Operations Director

Melissa Riemer, Director of Operations at Arlington Soccer Association, understood early in her tenure that strong operations were built on both well-structured processes and the adaptability of her team. The association had previously struggled with operational challenges stemming from a highly specialized workforce—team members excelled in their specific tasks but lacked the training to step into other roles when needed.  To bridge this gap, Melissa spearheaded a cross-training initiative across the office, customer service, and operations teams. She introduced regular knowledge-sharing sessions that encouraged staff to learn each other’s responsibilities and support one another. The impact of this approach became evident when the association’s primary registrar had to take an unexpected leave. Thanks to the cross-training, a customer service representative confidently stepped in to handle the registrar’s duties, ensuring there was no disruption to program registrations or member communications.  The success of this initiative not only improved operational continuity but also nurtured a culture of collaboration and support. The team’s newfound versatility led to increased morale and operational efficiency. Melissa’s strategic focus on empowering her staff underscored the importance of investing in people as much as refining processes, creating a resilient and adaptable organization capable of meeting challenges head-on.

Evans Malyi, Director of Operations at Loudoun Soccer, exemplified the multifaceted responsibilities of the Operations Director through an impressive initiative this past spring. Collaborating closely with the technical staff, coaches, and administrative team, Evans spearheaded the onboarding of a new registration software designed to streamline the club’s processes. This significant update not only enhanced the efficiency of the club’s registration system but also directly impacted the club’s ability to optimize its Player Placement period. Evans and his team managed to reduce the traditionally time-consuming placement process to just three weeks. Through this coordinated effort, they successfully rostered players for 106 travel teams, demonstrating the importance of strategic planning, cross-departmental collaboration, and operational expertise. This achievement highlighted Evans’ ability to lead and manage complex operational projects while maintaining clear communication and efficiency across multiple stakeholders.

Austin’s extensive experience with facility operations and staff management has significantly strengthened the operational backbone of NC Fusion. He spearheaded the creation of an operations-only team composed of both full-time and part-time staff, tasked with managing scheduling, operations, and facility needs.  Managing over 30 facilities across the Triad region, Austin implemented comprehensive standard operating procedures and customized emergency action plans for each site to ensure consistency and high standards across all operations. He has secured long-term agreements with key partners such as the City of Greensboro for the management of prominent venues like the Bryan Park Soccer Complex, which boasts 21 soccer fields, and the Greensboro Sportsplex, which features four indoor soccer fields.   Austin’s commitment has resulted in streamlined processes and strengthened relationships with facility partners, ensuring that NC Fusion maintains access to high-quality venues for its extensive programming. Meticulous planning and effective team leadership have set a benchmark for operational efficiency and strategic facility management.

Mark’s journey from on-field coach to Operations Director, is a common path for many executives in youth sports, as professionalism has accelerated. Five years ago, Beach FC expanded to include a state-of-the-art two-court futsal facility that also housed their offices, Mark found himself at the helm of a complex project that required both his coaching insights and operational acumen.  The first major challenge was scheduling programs in the facility. Mark had to balance the demands of outdoor league games, fluctuating school schedules, regional tournaments, and holiday breaks—all while ensuring the futsal schedule complemented the existing soccer calendar. Collaborating closely with the Technical Directors, he developed a futsal curriculum that met the club’s developmental goals, aligning each training session with broader club objectives. Mark’s attention then turned to registration logistics, coordinating with the administrative team to set up efficient tryouts and onboarding. To optimize the use of the facility, he created a training schedule that limited court use to two age-appropriate teams per session, fostering a high-quality training environment where players could immediately apply new skills in scrimmages.  Overseeing these operations, Mark also managed the day-to-day upkeep of the facility, demonstrating how an Operations Director bridges technical program development with logistical and administrative leadership.

Mark recalls a pivotal time when the OrthoCarolina facility was built. With player numbers at an all-time high and programs expanding, he recounts the hectic weeks leading up to the grand opening, juggling equipment orders, finalizing field schedules, arranging for adequate lighting as daylight shortened. One evening, a sudden power outage tested his readiness. Mark worked with local electricians and maintenance teams to restore lighting just before a major youth showcase. The event proceeded smoothly, much to the relief of coaches and families.  Through these challenges, Mark learned that being an Operations Director meant anticipating every need and ensuring timely solutions. His support allowed CSA’s staff to focus on their coaching, connecting all programs into a unified club structure.