US Youth Soccer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: US Youth Soccer Communications at communications@usyouthsoccer.org or 1-800-4SOCCER

US Youth Soccer partners with US Center for Mental Health & Sport

Innovative health partner delivers additional benefits to USYS members

FRISCO, TX (October 22, 2021) – US Youth Soccer (USYS) is pleased to announce their partnership with the U.S. Center for Mental Health and Sport (USC-MHS) to provide unmatched and ongoing mental health training, resources, support and benefits to their members.

USC-MHS is focused on making sport environments a place where all involved can experience support for their mental health. Whether individuals’ mental health is thriving or languishing, the USC-MHS has developed resources, training and support to help make the sport environment inclusive and positive.

USC-MHS is led by founders Margaret Domka and Skye Arthur-Banning, PhD. who are mental health and sport researchers and practitioners that have authored multiple publications on youth and amateur sport. They have served as a former FIFA Women’s World Cup Referee and US Soccer National Referee. With 30 years each in amateur sport, they continue to serve as a current member of the Board of Directors for the US Association for Blind Athletes; Referee Committee Member for USYS Midwest Region; members of the USYS Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee; National Referee Coaches; and active referees for youth, college, and a variety of disability soccer programs.

“This partnership will provide USYS with a singular mental health partner so that its members can access the very best information and resources to improve, maintain and support their mental wellbeing,” said Skip Gilbert, USYS CEO. “We are on a mission to provide world-class support, resources and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. USC-MHS gives USYS members unmatched resources and benefits in a critical health care space.”

 “US Youth Soccer is a leading youth sport organization that supports its members both on and off the field of play. The USC-MHS extends that support into the area of mental health,” said Margaret Domka, USC-MHS Executive Director. “We are excited to be a partner of USYS, with its vision and mission focusing on the value of youth soccer well beyond how many goals were scored or who walked away with a win. Participants experiencing optimal mental health is a win that USYS and USC-MHS can work together to achieve.”

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 3 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. We Are Youth Soccer. For more information, visit www.usyouthsoccer.org.

About the U.S. Center for Mental Health and Sport (USC-MHS)

The U.S. Center for Mental Health & Sport is a registered 501c3 organization developing sport environments that allow for optimum mental wellness by providing mental health training and resources, opening pathways to access additional mental health support services, and committing to the advancement of mental health and sport research. We believe mental health falls along a continuum and the mental health we experience can change throughout our lives. USC-MHS provides avenues to establish a sport environment that is inclusive in supporting the mental health of all participants and encouraging conversations about mental health. Mental Health Matters!  https://mentalhealthandsport.org/

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: US Youth Soccer Communications at communications@usyouthsoccer.org or 1-800-4SOCCER

US Youth Soccer Partners with Keeper Wars Ink for All-New Goalkeeper Club

Members receive exclusive access to content, tips and member-only benefits

FRISCO, TX (September 24, 2021) – US Youth Soccer (USYS) is pleased to announce their expanding partnership with Keeper Wars Ink to provide an all-new online USYS Goalkeeper Club featuring unmatched and ongoing keeper content, tips, goalkeeper training, interactive workshops, podcasts, resources and exclusive member-only benefits.  

“As a “retired” goalkeeper, I’m thrilled that USYS has developed a unique platform with our friends at Keeper Wars Ink to bring keepers together. It’s a truly unique position in sport and creating a national club will help provide resources and support for all keepers to take their skills and passion for the game to the next level”, said Skip Gilbert, CEO US Youth Soccer.

Recognized as the leading competitive goalkeeper event provider in the US, Keeper Wars Ink has established itself as an important ally of USYS and its 54 member State Associations. With their Keeper Wars national series, USYS and Keeper Wars Ink have given goalkeepers an exciting platform to showcase their talents. The close-knit goalkeeper community will now have an additional opportunity to unite under the USYS Goalkeeper Club which celebrates and features the tremendous skills of goalkeepers and their impact to the game.

“The Keeper Wars Ink foundation was built upon the simple concept of giving back to the neglected audience of goalkeepers. We wanted to make a positive impact on a position that doesn’t get much love while bringing enjoyment, limelight and knowledge to these behind-the-scenes heroes of soccer. This all-new USYS Goalkeeper Club will bring goalkeepers together through a shared sense of acceptance and community. 

