⚽ AYSO Core Soccer Program

Where Kids Learn the Game, Build Confidence, and Fall in Love with Soccer

⭐ Core Program Overview

What is the AYSO Core Program?

The AYSO Core Program is the heart of American Youth Soccer Organization. It is a recreational soccer league designed to develop players at every level through fun, fair, and age-appropriate soccer.

Core soccer is where kids begin playing real games, learning teamwork, and growing both on and off the field.

Who is the Core Program for?

The Core Program serves players from U6 through U19, welcoming:

Brand-new players
Multi-season players
Athletes who want to play soccer while balancing other activities

No experience is required.

Is the Core Program competitive?

It is developmental, not win-driven.

Games are real and exciting, but the emphasis is on:

Learning the game
Improving skills
Confidence and effort
Sportsmanship and teamwork

Winning is never more important than player development.

💎 What Makes AYSO Core Different

What makes AYSO Core different from other leagues?

The Core Program is built on AYSO's Six Philosophies:

Everyone Plays® - Every child plays at least half of every game
Balanced Teams - Teams are formed to promote fairness
Open Registration - No tryouts, no cuts
Positive Coaching - Encouragement over pressure
Good Sportsmanship - Respect for players, referees, and opponents
Player Development - Age-appropriate learning comes first

These principles guide every practice and game.

How are teams formed?

Teams are formed by the region using balanced team principles, not tryouts. The goal is fair play, equal opportunity, and enjoyable games for all players.

Do players get equal playing time?

Yes. Everyone Plays® is a core promise of AYSO. Every child plays at least half of every game, regardless of skill level.

📅 Season Structure

How often do teams practice and play?

Most Core teams:

Practice once or twice per week (varies by age group)
Play one game per week, typically on Saturdays

Schedules are designed to be family-friendly and predictable.

👨‍🏫 Coaches & Safety

Who coaches the teams?

Coaches are volunteer parents and community members who:

Are background-checked
Complete AYSO Safe Haven training
Receive age-appropriate coaching education

No prior soccer experience is required to coach.

Is the Core Program safe for kids?

Yes. Safety is a top priority. AYSO provides:

Trained adult supervision
Concussion awareness education
Child & Volunteer Protection policies
Insurance coverage for registered players and volunteers

🎯 Player Development

How does the Core Program support player development?

Core soccer focuses on:

Technical skills (dribbling, passing, shooting)
Game understanding
Physical coordination
Emotional growth and confidence

Instruction evolves as players grow, ensuring development matches age and ability.

What comes after Playground or Schoolyard?

The Core Program is the natural next step after Playground and Schoolyard. It introduces structure and teamwork while keeping soccer fun and accessible.

What if my child wants more soccer later?

AYSO offers additional programs beyond Core (such as EXTRA, Alliance, or EPIC, depending on age and interest), but Core remains the foundation of the AYSO experience.