The Major Indoor Soccer League features 10 teams that play from fall to spring. (Allsport/Getty Images)Steve Ryan resigned Tuesday as commissioner and chief executive officer of the Major Indoor Soccer League.
Ryan has served as MISL commissioner since 2000.
"I have decided it is time for new challenges," he said in a statement.
"I look back on the past eight years with pride. The league has made tremendous strides, both on the field of play and off.
"However, there are differing opinions held among league ownership, regarding the future direction of the league. I believe it is in the best interest of the league that they make decisions without my thinking."
A committee will oversee operations until a new commissioner is hired to replace Ryan, who previously spent 13 years as president and CEO of NHL Enterprises.
He later was president and CEO of Pittsburgh Sports Holdings Co., and president and CEO of Strike Ten Entertainment.
Prior to joining the NHL, Ryan was vice-president and chief marketing officer for the Paddington Corporation.
With files from the Associated Press