We have heard and seen the struggles and lack of resources and guidance for goalkeepers to help them reach their goals on and off the pitch. USYS and the Keeper Wars team quickly realized that we must do more. The USYS Goalkeeper Club is built upon the same simple founding concept that the Keeper Wars Foundation was built upon; giving back to the neglected audience of goalkeepers”, said Casey Clark, Founder and CEO of Keeper Wars Ink.
 

USYS Goalkeeper Club will be the first of its kind and paves the way for keepers in the soccer community by providing tools and resources to develop and support goalkeepers. Its sole purpose is to give back to the goalkeeper position and let them know they have two national organizations behind them every save of the way. With goalkeeper and fitness training videos from professional soccer players, performance and mindset video content by dual-sport professional athletes, podcasts with the Goalkeeper Club Crew and other soccer guests including professional players and coaches, members will have a wealth of resources. Members also get access to a goalkeeper fitness app which includes a national goalkeeper leaderboard, nutrition coaching, interactive workshops, discounts for members from partners and more.

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 3 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. We Are Youth Soccer. For more information, visit www.usyouthsoccer.org.

About KEEPER WARS INK

Keeper Wars Ink is a soccer competition initiative designed and built for the specialty position of goalkeepers. Created to give keepers an exciting 1v1 platform to showcase their talents. It is a focused opportunity for the keeper society to come together and compete. Keeper Wars gives the limelight to the goalkeepers and allows them to showcase their skills (shot stopping, scoring, diving, throwing, punting, kicking, intelligence, etc.). Keeper Wars Ink brings their events to soccer communities across the United States and generously donates a portion of their proceeds to worthy causes. In addition to their City Tour events, Keeper Wars Ink is excited to join US Youth Soccer at select National Showcase events as well. Both events are qualifiers for the 2022 Keeper Wars National Championship. Look for a Keeper Wars Ink event near you! For more information, visit www.keeperwarsink.com.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: US Youth Soccer Communications at communications@usyouthsoccer.org or 1-800-4SOCCER

FRISCO, Texas (July 29, 2021) — Earlier this month US Youth Soccer (USYS) announced programming solutions to address a disruption in the Eastern New York (ENY) youth soccer landscape. The solution now being implemented allows teams to register in their preferred Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) league and then transfer to an appropriate level of play in an expanded version of the North Atlantic Conference of the USYS National League, managed by EDP Soccer. Player passes will still be issued through ENYSSA leagues and players will remain registered with their current ENYYSA league.

The additional levels of play to be provided by the expansion of the North Atlantic Conference do not represent a preferred pathway into the highly competitive North Atlantic Conference divisions offered at older ages. Participation in those highly competitive divisions is secured through an open application process, which is now closed for the 2021/2022 soccer year.

Teams that have registered, or are going to register to play in an ENYYSA league, will do so as normal. The developmental progression promoted by USYS and ENYYSA emphasizes that players at the youngest age brackets have access to soccer activities that focus on prioritizing a love for the game, sports diversity, and the importance of allowing kids to just be kids.  As players get older additional opportunities for competition are offered and some top level teams will progress into the highly competitive divisions of the USYS National League program. For teams that do not play in the USYS National League there will also be programming available to help their players develop and enjoy their soccer experience.

USYS and ENYYSA are commited to making soccer available to youth players of all ages and abilities, and are striving to enhance the opportunities for its members and create fans of the game for life. Should clubs or teams have questions or concerns, please continue to contact US Youth Soccer or ENYYSA.

We Are Youth Soccer.

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 3 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. We Are Youth Soccer.

For more information, visit www.usyouthsoccer.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: US Youth Soccer Communications at communications@usyouthsoccer.org or 1-800-4SOCCER

Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association Teams and Clubs to Benefit from New Opportunities

FRISCO, Texas (July 21, 2021) — The US Youth Soccer (USYS) National League North Atlantic Conference, managed by EDP Soccer, will be providing additional competitive opportunities for girls’ and boys’ teams in the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA), starting with the 2021/2022 soccer year.
The player registration process will not change. All players will register with an ENYYSA state level league, which will facilitate the players being registered with ENYYSA and USYS. Once players have registered with an ENYYSA state level league, teams will have the option of registering with an ENYYSA state level league or registering directly with the North Atlantic Conference or both.

