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Capelli Sport Becomes Exclusive Apparel & Equipment Supplier for New Jersey Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer (NJYS) and Capelli Sport are proud to announce a new four-year partnership that will bring Capelli Sport apparel and equipment to the New Jersey youth soccer community, reinforcing a shared commitment to supporting players, coaches, administrators, and the broader soccer ecosystem across the state.

Through this multi-year agreement, Capelli Sport will serve as an Official Partner of New Jersey Youth Soccer, including the NJYS Olympic Development Program (ODP) and NJYS State Cups. The partnership is designed to strengthen engagement at both the grassroots and competitive levels, while providing NJYS-affiliated clubs and leagues with expanded access to high-quality apparel, equipment, and uniform solutions.

New Jersey Youth Soccer has played an important role in supporting and organizing youth soccer across the state for decades. Through its network of affiliated clubs, leagues, and programs, NJYS helps create consistent pathways for player development, education, and competition at all levels of the game. Partnering with NJYS allows Capelli Sport to work alongside a trusted state association and engage meaningfully with the New Jersey soccer community, reinforcing a shared focus on access, quality, and long-term development.

As part of the collaboration, Capelli Sport will work closely with NJYS leadership and member organizations to support statewide initiatives, including recreation and club uniform programs and direct engagement with club and league administrators. The partnership will also create meaningful touchpoints at key NJYS events, where Capelli Sport will have an on-site presence and exclusive merchandising opportunities. 

Chief Executive Officer at New Jersey Youth Soccer, Evan Dabby said:

“This partnership with Capelli Sport represents a shared commitment to supporting the growth of youth soccer across New Jersey. Capelli understands that our game is about more than competition. It’s about community, access, and creating positive experiences for players, coaches, and families. We’re excited to work together to deliver meaningful value to our membership.”

Vice President of Sales at Capelli Sport, Dan Boillon said:

“Partnerships like this are most impactful when they’re built on collaboration and shared goals. Working with New Jersey Youth Soccer allows us to better understand the needs of clubs and administrators at every level and respond with thoughtful, scalable solutions. We see this as a long-term relationship that will create value for the New Jersey soccer community while continuing to raise the standard for how we support the game.”

About Capelli Sport

Capelli Sport is a global sports brand based in New York City. The company is a leader in sports and lifestyle apparel and equipment, enabling athletes, teams, and officials to maximize their potential through a unique global sports ecosystem. Learn more at capellisport.com and find Capelli Sport on Instagram (@CapelliSport).

New Jersey Youth Soccer (NJYS) is proud to announce a new multi-year partnership with ONit Creative Solutions, officially naming ONit as the Exclusive Award Partner of NJ Youth Soccer. This agreement marks a major step forward in elevating the awards, recognition, and event experience for NJYS players, coaches, clubs, and families statewide.

ONit Creative Solutions, a leading provider of custom awards, branded merchandise, and event-based creative services, will support NJYS by supplying high-quality awards across the organization’s major programming. This includes, but is not limited to, the NJYS Awards Celebration, NJYS State Cups, recreational and competitive programming, and year-round recognition initiatives designed to celebrate excellence throughout the Garden State.

A Partnership Built to Elevate the NJYS Experience

The collaboration brings together two organizations committed to advancing youth development, celebrating achievement, and creating memorable experiences. Through this partnership:

NJ Youth Soccer members will benefit from elevated award quality and design.

ONit Creative Solutions is renowned for its premium craftsmanship, modern creative approach, and ability to deliver fully customized products that capture the spirit of competition. Members can look forward to awards that reflect the prestige and pride of NJYS’s longstanding traditions.

NJYS events will receive enhanced branding and visual impact.

ONit’s design team will work closely with NJYS to elevate the look and feel of all major ceremonies and statewide events, providing clean, modern, and dynamic branding that strengthens the NJYS identity and enhances the experience for attendees.

The partnership supports long-term growth and recognition across the state.

With a guaranteed multi-year commitment, NJYS has a consistent and reliable partner dedicated to ongoing innovation in awards, and creative solutions as the organization expands its programming and outreach.

Members and families will gain access to additional opportunities.

Through the partnership, ONit Creative Solutions will explore future member-exclusive offers, custom merchandise opportunities, and enhanced recognition programs aimed at increasing engagement and celebrating athletes at every stage of their development.

