Tony Scholes Takes Helm of USL's New Division One Men's League

United Soccer League Appoints Tony Scholes as President for New League

In a significant development for American soccer, the United Soccer League (USL) has named Tony Scholes, the Chief Football Officer of the English Premier League, as the President of its new top-tier Division One men’s league. The announcement, made on November 3, 2025, emphasizes USL’s commitment to enhancing the standards and competitive integrity of soccer in the United States.

Tony Scholes brings nearly three decades of extensive experience within English football, holding key positions both at the league level and in club management. His strategic insights gained during his tenure as Chief Football Officer of the Premier League have equipped him with a profound understanding of the game's dynamics, including player development initiatives and competition standards.

During his time at the Premier League, Scholes spearheaded efforts that have fortified competition protocols and fostered collaborative relationships between clubs and league authorities. His innovative approach has led to advancements in youth development pathways and the integration of technologies like the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), vital for the contemporary game.

Prior to his illustrious role at the Premier League, Scholes served for 17 years as the Chief Executive of Stoke City FC. His leadership was pivotal in the club’s successful ascent to the Premier League and in achieving a decade of stability at the top tier. Under his guidance, Stoke City not only gained Category One academy status but also achieved significant milestones, such as reaching the UEFA Europa League and launching initiatives that underline community health and education.

Alec Papadakis, the CEO of USL, praised Scholes' appointment, noting his extensive background in football management. He remarked, “Tony Scholes is a proven leader who has operated at the highest levels of the global game. He brings unmatched credibility and perspective as we shape our Division One league in America.” Papadakis highlighted the opportunity that Scholes has to bring promotion and relegation dynamics to U.S. professional soccer, something that is new and exciting in the American sports landscape.

Scholes expressed his enthusiasm about joining the USL at such a transformative time in American soccer. He understands the profound impact of promotion and relegation in instilling excitement, competition, and emotional investment among fans and players. “I am thrilled to join the USL at such an important moment for the game in America,” said Scholes. “Having worked at every level of the English system, I’ve seen the incredible influence that meaningful matches have week after week.”

He further articulated the unique opportunity to establish a league structure that is sustainable and linked to community engagement, stating, “The USL has the rare chance to build something from a clean sheet, rooting itself in performance and community connection.” Scholes looks forward to collaborating with league leadership and existing clubs to forge ahead with standards and frameworks that will underpin the USL's future success.

Scholes' decision to accept this role follows a series of strategic maneuvers by the USL, including forming partnerships aimed at strengthening the league's position in American soccer. He is set to commence his responsibilities in the summer of 2026 after wrapping up his current duties with the Premier League.

Founded in 1986, the USL stands as the largest and fastest-growing soccer organization in the United States, impacting over 200 communities nationwide. It operates a comprehensive youth-to-professional pathway across multiple men’s and women’s leagues, ensuring accessibility and engagement in soccer for all levels. With long-term media rights deals across CBS Sports and ESPN, the USL presents a vibrant platform for soccer enthusiasts across the country. This structure now promises to deliver a fully interconnected three-tier professional system, heralding a new era for the game's evolution in the U.S.

As the USL prepares to rollout its Division One league with Scholes at the helm, the future looks promising for soccer in America, with aspirations to raise the bar for domestic competition and player development.