Additional competitive opportunities will also be provided by expanding the scope of the North Atlantic Conference for teams in ENYYSA:
• National League — Ages 13U through 19U
• Pre National League — Ages 11U and 12U
• National League Futures — Ages 8U through 10U

The North Atlantic Conference will offer appropriately competitive brackets based on levels of play and sensible travel for teams in all the age groups involved (8U through 19U) for both girls and boys.

The current Premier I and II levels of the North Atlantic Conference (ages 13U through 19U, girls and boys) will continue to operate as in the past. Highly competitive clubs will participate in a club v club format and highly competitive teams will play in a team v team format. Those teams not accepted into Premier I or II will be appropriately placed in another North Atlantic Conference bracket.
All other teams in good standing that register for the North Atlantic Conference will accepted and placed appropriately according to their competitive level unless there are not enough similarly competitive teams in a sensible geographic area. In that case, teams will be able to register to play in a state level league.

Additional details will be posted July 21st on the EDP Soccer website. Reference: US Youth Soccer North Atlantic Conference .

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 3 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. We Are Youth Soccer. For more information, visit www.usyouthsoccer.org.

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Pilot to launch fall 2021 and engage 12,000 youth in first year

Washington, DC – The U.S. Soccer Foundation and U.S. Youth Soccer announced today that beginning this fall, the two organizations will pilot a new in-school soccer program for children in kindergarten through eighth grade. Led by physical education (PE) and health teachers, the Soccer for Success in School curriculum will teach the fundamentals of the game while also supporting children by increasing their knowledge and skills in order to maintain and improve their physical, social, and emotional health.

During the 2021-2022 school year, four school districts will pilot the program, with the goal of collectively engaging 12,000 youth in the first year. PE and health teachers will receive equipment, tailored training, and professional development before beginning the program.

This new program builds on more than a decade of experience that the U.S. Soccer Foundation has delivered with Soccer for Success in after-school settings. The goal of Soccer for Success in School is to replicate the positive health and youth development outcomes achieved through that program and positively impact more kids by reaching them where they are—in schools.

“We are thrilled that Soccer for Success in School will provide more children and their families with the tools they need to make heathier choices,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, President & CEO of the U.S. Soccer Foundation. “We’ve seen the tremendous health and behavioral outcomes through our work in the after-school space. By bringing that same type of program to PE and health classes, we can help even more children reap the benefits and develop a love for our game.”

“USYS 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. Our relationship with the U.S. Soccer Foundation gives USYS an opportunity to expand knowledge and love of the game and create fans for life,” said Skip Gilbert, CEO US Youth Soccer. “Soccer develops the kind of positive life skills that innumerable children can benefit from physically, emotionally and mentally. USYS is proud to partner with the U.S. Soccer Foundation to deliver this program to thousands of kids and make a true difference in their lives. We see soccer as a way for any child to pursue their pathway to success.”

According to the Afterschool Alliance, nearly 25 million children are not able to access after-school programs, with the trend even more pronounced for Black and Latinx children from low-income areas. In addition, facing fiscal constraints and state mandates to close the academic achievement gap, physical education is often a low priority at many schools in underserved communities. As a result, the children enrolled in these schools often have fewer opportunities to benefit from physical activity and sports.

The Soccer for Success in School curriculum meets SHAPE America’s National Standards & Grade Level Outcomes for K-12 Physical Education and Health Education Standards. Soccer for Success in School will provide PE and health teachers with high-quality training, curricula, and equipment to run Soccer for Success in School and efficiently achieve physical, social, and emotional health objectives. Five units, each with 10 lesson plans, will be available based on grade level. The lesson plans are designed to fit within existing class schedules. Home and community resources, assessments, worksheets, and an activity library will also be made available.

The Soccer for Success in School curriculum was developed by an expert advisory committee of leading physical education experts. The U.S. Soccer Foundation and U.S. Youth Soccer will work together to train teachers and coach-mentors across the country to deliver this program in school districts nationwide. The program has a bold goal to reach 250,000 youth by 2026.

During the pandemic, the U.S. Soccer Foundation developed a series of lessons that could be used for virtual or socially-distant learning to support schools across the country. Visit https://ussoccerfoundation.org/pe-resources/ to download those resources, express your interest in bringing Soccer for Success in School to your community, and learn more.

