AYSO Wiki - User contributions [en]

File:Kickstart Logo.png

2026-07-18T00:39:13Z

Alexdiaz: Alexdiaz uploaded a new version of File:Kickstart Logo.png

File:Kickstart Program Manual.pdf

2026-07-18T00:38:59Z

Alexdiaz: Alexdiaz uploaded a new version of File:Kickstart Program Manual.pdf

2026-07-10T21:26:30Z

Alexdiaz:

File:U6 Kickstart Program Manual.pdf

2026-07-09T20:27:51Z

Alexdiaz: Alexdiaz uploaded a new version of File:U6 Kickstart Program Manual.pdf

2026-07-08T23:59:36Z

Alexdiaz:

Kickstart

2026-07-08T23:57:12Z

Alexdiaz:

{{DISPLAYTITLE:Kickstart}}
<div style="background:#003366; color:white; padding:14px; margin:10px 0; text-align:center; font-size:110%; font-weight:bold; border-radius:6px;">
Getting Kickstart off the ground in your Region?<br>
<span style="font-weight:normal;">
Email <span style="text-decoration:underline;">programs@ayso.org</span> for any additional questions or resources.
</span>
</div>
<div style="float:right; width:320px; margin:0 0 1em 1em;">
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|+
! | '''ADDITIONAL RESOURCES'''
|-
| <hr style="margin:4px 0;">
[https://wiki.ayso.org/w/images/Kickstart_Program_Manual.pdf Kickstart Program Manual]<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/w/images/U6_Kickstart_Program_Manual.pdf 6U Kickstart Program Manual]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/lqYgO8USYnGtlVUj0PG5- Parents Guide Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/DTFbatZZz3H0RT5d-XD3O Program Leader Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/i1-gtLsr0kqfuUmzQTiC8 6U Parents Guide Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/G2RbAbtXNeUxZWi_UIWT6 6U Program Leader Preview]<br>
[https://ayso.io/ProgramsMarketingsKitsBAND Region Marketing Resources]<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/w/images/AYSO_Parent_Introductionv3.pptx Parent Introduction PPT]<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/w/images/Non-AYSO_Registered_Participant_Form_20100426_FrontBack.pdf Non-Registered Participant Form]
<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/wiki/Kickstart_Webinars Sign Up for Kickstart Webinar Here!]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/dUiws4HXXTfkF-THhJ_WN AYSO Region Kickstart Guide]<br>
|}
</div>

==='''Why'''===
[[File:2024-10-19 10-17-41 GH7 P1002415-X4.jpg|thumb|300x300px]]

Kickstart looks and feels different from traditional youth soccer, and that is intentional.

Today’s youth sports are often over-structured and adult-driven, which does not always match the needs of the child. Kickstart adapts the environment so the game belongs to the kids again.

The streets, parks, and backyards have produced some of the world’s most creative players. When children are given the freedom to play, they become healthier, happier, and more confident.

'''Benefits include:'''
#Physical health
#Unleashed creativity
#Social and emotional growth
#Confidence and independence
#Accessible and inclusive play environments
==='''What'''===
AYSO Kickstart is AYSO’s entry-level soccer experience designed to reimagine early play environments, spark joy, boost development, and help kids fall in love with the game from day one.

Grounded in years of sport and early-childhood research, Kickstart transforms traditional practice into child-centered play. Sessions feature fun, fast-moving activities and modified small-sided games that create a lively, sandlot-style jamboree experience.

Kickstart is typically offered for the youngest and first-time players and serves as the first step in the AYSO player pathway.

=== '''What does a session include?'''===
[[File:2025-03-17 18-02-30 GH5M2 Cruz P1029177-X.jpg|thumb|200x200px]]
Each Kickstart session is simple, fast-moving, and designed to keep players active.

Every session includes:
#A Fundamental Motor Skill activity (such as skipping or balancing)
#A game-like soccer activity to build skill and understanding
#The Big Match – a modified small-sided game (2v2 or 3v3)
Each session also includes a social and emotional learning theme, such as helping others, sharing, or teamwork.

