John “Shedzy” Sheridan

John “Shedzy” Sheridan is a highly respected soccer leader, coach, and nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of experience developing athletes, coaches, and community-based sports programs in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Originally from England, John holds a Higher National Certificate in Business Administration and has earned some of the highest coaching credentials in the sport, including the U.S. Soccer Federation “A” License, the United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma with Distinction, and the English Football Association Level 3 Coaching Certificate.

Since 2007, John has served as Executive Director of Johnston Urbandale Soccer Club and, since 2014, as Executive Director of Sporting Iowa. Under his leadership, Sporting Iowa has grown into one of the Midwest’s premier youth soccer organizations, serving more than 3,000 players annually. He has overseen strategic planning, staff development, financial management, nonprofit compliance, and long-term player development while building partnerships that expand opportunities for youth throughout Iowa.

A passionate advocate for making the game accessible to every child, John has helped more than 300 student-athletes continue their soccer careers at NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, and junior college programs, while also developing players who have represented Iowa, the Midwest Region, and the United States through Olympic Development Programs.

John is equally committed to removing financial barriers that prevent children from participating in sports. Through his work with the Karen Coaldrake Financial Assistance Fund (KCFAF) and Just One Goal, he has helped provide scholarships, financial assistance, and resources that allow children and families to participate in soccer regardless of their financial circumstances. He believes every child deserves the opportunity to experience the life lessons, friendships, and confidence that come from being part of a team.