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USYS National League Introduces Enhanced Format for National Events

FRISCO, Texas (April 7, 2023) — The US Youth Soccer National League is excited to introduce an evolved competition format and pathway for its national events, beginning in the 2023-24 seasonal year.

The new national event pathway will allow the very best teams from the National League’s club-based and team-based leagues to come together in a common, unified pathway. Every team attending national events will compete in meaningful games, with the ability to ultimately advance to the USYS National Championships.

“We cannot wait for the players and teams to experience the excitement and competitive atmosphere that will come with the enhanced competition format and pathway provided at our national events,” said Simon Collins, National League Commissioner. “We have listened to feedback from teams and clubs, and we’re confident this will lead to more meaningful games and a great atmosphere that will be even more appealing to all in attendance, including college coaches and scouts.”

Regular season league play — in the National League Conferences and Elite 64 — will provide teams with advancement into the national event pathway, beginning with either the Conference Playoffs or the Elite 64 Playoffs.

Based on performances at either the Conference Playoffs or the Elite 64 Playoffs, teams in the 14U-18/19U age groups will advance to National League P.R.O., where Conference teams and Elite 64 teams will compete against each other for the opportunity to qualify for the USYS National Championships.

Under this new format for national events, National League teams will enjoy several benefits of the evolved competition that enhance their overall experience:

  • Every regular season league game, whether in the Conferences or Elite 64, continues to be meaningful, as regular season performances determine qualification and placement into the national events.
  • Any time a team travels to a national event, it is guaranteed to play meaningful games with the chance to ultimately advance to the USYS National Championships.
  • Based on performance at its respective Playoff event, each advancing team is placed into an appropriate pool at its National League P.R.O. event — increasing the likelihood of all games being competitive and evenly-matched.
  • The 18U and 19U age groups will be combined across all National League competitions — creating more flexibility and a higher, more consistent competitive level in a combined 18/19U age group.
  • Each national event will feature either group or pool winners and encourage players to compete with a focus on team success.
  • A competitive environment with meaningful matches provides an ideal setting for college coaches and scouts to evaluate players.

More information on gameplay formats at the national events will be available later this spring.

All national events will be scheduled to reduce high school soccer conflicts, when possible. The Conference Playoffs will take place in early December, and teams advancing out of the Conference Playoffs will be assigned to one of two National League P.R.O. events — taking place in either late February or early May.

Half of the Elite 64 teams will attend an Elite 64 Playoff event in early November, with advancing teams moving on to the National League P.R.O. event in early May. The other half of Elite 64 teams will attend the Elite 64 Playoff event in mid-to-late January, with advancing teams moving on to the National League P.R.O. event in late February. All dates are subject to change.

Elite 64 teams in the 13U age group will not advance beyond the Elite 64 Playoffs.

In addition to the national events, all teams in the Conferences and Elite 64 will continue to have access to National League Regional Showcases. More Regional Showcase options are expected to be added in the coming season, allowing teams with additional opportunities to play showcase games closer to their home markets and prospective local college programs.

For more information on the Conferences, click here.

For more information on Elite 64, click here.

US Youth Soccer and NBC Sports Next Forge Technology Partnership

Partnership to keep families connected and informed through the development of new national and local digital networks

FRISCO, Texas (March 22, 2023) – US Youth Soccer (USYS), the largest youth sports organization in the country with nearly 3 million registered players, and NBC Sports Next announced today a new multi-year technology partnership. With the goal of promoting and growing the sport of soccer nationwide, NBC Sports Next will utilize its innovative technology platform, SportsEngine, to build a comprehensive online and mobile content network for the national soccer organization and its 54 State Associations and members.

The initial priority in the partnership will be for NBC Sports Next to create a cutting-edge digital network from which USYS can deliver valuable content to its more than 10,000 clubs and leagues, and nearly 1 million administrators, coaches and volunteers — including news and video highlights.