==='''Why do parents choose Kickstart?'''===
Parents choose Kickstart because it:
*Feels welcoming and low-pressure
*Fits into modern family schedules
*Focuses on fun, development, and child ownership
*Builds confidence instead of stress
*Is run by an organization they trust
*Encourages parent participation and support
For many children, Kickstart is their first organized activity, and the program is designed to make that experience positive and memorable.

==='''Development'''===
[[File:2024-10-19 10-29-32 GH7 P1002918-X4.jpg|thumb|left|225x225px]]

Kickstart creates a strong foundation for future soccer participation by:
*Introducing basic ball familiarity and movement
* Building comfort in a group play environment
*Encouraging listening, sharing, and simple directions
* Helping players transition confidently into team-based soccer
The goal is not to rush development, but to set players up for long-term success and enjoyment.

=== '''Values'''===
As an official AYSO program, Kickstart follows the AYSO Six Philosophies:
*Everyone Plays®
*Positive Coaching
*Player Development
*Good Sportsmanship
*Open Registration
* Balanced Teams
Kickstart introduces these values from the very beginning of a player’s soccer journey.

=== '''Snapshot''' ===
*'''Who:''' First-time and youngest players
*'''Focus:''' Fun, movement, confidence, and play
*'''Style:''' Sandlot-inspired, small-sided, child-centered play
*'''Structure:''' Flexible sessions designed for families
*'''Outcome:''' Happy kids, confident parents, players ready for team-based soccer
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kickstart}}

File:Kickstart Program Manual.pdf

2026-07-08T23:56:34Z

Alexdiaz:

File:U6 Kickstart Program Manual.pdf

2026-07-08T23:54:38Z

Alexdiaz:

Kickstart

2026-07-08T21:47:51Z

Alexdiaz:

{{DISPLAYTITLE:Kickstart}}
<div style="background:#003366; color:white; padding:14px; margin:10px 0; text-align:center; font-size:110%; font-weight:bold; border-radius:6px;">
Getting Kickstart off the ground in your Region?<br>
<span style="font-weight:normal;">
Email <span style="text-decoration:underline;">programs@ayso.org</span> for any additional questions or resources.
</span>
</div>
<div style="float:right; width:320px; margin:0 0 1em 1em;">
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|+
! | '''ADDITIONAL RESOURCES'''
|-
| <hr style="margin:4px 0;">
[https://share.articulate.com/lqYgO8USYnGtlVUj0PG5- Parents Guide Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/DTFbatZZz3H0RT5d-XD3O Program Leader Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/i1-gtLsr0kqfuUmzQTiC8 6U Parents Guide Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/G2RbAbtXNeUxZWi_UIWT6 6U Program Leader Preview]<br>
[https://ayso.io/ProgramsMarketingsKitsBAND Region Marketing Resources]<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/w/images/AYSO_Parent_Introductionv3.pptx Parent Introduction PPT]<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/w/images/Non-AYSO_Registered_Participant_Form_20100426_FrontBack.pdf Non-Registered Participant Form]
<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/wiki/Kickstart_Webinars Sign Up for Kickstart Webinar Here!]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/dUiws4HXXTfkF-THhJ_WN AYSO Region Kickstart Guide]<br>
|}
</div>

==='''Why'''===
[[File:2024-10-19 10-17-41 GH7 P1002415-X4.jpg|thumb|300x300px]]

Kickstart looks and feels different from traditional youth soccer, and that is intentional.

Today’s youth sports are often over-structured and adult-driven, which does not always match the needs of the child. Kickstart adapts the environment so the game belongs to the kids again.

The streets, parks, and backyards have produced some of the world’s most creative players. When children are given the freedom to play, they become healthier, happier, and more confident.

'''Benefits include:'''
#Physical health
#Unleashed creativity
#Social and emotional growth
#Confidence and independence
#Accessible and inclusive play environments
==='''What'''===
AYSO Kickstart is AYSO’s entry-level soccer experience designed to reimagine early play environments, spark joy, boost development, and help kids fall in love with the game from day one.

Grounded in years of sport and early-childhood research, Kickstart transforms traditional practice into child-centered play. Sessions feature fun, fast-moving activities and modified small-sided games that create a lively, sandlot-style jamboree experience.

Kickstart is typically offered for the youngest and first-time players and serves as the first step in the AYSO player pathway.

