Staff
Chris Arnold
Deputy Director, Academy & Futsal
Chris serves as ASA’s Deputy Director, providing strategic oversight for the Academy and Futsal programs. He leads the program managers for both areas in developing and delivering high-quality programming, strengthening policies and procedures each season, supporting effective coach education, and creating a consistent “Gold Standard” experience for every participant.
His work is guided by ASA’s club-wide outcomes: improving each participant's health and wellness and contributing to a thriving Alexandria. Chris uses these priorities as a framework for planning, decision-making, and the continued growth of ASA’s programming.
Since joining ASA in 2011, Chris has served in coaching and leadership roles across nearly every area of the organization. He now provides oversight for several of ASA’s most comprehensive programs, including Academy Soccer, Academy Futsal, Junior Academy, and international programming. Drawing on his wide-ranging experience, Chris helps ensure that players have connected, high-quality development opportunities throughout their ASA experience.
Before joining ASA, Chris worked in the front office for D.C. United. He also served as a Transportation and Logistics Manager at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The fast-paced, on-the-ground experience he gained in South Africa helped prepare him for the daily challenges, opportunities, and creative problem-solving that come with leading programs at ASA.
Chris earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he played on and captained the NCAA Division I men’s soccer team. He holds a USSF “B” Coaching License and National Youth License. In 2020, he was named CCL Coach of the Year and recognized as an Alexandria Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 honoree.
Outside of ASA, Chris enjoys traveling with his wife, Liz, and daughter, Zoe, and returning to his hometown of New Orleans for great food and music. He also enjoys plenty of Premier League Fantasy Soccer banter with friends and family.
