Brian Catrine Appointed Executive Director of US Youth Futsal
United States Youth Futsal (USYF) has a new leader — former Executive Director Jorge Marin has stepped down, effective June 30, 2019, and long-time leader in the world of American futsal, Brian Catrine, has accepted the role of Executive Director, effective immediately.
U.S. Youth Futsal is the largest U.S. Soccer-affiliated futsal organization in the United States, overseeing more than 100 local leagues in 30 states across the country. In addition to hosting youth leagues in every corner of the country, it also works tirelessly on programs that help develop the game through multiple programs.
USYF Board Chair and President Jon Parry said, “Jorge Marin is relocating to South America because his wife found her dream job in Colombia. He has served US Youth Futsal with pride and dedication. Jorge and Brian have been working closely together on various projects over the last few months and we are convinced that the transition will be seamless.”
“The sport of futsal in the United States, and U.S. Youth Futsal as the leading force to its development have a very bright future ahead,” said Marín. “We have set the foundation for sustainable development in strategic areas such as the Academy, Education programs and national development. USYF will benefit from Catrine’s leadership, as well as his vision and knowledge of the sport.”
Since joining USYF in early 2015 as an affiliate, Catrine has been involved in many leadership roles. Currently, the Chief Play Officer of Minnesota Futsal, Academy Director of TC Sala Development Center as well as the USYF Regional Director for Region 3, Catrine is also a USYF International team coach and will be coaching the Boys 04 team as they travel to represent the USA in Argentina later this month and play friendlies.
With his vast understanding of the game of futsal combined with his familiarity with U.S. Youth Futsal, Catrine is a great choice to direct the organization. Catrine also has over 20 years of experience in human resource management, business administration, and project management — a background that will be critical as USYF continues to grow.
“I am excited for the opportunity to lead our organization and continue to build on the solid foundation that has been established,” said Catrine. “I believe my experience in each of the core pillars of U.S. Youth Futsal will help us to continue to provide exceptional service to our affiliates and offer a unique perspective to help us strategically grow.”
AS AN AFFILIATE MYSELF, I UNDERSTAND THE ORGANIZATION FROM THE INSIDE.
Brian Catrine – who has been with U.S. Youth Futsal since 2015
“With my background in USYF, I believe I have walked in the same shoes as many of our affiliates and hope to use that experience to further enhance our programming and support area leaders to grow the beautiful game,” said Catrine
“Jon and Jorge have done a wonderful job setting the stage and I look forward to working with our passionate staff and regional leaders to grow our beautiful game,” said Catrine. “I understand the challenges and the complexity of soccer in the United States and I want to help grow U.S. Youth Futsal and be responsive to the needs of the USYF Affiliates.”
“The enhanced rate of development that futsal provides is a significant advantage,” said Catrine. “The increased problem-solving frequency in futsal is typically five or six more times than what occurs in a traditional soccer environment,” said Catrine.
“Futsal is such a wonderful development tool as every component of the game is accelerated in this environment,” said Catrine. “Futsal invites enhanced creative play, attacking and defensive principles are challenged more frequently and the kids love it because they are always involved in the action.”
“I believe my knowledge of the game combined with my background in futsal administration will help provide a solid foundation to help move the organization forward,” said Catrine who is excited to take the USYF to the next level.
