It is with great sadness that we inform you that Evelyn Gill passed away on Wednesday, December 8th.
“Whether in her role as a national board member or as the president of our neighboring state soccer association, Evelyn was always the best of partners,” Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer CEO Chris Branscome said. “She always cared most about the children and serving the best interests of the game. Evelyn fought passionately for greater support for girls and disabled athletes and sought to be a unifier within our sport. Having worked with her personally on many projects over the last 20 years, I saw her dedication first hand. She was always a friend as well as colleague. On behalf of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, we are forever grateful for Evelyn Gill’s imprint on soccer.”
Evelyn served in many roles for US Youth Soccer spanning over three decades. She began her involvement with youth soccer at the grassroots level where she established numerous recreational programs for the players in addition to coaching both recreational and competitive teams. Gill was elected as the president of New Jersey Youth Soccer three times. She established the first NJYS state office, initiated the US Youth Soccer American Cup festival, and organized the New Jersey Youth Soccer’s first coaching workshop.
Gill was chosen as Secretary on the US Youth Soccer Board of Directors in 1996 and held that position until she was elected as the Vice President of the US Youth Soccer Board of Directors in 1998, a position she held for 14 years. She also served as a member on the United States Soccer Federation Board of Directors. In addition, she volunteered on several committees and was the president of New Jersey Soccer Association from 2016-2020. In 2016, Gill was inducted into the US Youth Soccer Hall of Fame Class of 2015.
It is difficult to catalogue all Evelyn’s efforts over the years. Her commitment and dedication to soccer made an immeasurable impact on not only those in the soccer world but everyone around her. She will be greatly missed.
Our hearts go out to Evelyn’s family at this difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts.
Funeral services will be on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Allentown Presbyterian Church 20 High Street, Allentown, NJ