=== '''What does a session include?'''===
[[File:2025-03-17 18-02-30 GH5M2 Cruz P1029177-X.jpg|thumb|200x200px]]
Each Kickstart session is simple, fast-moving, and designed to keep players active.

Every session includes:
#A Fundamental Motor Skill activity (such as skipping or balancing)
#A game-like soccer activity to build skill and understanding
#The Big Match – a modified small-sided game (2v2 or 3v3)
Each session also includes a social and emotional learning theme, such as helping others, sharing, or teamwork.

==='''Why do parents choose Kickstart?'''===
Parents choose Kickstart because it:
*Feels welcoming and low-pressure
*Fits into modern family schedules
*Focuses on fun, development, and child ownership
*Builds confidence instead of stress
*Is run by an organization they trust
*Encourages parent participation and support
For many children, Kickstart is their first organized activity, and the program is designed to make that experience positive and memorable.

==='''Development'''===
[[File:2024-10-19 10-29-32 GH7 P1002918-X4.jpg|thumb|left|225x225px]]

Kickstart creates a strong foundation for future soccer participation by:
*Introducing basic ball familiarity and movement
* Building comfort in a group play environment
*Encouraging listening, sharing, and simple directions
* Helping players transition confidently into team-based soccer
The goal is not to rush development, but to set players up for long-term success and enjoyment.

=== '''Values'''===
As an official AYSO program, Kickstart follows the AYSO Six Philosophies:
*Everyone Plays®
*Positive Coaching
*Player Development
*Good Sportsmanship
*Open Registration
* Balanced Teams
Kickstart introduces these values from the very beginning of a player’s soccer journey.

=== '''Snapshot''' ===
*'''Who:''' First-time and youngest players
*'''Focus:''' Fun, movement, confidence, and play
*'''Style:''' Sandlot-inspired, small-sided, child-centered play
*'''Structure:''' Flexible sessions designed for families
*'''Outcome:''' Happy kids, confident parents, players ready for team-based soccer
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kickstart}}

2026-06-11T21:21:52Z

Alexdiaz:

{{DISPLAYTITLE:Kickstart}}
<div style="background:#003366; color:white; padding:14px; margin:10px 0; text-align:center; font-size:110%; font-weight:bold; border-radius:6px;">
Getting Kickstart off the ground in your Region?<br>
<span style="font-weight:normal;">
Email <span style="text-decoration:underline;">programs@ayso.org</span> for any additional questions or resources.
</span>
</div>
<div style="float:right; width:320px; margin:0 0 1em 1em;">
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|+
! | '''ADDITIONAL RESOURCES'''
|-
| <hr style="margin:4px 0;">
[https://share.articulate.com/lqYgO8USYnGtlVUj0PG5- Parents Guide Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/DTFbatZZz3H0RT5d-XD3O Program Leader Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/i1-gtLsr0kqfuUmzQTiC8 6U Parents Guide Preview]<br>
[https://share.articulate.com/G2RbAbtXNeUxZWi_UIWT6 6U Program Leader Preview]<br>
[https://ayso.io/ProgramsMarketingsKitsBAND Region Marketing Resources]<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/w/images/AYSO_Parent_Introductionv3.pptx Parent Introduction PPT]<br>
[https://wiki.ayso.org/w/images/Non-AYSO_Registered_Participant_Form_20100426_FrontBack.pdfNon-AYSO Registered Participant Form]
|}
</div>

==='''Why'''===
[[File:2024-10-19 10-17-41 GH7 P1002415-X4.jpg|thumb|300x300px]]

Kickstart looks and feels different from traditional youth soccer, and that is intentional.

Today’s youth sports are often over-structured and adult-driven, which does not always match the needs of the child. Kickstart adapts the environment so the game belongs to the kids again.

The streets, parks, and backyards have produced some of the world’s most creative players. When children are given the freedom to play, they become healthier, happier, and more confident.

'''Benefits include:'''
#Physical health
#Unleashed creativity
#Social and emotional growth
#Confidence and independence
#Accessible and inclusive play environments
==='''What'''===
AYSO Kickstart is AYSO’s entry-level soccer experience designed to reimagine early play environments, spark joy, boost development, and help kids fall in love with the game from day one.

