Staff

Sarah Christie

Deputy Director, Operations & Strategy

Sarah Christie is an accomplished sports and event operations leader whose career spans facility management, organizational strategy, community engagement, and large-scale program delivery.

As Deputy Director of Operations & Strategy for Alexandria Soccer Association, Sarah helps guide the systems and partnerships behind one of Northern Virginia’s most active community sports organizations. Her work encompasses athletic facilities, scheduling and field safety, operational planning, staff support, community partnerships, event logistics, and initiatives designed to make sports more accessible. She is known for combining strategic thinking with a highly practical, hands-on approach to getting things done.

Sarah previously served as Director of Soccer Operations at Uihlein Soccer Park with Milwaukee Kickers Soccer Club. Her broader management experience includes event leadership with the American Horticultural Society at River Farm and admissions leadership at The Basilica School of Saint Mary.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Sarah brings an analytical and people-centered perspective to complex operational challenges. Her work is grounded in the belief that strong facilities, thoughtful systems, and responsive leadership can expand access to sport and strengthen communities.

ASA STaff

Adem Gokturk

Academy Director

Becky Lilly

Club Administrator

Ben Hawkins

Tournament Director

Chris Arnold

Deputy Director, Academy & Futsal

Cindy Lopez

Recreation Director

Damar Bess

MLS Next Administrator & Coach

Emily Pinette

Development Manager

Grigor Boychev

Junior Academy & Ball Mastery Director

Hugo Lopez

Operations Assistant

Jim Hogan

Deputy Director of Tournaments & Programs

Johnatan Nuñez

Outreach & School Programs Manager

Jonah Schuman

Academy Registrar, Girls College Planning, & GK Director

Jorge Borrayo

Operations Manager

Katie Brooks

Deputy Director, PR & Communications

Liz Blount headshot

Liz Blount

Tots Director

Martin Ozores

Grassroots Program Assistant Manager

Nick Papadis

Program Manager

Omar Ismail

Academy Boys MLS NEXT Director & College Placement

Paul Scheland

Program Manager

Pedro Paiva

Special Programs & International Trips Director

Ryan Becker

Human Resources & Finance Director

Ryan Rich

Technical Director

Sarah Christie

Deputy Director, Operations & Strategy

Tim Lenzo

Academy Girls Director

Tommy Park

Executive Director

Veliko Uzunangelov

Adult Programs Manager

William Jarvis

Program Lead | Development Academy