ABOUT U.S. SOCCER FOUNDATION

The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s programs are the national model for sports-based youth development in underserved communities. Since its founding in 1994, the Foundation has established programs proven to help children embrace an active and healthy lifestyle while nurturing their personal growth beyond sports. Its cost-effective, high-impact initiatives offer safe environments where kids and communities thrive. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Soccer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, visit ussoccerfoundation.org or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

ABOUT U.S. 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 3 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. We Are Youth Soccer. For more information, visit www.usyouthsoccer.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jennifer Arnold, U.S. Soccer Foundation

jarnold@ussoccerfoundation.org; 202-872-6662

Mike Fletcher, US Youth Soccer

mfletcher@usyouthsoccer.org, 972-334-9300

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:

US Youth Soccer Communications at communications@usyouthsoccer.org or 1-800-4SOCCER

First-ever USYS Futsal National Championship Comes to Oklahoma City, OK in 2022

FRISCO, TX (June 25, 2021) – US Youth Soccer (USYS) is pleased to announce their partnership with United Futsal to help manage and launch their first-ever USYS Futsal National Championship, to be held February 25-27, 2022 in Oklahoma City, OK.

Recognizing the benefits and long-term value of futsal to our members and the sport of soccer, USYS believes that offering this opportunity to play in a structured tournament will enable USYS State Associations to provide their member clubs and players an amazing futsal experience.

For almost a decade, United Futsal has helped organizations create, organize and execute top level futsal leagues, tournaments, camps and experiences all over the world. Their goal is to unite the futsal world using their knowledge, experience, network and resources. They are made up of a group of international futsal professionals who are trusted by the top leagues, clubs and federations in the world.

This partnership will provide USYS with a singular national event so that its members will have a clear pathway to success. “USYS 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. United Futsal gives USYS an opportunity to establish futsal as a cornerstone of our programming,” said Skip Gilbert, CEO US Youth Soccer. “Futsal develops the kind of skills that innumerable players have touted as the key to their success on the field. USYS recognizes this value and by offering this new event, will reward those clubs and players who see futsal as a way to pursue their pathway to achievement.”

Rob Andrews, President of United Futsal, added, “We are thrilled to be working with USYS to deliver outstanding value for their members. Our collective years of experience combined with the talent-rich USYS State Association futsal clubs and programming will allow us to create a true competition pathway.”

United Futsal will supply full tournament services as well as provide USYS member coaches with discounted access to the United Futsal University™ online courses.

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 3 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 55 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. We Are Youth Soccer. For more information, visit www.usyouthsoccer.org.

About United Futsal

UNITED FUTSAL is the industry leader in providing the highest level tournaments and events for youth futsal players in the world. Since 2010, over 100,000 athletes, coaches, fans and referees representing 25 countries have participated in its World Futsal Cup, World Futsal Championships and FUTURES™ programs and precursory events. We Are Futsal™. For more information visit unitedfutsal.com.

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (June 2, 2021) — Just 13 games remain in the Spring 2021 season of the US Youth Soccer Great Lakes Conference following another exciting week of action. Many of the games this past weekend helped determine division winners, as well as teams clinching National League P.R.O. slots and berths in the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships.

Out of the 53 divisions holding competition in the spring season of the Great Lakes Conference, only two division titles are still available, with the remaining games determining the teams who will get promoted and relegated ahead of next season.

Only two automatic qualifying slots are still up for grabs for the inaugural season of National League P.R.O. following this week’s action, with two teams joining the 46 other Great Lakes Conference sides that already clinched their automatic qualifying slots.

Some notes from the weekend’s Team vs. Team action:

• Nationals Union 07 Boys Black (MI) clinched first place in the 14U Boys Premier II Division with a 2-1 win over Michigan Rush Northville 07B (MI).
• Two wins over the course of the past week saw Club Ohio 2006G Green 1 (OH-S) shoot up the 15U Girls Premier I Division standings to first place, clinching them a National League P.R.O. slot and a berth to the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships thanks to their perfect 7-0-0 record.
• Fort Wayne United 06G Academy (IN) completed a perfect season of its own in the 15U Girls Premier II Division with a 1-0 win over NWI Lions United 06G Yellow (IN).

