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Every Kick Counts Unites Community to Support Soccer Players with Disabilities

New Jersey Youth Soccer recently hosted its inaugural Every Kick Counts event, a FootGolf fundraiser sponsored by RWJBarnabas Health, bringing together more than 50 players, families, and volunteers to support the NJYS TOPSoccer Program. Held at the Bel-Aire Golf Course in Wall Township, the event celebrated inclusion, community, and fun through FootGolf — a blend of soccer and golf — for players with disabilities.

Every Kick Counts is a new NJYS initiative created to raise funds and awareness for TOPSoccer, a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with mental or physical disabilities. The program currently serves nearly 1,000 players across the state. The day was full of memorable moments, including a special appearance by Tab Ramos, former U.S. Men’s National Team captain, who joined players on the course, signed autographs, and posed for photos. 

“What matters is not the experience I had but the experience the kids had,” said Ramos. “Being out on the course, running around and kicking the ball into the holes was really exciting for them. It made my day, and I’m sure it was a special day for them as well.”

A Youth-Led Vision

The vision behind Every Kick Counts came from Zack Dabby, a high school student and passionate advocate for inclusive soccer. In 2020, Dabby started volunteering in a program called Challenger Sports. Like TOPSoccer, Challenger Sports is a program in which volunteers get paired up with a kid who has special needs. Together, the pair engage with peers, playing sports throughout the year, creating a bond between the two kids.

It was through Challenger Sports that Dabby met Jack Costantino. When they met, Jack was a 6th grader with autism attending Howell North Middle School. Over the last four years, Dabby and Costantino built a special relationship, through Challenger Sports and spending time together outside of it. Through this event, Dabby brought together two very important and personal things, soccer and helping others. Over eight months, Dabby committed nearly 100 hours to organizing the event, from developing the logo and digital assets, to recruiting sponsors, managing the budget, and producing an Event Operations Guide.

“I had so much fun playing and helping the players enjoy the day,” said Dabby. “My hope is to grow this initiative and replicate it with other state associations across the country.”

Dabby collaborated closely with many individuals and professionals developing this program. The professionals with US FootGolf and US Youth Soccer helped Dabby develop the brand identity and educational materials for Every Kick Counts.  

Laura Balestrini, CEO of US FootGolf, added, “FootGolf’s inclusive nature makes it a perfect vehicle for awareness and connection. We’re honored to support Every Kick Counts.”

Dabby also worked with staff at NJ Youth Soccer to launch registration and donation platforms and led outreach efforts to the Challenger Sports program and TOPSoccer communities statewide.

Community at Its Core

Among the many supportive and smiling faces at the event was Jonathan Yee, NJYS TOPSoccer Chair, who helped champion this initiative. Yee served as a buddy and reflected on the event.

“Playing a round with brothers Noah and Tyler was so much fun! From birdies to Pokémon Go chats, the spirit of the day was incredible. I look forward to this event becoming a staple.”  

Constantino, a 16-year-old participant from Howell, shared “Every Kick Counts was really, really fun. The best part was kicking the ball really high. I got to run like Saquon Barkley!” 

Jack’s mother, Michelle Constantino, added “This event was phenomenal. It brought players and buddies together in a beautiful way. The connection between Zack and Jack, two young people learning from each other, was powerful.”

The event was made possible by generous contributions from sponsors and donors. RWJBarnabas Health served as the title sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive, community-driven health and recreation. 

“It was inspiring to see so many kids with special health care needs participating in such a fun, meaningful event,” said Justin Edelman, SVP of External Communications & Corporate Partnerships at RWJBarnabas Health. “TOPSoccer aligns perfectly with our mission of compassionate care and inclusive opportunity.”  

Bill Ross, East Regional Representative for US Youth Soccer, emphasized the broader potential.

“The event was wonderful,” he stated, “I’d love to see this blueprint shared nationally, both for the impact on the program and the joy it brings to the players.”  

Monmouth County Parks System was also a key partner in hosting the event, with supportive and welcoming staff who helped ensure its success.

Every Kick Counts' Inaugural FootGolf Fundraiser Unites Community to Support Soccer Players with Disabilities

Sponsors and Donors

In addition to RWJBarnabas Health, event sponsors included the New York Red Bulls, Ray Catena Auto Group (Lexus, Audi, Mercedes) and SCORE Sports. Hole sponsors included WeDo and Toyota. Donations and in-kind support were provided by Wegmans (food and snacks), MLS GO and the NYNJ World Cup Host Committee (t-shirts), PRIME (beverages), Print2Go (signage), Central Jersey Pools and Gotham FC.

