Meet The Board: Mary Flanagan

Get to know our board members

We’ve really received a lot of positive feedback on Get to Know Our Board, where we’ll shine a spotlight on the incredible volunteer board members who help keep Circle City FC moving forward.

These are the people working behind the scenes—giving their time, energy, and expertise—to support our players, families, and coaches and to help shape the future of our club. In each post, we’ll introduce you to one board member, share a bit about who they are, what they do, and why they’re passionate about Circle City FC, so you can get to know the faces and stories behind the club you’re a part of.

Today, we introduce you to our Queen of Concessions, Mary Flanagan.

q: What is your current board position and role at circle city fc?

I am currently the Concessions Coordinator. I'm in charge of picking up and/or ordering all supplies needed to help our concession stand run smoothly. I try to bring in something new each year to change things up a bit, so I love getting suggestions from our CCFC families. I also get to work with students from Franklin Central High School. Many of our student volunteers are earning their needed volunteer hours for a variety of organizations. It's early mornings and long days, but so much fun!

q: When did you join the ccfc board?

I've been a part of the board here and there since 2015. I took on the role of Concessions Coordinator in 2021.

q: What inspired you to get involved with the club?

If I'm being honest, it was hearing "Are you ready to join the board yet?" weekly for a few seasons from a well known board member. He was friendly, kind and always willing to help. The idea of joining was a little intimidating, but I'm so glad I finally did.

q: What's the most rewarding part of serving on the board?

I really love seeing families week after week, and getting to know them a little bit more. Our "regulars" are my favorite! I have kiddos that once came up to the window so shy, barely willing to order for themselves, and now they will stop by just to tell me all about their game or anything else they have going on. We have families that always stop by for their weekly nachos or a walking taco, rain or shine. It may seem silly to most, but those are the families that make my day. They make it easy to show up, even on the hard days.

q: What's one thing families might be surprised to learn about running a youth soccer club?

There are very few youth soccer clubs that are run 100% by volunteers. Circle City FC is one of them, and that's something I'm so incredibly proud of. We are CHOOSING to be here week after week. It takes a lot of time and effort to make each season a success, and the work continues even in the off season.

q: Why do you believe community involvement and volunteer leadership matter in youth sports?

They are the backbone of youth sports. Without them, programs simply can't survive. Volunteers keep programs running and help keep costs down, making them more affordable. Volunteer coaches teach teamwork, social skills and discipline. Local businesses support us too, create connections and a stronger community.

q: What would you say to someone considering getting involved with the club?

Any and all help is appreciated! Whether it's your time, a connection, or sponsorship, it all helps. There are many "jobs" available within our club that require very little time, and others that are quite time-consuming. Whatever your availability is, we have something to fit your schedule. Also, don't feel like you must know the rules of soccer to volunteer. While it's helpful, it's not necessary.

q: What is your favorite soccer memory?

My most favorite memories will always be watching my daughters play soccer at CCFC. While my oldest daughter moved on from soccer years ago, it's been fun to watch my youngest daughter continue playing and move on to coaching as well.

q: What soccer club (other than ccfc) do you support?

San Diego Wave FC