Grounded in years of sport and early-childhood research, Kickstart transforms traditional practice into child-centered play. Sessions feature fun, fast-moving activities and modified small-sided games that create a lively, sandlot-style jamboree experience.

Kickstart is typically offered for the youngest and first-time players and serves as the first step in the AYSO player pathway.

=== '''What does a session include?'''===
[[File:2025-03-17 18-02-30 GH5M2 Cruz P1029177-X.jpg|thumb|200x200px]]
Each Kickstart session is simple, fast-moving, and designed to keep players active.

Every session includes:
#A Fundamental Motor Skill activity (such as skipping or balancing)
#A game-like soccer activity to build skill and understanding
#The Big Match – a modified small-sided game (2v2 or 3v3)
Each session also includes a social and emotional learning theme, such as helping others, sharing, or teamwork.

==='''Why do parents choose Kickstart?'''===
Parents choose Kickstart because it:
*Feels welcoming and low-pressure
*Fits into modern family schedules
*Focuses on fun, development, and child ownership
*Builds confidence instead of stress
*Is run by an organization they trust
*Encourages parent participation and support
For many children, Kickstart is their first organized activity, and the program is designed to make that experience positive and memorable.

==='''Development'''===
[[File:2024-10-19 10-29-32 GH7 P1002918-X4.jpg|thumb|left|225x225px]]

Kickstart creates a strong foundation for future soccer participation by:
*Introducing basic ball familiarity and movement
* Building comfort in a group play environment
*Encouraging listening, sharing, and simple directions
* Helping players transition confidently into team-based soccer
The goal is not to rush development, but to set players up for long-term success and enjoyment.

=== '''Values'''===
As an official AYSO program, Kickstart follows the AYSO Six Philosophies:
*Everyone Plays®
*Positive Coaching
*Player Development
*Good Sportsmanship
*Open Registration
* Balanced Teams
Kickstart introduces these values from the very beginning of a player’s soccer journey.

=== '''Snapshot''' ===
*'''Who:''' First-time and youngest players
*'''Focus:''' Fun, movement, confidence, and play
*'''Style:''' Sandlot-inspired, small-sided, child-centered play
*'''Structure:''' Flexible sessions designed for families
*'''Outcome:''' Happy kids, confident parents, players ready for team-based soccer
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kickstart}}

File:Non-AYSO Registered Participant Form 20100426 FrontBack.pdf

2026-06-11T21:21:08Z

Alexdiaz:

2026-06-02T01:49:11Z

Alexdiaz:

Youth Volunteers

2026-05-08T17:46:47Z

Alexdiaz:

AYSO strongly encourages youth volunteers, particularly in the Referee program or as team training assistants, and they are welcome to earn community service hours serving their AYSO Region. The only exceptions are that youth volunteers cannot be a Team/Head Coach, an Assistant Coach, a Regional Board member or serve in a staff position with purchasing responsibilities. They must never be put in the position of supervising other minors on their own. The AYSO supervision protocol of 1 adult for every 8 or fewer children must be maintained.

Similar to Player Registration Forms, parents are required to complete and esign a Youth Volunteer Application for their child in addition to any existing Player Registration Form. Separate consent is required for volunteer activities.

Youth Volunteers must carry a signed copy of their Youth Volunteer form when performing volunteer duties for a Region because it contains parental consent and contact information as well as a medical release in the event emergency medical treatment is needed. It is a good idea for Regions to keep signed copies of the Youth Volunteer Applications at the field monitor stations.

Becoming a Youth Volunteer with AYSO is an excellent way for kids to give back to their community, develop leadership skills, and gain a better understanding of the game.

