Paul McDonough Takes the Helm as USL's New President and CEO

The United Soccer League (USL) has officially named Paul McDonough as its President and Chief Executive Officer, effective from June 1. This significant move comes as the USL aims to establish itself as a leader in professional soccer in the United States, cementing its long-term vision in the sport. McDonough's appointment marks a key transition not only for him but for the league itself, which has seen tremendous growth and development in recent years.

In a strategic reshuffle, Alec Papadakis, who served as the CEO for the past 16 years, is transitioning to the role of Co-Chair of the USL Board, alongside Kewsong Lee, the CEO of BellTower Partners. Papadakis has played an instrumental role in the expansion of the league from its roots to a robust structure that serves over 200 communities and involves both men's and women's soccer. Under his leadership, the USL has grown into a prominent platform for soccer, emphasizing accessibility and community connection with the sport.

In his new role, McDonough expresses his gratitude for the trust instilled by the Board and aims to enhance the fan experience, create opportunities for players, and involve diverse communities in the sport. Asserting the league's commitment to a robust soccer ecosystem, McDonough stated, "We're building a connected soccer system across every level where performance drives opportunity and ambition is rewarded."

McDonough is not new to the USL; he has been serving as the league’s President and Chief Soccer Officer since 2023, where he spearheaded various professional soccer strategies and competition initiatives. With over two decades of experience in the soccer industry, McDonough has held senior positions at notable organizations, including Inter Miami CF and Atlanta United FC, which uniquely equip him to lead the USL through this critical next chapter. Notably, his experience has been pivotal in launching expansion clubs and establishing vital operational frameworks.

As the USL gears up for the launch of USL Premier, which introduces a three-division professional structure along with the existing USL Championship and USL League One, McDonough is poised to oversee these initiatives aimed at elevating competition within the league. Furthermore, the introduction of a promotion and relegation system across its professional tiers serves to foster a competitive landscape that rewards hard work and success.

The USL's journey into institutional capital began in 2025, with BellTower Partners playing a crucial role in supporting this endeavor. As part of the league's expanded investor base, institutions such as Weatherford Capital have energized the USL's development, enabling it to pursue ambitious growth strategies.

Founded back in 1986, the USL operates as a community-centric league, promoting not only professional endeavors but also youth engagement through various programs. The organization aims to provide an inclusive platform that nurtures talent from the grassroots to professional levels for both men and women, alongside fostering connections through its long-term media partnerships with organizations like CBS Sports and ESPN.

In an accomplished career, Papadakis has achieved recognition for his leadership and impact on the soccer landscape in the U.S., highlighted by his receipt of the Werner Fricker Builder Award from the United States Soccer Federation. This highest accolade reflects the success of his initiatives aimed at expanding access to soccer for fans and players alike.

With McDonough at the forefront, the USL is positioned for a promising future, focusing on deepening the engagement of soccer in American sports culture and delivering valuable experiences for fans nationwide. As the league embarks on this new chapter, its combination of experience, strategic vision, and commitment to community-driven soccer initiatives promises to play a vital role in shaping the sport's future in the United States.