In this detailed guide, I’ll tell you ALL about the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO).
Let’s start with a quick overview of AYSO.
What is AYSO?
AYSO stands for the American Youth Soccer Organization. It is the oldest national youth soccer program in the United States.
AYSO was established in 1964. It offers inclusive and recreational soccer programs for children of all ages and abilities across the country.
In this guide you’ll learn about:
- The core values of AYSO
- Different programs offered by AYSO
- How to get involved with AYSO
- How long is AYSO soccer season?
- And more!
So, let’s jump right in and learn how AYSO helps develop young soccer players.
The Core Values and Philosophies of AYSO
The six core values of AYSO are:
- Everyone Plays(R)
- Balanced Teams
- Open Registration
- Positive Coaching
- Good Sportsmanship
- Player Development
Let’s look at what each of these values means in more detail.
1. Everyone Plays(R)
One of the main philosophies of AYSO is Everyone Plays(R).
Everyone Plays(R) means that no child spends their soccer experience sitting on the bench. Every child plays at least half of every game.
This ensures that every child gets a chance to take part and contribute.
2. Balanced Teams
AYSO’s core value of Balanced Teams fosters a deep sense of fairness and inclusivity for all players.
Teams are created based on skill levels. AYSO coaches assess the skill levels through evaluations. This offers a more even playing field compared to random team selection.
There are also no “Star Players” or “Weak Links” in AYSO. This reduces the mentality of building teams around a few outstanding players while neglecting others.
Teaching soccer to young players requires an environment of fairness and enjoyment. The “Balanced Teams” value helps AYSO achieve this goal.
3. Positive Coaching
The AYSO coaches focus on creating a fun and engaging environment for the young players.
Players should enjoy the game and be motivated to learn new skills.
Another aspect of positive coaching is positive reinforcement.
The coaches use positive reinforcement and constructive feedback. It helps players improve rather than dwelling on mistakes.
So, you won’t hear an AYSO coach yelling or berating at the players.
AYSO coaching also goes beyond soccer skills. The coaches instill valuable life lessons such as teamwork, sportsmanship, respect, and responsibility.
4. Good Sportsmanship
AYSO’s value of “Good Sportsmanship” is all about building character and respecting fellow players. It helps create a positive and respectful environment for everyone involved in youth soccer.
Regardless of the outcome, players are taught to treat each other with respect.
Players and coaches are also expected to show respect for referees’ decisions. Even if they disagree.
Finally, the good sportsmanship philosophy fosters appreciation and sportsmanship between opposing teams.
Young players are taught to applaud good plays and the victory of the opposing team.
5. Open Registration
All aspiring children can sign up for AYSO. There are no tryouts.
The Open Registration principle embodies a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
AYSO recognizes that soccer is a sport for all children. No matter their skill level, socioeconomic background, or any other factor.
The AYSO program also strives to keep program fees affordable. This removes any financial barriers. It ensures financial limitations don’t prevent children from enjoying soccer.
6. Player Development
The sixth and final value of AYSO focuses on structured development programs for all ages and skill levels.
AYSO coaches use age-appropriate training programs. These programs teach the players skills like dribbling, passing, shooting, and control.
Then as the players get basic mastery, the coaches introduce more advanced techniques.
Aspiring players also receive individual attention from the coaches. Coaches recognize each player’s weaknesses and strengths. Then they work with the players to improve those areas.
Apart from skill development, players also learn the basics of tactical awareness.
They learn about formations, positioning, and game strategies in the program. These skills help the players to make quick and informed decisions on the field.
Different Programs at AYSO
There are several programs offered by AYSO to suit the needs of every child.
Here’s a breakdown of AYSO’s program offerings.
| Program Name | Age Group | Level | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playground | 3-5 years | Beginner | Introduction to Soccer & Motor Skills |
| Schoolyard Jamboree | 4-5 years | Beginner | Beginning Soccer Skills |
| AYSO Core | 6-19 years | All | Complete Soccer Training |
| AYSO Extra | 10-19 years | Intermediate | Competitive Play & Skill Development |
| AYSO Alliance | 10-19 years | Advanced | Advanced Development & Competition |
| AYSO United | 10-19 years | Advanced | Club Soccer for AYSO’s Top Players |
| AYSO EPIC | 4+ years | All | Inclusive Soccer for Players with Disabilities |
| Adult Soccer | 18+ years | All | Recreational Soccer for Adults |
As you can see, AYSO has a program for every age and skill level.
Whether your child is just starting out or at a more advanced stage. There’s an AYSO program for them.
AYSO is also launching a new program called ‘AYSO Play!‘. Through this program, AYSO promises to bring soccer to communities across the US.