Looking Ahead

“NJ Youth Soccer is proud to welcome ONIt as our official awards service provider,” said Evan Dabby, CEO of NJ Youth Soccer. “Their shared commitment to recognizing excellence makes this partnership a great fit, and we look forward to celebrating the achievements of our soccer community together.”

“Partnering with New Jersey Youth Soccer is an honor for our team,” said Noelle Hilliker, ONit Creative Solutions Co-Owner. “We are passionate about supporting youth athletes and creating award experiences they will remember for years to come. We look forward to helping NJYS celebrate its players and programs through innovative, high-quality creative solutions.”

About ONit Creative Solutions

ONit Creative Solutions is a full-service creative agency specializing in custom-branded awards, merchandise, event branding, apparel, and design services. With a mission of “Where Creativity Meets Reality,” ONit delivers high-end products with unmatched attention to detail and customer service, helping organizations bring their vision to life through innovative, professional, and fully customized solutions. ONit serves clients across youth sports, professional clubs, corporate brands, community organizations, and large-scale event operators nationwide.

Monmouth Ocean Soccer Association (MOSA) will be inducting six new honorees into its Hall of Fame this evening, with the induction ceremony taking place at the Colts Neck Inn.

The 2025 inductees include:

Thomas (TJ) Papp

Currently a coach for the Dutchmen Soccer Club in MOSA, TJ has a long history of soccer success in the Jersey Shore Area, coming up through MOSA with Ocean United and eventually having a breakout high school soccer career with Ocean Township High School. He went on to become a team captain at UNC Greensboro before playing professionally for the Carolina Dynamos.

Tom Kain

Starting out as part of Wall Soccer Soccer Club, Tom went on to star at Wall High School, where he was named one of top 10 NJ high school soccer players of the 1980s. After high school, he played for Duke University, and his outstanding play for the Blue Devils led to his selection as a 1982 second team and 1983, 1984 and 1985 first team All American. In 1985, he won the Hermann Trophy as the most outstanding men’s collegiate soccer player. After graduating from Duke, Tom achieved a remarkable first when he became the first American born player to play professionally in Germany.

Rob Johnson

Currently an assistant coach with the Temple University Men’s Soccer Team, Rob got his start in soccer with the Jackson Soccer Club as a player. He was a successful multi-sport athlete at Jackson High School and was named by The Star-Ledger as one of the top ten New Jersey high school soccer players of the 1990s. Rob then played college soccer at Rutgers University, scoring 35 goals and 20 assists in his four seasons in Piscataway. His 90 points place him 6th all-time in school history. He scored 13 goals and nine assists as a freshman, and followed that up with 13 goals and seven assists in his sophomore year, leading the team to the NCAA tournament semifinals in 1994. He went on to play for the New York/New Jersey MetroStars (now Red Bull New York) in Major League Soccer.

Vincent Guardino

For nearly 50 years, Vinnie has been a constant presence in youth soccer, giving his time as a coach, referee, administrator and volunteer. After beginning his coaching career in 1978, he developed many youth players with patience and passion. He first started coaching in Lavallette and Seaside before spending approximately 15 years with TRIC and TRSA. As a referee, he not only officiated games at every level up to college, but also mentored young referees, always reminding them and the players to enjoy the game. Through statewide events like the NJYS TOPSoccer Jamboree, he has helped spread the spirit of inclusion, inspiring families, volunteers and fellow coaches throughout the community.

Paul Bette

Paul Bette began playing soccer at 10-years-old at the Greater Freehold Area Soccer Recreation League in Freehold. He played on the first Freehold MOSA team (Freehold 62s) in the mid to late 1970s. In high school, Paul he led Freehold Township High School to a Shore Conference championship and was named All Shore and MVP of his high school team. He then went on to play college soccer at NJIT in 1980. Paul was a four-year starter and captained the NJIT team to a national ranking of 7^th, leading the team to an NCAA playoff berth and ECAC Final in 1983. Paul was also a USSF youth referee and officiated for MOSA in Freehold, Howell and Jackson. He arrived at the GAK as a men’s team player in 2000, and in 2001, he began coaching his youth team, which originally played in the Central Jersey Youth Soccer League (CJYSL). He later took his team to compete in MOSA, the first GAK team ever to compete in MOSA.  Under his leadership as a member of the GAK Sports Committee for 25 years and as GAK President for the past 10 years, Paul has elevated the visibility and reputation of the club as being one of the premier soccer clubs in our area.

