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2025 marks the 59th anniversary of the Judge Dowd League

The Judge Dowd League was established in 1966 and named after my father, Judge Robert G. Dowd, Sr., in recognition of his tireless commitment to youth sports and dedication to helping children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, both on and off the field. Please refer to the information about my father along with pictures and stories about the leagues’ early years on this page.

It is a nonprofit all volunteer league whose mission is to provide instruction in the fundamentals and rules of the game of soccer while stressing the importance of sportsmanship and teamwork along with promoting friendly rivalry among our parishes. The primary focus of each coach is to ensure that the experience for the kids is positive and  enjoyable, with an emphasis on fostering a love for the beautiful game rather than solely on winning games.

Team sports offer important life lessons that can build positive character traits that will benefit children beyond the playing field throughout their lives. I want to thank all of the volunteer coaches for their contribution to the league and their parish, as well as for their investment in our youth through the gift of their time and talents. As the renowned quote states, “No person stands as tall as one who stoops to help a child.”

To ensure that each season is a positive and enjoyable experience for all, it is the collective responsibility of every coach, parent and player to follow the league rules and policies, comply with the codes of conduct and set an example of sportsmanship at all times.

It has been my privilege to serve as the league commissioner since 1996. Please contact me at judgedowd@icloud.com with any questions or concerns regarding the operation of the league. Thanks for visiting our website.

David Dowd
League Commissioner
314 603 6398

SPORTS RELATED ACHIEVEMENTS

• Coached inner-city youth soccer at Holy Guardian Angel Parish, 1969-1971
• Player and Coach CYC Soccer League
• CYC Board of Directors member for over 20 years, serving as chairman for two years
• Chairman of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch Scholar-Athlete Program for over 15 years
• Recipient of CYC Gold Boot Award in 1989 recognizing 50 years of service
• Posthumous inductee into the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame in 2001.