NJYS Hosts First-Ever FootGolf Championships at Crystal Springs Resort

Photos: Kaitlyn Cioc

New Jersey Youth Soccer made history by recently hosting the first-ever NJYS FootGolf Championships, welcoming U11/U12 and U13/U14 boys and girls to the beautiful Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, NJ. This exciting new event brought together more than 140 players from across the state for a fun and competitive day of FootGolf, a unique hybrid sport that blends the precision of golf with the skills of soccer. The strong turnout highlighted a growing interest in alternative soccer experiences.

“This event exceeded our expectations, and the feedback we heard from participants was overwhelmingly positive,” said Evan Dabby, CEO of NJ Youth Soccer. “Crystal Springs was an incredible partner in the event, and NJ Youth Soccer looks forward to future success and events at this first-class venue.”

The championships featured four age groups, with each division competing in its own round. While the focus was on participation and community, players also had the chance to compete for awards. The top scorers were recognized for their performance with prizes and medals, adding a fun and rewarding element to the day. Winners from age divisions were invited back to the beautiful Crystal Springs Resort this October to attend the 2025 U.S. FootGolf Open. Players also had the chance to test their skills in contests like longest drive and closest to the pin, adding an extra layer of excitement and competition to the experience.

“I had a really fun time going through all the courses and challenges,” said Gigi Violante, U11/U12 girls player. “The toughest part was walking up the hills throughout the course, but I loved meeting new players. It was exciting to make new friends while playing together and cheering each other on.”

“The most fun part of the day was almost getting a hole-in-one,” said Gabriella Case, U11/U12 girls player, who traveled all the way from Albany, New York. “It came so close, and everyone around me was really excited. I’ve never gotten one before, so that moment was really special.”

“Since opening New Jersey’s first FootGolf facility in 2014, we have enjoyed watching this sport grow,” said Chris Mulvihill, Crystal Springs Resort Chief Marketing Officer. “Today, our Resort has two FootGolf courses and has been selected for the third time as the host site of the U.S. FootGolf Open. And now, we are very pleased to partner with New Jersey Youth Soccer on this inaugural event to host the next generation of FootGolfers and help continue the growth of the game.”

The year’s event benefited from tremendous support from the highest levels of FootGolf. U.S. FootGolf provided its support from the national office, helping with marketing, operations and competitive support.

“Partnering with New Jersey Youth Soccer marks a groundbreaking moment for FootGolf in the U.S., introducing youth to the sport and paving the way for future growth,” said Laura Balestrini, President of the American FootGolf League. “We’re excited to nurture young players’ passion and skills, shaping the next generation of FootGolf enthusiasts and champions.”

Mark Woodward, a seasoned FootGolf professional and Team USA athlete, played a hands-on role at the NJYS FootGolf Championships by welcoming players and parents at the first tee. He guided players through how FootGolf works, explained the rules and scoring, and shared helpful tips to get them started.

“I’ve been playing FootGolf for 11 years and have represented Team USA at two World Cups and two Ryder Cups,” said Woodward. “I decided to participate and help with this event because growing the game at the youth level is so important. It’s exciting to be here at the NJYS FootGolf Championships, there’s great energy, and the kids are clearly enthusiastic. I’m looking forward to seeing them out on the course.”

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

NJYS Announces Sator Soccer as Official Goal Provider

New Jersey Youth Soccer is proud to announce its newest official partnership with Sator Soccer (Sator Sports, Inc.), naming their company the Official Goal Provider of New Jersey Youth Soccer.

A trusted leader in the soccer community for nearly three decades, Sator Soccer aims to support and empower teams nationwide in reaching its full potential through its full line of high-quality, competitively-priced AGORA® soccer goals and innovative training equipment. Driven by a strong commitment to growing the game, Sator Soccer consistently champions teamwork, development, and success at every level of play.

“We are excited to welcome Sator Soccer as our Official Goal Provider,” said Evan Dabby, Chief Executive Officer of New Jersey Youth Soccer. “Their long-standing reputation for quality and their dedication to advancing the sport align closely with our values and our mission to serve players, coaches, and clubs across New Jersey.”