Read about all the AYSO programs in more detail.
How Long is AYSO Soccer Season?
AYSO’s seasonal structure is organized into two main periods: Spring and Fall.
The fall season runs for around 4 months, and the spring season runs for about 3 months.
1. Fall Season
- The Fall season is the primary season for AYSO.
- This season runs from mid-August through the end of November..
- Practices and training sessions are regular to enhance player abilities.
2. Spring Season
- The Spring season is the follow-up to fall season.
- The spring season runs from March through May or early June.
- It is a follow-on season, meaning it is for the players who were already a part of AYSO in the fall season.
So, if you want to enrol your child in the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), it is best to do so during the fall season.
IMPORTANT NOTE: These are general durations. Specific start and end dates may vary depending on your local AYSO region.
You can find more information about the season schedule by contacting your local AYSO organization.
AYSO Region Locator: https://www.aysonational.org/Default.aspx?tabid=961582
How to Register for AYSO
The registration period for each AYSO season is an important step in the player’s journey.
1. Fall Season Registration
- Fall season registration usually begins two months before the season, often in late spring or early summer.
- Early registration allows for proper team formation and planning.
2. Spring Season Registration
- Spring season registration opens in advance of the season, during the fall months.
- AYSO encourages the parents and players to register early to secure a spot on the team.
To know more about AYSO’s registration process, you can visit their official website.
Locate your region from the map, or enter your ZIP Code, and you will receive the contact information of regions close to you.
The Fall Season of AYSO
The Fall Season in AYSO spans across the autumn months. It is dedicated to nurturing player development and honing fundamental soccer skills.
The fall season provides a supportive environment for young athletes to improve their technique. It also deepens their understanding of the game.
Practices during the Fall Season focus on skill improvement.
Coaches work with players to provide targeted guidance. This enhances skills like dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive abilities.
Besides regular practices, AYSO also organizes friendly matches and tournaments.
These events offer players opportunities to apply what they’ve learned in a game setting.
The Spring Season in AYSO
The Spring Season allows the players to play in competitive matches and improve their teamwork skills.
The focus shifts to refining gameplay strategies and fostering a cohesive team dynamic.
Players develop their understanding of game strategies, positioning, and decision-making.
This heightened level of play encourages players to adapt to more challenging scenarios.
The Spring Season also includes league play. Teams compete against one another to secure victories and advance in the standings.
This competitive aspect doesn’t only motivate players to give their best performance. It also instills a sense of sportsmanship and determination.
What are the Benefits of Playing AYSO Soccer?
AYSO soccer offers a multitude of benefits for children. The benefits include physical, mental, and social development of your child.
Here’s a breakdown of some key advantages of playing AYSO soccer.
Physical Benefits
1. Improved Fitness
AYSO programs involve running, jumping, kicking, and other activities for children.
These activities enhance children’s cardiovascular health, agility, coordination, and fitness.
2. Motor skill development
AYSO soccer also helps in developing the motor skills of children. It helps children develop balance, control, and spatial awareness.
For example, the Playground program improves basic motor skills. Then for older ages, the AYSO programs help in improving the athleticism of the children.
3. Healthy habits
Soccer encourages healthy habits like regular physical activity and staying hydrated. These habits contribute to the well-being and disease prevention of the children.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
1. Increased confidence and self-esteem
Playing at AYSO can boost the confidence and self-belief of children.
Factors like mastering skills, playing well, and receiving positive feedback help in this aspect.
2. Resilience and perseverance
Soccer is full of ups and downs. Facing challenges on the field and learning from mistakes fosters resilience and perseverance.
These are valuable life lessons that can also translate to other areas.
3. Improved focus and concentration
Soccer requires focusing on the ball, teammates, and strategies.
This characteristic of soccer enhances the cognitive skills and concentration of the children.
4. Stress relief and enjoyment
Playing soccer is a lot of fun. Especially in a positive environment.
Participating in a fun and engaging sport can help reduce the stress of the children.
Social Benefits
1. Teamwork and collaboration
Soccer is a team sport. And at AYSO players learn to work together.
They learn to work towards shared goals and celebrate each other’s successes.
2. Social interaction and friendship
Another huge benefit of soccer is the friends you make.
AYSO provides children the opportunity to make friends and build social connections.
3. Sportsmanship and respect
AYSO soccer also instills a sense of respect in your child.
Children learn fair play, respecting opponents, and accepting decisions. This fosters positive social values and behavior.
Additional Benefits of AYSO Soccer
1. Affordable participation
Taking part in AYSO is affordable for most families. AYSO strives to keep fees affordable compared to some other programs.
