**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Kansas City, MO – October 2024** – The Kansas City Association Football Federation (KCAFF) is proud to announce the addition of two key board members who will serve alongside President Brandon Fisher as KCAFF works to formalize its non-profit legal entity status. Bryce Empey has been named Treasurer, and Michael Nichols will serve as Vice President. Together, the three will guide KCAFF in its mission to grow the soccer community in Kansas City and beyond.
As KCAFF continues its efforts to become a fully sanctioned non-profit organization by the beginning of 2025, these appointments mark a significant step forward. This status will grant KCAFF greater access to fields, referees, and resources, which are critical for organizing international matches and upcoming tournaments. One of the organization’s key events will be the 2025 KCAFF/EEC World Cup, held in conjunction with the Ethnic Enrichment Festival in mid-August.
KCAFF’s scope extends beyond international competition, also overseeing the Select League and the soon-to-be-launched Challenger League, alongside their respective women's and youth divisions. These leagues and tournaments are designed to foster local talent and create a soccer ecosystem in Kansas City that echoes the community-centric models of Europe.
**Financial Goals for Growth**
Newly appointed Treasurer Bryce Empey shared his thoughts on KCAFF’s financial direction:
*“KCAFF's financial goals are centered on reinvesting and fostering growth, with funds going directly back into our developing men’s and women’s leagues. We’ll also explore opportunities to expand our collaboration with other leagues within the Kansas State Soccer Association. Finding passionate and supportive sponsors will be essential to the continued growth and success of the Kansas City Area Football Federation.”*
**A Vision for Change**
Vice President Michael Nichols emphasized KCAFF’s vision for the future of soccer in the U.S.:
*“At KCAFF, our vision is to transform the landscape of soccer in America, shifting it from a profit-driven industry to a player-centered league. We are committed to breaking down financial barriers and making the sport accessible to everyone—men, women, and children—without compromising the intensity and quality that define professional leagues. Our mission is to prioritize players over profit, ensuring that soccer truly belongs to everyone.”*
Nichols also expressed the desire for American soccer to adopt principles from European football, particularly in community engagement and player development. *“In Europe, soccer clubs are deeply rooted in their communities, fostering local talent from a young age. Adopting these principles in the U.S. would make soccer more accessible, elevate the quality of play, and create a more passionate and authentic soccer culture.”*
KCAFF’s leadership team will continue to work towards growing local soccer opportunities through partnerships, tournaments, and volunteer efforts. The organization is actively seeking volunteers to assist in finding sponsors, securing fields, and engaging with communities across the Kansas City region.
**Contact:**
For more information about KCAFF and its initiatives, please visit [KCAFF website] or contact KCAFF at kcaff.contact@gmail.com.
**About KCAFF**
The Kansas City Association Football Federation (KCAFF) serves as the overarching authority for various soccer leagues and tournaments in the Kansas City area. KCAFF is committed to fostering community involvement and creating opportunities for all players, regardless of financial status, to engage in the sport.
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