Central Park Rangers Announce Paul Grafas as APSL Team Manager

NEW YORK, N.Y., August 4th, 2026 – Central Park Rangers FC is proud to announce the appointment of Paul Grafas the the club’s new American Premier Soccer League’s Manager, ushering in a new era built on relentless energy, high standards, and a commitment to an identity rooted in achievement.

Grafas brings a wealth of coaching experience, as well as a proven record of success, coaching youth U14 and U15 MLSNext teams at FC Westchester, both of which ranked in the Top 20. Grafas views coaching in any form as his part to play in the next generation’s love of the game, as well as his responsibility to the game to keep its traditions alive. Before his involvement in coaching, Grafas was an avid player of the game, confessing that he grew up on the field, following in the footsteps of his father and uncle who played professionally in Greece. Grafas would later play in similarly high levels in Greece as well as for the United States U16 National Team.

Throughout his career, Grafas has taken pride in helping players develop and advance through the professional pathway and bridging the gap between youth and men’s soccer into professionalism. His coaching philosophy is centered on creating an environment where players are encouraged to grow and develop daily. “We all learn everyday,” Grafas said, remarking that one's mindset is the make-or-break of one's talent, and that each player's qualities are meant to blend into the masterpiece of a successful team.

“You know why I’m so into this? Because I see how the world is changing so fast but through sport we still find hope and direction.” 

As he begins his tenure with CPR, Grafas is focused on establishing a clear team identity rooted in fitness, energy, discipline, and intelligent play. His approach maximizes the strengths of his squad, while exploiting opponents weaknesses, believing that excellence comes from mastering the fundamentals. 

When laying out his expectations of the team's inaugural season, Grafas harped on making a competitive environment early on, saying, “complacency is your worst enemy. It all starts from the training environment, and guys competing to contribute to a team's success is where energy builds.” Grafas further emphasized his passion for putting out the best team possible every week through such a competitive training program. 

In assembling the pieces of the new program, Grafas’s immediate priority is bringing the group together under one cohesive identity. While he sets ambitious goals, he believes expectations should always be realistic and earned. 

“I try to be as realistic and logical as possible,” Grafas said, outlining that high support leads to high performance, and high performance drives high expectations. This mentality has defined much of his coaching career, where embracing challenges and overcoming odds have become hallmarks of his success, remarking, “I love being the underdog.”

Grafas was drawn to CPR because of the club’s vision and believes the foundation is already in place to compete at a high level. “I want us to become a team that opponents fear,” he said. “I came here because I saw the vision for this club, and I’m looking forward to making great memories on the field for everyone involved.”

Above all, Grafas encourages his players to approach every match with urgency, emphasising the message: “Play every game like it’s your last.”

Outside of soccer Grafas enjoys spending time with his wife, Maria.

As preseason preparations continue, Grafas is eager to build upon the strong foundation already established within the CPR program while fostering an environment where competition fuels improvement. With Grafas at the helm, Central Park Rangers FC looks forward to an exciting new chapter defined by ambition and a shared commitment to excellence.

Stay tuned for CPR’s social media platforms throughout the APSL season for immediate updates.