“We’ve found the perfect partner in NBC Sports Next, as their technology will greatly help us deliver the most comprehensive and compelling content to the entire youth soccer ecosystem,” said US Youth Soccer CEO Skip Gilbert. “Beyond just mere connection, we will be building an interactive community that will make all our dreams possible for tomorrow’s players today.”

The new NBC Sports Next partnership with USYS is another momentous commitment that NBCUniversal has made to the sport of soccer. Other efforts include making the Premier League more accessible in the U.S. through its airing on USA Network and Peacock; Telemundo’s extensive coverage of the World Cup; NBC Sports’ continued support of the Olympic and Paralympic movement, and more.

“We’re honored to be a key foundational partner with US Youth Soccer and its State Associations, as we share their passion and commitment to supporting and growing the sport of soccer nationally and on a grassroots level,” said Brett MacKinnon, SVP & General Manager, Youth & Recreational Sports, NBC Sports Next. “We’re excited about working with USYS leadership to create a best-in-class content network that will serve as a key resource for leagues and teams, especially as we all build anticipation for the next Olympics in Paris and the U.S. hosting another World Cup in 2026.”

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About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and one million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, coach and referee offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment at every level of the game.

About NBC Sports Next

NBC Sports Next is a subdivision of NBC Sports and home to all NBCUniversal digital applications in sports and technology within Golf and Youth & Recreational Sports. Known for its sports technology product innovation, NBC Sports Next equips more than 30 million players, coaches, athletes, sports administrators and fans in 40 countries with more than 25 sports solution products, including GolfNow, the leading online tee time marketplace and provider of golf course operations technology and services; GolfPass the ultimate golf membership that connects golfers to exclusive content, tee time credits, coaching, tips and other benefits; SportsEngine, an industry leader in youth sports club, league and team management technology; TeamUnify, swim team management services; GoMotion, sports and fitness business software solutions; TourneyMachine, tournament management solutions for youth sports. NBC Sports Next is fueled by its mission to innovate, create larger-than-life events and connect with sports fans through technology to provide the ultimate in immersive experiences.

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US Youth Soccer Supports U.S. Soccer’s Yates Report Recommendations

FRISCO, Texas (Feb. 6, 2023) – US Youth Soccer (USYS) applauds the announcement from US Soccer outlining plans for implementation of Sally Yates’ 12 participant safety recommendations. USYS supports its Safe Soccer program and any efforts that make our great game even safer for youth participants.

To that end, US Youth Soccer has undertaken a national search for a director of human resources, compliance, and participant safety. The newly created position, which will report to the CEO, was posted last month at the recommendation of the US Youth Soccer Board of Directors, chaired by Dr. Pete Zopfi (also a member of US Soccer’s Board).

The role’s focus includes managing compliance and enforcement in the greater youth soccer community through US Youth Soccer’s Safe Soccer Policy, as modeled by US Soccer’s Safe Soccer framework.

This position will bolster the ongoing efforts of each of the 54 State Associations, who already have numerous safeguards in place and work daily to ensure the safety of participants.

As the largest national youth organization, US Youth Soccer’s top priority is the safety and well-being of all participants in the USYS system, including member leagues and clubs, their athletes, game officials and referees, and our employees.

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USYS University is Now Live Online

USYS_University_Vertical_WBG

FRISCO, Texas (Jan. 26, 2023) – US Youth Soccer announced today that USYS University, powered by etrainu, is now live.

USYS University is the first-ever gathering of educational resources designed to educate members on a multitude of subjects so they can perform better on and off the field of play. With the help of etrainu, US Youth Soccer has performed a comprehensive implementation process to develop a platform that brings communities together through the power of soccer, creating lifelong fans of the sport.

“We are thrilled to bring USYS University to fruition, offering a limitless opportunity for learning,” said USYS CEO Skip Gilbert. “Tom Condone and Dr. Sari Rose in our Sport Development department have been working diligently for months on this launch. Coupled with our subject matter University partners and etrainu and its industry-leading learning management software, we are excited to unveil the first iteration of USYSU.”