Lindsey Nappi

Currently serving as Second Vice President and Games Commissioner of MOSA, Lindsey has truly come full circle with MOSA. She started out playing in MOSA for the Freehold Soccer Club and guest-played for East Windsor (for Al Grupper) and the Middletown Soccer Club (for Ben Curci). She eventually became a coach when her kids were old enough to play at Battle of Monmouth (where she would go to become President in from 2011-2015). Lindsey joined the MOSA Board in 1997 and has been a member ever since. 

“This year’s Hall of Fame inductees demonstrate how far soccer careers can progress after getting started with MOSA,” said Eric Offenberg, President of MOSA. “These former MOSA players and leaders are role models that our players can look up to and see what they can achieve after starting and competing at the grassroots level of soccer in Central New Jersey.”

“It truly remarkable to watch these individuals continue to operate at the top of their game,” stated Evan Dabby, CEO of New Jersey Youth Soccer. “MOSA does not just produce top soccer players, but top soccer coaches and officials as well.”

New Jersey Youth Soccer is pleased to offer scholarship opportunities for New Jersey students to assist in the cost of higher education. All college-bound seniors who played in the NJ Youth Soccer system are encouraged to apply for one or more of the four annual scholarships that are available.

To be considered for a scholarship, candidates must submit an online application to the NJ Youth Soccer State Office by December 8, 2025. Students may apply for more than one of the scholarships that are available, but they cannot be awarded more than one scholarship. Recipients of the scholarships will also be honored at the NJYS Awards Celebration Presented by RWJBarnabas Health on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Frank Bollaci Memorial Scholarship

Candidates who were involved in refereeing are encouraged to apply for this scholarship.

The Frank Bollaci Memorial Scholarship was established by NJ Youth Soccer to honor his legacy. Frank was a long-time president of the South Brunswick Soccer Club, a coach, and a seasoned referee involved with the NJ State Referee Committee. Soccer had an immense impact on Frank’s life, along with a commitment to community service. One scholarship in the amount of $1000 will be awarded to a deserving applicant.  Apply today.

Brett Fenster Memorial Scholarship

Candidates who have a love for soccer, arts and humanities are encouraged to apply for this scholarship.

The Brett Fenster Memorial Scholarship was established by NJ Youth Soccer as a way to help our youth soccer players further their education. Brett played soccer from the age of five until he graduated from high school. He began participating in the recreation program in West Windsor and moved on to play travel and high school soccer. Brett’s love for the sport flourished along with his interest in the arts and humanity. Two scholarships in the amount of $1000 will be awarded to deserving recipients. Apply today.

Allan Sinclair Memorial Scholarship

Candidates who have a background in volunteering and community service are encouraged to apply for this scholarship.

The Allan Sinclair Memorial Scholarship was established by NJ Youth Soccer in April of 2012 to honor the many facets of Allan Sinclair’s relationship with youth soccer. Al had an extensive career with NJ Youth Soccer, serving as President for almost 25 years and Executive Director from 2008-2012. Al’s time and dedication to youth soccer was mostly done as a volunteer not only in the state, but also in the East Region. The funds for this scholarship were donated in his memory when he passed away in April of 2012. Two scholarships in the amount of $1000 will be awarded to deserving applicants. Apply today.

Jeanine Willis Scholarship

Candidates who played in at least two NJYS State Cups are encouraged to apply for this scholarship.

The Jeanine Willis Scholarship Fund was established by NJ Youth Soccer to honor the numerous contributions Jeanine Willis made to youth soccer in the state of New Jersey and beyond. Jeanine was NJ Youth Soccer’s first Executive Director and also served as a member of the NJYS Board of Directors for a number of years. Jeanine was devoted to enriching the overall soccer experience for all NJ Youth Soccer players. Two scholarships in the amount of $1000 will be awarded to deserving applicants.  Apply today.

To contact New Jersey Youth Soccer, please email communications@njyouthsoccer.com. Also make sure to follow us on social media: @NJYouthSoccer

Following consultation with NJ Youth Soccer Member Leagues and in alignment with the announcement from US Youth Soccer earlier this summer (link), NJ Youth Soccer will change the age group formation cycle from a player’s birth year to closely align with the player’s school year. Starting with the 2026-27 season, age groups will follow an August 1 to July 31 cycle. 

