CHICAGO – U.S. Soccer announced on Friday that long-time soccer leaders Alec Papadakis and Mike Cullina have been elected to the U.S. Soccer Board of Directors. Both new members will serve two-year terms: Papadakis as one of two Pro Council Representatives and Cullina as the At-Large Representative.

Papadakis replaces North Carolina FC and North Carolina Courage owner Steve Malik, while Cullina replaces John Collins, who decided not to seek reelection.

“I'd like to thank John Collins and Steve Malik for their countless contributions during their time on the Board. John and Steve have been incredible assets and we will miss their devoted efforts and thoughtful insights,” said U.S. Soccer President Carlos Cordiero. “At the same time, we are looking forward to Mike Cullina and Alec Papadakis joining us as we continue to strive to become the preeminent sport in the United States. As leaders in the soccer community for many years, Mike and Alec will provide us with unique perspectives to help grow the game across the country.”

The current CEO of the United Soccer League, Papadakis has served as the organization’s top executive since 2009. He is the CEO and Managing Partner of NuRock Soccer Holdings and a franchise attorney with four decades of domestic and international experience. A former player for the Atlanta Chiefs and Boston Minutemen, Papadakis had a long, successful career in the U.S. at both the professional and collegiate level. He previously served on the U.S. Soccer Board of Directors as a Pro Council Representative from 2015-2017.

A long-time youth soccer coach, director and administrator, Cullina was appointed Chairman of US Club Soccer’s Board of Directors in January of 2018. He is currently the Executive Director of Prince William Soccer and Virginia Development Academy and President of the Virginia NPL. Additionally, he is a member of the U.S. Soccer Youth Task Force. Cullina holds a U.S. Soccer National A Coaching License.