Bringing together content from US Youth Soccer partners TrueSport, Hospital for Special Surgery, MOJO, and the US Center for Mental Health and Sport, USYS University houses a number of unique courses suited for all members. Each course has been individually tailored to create pathways for players, parents, coaches, officials, and club administrators.

“The release of USYS University is a significant milestone in youth soccer on a global scale,” said etrainu CEO Paul Hoon. “etrainu is excited to play a role in a project that puts education at the forefront of sport and helps drive outcomes both on and off the field of play.”

USYS University offers two subscription tiers to those interested in signing up: Freemium and Premium. Enrolling in the free subscription allows users to have access to the platform and the use of introductory courses, while the premium membership also includes exclusive course content for $5 per annum. The site also allows for non-USYS members to access the expert content.

For more information, or to sign up for USYS University, click here.

About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. 

Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and nearly 1 million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment for players at every level of the game.

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2023 NWSL Draft Full of US Youth Soccer Alumnae

PHILADELPHIA (Jan. 13, 2023) – With the upcoming season just months away, the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Draft took place Thursday evening during the United Soccer Coaches Convention at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Thirty-seven of the 48 draftees have roots that tie back to US Youth Soccer, with the Olympic Development Program (ODP), National Championship Series (NCS), and National League commonly highlighted.

Alyssa Thompson, a 2017 ODP Region IV Champion with Cal South, joins a long list of former US Youth Soccer alumnae to be selected first overall since the NWSL’s first draft in 2013. Former alumnae that were top draft picks include Naomi Girma (2022), Emily Fox (2021), Sophia Smith (2020), Andi Sullivan (2018), Rose Lavelle (2017), Emily Sonnett (2016), Morgan Brian (2015), Crystal Dunn (2014), and Zakiya Bywaters (2013).

“We say #EarnYourPlace within our elite ecosystem given how teams can only qualify for our USYS National Championships by winning,” said USYS CEO Skip Gilbert. “These women have taken that concept to heart by earning their place as some of our country’s best. We congratulate the many USYS alumnae moving on to the NWSL and wish them great success with their professional careers.”

The NWSL’s 2023 regular season will kick off on Saturday, March 25, with the Portland Thorns primed to repeat as champions after strengthening an already-formidable roster. By selecting USYS alumnae with all four of their draft picks, the Thorns, who now have the most titles in league history, bring in a talented draft class to bolster their pursuit of the franchise’s second consecutive title.

First Round

  • 1st Pick (Angel City FC) – Alyssa Thompson*
  • 2nd Pick (Kansas City Current) – Michelle Cooper*
  • 3rd Pick (Orlando Pride) – Emily Madril^
  • 4th Pick (NJ/NY Gotham FC) – Jenna Nighswonger*
  • 5th Pick (Portland Thorns FC) – Reyna Reyes*
  • 6th Pick (North Carolina Courage) – Olivia Wingate*
  • 7th Pick (Chicago Red Stars) – Penelope Hocking^
  • 9th Pick (North Carolina Courage) – Clara Robbins*~
  • 10th Pick (Kansas City Current) – Alexa Spaanstra^
  • 12th Pick (Portland Thorns FC) – Isabella D’Aquila^

Second Round

  • 13th Pick (San Diego Wave FC) – Sierra Enge*
  • 14th Pick (Chicago Red Stars) – Grace Yochum^
  • 15th Pick (Kansas City Current) – Gabrielle Robinson~
  • 16th Pick (Racing Louisville FC) – Kayla Fischer^~
  • 17th Pick (Racing Louisville FC) – Brianna Martinez*^
  • 18th Pick (Kansas City Current) – Jordan Silkowitz*~
  • 19th Pick (OL Reign) – Shae Holmes*
  • 20th Pick (Houston Dash) – Sophie Hirst^
  • 21st Pick (Orlando Pride) – Messiah Bright^~
  • 23rd Pick (Chicago Red Stars) – Allison Schlegel^
  • 24th Pick (Portland Thorns FC) – Lauren DeBeau*

