While the NPSL prepares to celebrate the culmination of its 2023 season with a Championship match in Oklahoma, there’s potential trouble brewing on the horizon.

In an email sent to multiple press outlets, an anonymous group of “members within the NPSL community” are calling for change in the leadership of the NPSL. The only member named in the email is Napa Valley co-owner Arik Housley, who is mentioned as having “invested time and effort surveying teams and compiling feedback.” The purpose of the group, according to the email, is “aimed at ushering in a change of leadership within the NPSL.” Protagonist Soccer is working to schedule an interview with the group to gain more information and perspective.

The NPSL Leadership Change Initiative could be the first effective movement within the league to shake up the leadership of the league. Behind the scenes, owners have voiced complaints about the leadership of the league, including Chairman Kenneth Farrell and Managing Director Cindy Spera. Those complaints have included the strong-arming of any dissent out of positions of power, the continued hemorrhaging of high-functioning clubs to other leagues, and a consistent refusal to think creatively. Several of those exiting clubs have cited problems with league leadership as significant in their decision to exit the league.

The real question is if real change will actually come for the NPSL. So far, efforts for reform have been rebuffed. Yesterday’s email may be the first salvo in a renewed effort to change course.

- Dan Vaughn