This change also updates the youth soccer seasonal year, which will now run from August 1 through July 31. 

Please refer to the Updated Age Group Chart to see how players’ birthdates correspond to their new age groups. 

The primary goal of this change is to support continued youth participation in soccer by allowing players to compete with their classmates. 

While most New Jersey municipalities follow the NJ Department of Education requirement that children may start kindergarten if they turn five by October 1, NJ Youth Soccer is adopting August 1 as the cutoff. This allows clubs’ flexibility to accommodate players who start school later, while maintaining alignment with the USYS age group structure for national competitions. 

We recognize this change may require adjustments as clubs plan teams for the 2026-27 season. To support this transition, NJ Youth Soccer will hold office hours in December for clubs to ask questions and discuss any concerns. A schedule with call-in details will be provided later this month. In the meantime, clubs are encouraged to email questions to registration@njyouthsoccer.com.  

New Jersey Youth Soccer has expanded its Innovate to Grow (ITG) initiative with the addition of Union City Soccer Club as the newest participating program. Union City Soccer Club joins a growing list of community partners that are helping bring the game to more young players across the state.

The Innovate to Grow Fund, introduced by the U.S. Soccer Federation, provides financial support for new programs in underserved soccer communities and works to expand the sport at the grassroots level. NJ Youth Soccer collaborates with recreation departments and community programs to deliver resources that strengthen local soccer, improve player development and coaching knowledge, and increase parent engagement.

Beyond supporting individual players, the ITG initiative is helping communities grow the overall participation and visibility of soccer. By supplying essential equipment, from balls and cones to full team kits, NJ Youth Soccer ensures that programs have the tools needed to welcome new players and maintain consistent, high-quality programming. This resource support helps smaller recreation departments and grassroots clubs expand their reach, engage more families, and create safe, inclusive environments for youth development.

“The highlight of our programming has been watching players grow not only in their technical ability, but in their confidence and love for the game,” said William Shapiro, the lead point for Union City Soccer Club. “Moments like seeing our youngest players connect their first successful passes in a game, or older players showing leadership by mentoring younger ones, remind me why we do this work.”

Shapiro further emphasized that “NJYS provides a wealth of support, everything from coach education, player development programs, and administrative guidance to best practices in safety and governance. For Union City Soccer Club, these resources are game-changing.”

Through ITG, each program receives tailored support, which may include uniforms, equipment, coaching education, clinics, and registration fee reimbursements. By reducing barriers such as cost and access, NJ Youth Soccer is helping communities build a foundation for long-term growth while creating greater opportunities for player success, both on and off the field.

Moreover, ITG fosters stronger community connections by empowering local leaders, coaches, and volunteers with the training and guidance necessary to sustain programs year-round. By investing in people as well as equipment, NJ Youth Soccer strengthens the capacity of communities to continue offering accessible soccer opportunities long after initial funding and support.

“Innovate to Grow goes far beyond the game itself,” said Breeana Cassidy, NJYS Program Manager. “It’s about opening doors for every child to play, learn, and belong. When we invest in these programs, we’re not just growing soccer, we’re strengthening communities, building connections, and creating lasting opportunities that make the game accessible to all.”

As the program continues to expand across New Jersey, NJ Youth Soccer remains committed to breaking down barriers, promoting equity in youth sports, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate, develop, and thrive in soccer.

For more information about our Innocate To Grow Program, contact Breeana Cassidy atbreeana@njyouthsoccer.com.

New Jersey Youth Soccer is pleased to announce a partnership with Clym, an all-in-one digital compliance solution that helps organizations improve website accessibility and navigate an evolving landscape of consumer data privacy regulations. This collaboration is designed to make it simple for NJ Youth Soccer to support its membership with tools that help facilitate compliance with website accessibility and data privacy regulations while promoting an inclusive online experience for all visitors.

“Soccer brings people together, and that sense of inclusion should carry through every touchpoint of our organization,” said Evan Dabby, CEO of NJ Youth Soccer. “Partnering with Clym allows us to create a digital environment where members  feel welcome and supported.”

By working with Clym, NJ Youth Soccer reinforces its commitment to equal access, both on and off the field of play. With Clym’s member-specific pricing, clubs and organizations can qualify for a complimentary or low-cost solution to improve their website’s compliance with various regulations.

