Advisory Board Bio – Joel Dragan

Joel Dragan is the Executive Director of the Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA), where he leads the 100,000+ member organization in its mission to develop and promote youth soccer across the state of Florida. With a deep passion for the sport and a strong background in risk management, Joel has become a driving force both regionally and nationally.

 

Under his leadership, FYSA has made significant strides in enhancing the quality and safety of soccer for youth athletes at all levels, from recreational to elite competition. Registration hit an all-time high in 2023 at 113,000 registered soccer players in Florida. His focus on creating pathways for player development, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring access to high-quality coaching has solidified FYSA as a leader in youth sports within the state.

 

Furthering his commitment to athlete safety, Joel currently serves as the chair of the US Youth Soccer National Participant Safeguarding Committee. This committee is charged with developing and implementing safeguarding policies and practices for over 2.5 million soccer players across the United States.

 

Joel has also served on several national committees including the US Soccer SafeSport Task Force, the Kansas City World Cup Bid Committee, Chair of the GOALS Council, and the Senior PGA Championship Technology Committee.

 

Joel brings over 15 years of experience in three different states. Prior to his tenure as Executive Director in Florida, he held leadership roles in Kansas and Michigan. His expertise spans organizational management, event coordination, and strategic planning, with a special emphasis on community engagement and grassroots development.

 

Recently, Joel has been instrumental in the implementation of Florida Statute 943.0438 (CS/CS/HB 975) regarding background checking and fingerprinting of youth sport coaches in Florida. In June 2024, Joel and Florida Youth Soccer Association were successful in passing an amendment to the statue benefiting the entire youth sports landscape of Florida by extending the implementation window.

 

Joel’s vision for the future of FYSA and the broader youth sports community is one where every player, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to reach their full potential through the many benefits of sport participation