The Rockdale Youth Soccer Association (RYSA) was founded in 1972, as there was no organized soccer in Rockdale County. In 1971, Bob Boggus and Larry Ginder traveled to Dekalb County for their children to play soccer. In February, 1972, a meeting was arranged with Dwight Langley, Bob Boggus, and Larry Ginder to explore the possibility of Rockdale County starting a soccer program. There was no interest at that time. Larry Ginder then placed an ad in the Rockdale Citizen to register soccer players. Forty-six children were registered and RYSA was born. The Association received its charter from the State on August 19, 1972. Bob Boggus knew Ben Gross from Atlanta and his love of soccer and suggested they ask Ben for a place to play. Ben was excited about the idea and was most generous. He provided the first playing field at the corner of Salem and Old Salem Roads (Gross Field). Practice areas were provided by Ben Gross along both sides of Salem Road. Parents volunteered to cut grass, mark fields, run concession stands, referee, and do anything that was required to make the new Association a success. Player participation grew from 46 in 1972 to 280 in 1975; 617 in 1977; 812 in 1978, and 928 in 1979. Today there are over 1400 children and several hundred adults playing soccer in Rockdale County.
In March 2023, the then RYSA affiliated semi-pro East Atlanta Football Club in Conyers, Georgia transferred ownership and their USL League Two license to become the East Atlanta Dutch Lions FC. Patrick Vierhout, owner of Sportiff apparel, is the majority owner of the new club and aims to offer greater opportunities for local players, including those involved in RYSA.
Sam Walker, Head Coach for the men's team, believes that the partnership between East Atlanta FC and Dutch Lions FC will bring tremendous opportunities for the community. All games and practices will continue on the RYSA fields, and RYSA youth players will receive greater access to professional-level coaches trained in the Dutch Lions FC methodology.
The club is located in Conyers, GA and currently plays on the pitches of the Rockdale Youth Soccer Complex (The club may occasionally play at the Rockdale County Earl O'Neal Sports Complex.)
Recently, the club announced its plans to invest up to $5 million in upgrades and renovations. When complete, this investment will make the home of the East Atlanta Dutch Lions among the most attractive venues for players and fans alike.
Dutch Lions Capital Group USA LLC, which owns ten Dutch Lions FC clubs in the USA, has started the new club. The current ownership of East Atlanta FC retains a minority percentage interest in the East Atlanta Dutch Lions FC, and Vierhout is acting as CEO.