* Youth Volunteers should be at least 12 years old.
* The volunteer application must be submitted annually by a parent or guardian.
* The youth volunteer must complete training before becoming active in their role, including;
** AYSO's Safe Haven
** CDC Concussion Awareness
** Sudden Cardiac Arrest
** Role Specific Training
* Youth volunteers may not be listed as Head Coach or Assistant Coach.
** AYSO recognizes approved leadership development pathways, such as the Women’s Coaching Alliance (WCA), where participants may serve in structured coaching roles within a supervised mentorship model. These programs must maintain all AYSO Safe Haven guidelines, safety standards, and adult supervision protocols.
* Youth volunteers must not be made responsible for or in the position of supervising other children.
* Youth Volunteers may not hold one of the seven required Regional Board positions.
* They must abide by the same Safe Haven protection guidelines while dealing with children and also be protected as youth volunteers.
* Youth Volunteers will not complete the following items until they become the age of majority (18);
** Background Check
** SafeSport
** LiveScan
[[Category:Coach]]
[[Category:Referee]]
[[Category:Registrar]]

User:Alexdiaz

2026-05-03T02:15:23Z

Alexdiaz: Blanked the page

Category:EPIC

2026-05-03T02:14:56Z

Alexdiaz:

{{DISPLAYTITLE:AYSO EPIC}}
__NOTOC__

{| style="width:100%; border-collapse:collapse;"
| style="width:70%; vertical-align:top; padding-right:24px;" |

<div style="background:#0054A6; border-left:6px solid #C8102E; border-top:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.25); padding:18px 24px; margin:10px 0 24px 0; box-shadow:inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,0.15), 0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<div style="font-size:30px; font-weight:700; color:white;">
What is AYSO EPIC?
</div>
</div>

AYSO EPIC stands for '''Everyone Plays In our Community'''.

The mission of the AYSO EPIC Program is to provide athletes with disabilities the additional support they need to fully participate in a quality soccer experience.

The goal of EPIC is to provide a complete AYSO experience for players, families, and volunteers.

EPIC was formerly known as VIP.

| style="width:30%; vertical-align:top;" |

{| style="width:100%; border-collapse:collapse;"
|-
| style="text-align:center;" |
[[File:Logo-epic-10-18-22-FIN.jpg|220px]]
|}

|}

<div style="background:#0054A6; border-left:6px solid #C8102E; border-top:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.25); padding:18px 24px; margin:40px 0 24px 0; box-shadow:inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,0.15), 0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<div style="font-size:30px; font-weight:700; color:white;">
EPIC at a Glance
</div>
</div>

{| style="width:100%; border-collapse:separate; border-spacing:22px 0;"
| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#fff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-top:5px solid #0054A6; padding:30px;" |
<div style="font-size:24px; font-weight:700; color:#0a1f3b; margin-bottom:14px;">Inclusive Play</div>
Provides soccer opportunities for athletes with disabilities.

| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#fff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-top:5px solid #C8102E; padding:30px;" |
<div style="font-size:24px; font-weight:700; color:#0a1f3b; margin-bottom:14px;">Player Support</div>
Players may receive support from EPIC Buddies and trained volunteers.

| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#fff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-top:5px solid #f5a623; padding:30px;" |
<div style="font-size:24px; font-weight:700; color:#0a1f3b; margin-bottom:14px;">Community First</div>
Focus on belonging, inclusion, and the full AYSO experience.
|}

<div style="background:#0054A6; border-left:6px solid #C8102E; border-top:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.25); padding:18px 24px; margin:40px 0 24px 0; box-shadow:inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,0.15), 0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<div style="font-size:30px; font-weight:700; color:white;">
What is an EPIC Buddy?
</div>
</div>

EPIC Buddies assist players during games and activities, helping them build skills, confidence, and friendships.

Buddies may help players stay engaged, participate safely, and enjoy the soccer experience alongside their teammates.

<div style="background:#0054A6; border-left:6px solid #C8102E; border-top:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.25); padding:18px 24px; margin:40px 0 24px 0; box-shadow:inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,0.15), 0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<div style="font-size:30px; font-weight:700; color:white;">
EPIC Goals and Objectives
</div>
</div>

EPIC is designed to help players enjoy soccer, build confidence, learn the game, and feel connected to their team and community.

EPIC programs should support players by helping them:

* Have fun playing soccer through games, positive instruction, and flexible pacing
* Learn the fundamentals of the game through repeated opportunities to play the ball
* Build teamwork and fair play through practices, games, uniforms, and team activities
* Increase self-esteem through realistic individual goals and encouragement
* Become more active and physically fit through participation at their own level
* Meet new people and develop positive relationships with teammates, buddies, families, and volunteers

<div style="background:#0054A6; border-left:6px solid #C8102E; border-top:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.25); padding:18px 24px; margin:40px 0 24px 0; box-shadow:inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,0.15), 0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<div style="font-size:30px; font-weight:700; color:white;">
Volunteer Training
</div>
</div>

Volunteers working directly with EPIC players should be trained before the season begins.

