth soccer for many years. He was one of the driving forces of the Dublin Charity Cup. The Dublin Charity Cup just completed its 32^nd year but more importantly has contributed $765,000 to charities that benefit children. Big Brothers and Sisters has been the primary beneficiary.

Jim retired in 2008 from Norfolk Southern Railroad and his volunteer efforts exploded. His volunteer work became his full-time job. When Jim was involved, things would be done efficiently and effectively. He has always been willing to donate time and expertise to youth soccer.

Andrew Kirkendall
Toledo Football Academy TOPSoccer
TOPSoccer Coach of the Year

Andrew has been involved with TOPSoccer since it first began in Toledo in 2015. He spent his early volunteer years as a buddy, working with TOPSoccer participants to ensure they had a positive, fun experience while also learning skills. His enthusiasm and compassion are evident from the moment you meet him. His dedication to young people involved in the sport is unsurpassed. As a coach, Andrew has been innovative in bringing new activities to the field. It is evident the athletes have loved these activities by the huge smiles on their faces and laughter that is often heard. Andrew is an encourager, a teacher, and an inspiration.

Chase Jackson
Total Futbol Academy
Boys Competitive Coach of the Year

Chase has been coaching for many years. He holds many coaching certifications and is continually attending additional classes to improve his coaching abilities. He teaches in a way that players understand, and his intentions are always for their self-improvement. He is constantly motivating his players to be their best both on and off the field. His goal is to spark love for the game and ignite their passion for learning throughout the season. His enthusiasm is infectious and everyone that he trains leaves better than they came.

Sheila Eifert
Dayton Kroc SC
Administrator of the Year (Ohio & US Youth Soccer Midwest Region)

Sheila is the volunteer club manager for the Dayton Kroc SC. It started in 2019 with the idea to fill the “soccer dessert” that is the urban core of Dayton, with competitive, high quality, but affordable club soccer. After partnering with the Dayton Kroc Center just north of downtown Dayton, the club officially commenced in 2020 with no players. Through Sheila’s efforts organizing summer free training clinics for the community, the club started with two boys’ teams and 30 players in the Fall of 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic. Today, the club has 10 teams and 150 players. The growth is largely because of Sheila’s efforts. The impact of her work has been to rally the community and provide new opportunities to many in our urban core.

Lauren Auriana
Cincinnati TOPSoccer
TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year

Lauren has been volunteering for Cincinnati TOPSoccer for several years. She has helped with her sister’s team and with a summer camp. This year, she took interest in working with the youngest group of players- the Dribblers. This is a challenging group made up of 4 – 7 year olds. Lauren started the season by jumping straight into the deep end leading the first practice when the head coach was unable to attend. She led the practice like she had been there forever. Since then, she is at every practice and every game ready to help wherever she is needed.

Ciann Walker
Young Female Referee of the Year

Soccer is an essential part of Ciann’s life. Her soccer foundation began at the age of 5 when she joined a recreational team in Howland, Ohio. She currently holds a Grade 8 referee license, has 4 years of USSF experience under her belt, and is a 3 year high school referee for OHSAA. She is a hardworking, exceptional young referee who has participated in State soccer events and who was selected to go to Midwest Presidents Cup in 2022.

Joe Meilstrup
Young Male Referee of the Year

Joe is a very solid young referee who has participated in State Cup and Presidents Cup events this year. He was selected to go to the Midwest Presidents Cup as well as the NCS Midwest Regionals event in 2022.

2021 Award Winners

David Sidloski

Girls Competitive Coach of the Year

David is a student of the game. He played high school and then college, before turning his energy into coaching. Three soccer-playing daughters brought him into coaching and he has dedicated his life to his girls and their respective teammates. He promotes good sportsmanship and respect for the game. He teaches his players the fundamental skills and techniques at a young age that will make them better players. He is diligent, organized, and always makes sure that players learn to think on their own. After a tragic loss, he and his family created a charity foundation to create and maintain a positive loving memory by offering scholarships to deserving future players.

