Retired WPSL Commissioner & Champion of Women’s Soccer Speaks Out
“A man of amazing willpower, focused dedication, and unwavering influence, Jerry Zanelli called me today,” said Diane Scavuzzo. “I knew his health was failing, but hearing his voice lifted me. He told me, with his usual honesty, that he wasn’t sure which would take him first, his kidneys or his heart. Yet even then, he was full of energy and wanted to reflect on his lasting legacy.”
A personal tribute to a man I greatly admired.
The Voice Behind the Fight for Equality
Jerry Zanelli, the longtime commissioner and founder of the Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL)—the largest women’s soccer league in the world—was always a champion for the women’s game. His impact is woven into the fabric of U.S. women’s soccer, from elevating players to creating meaningful opportunities when professional leagues faltered. 
Always unapologetic and fiercely focused, Jerry gave more than his time—he gave his heart and his voice to a fight for equality that has spanned generations.
READ: Jerry Zanelli: The Relentless Force Who Built the Foundation of Women’s Soccer in America
A Conversation About Legacy
In one of their final conversations, Diane Scavuzzo asked Jerry:
Diane Scavuzzo: What do you want to be remembered for most?
Jerry Zanelli: “That I fought for women’s rights in soccer—by desire and necessity. The WPSL is a leader in that respect. I know the fight for equality will be carried on by many. The Federation, USASA, United Soccer Coaches—they all need to see the necessity of an equal women’s division so women can finally have equality with men.”
His voice grew stronger as he added:
“Everyone has talked for years about wanting the women’s game to grow, but they have shown little real inclination to make it happen.”
“The suppression of women—and not only in soccer—has been the trademark of Western civilization.”
Jerry Zanelli
Then, with his signature bluntness and urgency, Jerry added:
“It is time—f—ing time—to step up and continue the battle. The only legacy I want to leave is that women get the equal recognition they deserve. I want people to get off their lazy asses and do something every day for the women’s game. This is more of a ‘please’ than a demand.”
And then, softening as he often did when speaking to friends, he told Diane:
“I have cherished our friendship—it’s one of the things that makes me feel good about life.”
A Personal Reflection
Jerry, there is nothing to embellish here. Your words stand strong. I just can’t stop crying while publishing this. You are so special to so many people.
I first met Jerry outside the WPS Women’s Draft in 2012. New to covering soccer, I was stunned by the chaos that surrounded the women’s game. Only a day earlier, I had attended the MLS SuperDraft—polished, professional, and slick. The next day, at the Women’s Professional Soccer Draft, they lost their internet mid-draft.
As I stood there frustrated and venting, Jerry—charming as always—struck up a conversation. That moment changed everything for me. He pulled me into his orbit and into the mission of the WPSL Elite League, which stepped in to fill the void left behind when WPS collapsed and before NWSL was born.
The Man Who Made People Think
Jerry has always been someone who brings out the best in others, even when ruffling feathers along the way. Jerry makes people think, which is a rare and priceless gift.
What I have always loved most about him is his raw, honest nature—opinionated, unapologetic, and endlessly committed to advancing women’s soccer.
Jerry Zanelli was a singular force. A tireless steward of the women’s game. A leader who refused to accept inequality as the status quo.
His legacy will live on not only in the WPSL but also in every corner of the sport where women now stand stronger, fight harder, and dream bigger because of his work.
May the day soon come when the equality Jerry fought for is finally won.
