US Youth Soccer names Manager of Communications and Communications Coordinator

US Youth Soccer today announced the elevation of Shannon Holtz to Manager of Communications and the hiring of Michael Anderson to Communications Coordinator at the organization\'s national headquarters in Frisco, Texas, a suburb of Dallas.

Holtz has been affiliated with US Youth Soccer since 2006 as Communications Specialist and has excelled as a member of the communications department. Before joining US Youth Soccer she was with the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA).  
 
"Shannon brought experience with nonprofit and corporate communications in addition to assisting in establishing the groundwork for our growing department," said Todd Roby, US Youth Soccer director of communications. "She is a natural fit for this position and I am very proud of her continued development within the field and impact to US Youth Soccer."
 
Holtz holds a bachelor\'s degree in journalism, with major in advertising and public relations from Texas Christian University.
 
Michael Anderson returns to US Youth Soccer as Communications Coordinator. Anderson worked in the communications department as an intern during the summer of 2008 gaining extensive hands-on understanding of the organization and its objectives.  
 
Anderson brings an outstanding soccer background to the department as a former Creighton University player, US Youth Soccer ODP State staff coach and club coach at several levels. In addition to his experience as player and educator, Anderson brings writing experience from a popular soccer Web site highlighting key events and player accomplishments.
 
"Bringing experience from the field into the national office is always valuable," said Jim Cosgrove, US Youth Soccer executive director. "Michael is no stranger to US Youth Soccer and his understanding of the game paired with his writing ability will be a positive addition to our organization as we continue to communicate about the many benefits associated with membership in US Youth Soccer."
 
Anderson holds bachelor\'s degrees in Business Administration and Sports Management from Northwood University. 
 
US Youth Soccer Communications has grown from a single staffer in 2003 to a department in 2008. The department oversees the message of US Youth Soccer via traditional and non-traditional media. In 2009, US Youth Soccer saw an almost 400 percent increase in media measurements after continued year-over-year annual growth.