Training helps reduce risk, supports a positive player experience, and gives volunteers the tools needed to serve players well.

Volunteer training may include:

* EPIC Volunteer Training before the season begins
* Safe Haven training
* Age-appropriate AYSO coach training for EPIC coaches
* Referee support or guidance for EPIC games
* EPIC Buddy Training for buddies assisting players on the field

EPIC coaches should complete EPIC Volunteer Training and appropriate AYSO coaching courses. At minimum, EPIC coaches should complete the 6U Coaching Course and use the EPIC Coach Manual.

Buddies should receive training appropriate to their role before assisting players on the field. Buddies over the age of 12 must complete AYSO Safe Haven.

<div style="background:#0054A6; border-left:6px solid #C8102E; border-top:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.25); padding:18px 24px; margin:40px 0 24px 0; box-shadow:inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,0.15), 0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<div style="font-size:30px; font-weight:700; color:white;">
EPIC and AYSO’s Six Philosophies
</div>
</div>

EPIC is built around AYSO’s Six Philosophies and adapts the soccer experience to support each player.

{| style="width:100%; border-collapse:separate; border-spacing:16px 16px;"
| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-left:5px solid #0054A6; padding:18px;" |
'''Everyone Plays®'''<br>
Every player participates without regard to disability.

| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-left:5px solid #C8102E; padding:18px;" |
'''Balanced Teams'''<br>
Teams are created to maximize participation, safety, and experience.

| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-left:5px solid #f5a623; padding:18px;" |
'''Open Registration'''<br>
EPIC is open to athletes with disabilities from ages 4–99.
|-
| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-left:5px solid #0054A6; padding:18px;" |
'''Positive Coaching'''<br>
Players are encouraged and supported as they work toward personal goals.

| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-left:5px solid #C8102E; padding:18px;" |
'''Player Development'''<br>
Players build skills, confidence, movement, and understanding at their own level.

| style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid #dbe4ee; border-left:5px solid #f5a623; padding:18px;" |
'''Good Sportsmanship'''<br>
Players, families, volunteers, and buddies celebrate effort and teamwork.
|}

<div style="background:#0054A6; border-left:6px solid #C8102E; border-top:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.25); padding:18px 24px; margin:40px 0 24px 0; box-shadow:inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,0.15), 0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<div style="font-size:30px; font-weight:700; color:white;">
Program Structure
</div>
</div>

The vision of the AYSO EPIC Program is to create teams in every AYSO Region to maximize opportunities for EPIC player participation.

EPIC programs may vary locally based on player needs, volunteer support, field availability, and community structure.

Programs should be designed to provide a safe, supportive, and joyful soccer experience for every participant.

<div style="background:#0054A6; border-left:6px solid #C8102E; border-top:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.25); padding:18px 24px; margin:40px 0 24px 0; box-shadow:inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,0.15), 0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<div style="font-size:30px; font-weight:700; color:white;">
Resources and Tools
</div>
</div>

{| style="width:100%; border-collapse:separate; border-spacing:20px 18px; margin:0 0 30px 0;"
| style="width:25%; vertical-align:top;" |
<div style="height:95px; display:flex; align-items:center; justify-content:center; background:linear-gradient(to right,#C8102E,#E33B54); border-radius:12px; box-shadow:0 6px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.12); text-align:center; padding:10px;">
[[Creating a New Program - EPIC|<span style="color:white; font-size:17px; font-weight:bold;">Creating a New Program</span>]]
</div>

