Major League Indoor Soccer Names Bernie Lilavois Commissioner

Chicago, Ill. (November 2024) – Major League Indoor Soccer (MLIS) announced today the appointment of Bernie Lilavois as its new commissioner. Lilavois brings more than 35 years of experience as a player, coach and executive across the professional soccer landscape.

“I’m honored and grateful for this opportunity to help Major League Indoor Soccer grow across North America and beyond,” Lilavois says. “I’m excited and ready to work with our teams, league staff and partners. MLIS has a bright future, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”

Lilavois began his professional playing career in 1991 with the San Francisco Bay Blackhawks, winning the American Professional Soccer League (APSL) title as a rookie. Transitioning to indoor soccer in 1995, he played for the San Jose Grizzlies and Anaheim Splash, where he earned a Continental Indoor Soccer League (CISL) All-Star selection in 1997.

Over the course of his extensive playing career, Lilavois played for more than 16 professional teams, including the Cincinnati Silverbacks (National Professional Soccer League), Portland Pythons (World Indoor Soccer League), and Cleveland Force (Major Indoor Soccer League), among others, where he accumulated over 1,000 career points. He also served as team captain for the Connecticut Wolves in 2000 before retiring in 2001, with a return to professional soccer in 2003.

Lilavois also brings extensive experience in coaching and management. He was part of the United States National Futsal Team player pool from 2000 to 2005 and served as the inaugural head coach of the U.S. National Arena Soccer Team in 2007. He also previously owned and operated the Anaheim Bolts and Ontario Fury, where he served as both head coach and team president. Under his guidance, the Stockton Cougars won the Professional Arena Soccer League (PASL) championship in 2009. His leadership also includes serving as vice president of the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) board of directors, where he played a key role in the creation of the M2 division.

“Bernie’s extensive experience and unwavering commitment to the sport make him an invaluable addition to MLIS,” says Dr. Sev Hrywnak, MLIS president. “His leadership will be crucial in shaping the league’s future and expanding its presence.”

As commissioner, Lilavois will oversee league operations, spearhead development initiatives and lead community engagement efforts. His appointment marks an exciting chapter for MLIS as it continues to elevate indoor soccer in the United States and beyond.