Hedgpeth is first African-American woman named chief executive of major national U.S. soccer body

• by Soccer America , Mar 26, 2013

[AYSO] Kim Roberts Hedgpeth, who spent seven years as the national executive director of the Los Angeles-based American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, has been named the American Youth Soccer Organization’s new National Executive Director. She is the first African-American woman to be named chief executive of a major national U.S. soccer organization and will begin her new role on April 1.
 
“We see Kim as the ideal person to support the change management of the AYSO Strategic Plan,” said AYSO President Paula Berriz, in making the announcement.  “We believe that Kim’s diverse and successful background brings many talents and unique capabilities that will impact our organization in many new and exciting ways as we approach our 50 year anniversary.  Kim is a proven leader for our national staff and is a very welcome and important addition to our organization.”
 
Hedgpeth helped negotiate and implement the 2012 merger of AFTRA and the Screen Actors Guild. Upon completion of the merger of the two unions, she chose to step down from her executive role to pursue personal projects. 
 
"I am honored to become associated with AYSO's 50-year tradition of providing fun, safe and inclusive soccer for children of all ages and abilities,” said Hedgpeth in accepting the new assignment. “ I look forward to working with the dedicated coaches, referees, volunteers, staff and parents in expanding its excellent programs for players across the U.S. and the Caribbean, as AYSO celebrates the start of its next 50 years of great soccer."
 
Hedgpeth replaces Tom Tobin who retired in December.