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[[EPIC: Running an EPIC Program|<span style="color:white; font-size:17px; font-weight:bold;">Tips for Running an EPIC Program</span>]]
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[[EPIC: Roles & Responsibilities|<span style="color:white; font-size:17px; font-weight:bold;">Roles & Responsibilities</span>]]
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[[EPIC: Gameday Guidelines|<span style="color:white; font-size:17px; font-weight:bold;">Gameday Guidelines</span>]]
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[[Media:EPIC Checklist.pdf|<span style="color:white; font-size:17px; font-weight:bold;">EPIC Checklist for EPIC Administrator and Regional Commissioner</span>]]
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[[Media:EPIC Buddy Information Form.pdf|<span style="color:white; font-size:17px; font-weight:bold;">Sample EPIC Buddy Information Form</span>]]
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[[Media:EPIC Player Information Form.pdf|<span style="color:white; font-size:17px; font-weight:bold;">Sample Player Information Form</span>]]
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Category:Core

2026-05-03T02:14:30Z

Alexdiaz:

{{DISPLAYTITLE:AYSO Core}}
__NOTOC__

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What is AYSO Core?
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AYSO Core is AYSO’s Primary Program and the foundation of the AYSO player experience.

Core serves players in the 6U–19U divisions and is built around AYSO’s Vision, Mission, and Six Philosophies.

Players are placed on balanced teams through open registration rather than tryouts.

Core focuses on player development, access, fun, belonging, and positive youth sports experiences.

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Core at a Glance
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<div style="font-size:24px; font-weight:700; color:#0a1f3b; margin-bottom:14px;">Primary Program</div>
Core is the foundation of AYSO and serves the majority of players nationwide.

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<div style="font-size:24px; font-weight:700; color:#0a1f3b; margin-bottom:14px;">Open Registration</div>
All eligible players have access to participate without tryouts.

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<div style="font-size:24px; font-weight:700; color:#0a1f3b; margin-bottom:14px;">Recreational Play</div>
The focus is development, fun, belonging, and positive youth sports.
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AYSO Six Philosophies
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The Six Philosophies guide the Core program and shape the full player experience.

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'''Everyone Plays®'''<br>
Every player participates in at least half of every game.

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'''Balanced Teams'''<br>
Teams are formed to create fair, development-focused play.

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'''Open Registration'''<br>
All eligible players are welcome to register.
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'''Positive Coaching'''<br>
Coaches create encouraging, player-first environments.

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'''Good Sportsmanship'''<br>
Players, coaches, referees, and families show respect.

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'''Player Development'''<br>
Growth and learning are prioritized over results.
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Player Eligibility
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Core is open to players who meet AYSO registration and age division requirements.

Player eligibility follows the current AYSO Membership Year school-year model using the '''August 1 age determination date'''.

Players must:

* Be registered with AYSO
* Meet age division requirements
* Participate in the appropriate local division structure

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Program Structure
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Core programs are locally operated by Regions with support from Areas, Sections, and the AYSO Office.

Program structure may vary based on registration size, field space, volunteer availability, and local scheduling needs.

Core remains the foundation of the AYSO player pathway and should always be the primary focus of every Region.

Older players may continue in Core through 16U–19U programming, which can include more flexible structures while remaining aligned with AYSO philosophies and policies.

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Program Expectations
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Core programs are expected to protect and deliver the full AYSO experience by living the Six Philosophies in daily operations.

Programs should ensure:

* Open access for eligible players
* Proper AYSO registration
* Balanced team formation
* Safe and positive playing environments
* Volunteer recruitment and retention
* Good sportsmanship from players, coaches, referees, and families
* Player development over wins and losses

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'''Local procedures may vary.''' Local processes should not be treated as National requirements unless specifically outlined in National guidance.
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Volunteer Requirements
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Core is powered by volunteers, including coaches, referees, board members, and team support roles.

All volunteers must:

* Complete annual volunteer registration
* Consent to required background checks
* Complete Safe Haven training
* Complete CDC Concussion Awareness training
* Complete SafeSport training where required
* Complete job-specific training and certification requirements
* Support AYSO’s Positive Coaching and player-first philosophy
* Create a safe, inclusive, and development-focused environment

Strong volunteer support is essential to delivering the full AYSO experience.

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Region Responsibilities
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Region leadership is responsible for ensuring the Core program is safe, organized, and aligned with AYSO standards.

This includes:

* Volunteer recruitment and support
* Coach and referee development
* Registration oversight
* Field and game scheduling
* Financial accountability
* Player safety and risk management
* Positive family communication
* Protecting the AYSO player experience