The American Youth Soccer organization is a nonprofit organization established in 1964 to develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs which promote a fun, family environment based on five basic philosophies:
• Everyone Plays
• Balanced Teams
• Open Registration
• Positive Coaching
• Good Sportsmanship
Today, more than 250,000 volunteers serve as coaches, referees, administrators, and instructors to support nearly 650,000 boys and girls ages 4-18 who play in AYSO programs nationwide.
AYSO was the first name in youth soccer, and it still is. Our programs enrich kids’ lives in a safe, fair, and fun sports environment where the whole family can enjoy the world’s most popular sport.
Why AYSO Soccer?
AYSO has been the program of choice because it is fun for kids to play and easy for volunteers to manage. Our training programs for coaches, referees, administrators, and instructors balances the basics of the game with increasing expertise – so AYSO is as welcoming to newcomers to the sport as it is to lifelong fans and players. Our kids-first philosophies ensure a safe, fair, and fun environment for everyone.
Coach Training
The AYSO coaching curriculum focuses on teaching volunteer coaches techniques and tactics specific to the age and skill of players.
Referee Training
AYSO’s referee training has been repeatedly recognized as the best available in youth soccer. Volunteers train at the own pace, in half-hour bites of full-day chunks. Cross-certification from USSF is available.
Administrative Training
Introductory and progressive levels of education are available for program managers, treasurers, safety directors, and other administrative roles. Training is delivered in one-on-one sessions, at local workshops and online. Also, each year the Section Conferences provide a venue for additional training opportunities, business meetings, and a celebration of AYSO.
Safe, Fair, and Fun
Our Safe Haven program protects both players and volunteers through volunteer screening, training, and certification. Kids Zone promotes positive sideline behavior which leads to a positive and fun environment for players, volunteers, and supporters alike.
Plus AYSO Offers…
• Online player and volunteer registration
• Web-based data management
• Soccer Accident insurance
• Liability insurance
• Accounting services
• Legal assistance
• Purchasing resources
• PLAYSOCCER magazine, Goal Line e-zine, and other publications for players, volunteers, and parents.
There’s a reason soccer is the world’s most popular sport: it’s fun! In organized leagues and pick-up games alike, no matter your nationality, age, or gender, whether playing or watching, the action never stops.
To find out more about AYSO, please contact our National Support and Training Center:
American Youth Soccer Organization
12501 South Isis Avenue
Hawthorne, CA 90250
(800) USA-AYSO
AYSO is a National Association member of U.S. Soccer