Through this partnership, NJYS members will gain exclusive access to special pricing and offers on AGORA® soccer goals, nets, and goal accessories. More details on these member benefits will be announced soon.

“We’re proud to partner with New Jersey Youth Soccer as their Official Goal Provider,” said Mark Rayos, Director of Marketing at Sator Soccer. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to supporting the growth of the game at the grassroots level. By providing NJYS members with access to our trusted AGORA® goals and training equipment, we’re not just delivering quality gear — we’re investing in the development of players, coaches, and communities across New Jersey.”

This partnership reflects a shared vision between NJ Youth Soccer and Sator Soccer to elevate the soccer experience by providing safe, durable, and affordable equipment for the next generation of athletes.

To learn more about Sator Soccer, visit www.satorsoccer.com.

Three NJYS Teams Reach National Presidents Cup Finals

New Jersey Youth Soccer enjoyed an impressive showing at the US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup in Tampa, with three teams reaching the finals of the national competition. Playing in the championship match for their age groups was Real Futbol Academy (13U Girls), Old Bridge Thunder (14U Girls) and Ocean Warriors Red (17U Boys). Additionally, FC Berna Legacy Gold (16U Girls) also represented New Jersey at the National Presidents Cup.

Playing up a year, the Real Futbol Academy 13U Girls earned their spot at the National Presidents Cup after winning the USYS Eastern Presidents Cup in June, capturing all five regional matches without conceding a single goal. At the national tournament, they remained unbeaten in group play, finishing with a 2-0-1 record and a 7-2 goal differential to win their bracket. In the semifinals, they faced Virginia United G2012 (Virginia), earning a dramatic victory in a penalty shootout. That result set up a championship match against Leahi 12 Premier Green (Hawaii), where they fell in a razor-thin 1-0 decision.

The Old Bridge Thunder 14U Girls also arrived in Tampa after a dominant run at the USYS Eastern Presidents Cup, winning all five of their matches and capturing the regional title. They went unbeaten in group play at the National Presidents Cup, posting a 2-0-1 record while not conceding a single goal. In the semifinals, they squared off against HYSA G2011 Blue-PR (Montana), where they posted their fourth consecutive shutout in a hard-fought 1-0 victory. That set up a championship clash with UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite (Iowa), where Old Bridge Thunder finished as national finalists.

Ocean Warriors Red 17U Boys earned their second straight trip to the National Presidents Cup after five straight victories at the Eastern Presidents Cup, securing back-to-back regional championships. They continued their hot streak on the national stage, winning all three group matches with a 9-2 goal differential. In the semifinals of the National Presidents Cup, they faced VVSC 2008 Boys Navy (Colorado), grinding out a competitive 3-2 victory. That win earned them a place in the championship game against CFC 08B Black (Oregon), where Ocean Warriors Red ultimately came up just short, finishing as national finalists.

Hosted by US Youth Soccer, the Presidents Cup provides a progressive, competitive environment for teams seeking a series of unique challenges highlighting competition, camaraderie and community.

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 

NJ Premier Wins 14U Girls Eastern Regional Championship

New Jersey Youth Soccer enjoyed a great run at the US Youth Soccer Eastern Regional Championships in Virginia, highlighted by NJ Premier FC lifting the 14U Girls Trophy. Also finishing the regional tournament as finalists were Monmouth United Premier (12U Boys) and Torpedoes SC Red (17U Boys).

NJ Premier FC (14U Girls) opened the competition by going unbeaten in group play, recording one win and two draws on a 10-4 goal differential. Finishing the group level with Seacoast United Elite Navy (Massachusetts), teams met to determine their fates via penalties after all tiebreakers had been exhausted. NJ Premier FC secured their bid to the semifinals after edging Seacoast United in the shootout, 4-3. In the next phase, it was an all-Tennessee semifinal on their bracket, as Marlton SC Chiefs Premier also advanced into the elimination rounds. NJ Premier FC registered a 5-2 victory in that contest, setting up a pairing with Great Falls Reston Soccer Club Elite (Virginia) in the final. Again finding their offensive groove, NJ Premier FC emerged victorious via a 4-2 result, winning the 14U Girls Eastern Regional Championship and officially claiming their spot in the USYS National Championships later this month in Orlando, Florida.

