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What is AYSO EXTRA? AYSO EXTRA is an AYSO competitive program that provides players with a higher level of play while remaining fully within AYSO. Teams are formed through open tryouts and compete against other AYSO EXTRA teams. EXTRA is designed for players seeking stronger competition while continuing to follow AYSO’s Vision, Mission, Six Philosophies, and player-first standards. EXTRA should be used first where an EXTRA program is available and viable.

AYSO EXTRA

EXTRA at a Glance

Tryout Based Teams are formed through open tryouts for players seeking higher competition.

Internal Competition Teams compete against other AYSO EXTRA teams within an AYSO playing circuit.

Still AYSO EXTRA teams follow AYSO’s Six Philosophies and player-first standards.

EXTRA Compared to Core

AYSO Core • Open registration for all players • Standard recreational playing circuit • Everyone Plays philosophy emphasized • Focus on development, fun, and access

AYSO EXTRA • Open tryout-based selection • Internal competitive playing circuit • Higher level competition within AYSO • Still follows AYSO’s Six Philosophies

Player Eligibility

EXTRA teams are formed through open tryouts.

Tryout dates vary based on local program needs and AYSO program rules.

Players must:

• Be registered with AYSO
• Meet age division requirements
• Attend open tryouts to be considered for selection

Program Structure

EXTRA may operate at the Region, Area, or Section level depending on local structure, field space, and access to an approved AYSO playing circuit.

Each program must follow the National EXTRA Rules and Guidelines.

EXTRA remains an AYSO program and should support the overall player development pathway.

Program Expectations

EXTRA programs are expected to operate within AYSO guidelines and support the Primary Program.

Programs should ensure:

• Open tryouts for player selection
• Proper AYSO registration
• Certified and compliant coaches
• Required player documentation
• Financial accountability and oversight
• Player safety and risk management
• Continued commitment to AYSO’s Six Philosophies

Local procedures may vary. Local processes should not be treated as National requirements unless specifically outlined in National guidance.

Starting an EXTRA Program

EXTRA programs are locally operated and must meet National program standards.

Before starting an EXTRA program, Regions, Areas, and Sections should ensure there is player demand, field availability, referee support, and access to an appropriate AYSO playing circuit.

To start an EXTRA program:

1. Review the National EXTRA Rules and Guidelines
2. Confirm local approval requirements
3. Identify an approved AYSO playing circuit
4. Confirm field and referee support
5. Establish open tryout procedures
6. Meet required program standards
7. Communicate program expectations to families

Coach Selection

EXTRA coaching positions should be posted each year and filled through a local review process.

All EXTRA coaches must:

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

Each EXTRA team must have:

• One Head Coach
• One Assistant Coach

A Team Manager is strongly recommended.

EXTRA Coach License Requirements

Coaches must meet AYSO certification requirements for the division they are coaching.

Division	Required AYSO Certification
U9–U10	U10 Coach
U11–U12	U12 Coach
U13–U14	Intermediate Coach
U15–U19	Advanced Coach

Primary Program Giveback

EXTRA should support and strengthen the Primary Program, not operate separately from it.

EXTRA programs are expected to support the Primary Program through leadership, volunteer service, and player development.

Examples include:

• Coach education and mentoring
• Referee support and participation
• Tournament and event support
• EPIC program involvement
• Regional volunteer service
• Player development clinics and training

Specific expectations should be determined locally.

Resources and Tools

National EXTRA Rules and Guidelines Use this resource for National EXTRA program rules, standards, and operating guidance. View Guidelines

Open Tryout Handbook Use this resource to plan and conduct open tryouts for the EXTRA program. Download Handbook