“It is our pleasure to partner with NJ Youth Soccer to create a greater digital experience for website visitors,” said Johnathan Brabson, Referral Partner Manager at Clym. “As a soccer dad, coach, fan and player, the game should be available to as many people as possible, no matter their background or challenges. The digital space is the first place for information, and NJ Youth Soccer wants to support their members whenever they visit the website.”

Partnering with Clym aligns directly with NJYS’s objective to create a welcoming environment, providing members with the resources needed to enhance their digital transparency and inclusivity.

To find out more information about New Jersey Youth Soccer or to contact us directly, please email communications@njyouthsoccer.com. Also make sure to follow us on social media: @NJYouthSoccer 

New Jersey Youth Soccer is proud to announce the launch of its College Affiliate Program, designed to connect college students and universities with meaningful opportunities to engage, collaborate and develop professionally within the youth soccer community. The program officially kicks off this fall with Seton Hall University as the first college to join the initiative.

Rooted in the NJYS vision to establish soccer as the preeminent sport in New Jersey that unites, grows and inspires a lifelong passion for the game, the College Affiliate Program serves as a direct extension of that commitment. By strategically connecting higher education with youth soccer development, the program engages college students in meaningful, hands-on opportunities that cultivate the next generation of leaders. Through collaboration, experiential learning and community engagement, the initiative helps expand access, build leadership, strengthen local connections and inspire lifelong participation in soccer across the state.

The College Affiliate Program provides students with unique, hands-on experiences across NJYS operations, allowing them to build practical skills while contributing to the growth and development of youth soccer across New Jersey. Participating students will have opportunities in a variety of areas, including event management, communications, marketing, leadership development and grassroots soccer programming.

“We are thrilled to be working with New Jersey Youth Soccer,” said B.J. Schecter, Executive Director of Seton Hall University’s Center for Sports Media. “Our students will have the opportunity to produce content on multiple platforms in a fast-paced setting. New Jersey Youth Soccer aligns perfectly with our goals of giving students experiential learning opportunities at premier events.”

Program Opportunities Include:

Career Development Program: Students participate in leadership webinars, mentorship initiatives and career preparation workshops, equipping them with tools and knowledge to pursue careers in soccer-related fields, sports management and nonprofit leadership.

Internships: Students gain practical experience working directly within NJYS business operations, including marketing, public relations, sponsorship and event management. These internships offer exposure to all facets of running a statewide youth sports organization.

Digital and Media Engagement: Students create and curate content for NJYS digital platforms, including photos, videos, reels and feature stories. Coverage includes major events such as the NJYS Awards Celebration, State Cup Finals, Let’s Play, TOPSoccer, FootGolf Championships and Growing the Girls Game. Students may also conduct interviews with players, coaches and award winners, assist with podcast preparation, and develop professional media skills in a real-world setting.

Students will have the chance to participate in grassroots programs and community initiatives that foster inclusion, accessibility and a lifelong love of soccer for players of all ages and abilities, giving them the opportunity to re-engage with the sport they knew as youth players while contributing to its growth in their communities.

As the program continues to grow, NJ Youth Soccer will showcase the community impact at Seton Hall University and highlight ways students can engage directly with NJYS initiatives, gaining hands-on experience while supporting soccer programs across the state. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to be fully immersed in NJ Youth Soccer’s community and grassroots efforts. This includes assisting with local clinics, supporting outreach programs and participating in events that promote inclusion, accessibility and a lifelong love of soccer for players of all ages and abilities. Students will gain firsthand experience working alongside NJYS staff and volunteers, helping bring soccer programs to communities across the state while learning how a statewide youth sports organization operates. As the program grows and develops, there will be opportunities for students to participate in new initiatives, expanded events and innovative programs, further enhancing their experience and contribution to youth soccer in New Jersey.

“Our goal is to create a bridge between the college community and youth soccer,” said Breeana Cassidy, NJYS Program Manager. “By working alongside students, we’re helping them gain real-world experience while strengthening programs that serve thousands of players across the state. We want students to leave the program with both professional skills and a deeper appreciation for the power of youth sports in building community.”

NJ Youth Soccer looks forward to expanding its College Affiliate network in the coming academic year, providing even more opportunities for students across New Jersey to engage, learn and make an impact through the game.

For more information about becoming a College Affiliate or collaborating with NJ Youth Soccer, contact Breeana Cassidy at breeana@njyouthsoccer.com.