Monmouth United Premier (12U Boys) advanced to the knockout stage after an unbeaten run in group play, registering a 2-0-1 record and 7-3 goal differential in their favor. Awaiting them in the semifinals was Vereinigung Erzgebirge SC (Eastern Pennsylvania), with the New Jersey side securing a spot in the final round following a 3-1 result. Monmouth United Premier then faced Coppermine SC (Maryland) in the championship game, and regulation would not be enough to determine a winner. Following a heartbreaking finish in an ensuing penalty shootout, Monmouth United Premier saw its deep tournament run conclude with the team finishing as finalists.

Torpedoes SC Red (17U Boys) also went unbeaten in group play, compiling a 2-0-1 overall record while outscoring their opposition, 12-4. After regulation was not enough to decide a victor against Steel City FC Elite 64 08B (Pennsylvania West) in the semifinals, the two teams headed to a shootout. A dramatic finish saw Torpedoes SC Red come out on top, advancing to a championship appearance with NY Hota Bavarian SC 2008 Blue (Eastern New York). Unfortunately, Torpedoes SC Red came up just short of their quest for the 17U Boys Trophy and ended their run as finalists.

The USYS National Championships Presented by New York Life is the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament. The competition provides winners from each state with the opportunity to showcase their soccer skills against the best competition in the nation while emphasizing teamwork, discipline and fair play. 

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 

Five NJYS Teams Punch Tickets to USYS National Presidents Cup

Five New Jersey Youth Soccer teams secured a spot in the US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup after reaching the Eastern Presidents Cup Finals on Tuesday, with four of those teams claiming the championship in their respective age groups. Lifting the trophy was Real FA (13U Girls), Old Bridge Thunder (14U Girls), Torpedoes Red (17U Girls) and Ocean Township United SA Warriors Red (17U Boys), while Middletown Spirit Red (12U Girls) and FC Berna Legacy Gold (16U Girls) also represented New Jersey as finalists.

By reaching the last day of the regional competition, which was hosted in Pennsylvania, the five 13U–19U teams have officially secured a spot in the USYS National Presidents Cup next month in Tampa, Florida. 

Real FA faced Virginia United FC (VA) in the 13U Girls Final, blanking the Virginia side by a tally of 3-0. The clean slate was an impressive fifth consecutive shutout in five matches, and they finished the tournament with an incredible 9-0 goal differential. Prior to the championship match, Real FA netted three goals en route to a 3-0 semifinal win over St. Mary’s Soccer Premier (MD) on Monday. They opened the tournament by winning their group on three consecutive wins, outscoring the opposition by a count of 3-0.

Old Bridge Thunder also came away with a trophy after defeating Naugatuck Youth Soccer (CT) in the 14U Girls Final, 1-0. Old Bridge also came away with five consecutive wins and outscored their opponents throughout the five-day event, 12-2, with three clean slates. The girls battled hard in a close 2-1 semifinal win over SAC/BA (MD) on Monday after winning their group with three consecutive wins, where they outscored the opposition by a tally of 9-1.

Torpedoes Red had an impressive five-game winning streak where they outscored their opponents, 12-2. The girls claimed the trophy after an intense final match against Lancaster Elite (PAE), where Torpedoes came out on top by a score of 2-1. This is the third year in a row that the Torpedoes Girls have attended the Eastern President’s Cup, and the second time in three years they have claimed the Cup.

Ocean Township United SA Warriors Red returned to the Eastern President’s Cup to defend their 2024 title. The team left Pennsylvania with their second trophy in two years after topping Huntington Valley AA Sting (PAE) in the 17U Boys Final, 6-1. That win came on the heels of a 2-1 result over Arlington Soccer Association White (VAV) in the tournament semifinals. Ocean earned a top seed in the elimination rounds after winning their group on nine points. The team outscored their opponents throughout the event, 21-5.

Middletown Spirit Red (12U Girls) battled hard in their three preliminary games in Pennsylvania, finishing second in their group with two wins and one loss. They then continued that positive momentum into the semifinals and blanked McClean YS White (VA) by a tally of 2-0. In the 12U Girls Final, Middletown sought revenge from a group play defeat, but they were ultimately bested by Penn Fusion Soccer Academy Regional Elite (PAE), 4-0.

