Twenty-five years ago, columnist Paul Gardner interviewed Derek Armstrong, Bill Sage and Roy Rees about the launch of an American youth soccer governing body that would serve as an alternative to U.S. Youth Soccer. What the founders originally called the National Association of Competitive Soccer Clubs (NACSC) soon became U.S. Club Soccer.

Not ready to subscribe? Sign up here for our free newsletter.

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Soccer America Executive Editor Mike Woitalla has written freelance articles about soccer for more than 30 media outlets in nine nations. The winner of eight United Soccer Coaches Writing Contest awards,...