The Vicksburg Soccer Organization (VSO) was organized in 1974 by a group of soccer enthusiasts, including Ed Link and Don Rathburn, both of whom were involved in collegiate soccer before coming to Vicksburg. Several of VSO’s founders were also instrumental in organizing the Mississippi Youth Soccer Association (MYSA). Rathburn served as the first MYSA president and several VSO members participated as MYSA founding officers. The fledgling VSO grew rapidly and by the mid-1980s had surpassed 1,500 registered players. Recognizing the need to provide a progressive learning and developmental environment for players interested in more competitive soccer, the VSO established the Cannon Soccer Club in 1982. Under Bob Kennedy’s direction, the club expanded from its initial Under-16 Boys team to eventually fielding teams in Under-11 to Under-19 Boys and Under-11 to Under-18 Girls.

As a means to broaden cultural and playing experiences, club teams have traveled internationally...