Long-Time Soccer Leader and Entrepreneur Takes Reigns of
NISA’s Amateur-to-Pro Incubator

CHICAGO (July 21, 2021) – The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) today proudly announced Ron Patel as the new managing director of NISA Nation. Patel brings his leadership and entrepreneurial skills forged over a 20-year career to guide the launch of the full-year league that provides amateur, independent clubs a groundbreaking path to professional status.

“As NISA lays the foundation for a truly sustainable open system, Ron’s experience and leadership will be crucial,” says NISA Executive Vice President Josh Prutch. “He has a keen sense for organization, culture and timing gleaned from his experience in building companies. His devotion to the development of the game and players is evident anytime you engage him.”

Most recently having formed New Mexico-based Chameleon Consulting Group, Patel occupied primary leadership positions for professional clubs such as RGV FC Toros in Texas and New Mexico United in Albuquerque, which he helped found. Prior to that, he co-founded amateur club Albuquerque Sol FC.

"I'm very excited to be reconnecting with the grassroots part of the game with NISA Nation,” says Patel. “I grew up in England going to the matches of tiny Chester City (now Chester FC of the National League North division) as well as non-league games around the northwest of England. I'm thrilled to get to be a part of growing the grassroots of the game nationally!

"The dream of an open system in the United States is now a reality through NISA Nation,” he adds. “It may not look exactly the same as it does in other (smaller) countries, but it's extremely exciting to play a part in this as we rapidly approach the 2026 World Cup in the United States."

For 10 years, Patel built Albuquerque-based food delivery service Just Dine In which merged with Portland-based Delivered Dish in 2013. He left when it was acquired by GrubHub at the end of 2015. That same year, Patel authored a book titled That’s When It Hit Me: How to Take an Idea from a Cocktail Napkin to Reality. He attended Arizona State University and currently lives in Albuquerque with his wife Isabelle and is a proud step-parent to Jose and Dominique.

About NISA Nation

NISA Nation, a component of the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA), is a full-year league providing amateur independent clubs a groundbreaking path to professional status. NISA Nation bridges success on the amateur affiliate level – including Eastern Premier Soccer League, SoCal Premier League Gulf Coast Premier League, Midwest Premier League, and Mountain Premier League – to a spot on the NISA PRO level. Activating in Fall 2021, it will maintain the highest standards of any amateur league, requiring the same level of professionalism within the front office and on the pitch expected of NISA PRO clubs. Keeping the spirit of independence, particular requirements and competition format will be determined with direct input of the participating clubs. NISA Nation also includes NISA Network, the home for all things NISA, independent clubs and the open system. Learn more about NISA Nation at nisanation.com or follow on Twitter at @TheNISANation and on Instagram at @nisanationsoccer.