What is AYSO Core?

Our Grassroots program is the foundation for all the fun, excitement, and learning that happens on the fields! We have developed our soccer program to be age-appropriate and developmentally challenging based on our Six Philosophies, which are the essence of AYSO’s Mission and Vision and guide all that we do.

• Everyone Plays(R)
• Balanced Teams
• Open Registration
• Positive Coaching
• Good Sportsmanship
• Player Development
  

What does “Everyone Plays®” mean?

In AYSO, Everyone Plays(R) means that no child spends their soccer experience sitting on the bench. Every child plays at least half of every game.

What are “Balanced Teams”?

In AYSO, teams are balanced to make playing soccer about the experience, not wins or losses. This way, we teach children about good sportsmanship and learning to be the best possible teammate and opponent. By focusing on player development over winning, AYSO is truly child-first and child-focused. This approach makes AYSO one of the finest player development programs dedicated to youth athletics and creating happy, healthy kids.

Can older kids still enjoy AYSO?

The fun doesn’t have to stop when you’re young! As players get older, AYSO’s 16U-18U Program gives your teenage athletes another choice for more advanced play. The program is organized under the rules and bylaws of AYSO philosophies and policies, with a few adjustments to make it more enjoyable and accessible for teenagers. Coed teams are allowed and more flexible guidelines for player substitution as well as travel team options. 16U-18U teams can also play against local high schools, participate in select teams, and enjoy more competition.

What is AYSO Playground?

AYSO Playground is a child development program. The objective of this program is to help develop, in collaboration with the parent or guardian, the child’s fundamental motor skills using soccer as a common thread.

Where will my child play?

Field space is never a concern for AYSO 153 Playground Soccer! In fact, you really don’t need a soccer field at all. We successfully run our program at Jesse Owens Park. The playing area is based on small “activity grids.”

How long are AYSO Playground sessions?

The sessions should be no more than 60 minutes at a time (including rests and breaks). Time and dates vary based on volunteer availability,

Is there competition in AYSO Playground?

What is AYSO Schoolyard?

In Schoolyard, each team is comprised of three players and each player has a parent (or other adult) with them on the field. The children learn soccer skills like kicking, dribbling, and throwing in the ball, but in a low-pressure setting. Schoolyard is about exposing children to soccer as a game, without the pressure to win. 

How do parents participate?

Parents help take turns organizing the teams, setting up fields and supervising the program. While their children are playing, parent volunteers keep time, but interfere with play as little as possible. There are only a few reasons to stop play in Schoolyard games. If a child is not playing well with others, or if play must pause for injury, substitution, confusion, or to watch a flock of birds fly by, parents can quickly direct attention back to the game.

Is there competition in AYSO Schoolyard?

In Schoolyard, goals are not counted to determine who wins – every player is a winner. Young players need to get a feel for the ball and the field, so even though there are adults all around and many opportunities to offer instruction, the emphasis is on fun and play. It’s a different kind of game in 5U, but the children still wear jerseys or pinnies, cleats and shin guards. Best of all, they find out that soccer is something they can do!