FC Berna Legacy Gold punched their ticket to the 16U Girls Final after earning a hard-fought 2-0 victory over BVB Pittsburgh Academy Premier (WPA) in the tournament semifinals on Monday. They qualified for the elimination rounds after finishing second in their group on four points (1-1-1 record). In the 16U Girls Final, they matched up with Keystone FC Premier (MD) and fell by a scoreline of 3-0.

Hosted by US Youth Soccer, the Presidents Cup provides a progressive, competitive environment for teams seeking a series of unique challenges highlighting competition, camaraderie and community.

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

ODP Tryouts: Registration Now Open

New Jersey Youth Soccer is excited to announce open tryouts for our 2025–2026 Olympic Development Program (NJODP), open to players born between 2009 and 2014. NJODP is a nationally recognized USYS identification program for motivated players seeking to compete at the highest levels of the game. Players selected for the state team will have the opportunity to be considered for US Youth Soccer East Region Teams, with the potential for national and international competition.

Tryout Information

Stage 1 (Open Tryouts):

  • Dates: July 19, 20 and August 2, 3
  • Location: Friendship Field-Bordentown FC (455 Ward Ave, Chesterfield, NJ 08515)

Stage 2 (Invite-Only):

  • Dates: August 16, 17
  • Location: Friendship Field-Bordentown FC (455 Ward Ave, Chesterfield, NJ 08515)

CLICK HERE FOR SCHEDULE INFORMATION

Registration

A one-time $25 registration fee covers participation in all four Stage 1 tryout dates. This fee includes an official ODP tryout t-shirt, and if selected, covers attendance at Stage 2 tryouts.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR ODP TRYOUTS

Selection Process

NJODP will select elite male and female players from each age group to join the final state team that trains and competes throughout the 2025–2026 season.

Evaluation Criteria

Players are evaluated in four key areas:

  • Technical Ability
  • Tactical Awareness
  • Athleticism
  • Character & Attitude

All evaluations are conducted by licensed NJYS ODP coaching staff.

Program Overview

Selected players will participate in:

  • 6 Training Sessions
  • 5 Tournaments
  • 3 Educational Seminars on Mental Toughness, Tactical Awareness and College Recruitment

Each player will receive a comprehensive evaluation at the end of the season.

College Exposure

NJODP provides exposure to college coaches via:

  • Staff and Event Presence
  • Tournament Scouting
  • A Dedicated College Recruitment Webinar for 2009, 2010 and 2011 Age Groups

Club Neutral Program

ODP complements, and does not compete with, club soccer. The schedule is carefully designed to reduce conflicts with club commitments, enhancing your child’s development without disruption.

Pathway to Regional and National Teams

Players begin at the state level and may be selected to attend the East Region ID Camp based on performance throughout the year. Top performers are considered for inter-Regional and National Events.

If you have any questions, please email odp@njyouthsoccer.com.

NJ Youth Soccer Crowns Spring State Cup Champions

New Jersey Youth Soccer brought together the top youth soccer talent in the state for the conclusion of the Spring 2025 State Cup Championships. With teams competing in the 15U-18/19U age brackets, 44 teams battled for the title of “State Champion” across the National Championship Series, Presidents Cup and Challenge Cup competitions. 

Thousands of spectators lined the sidelines at Maria Gatta Park in Oceanport on Saturday and Sunday, with families and friends rallying behind the players. This year’s event marked the largest attendance of spectators for the Spring State Cup in recent memory. In addition, it is estimated that over 1,000 additional viewers tuned in to Hudl TV to support their teams via the Hudl Focus Flex live stream.  

“We are so proud of the effort from every team that competed in the State Cup Finals,” said Bill Smith, President of New Jersey Youth Soccer.  “We are thankful for the support of our members, partners, staff and the State Cups Advisory Board in our mission to deliver a memorable championship experience.”

Notable Achievements 

  • The Football Academy 15U Boys Black team won their third New Jersey Youth Soccer State Cup. The team has also qualified for their second National Championships event this summer.  
  • Ocean Township Soccer United Warriors Red are Presidents Cup Champions after earning their second title. 
  • North Jersey FC participated in State Cup for the first time, earning two Challenge Cup championships.

Celebrating Champions 

Thanks to Wilson Trophy, the Official Trophy Partner of New Jersey Youth Soccer, awards were presented to the champions and finalists to celebrate their achievements in style. Champions had the bonus opportunity to place their club atop of the division’s custom bracket board that detailed their team’s Championship journey in a bracket-style layout.  

