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What is AYSO Core?

AYSO Core is AYSO’s primary recreational soccer program.

Core is open to all players and is built around AYSO’s Vision, Mission, and Six Philosophies.

Players are placed on teams through local team formation processes, not tryouts.

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

Core at a Glance

Open Registration Core is open to all players who want to participate.

Recreational Play Players participate in a fun, balanced, and development-focused environment.

Still AYSO Core reflects AYSO’s Six Philosophies and player-first standards.

Core Compared to EXTRA

AYSO Core • Open registration • Recreational playing environment • Balanced team formation • Everyone Plays philosophy emphasized

AYSO EXTRA • Open tryout-based selection • Internal competitive playing circuit • Higher level competition within AYSO • Used after Core where available

Player Eligibility

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 program structure

Program Structure

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

Program structure may vary based on local field space, volunteer support, registration numbers, and age divisions.

Core remains the foundation of the AYSO player pathway.

Program Expectations

Core programs should ensure:

• Open access for eligible players
• Proper AYSO registration
• Balanced team formation
• Certified and compliant coaches
• Safe and positive playing environments
• Volunteer support
• 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.

Coach and Volunteer Expectations

Core is powered by volunteers.

All coaches and volunteers must:

• Complete annual volunteer registration
• Meet compliance and risk management requirements
• Complete required AYSO training
• Support positive player development
• Represent AYSO professionally on and off the field

Resources and Tools

AYSO Core Program Overview Review the national Core program overview Open Resource →

Age Determination Use current age division guidance View Guidance →