Some notes from the weekend’s Boys Club vs. Club action:

• Nationals (MI) played against Michigan Jaguars (MI) in Club vs. Club, with Nationals winning the series, 3-2. Three of the games had huge implications on the standings, as the Jaguars’ wins in the 16U and 19U Boys matchups clinched them the division, and Nationals’ win in the 15U matchup wrapped up a perfect season. All three teams are rewarded with automatic berths for the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships and next season’s National League P.R.O.

What they’re saying:

Only needing one point from its last two games to win the division and get a National League P.R.O. slot, Club Ohio 2006G Green 1 (OH-S) won both games to add a berth in the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships to its accomplishments.

“Needless to say, our players are excited, and having coached a team in the National League previously, I know first-hand what a great experience it will be for our players and am thrilled for them,” said Costa Kalorides, coach of the Club Ohio team. “It was impressive to see the resiliency of our players as they bonded together as a team to claim a spot in the US Youth Soccer National League P.R.O. for the 2021-2022 season.”

Michigan Jaguars (MI) had a lot to celebrate as their 16U and 19U Boys teams clinched automatic berths to both the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships and the 2021-22 season of National League P.R.O. thanks to their wins over Nationals (MI) on Friday.

“Once the game began after a shaky couple of first-minute nerves, you could see how well prepared all the players were as we executed our game plan excellently to win 2-0 and clinch the league title,” said Martin Clegg, coach of the 16U Michigan Jaguars team. “You could see how much this meant to all of them. I am very proud of their achievement, and I am looking forward to their push to the USYS National Championships through the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships.”

The 19U team, coached by Dan Trosper, were equally as excited as they look to conclude their youth soccer careers on a high.

“The boys were highly motivated to compete after a successful weekend prior in State Cup,” said James Renton, Director of Coaching at Michigan Jaguars. “The boys were mentally and physically ready to go under Coach Trosper knowing that a tie or win would be enough to clinch the Club vs Club title. A solid 3-1 victory allows them to go back to the USYS Midwest Regional Championships and reclaim the title that they won in 2019.”

The Great Lakes Conference is one of 13 Conferences under the USYS National League in the multi-state tier, and it consists of teams primarily from New York West, Pennsylvania West, West Virginia, Ohio North, Ohio South, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Kentucky.

To follow the Great Lakes Conference results and standings this weekend, click here.

Click here for more information on the Great Lakes Conference. For more information on all of the National League Conferences, the National League Showcase Series, and National League P.R.O., click here.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (June 2, 2021) — With the end of the Spring 2021 season of the US Youth Soccer Midwest Conference on the horizon, over 50 games were played this past weekend — all of which helped determine division winners, clinchers of National League P.R.O. automatic slots, and qualifiers for the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships.

The latest wave of games saw seven teams clinch automatic qualifying slots for the 2021-22 season of National League P.R.O. — adding to the 20 sides that clinched their spots prior to this weekend and leaving only three slots available across the Midwest Conference.

Ahead of the conclusion of the Spring 2021 season of the Midwest Conference this upcoming weekend, eight of the 50 divisions still have the division title up for grabs.

Some notes from the weekend’s Team vs. Team action:

• Chicago Magic 2008 MCL (IL) clinched a National League P.R.O. spot, courtesy of its 6-1 win over CFJ 2008B Premier (IL) in the 13U Boys Premier I Division.
• Needing a win to guarantee the 14U Boys First Division White title, AFC Union B 2007 Premier (WI) lost 2-0 to SC Wave Juniors 07 Boys (WI), meaning that AFC will have to rely on other results to see if it comes out as the division winner.
• A 1-0 win over Kingdom SC 06 Red (MI) saw MFJ 06B Navy (MI) clinch first place in the 15U Boys First Division Yellow.
• Salvo SC 05B Navy (MN) lost, 1-0, to Tonka Fusion Elite 05 (MN) when a win would’ve seen Salvo clinch the 16U Boys Premier I Division title. With the loss, MSC Academy 05 (IL) were declared winners of the division, which featured a close title race in which one point separated the top three teams.
• A 3-0 loss for Indiana Elite 2004 Premier Boys (IN) means that Tonka Fusion Elite 04 Boys (MN) are winners of the 17U Boys Premier II Division. The Minnesota side wrapped up an undefeated spring season with a 3-1 win on Saturday.
• Michigan Tigers FC 2008 Girls Gold (MI) secured the title in 13U Girls First Division Yellow with their 3-0 win over Liverpool FC-IA Michigan Central 08 G Academy (MI). They followed that up with a 5-1 in over Michigan Tigers FC 2008 Girls Gold (MI) to conclude a perfect spring season with a 7-0-0 record.