Jacob Plummer

Boys Recreational Coach of the Year & USYS Midwest Region Boys Recreational Coach of the Year

Jacob is very passionate about being a soccer coach. He is a class act who truly invests so much into teaching our children skill, fair play and love for the game. He cares about every single player and gives his whole heart to seeing those kids develop and be successful. He is able to motivate the players to work hard while still having fun. He has a knack for developing their talent and pushing them to be their best. He is constantly telling his players that he believes in them and works to build them up both individually and as a cohesive group.

Shannon Glendon

Administrator of the Year

Shannon has served many areas with Lakota FC over the past six years. Her past positions include Club Board Member, Secretary, and Special Projects Coordinator. The past two years, she has taken over the Registrar position, and we could not function without her! She is active in the local community and has been part of organizing drives raising money for charity, providing equipment to underserved populations, and providing access to youth select soccer. She is a warm and caring individual who is generous with her time and effort.

Paul Rockwood

Boys Competitive Coach of the Year

Paul is extremely knowledgeable about soccer, has a profound passion for the game and loves to teach others. Not only does he teach tactical/technical skills, but he gets to know every player personally so that he can position them in such a way to perform their best. He learns what drives them, and how to play their strengths. He has such a rapport with the boys on his team that they play their hearts out for him every time they are on the field. Coach Rockwood uses soccer to compete and teach a skill, but more importantly he uses it to prepare these boys for life.

Lily Vomer

TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year

Lily has been an absolute asset to the TOPSoccer program. Although this is her first year in the program, she is always willing to jump in and help with any tasks. The kids absolutely love her. She makes sure that every child in the association is included and that they have the best time possible. She also communicates frequently on how to get the kids more involved and activities they may like. She works with the youngest group of players of the association. She has the patience of a saint!

Alexis Arndt

Young Female Referee of the Year

Alexis began playing soccer when she was four years old and continued playing into high school. She has been refereeing for four years. Soccer has shaped her through her coaches and experiences in soccer. She has learned that you always need to give 110% and to believe in yourself. When she referees a game she tries her best to make it fair for both sides. She has attended DASOA annual meetings and made connections with more experienced referees.

Jasen Smolk

Girls Recreational Coach of the Year

Jasen is very active in the soccer community. He coaches three teams, and also plays in both indoor and outdoor leagues. His reputation as a strong and respectable coach is recognized by other club officers, coaches and referees. He promotes sportsmanship during practices and games by serving as a role model who positively motivates his players and promotes respectful play with teammates and others. He encourages enthusiasm and self-confidence, helping each player play to their potential. His positivity amongst the girls is infectious and this carries through to the games.

Steve McCollum

TOPSoccer Coach of the Year & USYS National TOPSoccer Coach of the Year

Steve has been volunteering for TOPSoccer for 15 years. He had been an assistant coach for many years filling in wherever needed and then became the Director of Coaching about 10 years ago. As a highly ranked competitive soccer coach and a director of soccer camps, Steve is a valuable asset to Cincinnati TopSoccer. He brings 3 decades of experience and adapts it to help our coaches do better every day. His easy-going style, enthusiasm and permanent smile on his face are constantly on display. His heart for others and irrefutable character makes him a beacon for the TOPSoccer program.

Shawn Westerfield

Young Male Referee of the Year

Shawn began playing soccer at a very early age which lead him to become a referee. In addition to his success on the field, he is just as successful in other ways off the field and in the lives of others. Shawn is also involved in a youth group where he volunteers his time serve under privileged communities. He has lead soccer matches with neighborhood communities, paint houses, sort clothes, haul dirt, etc. for the sole purpose of helping areas be a better place for its residents to live and raise their children. His mindset and dedication to wanting to improve as a referee and a person shows by the all the work and effort he puts forth on and off the fields.