WESTPORT, Conn. — Steve Ryan resigned today as commissioner and chief executive officer of the Major Indoor Soccer League, a job he held since 2000.

A committee will oversee the league until a new commissioner is chosen. The 10-team league plays a fall-to-spring schedule.

Ryan cited "differing opinions" among owners regarding direction of the league.

"I believe it is in the best interest of the league that they make decisions without my thinking," he said.

Ryan, a former vice president of the NHL, has nearly 40 years of experience in sports marketing and as a corporate executive. He also has worked in the bowling industry.

"I look back on the past eight years with pride," he said. "The league has made tremendous strides, both on the field of play and off."