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What is AYSO Alliance? AYSO Alliance is an AYSO competitive program that allows teams to play in external playing circuits while remaining fully connected to AYSO. It is the highest level of competitive play offered within AYSO. Teams may compete in leagues such as US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, and other approved State Association gaming circuits. EXTRA should be used first where an EXTRA program is available and viable. Alliance teams are still AYSO teams and must follow: AYSO’s Vision and Mission The Six Philosophies Volunteer compliance requirements Financial policies and controls Player safety and risk management standards Important: Travel may be involved, but it is not required.

Resource Clipboard Alliance Program Operations Startup Checklist RC Verification Form Coach Review Form Coach Verification State Association Contacts

Alliance at a Glance

Alliance at a Glance

Competitive Pathway Alliance is the highest competitive program in AYSO for players seeking stronger competition and advanced development.

External Competition Teams compete in approved State Association leagues, club circuits, and tournaments against both AYSO and non-AYSO opponents.

Still AYSO Alliance teams continue to follow AYSO’s Six Philosophies, player safety standards, and positive coaching values.

Alliance Compared to EXTRA

AYSO EXTRA • Internal AYSO competitive program • Teams compete primarily against other AYSO teams • Operates within an AYSO-managed structure • Used first where an EXTRA program is viable • Competitive play while staying fully inside AYSO

AYSO Alliance • External competition circuits • Teams may compete against non-AYSO club teams • Dual registration required • Highest competitive environment in AYSO • Still follows AYSO standards and philosophies

Player Eligibility

Players are selected through open tryouts.

Tryout dates depend on local needs and State Association rules.

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

Players must:

• Meet AYSO registration requirements
• Meet State Association or league requirements
• Attend open tryouts

Players may play up one year with parent and coach approval. Multiple-year play-up requires Alliance Director approval and may be limited by State Association rules.

Program Structure

Alliance may operate at the:

• Region level
• Area level
• Section level

This depends on local structure, field space, demand, and access to an external competition circuit.

Each program operates under the local Alliance Director and must follow AYSO Alliance Program Operations guidance.

AYSO does not control external league rules or decisions.

Program Expectations

Alliance programs should ensure:

• Open tryouts
• Proper AYSO and State Association registration
• Certified and compliant coaches
• Required player cards and documents
• Financial accountability
• Player safety and risk management
• Continued commitment to AYSO’s Six Philosophies

Local procedures may vary. State-specific rules should not be treated as National requirements.

Starting an Alliance Program

To start an Alliance program:

1. Complete an AYSO Alliance application
2. Receive Area Director and Section Director approval
3. Coordinate with the AYSO Office
4. Confirm field space and player demand
5. Identify an appropriate external competition circuit
6. Meet required program standards
7. Pay the applicable Alliance team fee
8. Use consistent uniforms with the AYSO Alliance logo

Alliance is a local program operating within National standards.

Coach Selection and Requirements

Alliance coaching positions should be posted each year.

All Alliance coaches must:

• Follow the AYSO Vision, Mission, and Six Philosophies
• Complete annual volunteer registration
• Meet compliance and risk management requirements
• Hold required coaching certifications
• Represent AYSO professionally

Each team must have:

• One Head Coach
• One Assistant Coach

A Team Manager is strongly recommended.

Primary Program Giveback

Alliance should strengthen the Primary Program, not separate from it.

Examples include:

• Coach education support
• Referee participation
• Tournament support
• EPIC support
• General volunteer service
• Regional development support

Specific expectations should be coordinated locally.