Our Team
Steve Jablow - Tournament Director
Steve has. been involved in youth soccer for over a quarter of a century. He brings multiple areas of knowledge to Traditions Soccer Fest. As the owner of SNG Assigning, a former USSF Referee Instructor and Regional Referee Emeritus, he understands what it takes to get the youth referee to the next level.
At SNG Assigning he developed the Tournament Mentoring Program which still operates at their tournaments. The program developed multiple Regional Referees and a National Referee. SNG Assigning have assigned local, regional and national level youth games as well as college and high school.
Steve enjoys the warm water of Mexico as often as soccer allows in addition to decorating his Aurora, IL home.
Steve co-founded Illinois Referee Alliance.
Bruce Bode - Festival Director
Bruce Bode brings thirty years of soccer experience to Traditions Soccer Fest. He also possesses a wealth of event knowledge, having produced his first event forty years ago at Marquette University. In addition to years as a referee and referee assignor, Bruce is a Regional Referee Assessor and Instructor, coaching and evaluating referees. As a Referee Liaison in Chicago he has worked at MLS and NWSL games as well as, Gold Cup, Copa America and US Women’s National Team games.
For no good reason, Bruce appeared as an background extra in a blockbuster Hollywood film, starred in a Weather Channel documentary and performed on The Second City ETC stage.
He is proudest though of being the father of three wonderful and accomplished kids, although, his bride is actually the one who should take credit for that. If asked, he’ll talk your leg off about the dangers of coconuts.
He is a co-founder of Illinois Referee Alliance.