ECNL names Jay Howell as first Executive Director

The ECNL has hired Jay Howell as the first Executive Director of the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL), beginning Monday, April 9, 2012. In his role as Executive Director, Jay will be responsible for managing the external partnerships of the ECNL, and will oversee all league activities. Sarah Kate Noftsinger will continue as the ECNL Commissioner, and will continue to manage league operations and administration.

“We are really excited to have Jay join the ECNL on a full-time basis,” said ECNL President Christian Lavers. “Not only has Jay been a part of the ECNL from its inception, he also brings a wealth of soccer and management experience to the league, and will help us continue to make the ECNL the best female youth soccer developmental platform in the world.”

Jay has a long history in youth soccer, having worked as the Director of Coaching at CASL in North Carolina for 11 years. While at CASL, he helped the organization grow to be one of the largest and most progressive soccer clubs in the country. Following his time at CASL, Jay worked as the Executive Director / Director of Coaching for Birmingham United Soccer Association for the past two years.

“Joining the ECNL is a fantastic opportunity” said Jay. “I look forward to working with the ECNL Board of Directors, Christian, Doug Bracken and Sarah Kate. Together we will continue to advance and improve the nation’s best female player development environment and league.”

Jay will be based in Richmond, Va., where he will also serve as the ECNL Director for the Richmond Strikers.