2. Volunteer opportunities
AYSO encourages parents and community members to get involved.
This is because they rely on volunteers for coaching, refereeing, and other roles. So you can volunteer if you want to help the children become better at soccer.
3. Positive learning environment
AYSO emphasizes fun, sportsmanship, and positive coaching. This creates a supportive and encouraging atmosphere for the development of children.
How to Balance Academics and AYSO Commitments
Balancing academics and AYSO commitments is a vital aspect of a young player’s journey. It requires thoughtful planning and effective time management skills.
To excel both in the classroom and on the field, players need to prioritize their responsibilities.
This means establishing a structured routine. Players need to divide ample time for studies, practice sessions, and rest.
Sticking to a well-defined schedule will help you strike a healthy balance between academics and soccer.
Furthermore, open communication between parents, teachers, and coaches is essential.
This ensures that everyone understands the demands of both academic and AYSO responsibilities.
Finally, seek help when needed. Extra tutoring can greatly contribute to a successful balancing act.
How Parents Can Contribute to the AYSO Experience
Parents play an important part in improving the AYSO experience for young athletes.
Their positive involvement can significantly impact a player’s enjoyment of the sport.
First, attending games and practices demonstrates unwavering support. This presence serves as a source of encouragement and motivation for the player.
It also allows parents to witness their child’s progress and share in their achievements on the field.
Moreover, active communication with coaches and organizers fosters a constructive partnership. Engaging in open dialogue helps in understanding the team’s goals and expectations.
Furthermore, fostering a positive attitude and sportsmanship is invaluable.
Encouraging fair play and respect for opponents instills essential values in young athletes.
Finally, parents should acknowledge the effort and dedication of all players. Not just one’s child.
This promotes a sense of unity within the team and the broader soccer community.
Learn about the volunteering opportunities at AYSO.
What Are the Locations of AYSO in the United States?
AYSO soccer is present in many regions across the United States.
These regions serve as local hubs for youth soccer development and community engagement. Some of the prominent regions where AYSO operates include:
- Region 1: Serving communities in Southern California.
- Region 57: Catering to the soccer enthusiasts in Irvine, California.
- Region 64: Supporting youth soccer in Laguna Niguel, California.
- Region 418: Serving the city of Yorba Linda, California.
- Region 498: Operating in Costa Mesa, California.
- Region 712: Engaging the soccer community in Palos Verdes, California.
- Region 889: Nurturing young talent in San Clemente, California.
- Region 1031: Serving Huntington Beach, California.
Beyond California, AYSO is present in regions such as:
- Region 174: Operating in Huntsville, Alabama.
- Region 224: Supporting soccer development in Marietta, Georgia.
- Region 359: Engaging the soccer community in Germantown, Tennessee.
- Region 418: Serving the community of Doylestown, Pennsylvania.
- Region 504: Catering to the soccer enthusiasts in Waukesha, Wisconsin.
For a detailed breakdown of every region, you can visit their official locations page.
What is the Ball Size in AYSO Soccer?
In AYSO soccer, the ball size used varies depending on the age group of the players. Generally:
- Players aged 4 to 8 (U-6 and U-8 divisions) play with a size 3 ball.
- Players aged 9 to 12 (U-10 to U-12 divisions) play with a size 4 ball.
- Players aged 13 and older (U-13 and above divisions) play with a size 5 ball.
How Long are AYSO Soccer Games?
AYSO soccer games have set durations depending on the age group:
- Players aged 4 to 6 (U-5 and U-6 divisions)
- 5-minute quarters
- 1-2 minutes quarter break
- 5-10 minutes half break.
- Players aged 7 to 8 (U-7 and U-8 divisions)
- Four 10-minutes quarters.
- U-10 division
- Two halves of 25 minutes each.
- 5-10 minutes break between the halves.
- The U-12 division
- Two halves of 30 minutes each.
- Players aged 13 and older (U-14 and above divisions)
- Two 35-minute halves.
What is a Team Parent in AYSO Soccer and What Do They Do?
A team parent, also known as a team manager, holds a crucial role in AYSO soccer. They serve as a vital link between the coach, players, and parents.
First, the team parent handles administrative tasks.
This includes organizing team rosters and completing all necessary paperwork. It also includes facilitating clear communication between the coach and parents.
Team parents also plan logistics for practices, matches, and team events. They undertake tasks like ensuring everyone knows where and when to meet.
Additionally, the team parent handles the distribution of uniforms and any necessary equipment. They make certain that each player has the necessary gear for practices and matches.
When extra resources are needed, the team parent works with the league to address these needs.
A team parent’s organized approach helps in the team’s success and cohesion.