Third Round

  • 25th Pick (Orlando Pride) – Tori Hansen^
  • 29th Pick (Racing Louisville FC) – Jadyn Edwards*^~
  • 30th Pick (Washington Spirit) – Riley Tanner*^~
  • 32nd Pick (Portland Thorns FC) – Lauren Kozal^~
  • 33rd Pick (San Diego Wave FC) – Lauren Brzykcy*
  • 35th Pick (Kansas City Current) – Mykiaa Minniss^~
  • 36th Pick (Houston Dash) – Lindsi Jennngs^

Fourth Round

  • 37th Pick (Washington Spirit) – Civana Kuhlmann*
  • 38th Pick (Kansas City Current) – Ella Shamburger*^~
  • 39th Pick (Orlando Pride) – Summer Yates*^~
  • 40th Pick (Washington Spirit) – Delaney Graham^~
  • 42nd Pick (Kansas City Current) – Rylan Childers~
  • 44th Pick (NJ/NY Gotham FC) – Iliana Hocking^
  • 45th Pick (San Diego Wave FC) – Giovanna DeMarco*^
  • 46th Pick (OL Reign) – Natalie Viggiano*^
  • 48th Pick (Houston Dash) – Madelyn Desiano*

* – US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program

^ – US Youth Soccer National Championship Series

~ – US Youth Soccer National League

About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and one million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, coach and referee offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment at every level of the game.

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James Martella, Roy Smithers Inducted into US Youth Soccer Hall of Fame

FRISCO, Texas (Jan. 11, 2023) – US Youth Soccer is proud to announce the two newest members of its Hall of Fame, James Martella and Roy Smithers.

Established in 2008, the US Youth Soccer Hall of Fame honors players, coaches, referees, and administrators who have given back to the sport, in addition to offering meritorious honors.

Martella has been invaluable to the growth of not only US Youth Soccer but all youth sport. In his early days of involvement, Martella held roles with the Southeast Cincinnati Soccer Association and Queen City Soccer Club to oversee their success, serving as the Assistant Treasurer for the former and Club General Manager for the latter. Additionally, Martella was President of the Tri County Youth Soccer Association for two years, from 1984-85.

Martella’s journey took him to the Ohio Youth Soccer Association shortly thereafter, where he was able to rejuvenate The Buckeye State’s youth soccer scene. He served as President for nearly a decade between multiple stints — in addition to more than two decades spent as Executive Director.

Martella continued adding to his résumé, spending years as a United States Soccer Federation Referee, United States Soccer Federation Youth Commissioner, US Youth Soccer Board of Directors member, and helped develop the initial policies of US Youth Soccer’s Midwest Regional League.

During his many years of service, Martella was selected to be a member of multiple committees. He proved his worth to each one, including those of the United States Soccer Federation International Games and US Youth Soccer Learning University, as well as those of the US Youth Soccer National Championship Series (NCS) and NCS Region II (now known as the Midwest Region), where he served as Chairman of both for multiple years.

Martella’s diligence and determination were never done with the thought of personal accolades, but those were quick to follow. In 1985, Martella was honored as the recipient of the Bill Schrandt Award, given to an individual who has provided a substantial contribution to the Southeast Cincinnati Soccer Association. Martella has also received two awards from US Youth Soccer for his commitment to the sport: the Region II Angus Cameron Award (2005) and the National Administrator of the Year (2010).

Martella’s legacy was cemented even more after his induction into the Ohio Soccer Hall of Fame (2011) and recognition on MLS’ 100 Top Soccer Leaders list.

Smithers’ prominent role in the growth and evolution of soccer in South Texas will forever be remembered. He was President of three separate associations: the South Austin Youth Soccer Association (SAYSA), Capital Area Youth Soccer Association (CAYSA), and the South Texas Youth Soccer Association (STYSA).

