Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA)
Overview
The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is the US Soccer / USYS state-affiliated governing body for amateur soccer in Tennessee. Responsible for registration, sanctioning, and state league play.
Structure
- Total membership: ~105,000 members (players, parents, coaches, referees, admins, volunteers)
- Youth + Adult players: ~40,000-50,000 registered
- Member associations: 100+
- Tennessee State League (TSL): Ages 12-19; record 375 teams from 54 clubs in Spring 2024
- Division 1, Division 2, Division 3 (competitive tiers)
- Division 4 (grassroots, U3-U19)
Recent Developments
April 2026: TSSA named as District Operator in the new NewComp League — a significant role in the post-USYS-reset youth competitive landscape.
TSSA has a strategic partnership with Nashville SC Academy (announced).
Investment Thesis
State-association relationship is essential for any TN market entry. TSSA controls sanctioning, registration, and state league participation.