Robert “Bob” Singer

North Carolina Soccer Hall of Fame

Class of 2024

Robert “Bob” Singer

Bob Singer has made significant contributions to soccer, both as a coach and a player, showcasing a deep passion for the sport. Beginning in 1989, he took on the role of coaching his daughter Catherine's soccer team, a path many parents take to be more involved in their children's activities. Under his guidance, the Greensboro United girls' challenge team rose to become one of the top teams in the state, a testament to his dedication and skill as a coach.

Even after his daughter Catherine graduated, Bob's commitment to youth soccer continued. He volunteered to coach five more youth teams, giving his time and experience to the development of young players until 2012. His involvement in the game wasn't limited to coaching; Bob also played in the Greensboro Adult League, where he still remains active today, demonstrating his enduring love for soccer.

His journey from the sidelines as a coach to being a player on the field shows the full spectrum of his passion for the sport, influencing players and staying connected to the game for decades.

Bob Singer's dedication to soccer transcends the field, extending into leadership roles that have had a lasting impact on the sport, especially in North Carolina. After establishing himself as a dedicated coach, Bob took his passion to the Board of Directors of the Greensboro Youth Soccer Association (GYSA), where he was elected President-Elect in 1997, President in 1998, President-Elect in 1999, and President in 2000.

His visionary leadership was instrumental in expanding Greensboro's soccer infrastructure. One of his crowning achievements was leading the fundraising and construction of the Jim Batten Training Complex, adding six fields to the Bryan Park Soccer Complex. This expansion made it possible for Greensboro to host the prestigious 2003 US Youth Soccer Association (USYSA) Southern Regionals. Bob also played a crucial role in negotiations with the Carolina Dynamo to construct Macpherson Stadium, a key enhancement for the Bryan Park complex.

Known for his unorthodox yet effective leadership style, Bob was frequently seen driving his golf cart around the soccer complex, personally addressing concerns from parents and ensuring a positive environment. His approachable, hands-on management earned him great respect from colleagues and the community. As former Executive Director Demp Bradford noted, Bob had a unique ability to "drive up and deescalate most issues," ensuring smooth operations at the soccer fields.

Bob's leadership extended beyond Greensboro when he served as President of the North Carolina Youth Soccer Association (NCYSA) from 2001 to 2009, following the retirement of the iconic Bob Kepner. During his tenure, he continued to shape youth soccer in the State and beyond. He was asked to serve on the U.S. Soccer Federation's Ad Hoc Negotiating Committee (2002-2006) and the Rules Committee (2001-2003). In 2009, he was chosen by his peers as the Region Ill Director, placing him on the U.S. Youth Soccer Board of Directors until 2013.

As an attorney, Bob has served as General Counsel for NCYSA, and his deep legal expertise has been a valuable asset to the organization. His passion for youth soccer led him back to leadership roles, and in 2017, he returned as Executive Vice President of NCYSA before starting his second term as President in 2022.

Bob Singer's influence in soccer, whether as a coach, player, board member, or President, has left an indelible mark on the sport at both the local and national levels. His vision and tireless dedication have helped shape the soccer landscape in North Carolina and contributed to the broader growth of youth soccer in the United States.