[NSCAA] Jim Sheldon, the National Soccer Coaches Association of America's first full-time employee, will retire as executive director, effective May 1.

"Jim Sheldon was the NSCAA's first full-time employee," said NSCAA President Randy Waldrum, the women's coach at the University of Notre Dame. "His leadership has grown the Association into one of the recognized leaders on the soccer landscape, both nationally and internationally. We are extremely grateful for his dedication to the NSCAA and wish him the best in this new chapter in his life."

Sheldon came to the NSCAA in June 1992. During his tenure, the NSCAA membership has grown from approximately 8,000 members to more than 29,000 in 2008. Its programs have expanded as the American soccer landscape has changed.

The annual NSCAA Convention has grown into the single largest annual soccer coaches event and largest soccer-specific trade show. The NSCAA national office has grown from the one-man operation Sheldon established to a staff of 16 full-time employees and from an annual budget of $800,000 to more than $5 million.

"The past 17 years as the NSCAA's executive director have given me a lifetime of memories and friendships," said Sheldon. "It has been an honor to work for the NSCAA. Along the way, I hope I did a small part to advance the Association and our wonderful game."

NSCAA associate executive director Steve Veal, who has been a staff member since 1993, will serve as interim executive director until a successor has been identified through a nationwide search, which will begin immediately.

(To apply, email edsearch@nscaa.com.)