In just four years as President of the South Austin Youth Soccer Association, Smithers grew the club to become the second largest in the Capital Area Youth Soccer Association with more than 400 new players. In the two years Smithers spent with CAYSA, he was able to add five new associations to the membership, bringing the player registration to more than 8,000, which was the largest member association in South Texas. Smithers also worked tirelessly to grant more opportunities to girls in the sport, helping create their first select team and all-star program. He then oversaw the South Texas Youth Soccer Association for more than 10 years, which included 29 member associations and leagues that were home to more than 65,000 players.

During more than four decades of service, Smithers sat on multiple committees, including the US Youth Soccer Rules Committee, United States Soccer Federation Budget Committee, and US Youth Soccer Budget Committee. He also fulfilled the invaluable role of US Youth Soccer Region III Treasurer and was Chairman for multiple groups: the US Youth Soccer Region III Nominations Committee, South Texas Youth Soccer Rules Committee, US Youth Soccer Hall of Fame Advisory Group, and US Youth Soccer Bylaws & Policies Advisory Group. His presence extended even further, as he was part of the US Youth Soccer Board of Directors for multiple years.

In addition to now being recognized as part of the US Youth Soccer Hall of Fame, Smithers had previously been inducted into the City of Austin Youth Sports Hall of Honor, South Texas Youth Soccer Hall of Fame, and US Youth Soccer Region III (South) Hall of Fame.

Those inducted as players have distinguished themselves with an outstanding standard of play and/or performance as a member of US Youth Soccer, having participated in games as a registered member of US Youth Soccer for at least six consecutive years.

Other honorees, such as administrators, referees, and coaches, have demonstrated outstanding accomplishments and/or leadership that have made significant contributions to the improvement of the sport and its participants nationwide. Honorees will have contributed directly for a period of six or more years at the national level of US Youth Soccer.

Meritorious recognition is awarded to individuals or organizations involved in the support of US Youth Soccer in non-playing capabilities.

About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and one million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, coach and referee offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment at every level of the game.

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US Youth Soccer Teams Up with Evolve1 to Launch Mental Wellness Platform for Youth Athletes

FRISCO, Texas (Jan. 10, 2023) – With the new year kicking off, US Youth Soccer and Evolve1 today announced a partnership to offer a first-of-its-kind mental training program application for its youth members.

Created by leading performance and sport psychology experts, the Evolve1 program is designed to help players develop a strong mental game through science-backed and proven strategies to better equip today’s athletes both on the field and in life.

“US Youth Soccer National League is proud to partner with Evolve1 to offer the opportunity for athletes to gain a mental edge in sports and life,” said US Youth Soccer National League Commissioner Simon Collins. “The mental training program adds to our group of world-class partners, all of which support and provide resources to the US Youth Soccer family.”

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sports organization in the country, has a commitment to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. Partnering with Evolve1 to offer this mental training program to its members will further support that commitment.

“Now more than ever, it’s time to focus on the whole athlete and strengthen the mental muscle in our youth,” said Evolve1 CEO Toni Owens. “We’re thrilled about this partnership as it’s another positive step in keeping the well-being of our young athletes a priority.”

Featuring skills and exercises similar to those used by top professionals, the Evolve1 performance program is a two-month program that takes players through a series of engaging video-based lessons with topics including self-image, courage, integrity, discipline, authenticity, and resilience. After completing the video, users will write goals and measure progress from there. The team leaderboard will show engagement and analytics for progress.

“We can measure self-esteem and self-confidence in these athletes and our goal is to increase both with E1 training,” said Evolve1 Director of Curriculum Dr. Debbie Crews. “This program is designed to influence their sports performance and their life.”

About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and one million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, coach and referee offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment at every level of the game.

