Graham Walsh Steps Down As United Premier Soccer League CEO, Sells Controlling Stake

Miami, Florida — The United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) has announced that Graham Walsh is stepping down from his role of CEO after the successful sale to a group led by Scythe LLC, the family office of Steve Demetriou. Having acquired the league in January 2020, British native Walsh and his brand holding company ELP Brands have dedicated themselves to growing the grass roots game. Walsh will remain as a Board member.

“It has been a privilege to operate and build such an influential league in American soccer,” Walsh said. “We have created an entire development tier of soccer just below the professional ranks, the importance of which cannot be understated. Its success is already being demonstrated with the stream of UPSL players turning pro, the many quality teenage prospects having the chance to ‘play-up’, and the huge expansion of playing opportunities for underserved segments of society. We have created incredible national championship competitions for men and women and now have over 700 member clubs.”

He added: “Thank you to the talented and passionate team at the UPSL and all the clubs that believe in the project and support the league. I am confident that the new ownership will take the league to the next level.”

Alex Demetriou, Scythe CEO, hailed the incredible progress made under Walsh’s leadership. “The UPSL is now firmly established in the USA soccer ecosystem and we intend to ensure that the league serves the need of the nation’s clubs and players for decades to come. The transition will be smooth for our staff and our participating clubs.”

It is expected that a new CEO will be announced shortly.

About the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL)

Founded in 2011, the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) serves as the unofficial fourth tier of the U.S. Soccer pyramid. With over 800 teams competing across its Premier, Division 1, A-League, Academy, and Women’s divisions, the UPSL is the largest Semi-Pro Pro League in North America. A National Affiliate member of the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF), the UPSL is made up of independently owned and operated clubs. Through its USSF affiliation, UPSL teams are eligible to compete in the U.S. Open Cup Qualifying Rounds.

For more information, visit www.upsl.com or follow @upslsoccer on Facebook, Instagram, and X. General Inquiries: [email protected] – Media Inquiries: [email protected]