Manchester Youth Soccer League was conceived in 1979 by Karl Pfeiffer, Merrick Counsel, Dick Engel, and Charles (Chip) Chamberlain - MYSL's founding fathers. It was actually Dick Engel who got the proverbial ball rolling. Reason - John Engel (Pam and Dick's son) had played soccer in the Atlanta GA area and they wanted it to continue here in Manchester VT. After Dick had gained the support of Karl, Merrick, and Chip, the group sought the help of John Werner in Arlington. John had organized the Southwestern Vermont Youth Soccer League (SWVYSL) in 1975 consisting then of just 3 towns - Arlington, Bennington, and Pownal. MYSL became the 4th participating club in the 1980 fall season. Since then, John Werner has been a mentor to MYSL by hosting annual coaching clinics; providing administrative guidance; and instilling a club philosophy focused on learning, sportsmanship, and fun. In recognition of John's hard work and devotion to SWVYSL, the league was renamed in 2011 - John Werner Youth Soccer League (JWYSL).
MYSL celebrated its 30th anniversary at Mulligan's Restaurant in November of 2008. Attending that night were Dick Engel, Karl Pfeiffer, Merrick Counsel, John Werner and Geof Chamberlain (standing in for his dad Chip) - picture above right. Also present were “old guard” MYSL alumni Bill Drunsic, Dom Penge, Brian and Errol Hill; past club presidents Steve Houseman, Tom Smith, Mark Read, and John Sullivan; 2008 MYSL coaches Todd Nebraska, Tom Grabher, Jeff Barclay, Sue Cottrell, and Jim Sullivan; and 2008 MYSL board members Karen Grabher, Les Jorgensen, Barry Brown, and Pat Zilkha.
The entire article can be found by clicking "History of MYSL" in the rigtht margin of this website. The attendees at the 30th anniversery party spun many stories about how things were during the early years and the many changes that have occurred over these past 3 decades. If you have anything to add to our club history, please email Steve Houseman at [email protected].
Note: On May 2, 2012 Dick Engel passed away. Dick left behind an incredible legacy to MYSL and the Northshire community.