About Evolve1

Evolve1, an innovative sports platform for youth athletes, provides world-class youth mental training videos and lessons helping to build self-esteem and confidence in sports and in life. The revolutionary smartphone application provides daily mental conditioning training designed specifically for young athletes. Evolve 1’s curriculum is research-backed and informed by contributions from top sports psychologists and performance coaches. The Evolve1 multi-sport team app is available on iOS and Android platforms. Follow Evolve1 on social media via Instagram. To learn more about how Evolve can help teams, leagues or organizations, visit Evolve1.com.

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US Youth Soccer Announces Daniel Radford as New Senior Manager of Referees

FRISCO, Texas (Jan. 9, 2023) – US Youth Soccer announced today that it has hired Daniel Radford to be its first-ever Senior Manager of Referees.

In this new role, Radford will develop recruitment and retention strategies to increase the supply of referees, in addition to developing anti-abuse and sportsmanship campaigns, grassroots small-sided resources and curriculums, and career pathways starting at the local grassroots level.

“Recruitment and retention are key priorities within the referee community,” said US Youth Soccer CEO Skip Gilbert. “USYS is thrilled to have someone like Daniel Radford join our team and step into this new position. His skills on and off the field will help US Youth Soccer take a leadership position to not just strengthen our referee numbers but lead programming to impact behavioral change on the sidelines.”

Radford’s experience as an official will allow him to succeed and keep referees at all levels involved with the sport. Radford spent his teenage years with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) as a member of the Cal South Youth Referee Program and the Advanced Referee Development Program, during which he was selected to multiple US Youth Soccer events, including the National Championship Series. With Radford’s experience well beyond his years, he was selected to the inaugural US Soccer Development Academy Finals and became one of the youngest Grade 3 USSF National/Professional Officials at 23.

Radford had been assigned to numerous professional leagues, including the United Soccer League (USL), North American Soccer League (NASL), and Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS), before transitioning to roles in Major League Soccer (MLS), National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

Radford’s time with MLS now spans more than a decade while he continues on as a Video Match Official. He also spent nearly 20 years in collegiate sports, where he refereed three NAIA National Championships and seven NCAA Final Fours. Radford holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Long Beach.

For more information on US Youth Soccer, click here.

About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and one million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, coach and referee offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment at every level of the game.

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US Youth Soccer Alumni See Dreams Come True During 2023 MLS SuperDraft

FRISCO, Texas (Dec. 22, 2022) – The 2023 MLS SuperDraft concluded on Wednesday night after three rounds of selections, now turning the attention towards February’s fast-approaching opening-weekend.

Los Angeles FC, the reigning MLS Cup champions, will enter the season hoping to repeat, but multiple title challengers bolstered their rosters on draft night. Ilijah Paul (Real Salt Lake) and Ben Stitz (D.C. United), two former US Youth Soccer National Champions, will use their championship pedigree to carve out a role during their first year in Major League Soccer.

In total, 30 US Youth Soccer alumni heard their names called on December 21 and will now look to make their mark in the professional ranks.

