LOS ANGELES (July 21, 2025) – The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) announced the appointment of Matt Morse as Chief Executive Officer. Morse joins NISA at a time when the league is transitioning its entire executive team, and preparing to host the NISA Pro Cup this fall.

An agent for change at many levels of the game, Morse remains steadfast in his approach to driving club-focused innovations. Over the past 30 years as a player, coach, technical director and league administrator for several organizations, Morse has been at the forefront of soccer in Southern California. As President of the Southwest Premier League, he has created a multi-state elite amateur league that dominates USASA's Region IV with its partners across the western states. Under his visionary leadership, the SWPL has seen significant growth and is on the precipice of further expansion. More recently, as Director of NISA Nation, he fueled revenue generation, expanded the league's reach and led the way for two national championships. 

Morse and colleague Paul Gizzi launched the SoCal Seahorses in the United Soccer League's PDL (now USL League 2) in 2001 and served as the club's director of operations for more than 10 years. The club twice was selected PDL Club of the Year, and Morse was the league's Operations Person of the Year in 2006. He went on to lead AC Brea in North Orange County, Calif. for 15 years, and was honored with the “Grow the Game” award for expansion from CalSouth.

Married for 30 years and counting to wife Dianna and the father to three adult sons, Morse has traveled to more than 25 countries through soccer projects. He holds a master's degree in Intercultural Studies with a focus on Sport’s Impact on Culture from Biola University (’18) and a USSF A License. He previously guided Los Angeles Force during NISA's 2023 season.

“We’re very excited for the impact Matt is going to have as NISA resets," said Ron Gilmore, NISA Operations Consultant. "In the search for a new CEO, we heard Matt's name over and over again as a leader with the vision and capability to elevate NISA into one of the most essential playing platforms. His bold leadership with the Southwest Premier League and NISA Nation make him an ideal leader to guide NISA into its next chapter."

“It’s a privilege to join NISA and contribute to a mission that deeply resonates with me, I truly believe the future of the game depends on providing more opportunities for clubs to meet their full potential by adding a professional team,” Morse said. “NISA can play a vital role in U.S. Soccer — alongside our partners — in helping small and mid-sized soccer businesses thrive in an increasingly complex professional landscape. I look forward to working with our member clubs to create a positive and professional culture and build NISA a strong foundation. The opportunity ahead is immense.”