SWPL Announces Dennis Pope as Vice President of Communications

LA MIRADA, CA (April 18, 2022) – The Southwest Premier League (SWPL) announces Dennis Pope as its new Vice President of Communications and Media Director.

Pope joins the SWPL following six years as an architect of the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) and brings expansive league office experience to his new role within the NISA affiliate structure.

“We are proud to welcome Dennis to the SWPL as our new Vice President of Communications,” Southwest Premier League President Matt Morse said. “His knowledge of the game and experience at the amateur and semi-pro level is extensive. He’s been a player, a coach, a referee, and a member of league management. He’s seen how the American soccer system works from the inside, and he has a proven track record of success as a communications professional. He’s a leader and a difference maker, and we’re thrilled that he’s a part of NISA as a member of the SWPL family.”

A native of Riverside, CA, Pope is a sports writing professional of more than 20 years with the Southern California Newspaper Group and other outlets. He currently contributes to National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) media as a commentator on its California United Strikers FC and L.A. Force broadcasts.  

“The clubs are what are important in this structure that we’re all building together, and NISA prioritizes the clubs. That’s why I’m here,” Pope said. “The structure created by NISA to NISA Nation to Southwest Premier League and its other affiliates lays the groundwork for the future and the rise of community clubs.”

Pope will focus on media efforts for the SWPL, its clubs and its affiliates across the Southwest United States.

“The SWPL got a strong start on the marketing side under Steven Ramirez, and his contributions were significant,” Pope said. “This league and its affiliates have made solid steps thanks to the hard work of Steven and many others, and now it’s time to expand upon that footprint.”