How Old Do You Have to Be To Play AYSO Soccer?
You can start playing AYSO soccer as young as 3 years old!
To be more specific, children must be 3 years old as of July 31 of the fall season to play AYSO soccer.
This rule ensures that children have the physical abilities needed to play soccer.
On the other hand, children can play AYSO soccer until 18 years old.
AYSO emphasizes inclusivity and offers various age-appropriate programs for children.
Here’s a quick breakdown of AYSO’s age groups and programs:
- Playground (4U): This program is for children between 3-5 years old. It improves the fundamental motor skills to prepare children for soccer.
- Jamboree (5U): This program is for children between 4-5 years old. It introduces basic soccer skills in a fun and engaging environment.
- Core (6U-19U): This program is for children 6-19 years old. It offers structured playing opportunities and skill development based on age and ability.
- EPIC Program: This program welcomes players of all ages with disabilities. It helps players with disabilities experience the joy of soccer in a supportive and inclusive environment.
To know more about AYSO’s age requirements, you can visit their official page here.
AYSO vs. Other Youth Soccer Organizations
As you probably know, AYSO isn’t the only youth soccer organization in the US. So, you have plenty of options to choose from.
But choosing the right option for your child isn’t the easiest task. That’s why I’m going to compare AYSO with other famous youth soccer organizations.
AYSO vs. USYS vs. Club Soccer vs. Academy Programs
1. Overall
| AYSO | US Youth Soccer (USYS) | Club Soccer | Academy Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ideal for beginners | Offers recreational and competitive options | Competitive environment | Elite player development with professional aspirations |
2. Philosophy and Structure
| Feature | AYSO | US Youth Soccer (USYS) | Club Soccer | Academy Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | – Recreational – Everyone Plays® – balanced teams – positive coaching | – Recreational to competitive – diverse philosophies | – Competitive – high-level development | – Elite development – professional pathways |
| Structure | – National organization with local regions – volunteer-driven | – National organization with member clubs – mix of paid and volunteer staff | – Independent clubs – primarily paid staff | – Affiliated with professional clubs – professional staff |
3. Player Participation
| Feature | AYSO | US Youth Soccer (USYS) | Club Soccer | Academy Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tryouts | No | Vary based on program level | Yes, mandatory | Yes, highly selective |
| Playing Time Guarantees | Yes, equal playing time | Varies. Often less emphasis on equal playing time in higher levels | No guarantees. Playing time based on merit | No guarantees. Players compete for positions |
| Skill Levels | All levels welcome | Recreational to highly competitive | Primarily competitive players | Elite talent with aspirations for professional careers |
4. Cost
| Feature | AYSO | US Youth Soccer (USYS) | Club Soccer | Academy Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Fees | – Ranges from $50 – $250 – based on region and level | – Vary – generally lower than AYSO | – Higher than AYSO – often expensive | – Highest fees – significant financial commitment |
5. Coaching
| Feature | AYSO | US Youth Soccer (USYS) | Club Soccer | Academy Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qualifications | – Varies – emphasis on positive coaching philosophy | – Varies – mix of volunteer and licensed coaches | Primarily licensed coaches | Highly qualified and experienced coaches |
| Emphasis | – Fun – skill development – sportsmanship | – Skill development – Winning can become more important in higher levels | – Competitive development – winning often prioritized | – Intense training – maximizing player potential |
Go through this comparison and talk to other soccer parents before making your choice. The final decision is up to you.
Also, keep these factors in mind before making up your mind:
- Your child’s age, skill level, and interests
- Your family’s budget and time commitment
- Coaching philosophies and player development approach
- Availability and competition level in your area
Conclusion
In conclusion, AYSO provides a caring environment for players of all ages.
With a strong emphasis on skill-building, teamwork, and sportsmanship, AYSO instills essential values that extend far beyond the field.
Through structured seasons and balanced coaching, AYSO also creates an environment that fosters a love for the game.
So if you want your child to be good at soccer, I recommend signing up with AYSO. As their skill level develops, you can start looking at other options like club soccer as well.
To learn more about AYSO, visit their official website or AYSO’s Instagram page.
Thank You For Reading
So I hope you enjoyed learning about the American Youth Soccer (AYSO). If you did, then do consider sharing it with fellow soccer enthusiasts.
Your support and sharing of this content can help us reach a wider audience. It can also provide valuable information to more people who share our passion for the beautiful game.
I’d also like to hear what you have to say…
Are you planning on signing up your child for a soccer program? What does your research look like?
Do you think AYSO is a good choice for children? What’s your preference?
Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below right now.
And thank you for supporting Soccer Mavericks!
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