Some notes from the weekend’s Boys Club vs. Club action:

• Galaxy SC (IL) took on Lou Fusz Athletic (MO), winning three of the five games, with the wins coming in the 16U, 17U, and 19U age groups.
• Midwest United (MI) played against Chicago FC United (IL) on Saturday, coming away with victories in the 15U and 18U age groups.
• Sunday saw the opponents swap, with Galaxy SC (IL) taking on Chicago FC United (IL). Galaxy won three of the matchups by 1-0 scorelines, with a stalemate taking place in the 19U matchup. Galaxy’s wins in the 16U and 17U age group clinched them the Club vs. Club Division title in each age group and earned those teams a spot in National League P.R.O. and an automatic berth in the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships.
• Lou Fusz Athletic (MO) won the 19U matchup against Midwest United (MI), with the Michigan side getting wins in the 15U and 18U age groups.

What they’re saying:

It was a successful weekend for Galaxy SC (IL), which saw two of its teams win Club vs. Club Divisions to earn automatic berths in both the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships and the 2021-22 season of National League P.R.O. thanks their two wins over the weekend. A 1-0 win on Sunday for the 17U Galaxy SC team over Chicago FC United (IL) clinched the division when any other result would’ve seen them finish second.

“We knew it was going to be tough game, and we only scored at the very end,” said Dusan Strmcnik, coach of the 17U Boys Galaxy SC team. “The boys stayed focused and calm and were rewarded in the 83rd minute, which was a huge relief.”

The dramatic win to wrap up the conference season was a rewarding end to a year that challenged Galaxy and each of its opponents.

“The boys are still taking it in but are beyond excited to qualify for the 2021 USYS Midwest Regional Championships and 2021-22 National League P.R.O.,” Strmcnik said. “Their parents and the coaching staff are super proud. It’s nice to see so many happy faces after what has been a tough year for everyone.”

The Midwest Conference is one of 13 Conferences under the USYS National League in the multi-state tier, and it consists of teams primarily from Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota.

To follow the Midwest Conference results and standings this weekend, click here.

Click here for more information on the Midwest Conference. For more information on all of the National League Conferences, the National League Showcase Series, and National League P.R.O., click here.

Over Memorial Day Weekend, EDP Soccer hosted the USYS Regional Showcase New England, one of the top recruiting opportunities in the region. Played over the three-day weekend, the event featured top 13U-19U boys and girls teams from over 50 clubs. Despite the rain and low temperatures, each of the venues saw all of the games completed. Games were played at Progin Park, Game On Fitchburg, Taunton Fore Kicks III and FC Stars Soccer Fields. Over 400 games were played during the weekend, with over 1,500 goals scored.

College coaches from Division II and III schools were in attendance, as they looked to round out their 2021 recruiting classes and prepare for the future with prospects from the classes of 2022, 2023 and 2024. In addition to the college coaches on site, all 17U-19U games were recorded so that Division I coaches (NCAA mandated dead period until 5/31/21) and coaches who were not able to make the event due to budget and travel restrictions, will be able to evaluate players with video after the event.

A Look At Some of This Past Weekend’s Results

19U Boys
New England Surf Navy, winner of the USYS New England Conference Premier I North Division, once again proved why it is one of the region’s top teams. The team went unbeaten, including a 2-1 win over NEFC Hammer. Inter Connecticut 03/02 Boys also had an impressive showing over the weekend, defeating both NY Elite FC and Juventus Academy Boston EDS Central, and drawing 1-1 with Seacoast United Bedford. Rhode Island Surf B02/03 won the Blue bracket with two wins and one loss.

19U Girls
In the Red bracket, both Galway Rovers and Juventus Academy finished top with 4 points. In the White bracket, New York Surf SC G02 Academy finished top of the bracket with 7 points.

