AYSO

About

Three soccer players in red, white, and blue uniforms playing a match on a grass field.

Get to Know AYSO

The American Youth Soccer Organization is the oldest national youth soccer program in the United States and a 501C3 nonprofit. Our mission is to develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs throughout the country which promote a fun, family environment built on the foundation of our Six Philosophies.


Beginning with only nine teams and a handful of soccer enthusiasts, AYSO was established in 1964 out of a garage in Torrance, California. The goal was, and still is, to ensure that kids have the opportunity to be introduced to the beautiful game of soccer. More than 50 years later, AYSO now has thriving programs for kids and adults in nearly 900 communities all over the country as well as internationally in the Virgin Islands and Trinidad and Tobago. With over eight million AYSO alumni, we are a name that’s synonymous with excellence and recognized nationwide.

Core Values

AYSO’s Six Philosophies

A person in a blue and white sports jersey holds a soccer-themed medal toward the camera with a joyful expression.

Everyone Plays®

AYSO’s goal is for kids and adults to play soccer, so we mandate that every player on every team must play at least 50 percent of every game.

A youth soccer team in blue and white jerseys stands in a line on a field, wearing medals and holding a trophy.

Balanced Teams

Each year we form new teams as evenly balanced as possible, providing a stronger learning experience for teams as they play teams comprised of similar ability. It also allows for each player to experience playing with a wide variety of teammates of different skill levels.

A coach in a blue uniform kneels on a field to give a high-five to a smiling child wearing a white sports shirt.

Open Registration

If you want to play soccer, AYSO welcomes you and gives all youth and adults the opportunity to register and play.

A coach holding a phone to take a selfie with a joyful soccer team celebrating with a trophy on a field.

Positive Coaching

A coach can be one of the most influential people in a player’s life, so AYSO requires they create a positive experience for every player in AYSO. Additionally, encouraging player’s effort leads to greater enjoyment, improved skills and stronger motivation in players.

A group of soccer players in red jerseys and black shorts huddle together on a green turf field.

Good Sportsmanship

We strive to create a positive environment based on mutual respect rather than a win-at-all-costs attitude, and our programs are designed to instill good sportsmanship in every facet of AYSO.

A coach in a blue uniform kneels on a field to give a high-five to a smiling child wearing a white sports shirt.

Player Development

All players should be able to develop their soccer skills and knowledge to the best of their abilities, both individually and as members of a team, to maximize their enjoyment of the game.

Region 38

Local Board

Doug Ryan

Doug Ryan

National President

Doug Ryan

Doug Ryan

National President

Doug Ryan

Doug Ryan

National President

Doug Ryan

Doug Ryan

National President