Legion Player Awarded First U.S. Soccer Coaching Scholarship

September 28, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Birmingham Legion FC News Release

TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League announced today that Birmingham Legion FC defender Ryan James is the first recipient of a Coaching License Scholarship thanks to the support of USL partner Kwik Goal and U.S. Soccer. James will begin the U.S. Soccer “B” license course this fall.

The USL, Kwik Goal, and U.S. Soccer have collaborated on an exciting new scholarship program designed to address the historical lack of diversity within the coaching ranks in the United States. Scholarships will cover the full tuition costs for a U.S. Soccer coaching course for the “A” or “B” license. Following the awarding of the first scholarship to James, two additional scholarships will be awarded later this year.

James, a native of Mississauga, Ontario, has made more than 150 appearances in the USL since turning pro in 2016 after a stellar four-year career at Bowling Green State University. A natural left-sided player, he has suited up for the Rochester Rhinos, Nashville SC, and the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, in addition to his current club, Birmingham Legion. In two seasons with Birmingham, he has been a stalwart on the left side, making more than 60 appearances, and this year helping Legion FC clinch a fourth consecutive playoff appearance.

Jake Edwards, USL President: “The USL is proud to be working with Kwik Goal to help improve the diversity of the coaching ranks. Ryan is an outstanding player and person with a bright future as a leader in our game. This scholarship will help him further his coaching development, and we look forward to continuing to watch him excel on the field and eventually on the sidelines.”

Ryan James, player, Birmingham Legion FC: “This scholarship provides players like me with a unique chance to further our education and passions for the game. Anytime someone extends an opportunity to help others learn and grow, it is an encouraging sign. It not only inspires me to achieve something special, but also generates confidence, dedication, and belief. I want to take this opportunity to better myself and someday, help others get better as well.”

Tim Hall, Director of Marketing, Kwik Goal: “We are excited to be able to help provide opportunities for coaches to further their qualifications! We’d like to congratulate Ryan on being the first-ever USL recipient of the U.S. Soccer Coach License Scholarship. Ryan has had a successful career as a player thus far,…