18U Boys
The Massapequa Warriors B03, which is from the North Atlantic Conference and will head to the USYS Eastern Regional Championships later this month, won all three of its matches against three of Massachusetts’ top teams. Quickstrike FC 2003 NL, who will be in the Eastern New York State Cup final this upcoming weekend, finished the event with two wins and a draw. CFC North Regional 2003, of the New England Conference, won all three of its games over the weekend.

18U Girls
Nirvana 360 Illusion prepared for their upcoming Eastern New York State Cup final with three wins in which they allowed just two goals. In the White bracket, Southeast SC prepared for its Connecticut State Cup semifinal by defeating Brentwood SC, Southampton SC and Bruno United FC.

17U Boys
New England Surf State Grey and New England Surf State Blue will both head into the Massachusetts State Cup semifinals this weekend after winning all three of their matches at the showcase. Southeast SC, who finished in second place in the New England Conference Premier I South Division, finished the showcase with two wins and one loss. CFC Regional North 2004 won all three of its games as it prepared for the Connecticut State Cup semifinals.

17U Girls
SDA Utica 04 Blasters finished at the top of their bracket, just as they did at the USYS New Jersey Regional Showcase, and finished on a high note as they look to clinch their spot from the North Atlantic Conference into the  Eastern Regional Championships. In the White bracket, Seacoast United Maine and Juventus Academy Boston both finished with 6 points. In the Blue bracket, Quickstrike FC 2004 NL went unbeaten, going 3-0-0.

16U Boys
New England Surf State Navy won all three games, including a 3-1 win over National League Playoff participant Future SA 05. Puerto Rico Surf won the White bracket, finishing a perfect 3-0-0. In the Yellow bracket, both New York Rush and CFC Valley finished with 9 points. Southeast SC won the Green bracket with 7 points after 3 games.

16U Girls
Three State Cup semifinalists — Patriots FC 05, NJ Premier FC 05 and Alleycats 2005G NL Red — all went 3-0-0 competing with some of New England’s best. Stony Brook SC Arsenal, Juventus Academy Boston 2005 EDS South Bianco, AC Connecticut G05, Middle Country, Quickstrike FC, and Seacoast United all also went 3-0-0 in their respective brackets.

15U Boys
Mid Atlantic Conference Premier I winners NJ Premier FC 06 Boys finished with two wins and a draw to win the Red bracket. The draw came against Juventus Academy Boston 2006 EDP North Bianco, who will compete in the Massachusetts State Cup semifinals this weekend. CFC Regional North finished with three wins out of three as it got ready for the Connecticut State Cup semifinals. In the Yellow bracket, Inter Connecticut 06 went undefeated, as did Southeast SC in the Orange bracket.

15U Girls
NJ Premier FC 2006 defeated New England Surf State Navy, a Massachusetts State Cup semifinalist, 3-1, in both teams’ final game of the weekend to win the bracket. In the White bracket, New York West State Cup Champion Syracuse Development Academy 2006 Girls finished top of the bracket with 6 points. 

14U Boys
PDA Hibernian Scholes, one of the Mid Atlantic Conference’s top teams, defeated three teams from the New England Conference with wins of 2-1 over Western United Pioneers, 2-0 over Northeast Rush MA and 3-0 over Rhode Island Surf. In the White bracket, Brentwood SC of the North Atlantic Conference went 3-0-0 with 10 goals for and three against.

14U Girls
With four teams still competing for State Cup titles residing in the showcase brackets in Alleycats 2007G Red, CFC North Regional 07, Western United Pioneers and New England Surf Navy 07, it was the Rhode Island State Cup champion Rhode Island Surf G2007 who finished 3-0-0 and won the Red bracket. 

13U Boys
The New Jersey State Cup Champions, NJ Premier FC 08, took on North Atlantic Conference Club vs. Club champion Brentwood SC Premier in their final game, with both teams entering unbeaten. In the match between two of the region’s best teams, NJ Premier came away with a 3-1 victory to win the bracket. In the White backet, PDA Hibernian Matthaus won all three of its games.

13U Girls
New England Surf State Navy 08 continues to be one of the best teams in the region, recording wins of 4-0, 5-1 and 5-0 as it prepared for the Massachusetts State Cup semifinals this weekend. In the White bracket, Rhode Island Surf finished 3-0-0.