WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – Thursday, April 19, 2018 – The Des Moines Menace’s full-time staff added a new member last week.

Evan Janssen is leading the Menace’s youth programs in his role as Soccer Operations Manager.

A native of Ackley, Iowa, Janssen looks to continue the growth of the Menace Academy, Junior Menace and Menace Camps and Clinics.

“I’m very excited to be a part of the Des Moines Menace,” Janssen said. “This is a way to serve the community’s youth on top of being involved in a sport I love. I’m already enjoying working with so many great families that are part of our Club, and I look forward to building these relationships in the years to come.”

Janssen is a soon-to-be Iowa State graduate. For the last four years, he has served as a Student Manager for ISU Men’s Basketball, growing into leadership roles during a time marked by two Big 12 championships, three NCAA Tournament appearances and six Cyclones who have gone on to the National Basketball Association.

Working with youth is a passion for Janssen. The last three summers, he was part of the coaching staff at basketball camps for Iowa State head coaches Fred Hoiberg and Steve Prohm. Two years ago, Janssen worked with friends to start the Grace Harken “Heart of a Champion” Camps, in memory of a friend who passed away in 2015. This one-day summer camp in Riceville, Iowa, provides basketball and football training for local youth.

Janssen joins the Menace as the organization is realigning in preparations for its 25th season, which kicks off Thursday, May 24 with a home match against WSA Winnipeg.

Lyle Hunt, who has guided the Menace’s youth programs since March 2015, is training Janssen while taking on the Director of Operations role. After 10 years as Director of Operations, Adam Small is transitioning into a new position as Director of Marketing. He is continuing to lead the Club’s youth tournaments, which Janssen will start directing in the fall.

The organization also has new leadership, with General Manager Tiley Nunnink and Head Coach Alen Marcina accepting these roles this winter.