Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Youth Soccer Programs for All Ages
Founded in 1964, the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) has been a leader in youth soccer development for over 50 years. Our mission centers on creating a fun, family-friendly environment where children develop soccer skills alongside leadership and social abilities through our Six Philosophies: Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship, Open Registration, and Player Development. Built on volunteer support, we offer a comprehensive Player Development Pathway for ages toddler to adult, including specialized programs for individuals with developmental disabilities. Our community-driven approach emphasizes inclusivity, with programs like AYSO PLAY!, Schoolyard Jamboree, and EPIC (Everyone Plays in Our Community).We provide resources for coaches, referees, and volunteers while hosting national events like the AYSO EXPO and National Games. Our alumni include professional athletes like Landon Donovan and Julie Foudy, underscoring our commitment to nurturing talent. With over 50 years of experience, we combine structured training with flexible play opportunities to meet diverse family needs.
Services
Youth Soccer Programs
Adult Soccer Leagues
Volunteer Training
National Tournaments
EPIC Program
Coach Certification
Referee Development
Player Development Pathway
Schoolyard Jamboree
AYSO PLAY!
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We offer a proven 50+ year legacy in youth soccer development
- Our Six Philosophies ensure inclusive, balanced team experiences
- Comprehensive Player Development Pathway from toddler to adult programs
- Specialized EPIC program for players with developmental disabilities
- Alumni network includes professional athletes like Landon Donovan
Services
Youth Soccer Programs
Structured soccer programs for children aged 2-14 focus on skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Our age-appropriate curricula balance competitive play with foundational training. Programs include AYSO Core, Playground, and Schoolyard Jamboree formats.
EPIC Program
Specially designed soccer opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities. This program emphasizes inclusion through modified rules and trained volunteer support. EPIC participants play alongside peers in integrated team environments.
Volunteer Training
Certification courses for coaches, referees, and administrators cover technical skills, child psychology, and safety protocols. Advanced management training develops leadership capabilities for regional coordinators and tournament organizers.
National Tournaments
Annual championship events like the AYSO National Games and EXPO provide elite competition platforms. These tournaments feature age-division brackets, referee certification clinics, and coaching symposiums for professional development.
Player Development Pathway
Multi-tiered system guiding players from introductory levels to advanced competition. Includes technical training modules, leadership workshops, and transition programs for aging-out participants entering adult leagues.
People
Penney Wakefield
National Board Member
15-year regional treasurer with extensive volunteer experience in AYSO leadership roles. Specializes in financial systems and volunteer engagement strategies.
Gary Van Otten
National Board Member
400+ games coaching and refereeing experience. National Coach and Referee award recipient. Developed continuing education programs for AYSO volunteers.
Michael Karon
National Board Member
44-year AYSO volunteer with expertise in referee training and regional development. Trained over 5,000 referees and expanded programs in underserved communities.
Rick Buiteweg
National Board Member
Led AYSO systems modernization initiatives. 37-year IT professional specializing in large-scale system integration for distributed volunteer networks.
Christina Bentley
National Board Member
Human resources expert with 6 years as regional commissioner. Focuses on volunteer engagement and organizational psychology principles in youth sports management.
Questions
What age groups does AYSO serve?
AYSO offers programs for children starting at age 2 through adult leagues, including specialized EPIC programs for players with developmental disabilities.
How can I volunteer with AYSO?
Volunteer opportunities include coaching, refereeing, administrative roles, and event coordination. Visit our website to find local volunteer positions or start a new AYSO region.
What are AYSO's Six Philosophies?
Our core principles include Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship, Open Registration, and Player Development to ensure fair, inclusive play.
Are there competitive opportunities available?
Yes, we offer competitive pathways through programs like AYSO EXTRA, All-Star teams, and national tournaments including the AYSO National Games.
How does AYSO support coach development?
We provide comprehensive training through certified courses covering coaching techniques, child development, and safety protocols for all experience levels.