  • 1st Pick (Charlotte FC) – Duncan McGuire^~
  • 7th Pick (Real Salt Lake) – Ilijah Paul^*
  • 9th Pick (St. Louis City SC) – Owen O’Malley~
  • 10th Pick (San Jose Earthquakes) – Daniel Munie^
  • 12th Pick (Charlotte FC) – Patrick Agyemang^
  • 18th Pick (Inter Miami CF) – Cole Jensen^~
  • 19th Pick (Minnesota United) – Ryen Jiba*^~`
  • 21st Pick (New York Red Bulls) – Elian Haddock*^~
  • 24th Pick (FC Dallas) – Herbert Endeley*^
  • 30th Pick (St. Louis City SC) – John Klein^~
  • 31st Pick (D.C. United) – Ben Stitz^~
  • 33rd Pick (San Jose Earthquakes) – Liam Butts*^~
  • 34th Pick (Houston Dynamo FC) – Isaiah Reid
  • 37th Pick (Sporting Kansas City) – Christopher Rindov^~
  • 40th Pick (Charlotte FC) – Nick Scardina*
  • 43rd Pick (Columbus Crew) – Clay Holstad*
  • 51st Pick (FC Cincinnati) – Hunter Morse^~
  • 52nd Pick (LA Galaxy) – Russell Shealy^
  • 53rd Pick (FC Dallas) – Ryan Wittenbrink^~
  • 54th Pick (CF Montréal) – Milo Garvanian*^
  • 59th Pick (Seattle Sounders FC) – Blake Bowen^~
  • 61st Pick (Toronto FC) – Charlie Sharp^
  • 63rd Pick (Houston Dynamo FC) – Frantz Pierrot^
  • 65th Pick (Nashville SC) – Makel Rasheed^~
  • 67th Pick (Chicago Fire FC) – Billy Hency*~
  • 69th Pick (Charlotte FC) – Andrew Privett^~
  • 73rd Pick (Portland Timbers) – Jaden Jones-Riley*
  • 75th Pick (CF Montréal) – Ousman Jabang*^~
  • 79th Pick (New York Red Bulls) – Amos Shapiro-Thompson*
  • 82nd Pick (FC Dallas) – Kameron Lacey*

* – US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program

^ – US Youth Soccer National Championship Series

~ – US Youth Soccer National League

About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and one million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, coach and referee offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment at every level of the game.

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US Youth Soccer Announces 2022 Recipient of the Dr. Thomas Fleck Award

FRISCO, Texas (Dec. 20, 2022) – US Youth Soccer (USYS) is thrilled to honor Dr. John Thomas as this year’s recipient of its Dr. Thomas Fleck Award, granted annually since 2005.

Thomas will be celebrated at USYS’ annual awards gala, The Ball, on January 13, 2023. The Ball will be held in Philadelphia in conjunction with the USYS Workshop and United Soccer Coaches Convention.

The Dr. Thomas Fleck Award was designed to honor a lifetime of dedication where one has, with integrity, honor, humor, and humility, made extensive and far-reaching contributions to the process by which youth soccer coaches are educated in America.

Thomas, a published author, holds a Bachelor of Science from Frostburg State University, Master of Science from Webster’s University, and Doctor of Philosophy from Madison College, yet his experience and accolades extend far beyond the world of academia.

Thomas’ first head coaching stint came in 1985 with the United States Military. He led the All-Army, All-Navy, All-Marines, and Armed Forces squads in international competitions — and did so until 2003. In that time, Thomas was also the Cal South Youth Soccer Association’s District I Coordinator and a three-time district title winning head coach at San Diego Mesa College.

In 2004, Thomas joined US Youth Soccer, where he was the Assistant Director of Education for seven years. Thomas’ impact was invaluable to the organization, as he helped develop numerous advisory groups and continue the enhancement of programming curriculum, as well as the design and delivery of the National Youth License.

Thomas joined FC Dallas in 2012 as its Boys Academy Junior Premier Coach, providing a developmental bridge for academy players into top select teams. He then transitioned into a different role with the club in 2016, working as the Director of Junior Academy Programs. In addition to his work on the sidelines, he was vital in player recruitment and talent retention.

Previous US Youth Soccer Dr. Thomas Fleck Award recipients:

  • 2021 – Mike Barr
  • 2020 – Jacob Daniel
  • 2019 – Timo Liekoski
  • 2018 – Sam Snow
  • 2017 – Vince Ganzberg
  • 2016 – Bobby Howe
  • 2015 – Dr. Lewis Atkinson
  • 2014 – Bob Gansler
  • 2013 – Bill Buren
  • 2012 – Gary Allen
  • 2011 – Jimmy Conway
  • 2010 – Virgil Stringfield II
  • 2009 – Dr. David Carr
  • 2008 – James Hoffman
  • 2007 – Dr. Ron Quinn
  • 2006 – Dean Conway
  • 2005 – Dr. Thomas Fleck (Inaugural Recipient)

About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)

US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and one million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, coach and referee offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment at every level of the game.

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