FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2025
PCDA Charlotte Appoints Kelly Findley as Head Coach
Charlotte, N.C. — PCDA Charlotte today announced the appointment of Kelly Findley as Head Coach, bringing a seasoned leader with a proven track record in player development, winning culture, and community impact to helm PCDA’s next phase of growth.
Findley will work closely with the current technical staff to further develop the PCDA footprint not just in Charlotte, but nationally too. He will also collaborate closely with PCDA’s national network to align training methodology, performance standards, and college recruiting support.
“Kelly is the ideal steward for our mission in Charlotte,” said Ryan Hodgson, Founder & CEO of PCDA. “He blends elite-level coaching acumen with genuine care for the long-term growth of each athlete—on the field, in the classroom, and as people. Our families and players will feel his impact from day one.”
Findley, widely respected throughout the coaching world for his thoughtful, detail-driven approach, emphasized his commitment to building an environment where players thrive. “I’m honored to not just be joining PCDA Charlotte, but the National PCDA operations” Findley said. “We’ll set clear standards, train with purpose, compete with joy, and help every player understand their pathway—whether that’s earning a college opportunity or maximizing their potential in our program. I can’t wait to get started with our staff, families, and community.”
Under the current PCDA leadership, Findley will work closely with the current staff to further enhance initiatives this year, including:
A unified game model with appropriate tactical principles and positional development plans
Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for every player, with regular benchmark reviews and video feedback
Expanded college guidance, featuring showcase planning, recruiting education, and direct outreach support
Coach education clinics and open training sessions to deepen ties with the Charlotte soccer community
“Kelly will elevate our day-to-day training while sharpening our long-term pathway,” added Ryan Hodgson “He knows how to build teams that play the right way—and how to nurture the habits and mindset that translate to success at the next level.”
Findley will begin in January, with meetings and onboarding sessions scheduled over the coming months.
About PCDA Charlotte
PCDA (Pre-College Development Academy) is a purpose-built soccer development platform that prepares student-athletes for the next level—technically, tactically, physically, and academically. PCDA delivers a holistic curriculum, expert coaching, and personalized college guidance in a positive, high-performance environment. Learn more at precollegeda.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PCDA Announces Strategic relocation from Nashville, TN to Charlotte NC, Amplifying Exposure for Student Athletes
Minneapolis, MN –5/15/2025 – The Pre-College Development Academy (PCDA), the leading transitional year program in the United States dedicated to the holistic development and college placement of student athletes, today announced its strategic relocation of core operations from Nashville, Tennessee, to Charlotte, North Carolina. This move is designed to capitalize on the burgeoning athletic landscape of the “College Soccer Capital of the World” and significantly enhance exposure opportunities for PCDA’s talented student athletes.
For the past 5 years, PCDA has successfully guided aspiring college athletes in Nashville, TN and Augusta, GA, providing them with expert coaching, academic support, and invaluable exposure to college soccer programs.
Pre-College DA CEO Ryan Hodgson says “This strategic shift to Charlotte marks an exciting new chapter in PCDA’s commitment to maximizing the potential of its student athletes, its partnerships and further enhancing our relationships with colleges not just on the East coast, but across the United States…
“Nashville has been a fantastic home for PCDA, and we are incredibly proud of the athletes we have supported there…”said Hodgson. “However, Charlotte presents a unique and compelling opportunity for growth. The region boasts a vibrant and expanding sports scene, coupled with strong connections to dozens of colleges and universities across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. This move will allow us to forge deeper relationships and create even more pathways for our student athletes to achieve their collegiate dreams… Adding Charlotte to our newest Denver, Colorado academy, we are strategically positioned to be a major developer for college soccer programs for years to come
The relocation to Charlotte will enable PCDA to:
- Increase Visibility: Charlotte’s central location and active recruitment presence will provide PCDA student athletes with greater exposure to a wider range of college scouts and programs.
- Expand Networking Opportunities: The move will facilitate stronger connections with local high schools, athletic organizations, and college coaches in the region.
- Enhance Training and Development: PCDA plans to establish state-of-the-art training facilities in Charlotte, offering athletes access to cutting-edge resources and coaching methodologies.
- Attract Top Talent: Charlotte’s growing reputation as a sports hub will help PCDA attract and develop even more high-caliber student athletes.
PCDA remains steadfast in its commitment to a comprehensive approach that prioritizes athletic excellence, academic achievement, and character development. The move to Charlotte will further strengthen these pillars, providing student athletes with an unparalleled platform to succeed both on and off the field.
“I’m thrilled about PCDA’s move from Tennessee to Charlotte—it places us right in the heart of one of the most vibrant college soccer regions in the country. North Carolina is home to an incredible network of programs at every level, and this move gives our student-athletes even greater exposure, access, and opportunity to connect with the college game in meaningful ways.” said Dr. Mathes Mennell, Director of Academics and National Partnerships, with PCDA.
PCDA will begin transitioning its operations to Charlotte over the next few weeks. Current PCDA student athletes and families will receive detailed information regarding the transition process. PCDA is excited to become an integral part of the Charlotte community and looks forward to a bright future empowering the next generation of college athletes.
About Pre- College Development Academy (PCDA):
The-Pre College Development Academy (PCDA) is a dedicated organization committed to the comprehensive development of student athletes. Through expert coaching, academic guidance, and strategic exposure, PCDA bridges the gap between young athletes trying to reach their full potential and achieve their goals of competing at the collegiate level.
Contact:
Admissions@precollegeda.com
Socials – @PreCollegeDA
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