Learn About Our Programs: Ages 3-19
TABLE OF CONTENTS
⚽ AYSO Player Pathway
Here at AYSO Region 128, we're committed to providing a player pathway that places each child in a
developmentally appropriate environment where they can thrive.
We begin with our AYSO Playground Soccer program (ages 3-4), designed to introduce your family and child to the
fundamental movement skills needed to play soccer.
Players then progress into our AYSO Core program where our dedicated volunteer coaches create a fun, energetic
playing experience that allows kids to develop their skills and love of the game.
For players seeking more challenge, we offer "EXTRA" - a tryout-based program with greater emphasis on technical and
tactical development while maintaining AYSO's core philosophies.
We also participate in the Alliance program, which provides opportunities for competitive play in external circuits
for players ready for that next level.
Our goal is to create an environment where every player has the opportunity to reach their potential - whether they
dream of playing at the highest levels, for their high school, in college, or simply want to have fun with friends!
Registration Age Breakdown
AYSO is currently in a transition period regarding player age determination:
Current Season (Spring 2026) - Birth Year System:
For the 2025-2026 membership year, your child's division is determined by their age as of December 31. If your child
is 7 years old on December 31, they will play in the 8U division for the entire season.
Fall 2026 and Beyond - August 1 Cutoff System:
Starting in August 2026, AYSO will use an August 1 - July 31 cycle, aligning with US Youth Soccer and US Club
Soccer. If your child is 7 years old on August 1st, they will play in the 8U division for the entire season. This
change reduces "trapped players" (where teammates are in different grades) and keeps players with their school-grade
peers together on the same teams.
For more information about age determination, visit the U.S. Soccer website.
🎈 Playground: Ages 3-4
What is AYSO Playground?
AYSO Playground is a child development program offered by Region 128 for our youngest players (ages 3-4). The goal of
this program is to help develop your child's fundamental motor skills in partnership with you, using soccer as the
foundation.
Where will my child play?
Our Playground sessions use small "activity grids" that can be set up anywhere - we don't need a full soccer field!
We use designated areas at our facilities to create the perfect learning environment for our youngest players.
How long are the sessions?
Sessions are no more than 60 minutes (including rests and breaks). Check our registration information or contact us
for specific times and dates for the current season!
Is there competition in AYSO Playground?
There is no competition in our Playground program! The focus is on letting kids develop fundamental motor
skills, hand-eye coordination, and social interaction in a fun and safe environment. Children discover the game for
themselves while bonding with their parents or guardians.
🏫 Schoolyard: Ages 4-5
What is AYSO Schoolyard?
In our Schoolyard program, each team has three players, and each player has a parent (or other adult) with them on the
field. Kids learn soccer skills like kicking, dribbling, and throw-ins in a low-pressure, supportive setting.
Schoolyard is all about introducing children to soccer as a game, without the pressure to win.
How do parents participate?
Parents are an essential part of the Schoolyard experience! You'll help organize teams, set up fields, and supervise
the program. While the children play, parent volunteers keep time but interfere with play as little as possible. We
only stop play for important reasons - if a child needs guidance in playing well with others, for injury,
substitution, or confusion. Otherwise, we keep the focus on fun!
Is there competition in AYSO Schoolyard?
In Schoolyard, we don't keep score to determine winners - every player is a winner! Young players need to get
comfortable with the ball and the field, so while there are adults nearby and opportunities to offer guidance, the
emphasis is always on fun and play. The kids wear jerseys or pinnies, cleats, and shin guards, and most importantly,
they discover that soccer is something they can do!
⭐ AYSO Core - Primary Program: Ages 6-19
The AYSO Core Program is our primary program at Region 128, serving the majority of our players from ages 6-19 (6U
through 19U divisions). Built on AYSO's Six Philosophies, this is where the heart of our region's soccer experience
happens.
What is AYSO Core?
Our Core program is the foundation for all the fun, excitement, and learning on our fields! We've designed the
program to be age-appropriate and developmentally challenging, guided by AYSO's Six Philosophies:
- Everyone Plays®
- Balanced Teams
- Open Registration
- Positive Coaching
- Good Sportsmanship
- Player Development
What does "Everyone Plays®" mean?
At Region 128, Everyone Plays® means no child sits on the bench for long. Every child plays at least half of every
game - guaranteed!
What are "Balanced Teams"?
We balance teams to make soccer about the experience, not just wins or losses. This approach teaches children good
sportsmanship and helps them learn to be the best teammates and opponents they can be. By focusing on player
development over winning, we stay true to being child-first and child-focused.
Can older kids still enjoy AYSO?
Absolutely! The fun doesn't stop when you're young. Our 16U-19U program gives teenage athletes another great option
for soccer. We follow AYSO philosophies and policies with a few adjustments to make it more enjoyable for teenagers
- including co-ed teams, flexible substitution guidelines, and opportunities for competitive play.
EXTRA is our tryout-based program that offers players a higher level of challenge to refine their skills in a more
competitive environment.
What is AYSO EXTRA?
For players who want more challenge while staying part of Region 128, EXTRA is the perfect fit! This program provides
a more progressive soccer experience with the right balance of competition and inclusion. Your child remains part of
our trusted AYSO community while getting fair playing time and elevated development opportunities.
How are AYSO EXTRA games organized?
Region 128 organizes EXTRA play to meet the needs of our community, while maintaining AYSO's core philosophies:
everyone plays at least 50 percent of each game, selection is based on fair tryouts, and teams are balanced for
competitive play.
Can my AYSO EXTRA child also participate in AYSO Core?
Yes! EXTRA players can also participate in our Core program at the same time, playing fully with both teams. They're
also eligible for All Stars, tournaments, National Open Cup, National Games, and travel teams. Players who play only
on an EXTRA team are eligible for tournaments, travel, and other secondary program opportunities.
How do I learn more about EXTRA at Region 128?
Contact us directly to learn about EXTRA opportunities at Region 128. Our volunteer coaches and referees maintain all
AYSO standards for training and certification to ensure a quality experience for your player.
🤝 Alliance: Ages 10-19
What is the AYSO Alliance Program?
The AYSO Alliance program supports our player development pathway to the highest levels of competitive play,
providing opportunities for players ready to compete in external circuits.
How are Alliance teams formed and games organized?
Alliance teams consist of players selected through open tryouts who want to play at a more competitive level. These
teams compete in local Alliance circuits as well as inter-state tournaments. Participation may require team
fundraising and will likely involve travel.
Our Alliance program operates in the best interest of Region 128 players, with an emphasis on the player pathway and
creating a positive learning environment. The program serves as an entry point for players into external competition
circuits.
Alliance teams are composed of players registered with Region 128, while also registered with US Youth Soccer or US
Club Soccer. Alliance players, coaches, and teams have all the advantages of being part of AYSO while competing in
external gaming circuits.
Can my Alliance child also participate in AYSO Core?
Yes! Alliance players who also participate in our Core program can play fully with both teams during the season.
Please note that they cannot participate in National Games or national tournaments.
How do I learn more about Alliance at Region 128?
Contact us directly to learn about Alliance opportunities at Region 128. All our coaches and referees maintain AYSO
standards for training and certification to ensure the best experience for your player.