“We are thrilled that the Ocean Twp United SA Warriors have won the NJYS Presidents Cup championship for the second time in two years,” said Coach Ron Critelli. “The boys unwavering determination and exceptional skill on the pitch have cemented their status as a force in New Jersey Youth Soccer. Both Coach Darren Spurrier and I could not be more proud of our players’ outstanding performance and commitment to excellence. We look forward to representing New Jersey once again at the upcoming Regionals in June, where the Ocean Twp United SA Warriors will have the opportunity to showcase their talent and tenacity on the national stage and continue the run for a national title.”

Community Support

JAG Physical Therapy was on site all weekend ensuring that players received the best pregame care and during any unfortunate injuries. FIFA Club World Cup’s activation team connected with teams, activated on the ground and brought the global game to the New Jersey Youth Soccer scene. Attendees also had the chance to grab SCORE Sports merchandise to commemorate this unique event. PRIME provided hydration on-site.

Record Breaking Digital Engagement

Digital traffic and engagement reached new heights. Social engagement increased by more than 200% from the Fall State Cup Finals, and the event reached almost 200% more views over the two-day event.

Spring 2025 State Cup Champions 

Congratulations to the teams that competed in this prestigious event. We commend the efforts of the players, coaches, and referees! 

National Championship Series Champions 

  • 15U Boys: The Football Academy Black 
  • 15U Girls: NJ Nationals Elite 
  • 16U Boys: SC Vistula Garfield
  • 16U Girls: Wall Spirit 
  • 17U Girls: NJ Premier 
  • 18/19U Boys: Players Development Academy 
  • 18/19U Girls: Morris United Soccer Club STA 

Presidents Cup Champions 

  • 15U Boys: East Greenwich Kingsway Premier 
  • 15U Girls: NJ Nationals Legacy Black
  • 16U Boys: Monmouth United SC Premier 
  • 16U Girls: FC Berna Legacy Gold 
  • 17U Boys: Ocean Township United Soccer Warriors Red 
  • 17U Girls: Torpedoes SC Red 
  • 18/19U Boys: NJ Stallions Sevilla
  • 18/19U Girls: RUSA Blue

Challenge Cup Champions 

  • 15U Boys: North Plainfield Soccer Elite City 
  • 15U Girls: SC Vistula Garfield Cash Red 
  • 16U Boys: Medford SC Lightning 
  • 16U Girls: Wall SC Pride 
  • 17U Boys: North Jersey FC
  • 17U Girls: Ocean Township United Soccer Revolution 
  • 18/19U Boys: North Jersey FC 

Looking Ahead 

Winners of the National Championship Series and Presidents Cup competitions (12U and above) are afforded the opportunity to compete at the regional level of their respective tournaments. Both the US Youth Soccer (USYS) Eastern Regionals and USYS Eastern Presidents Cup will be held in June 2025. Regional winners could advance to the national events in July 2025. 

Referee Mentorship 

The top youth soccer referees from the Garden State were selected for the Championship matches. The NJ State Referee Committee also organized US Soccer Referee Mentors to provide mentorship and guidance for the attending officials. Game film recorded from the Hudl Focus Flex cameras is also a valuable tool for post-game referee growth and education. 

About the New Jersey Youth Soccer State Cups 

The National Championship Series is the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament, providing winners from each state the opportunity to showcase their soccer skills against the best competition in the nation while emphasizing teamwork, discipline and fair play. 

The Presidents Cup provides a progressive, competitive environment to teams that might not otherwise get the opportunity to participate in a series of unique experiences highlighting competition, camaraderie and community. 

The Challenge Cup is the NJYS State Cup designed to create a challenging and enjoyable event for teams outside of the National Championship Series and Presidents Cup. 

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

NJ Youth Soccer Debuts Inaugural Leagues Cup

New Jersey Youth Soccer recently hosted its inaugural Leagues Cup in Marlboro and Toms River, with the event showcasing champions of the various NJYS community-based leagues such as MOSA, Morris County Youth Soccer Association (MCYSA) and Mid-New Jersey Youth Soccer Association (MNJYSA). Both boys and girls teams in the 11U and 12U age groups came together, continuing NJ Youth Soccer’s commitment to providing meaningful competitive experiences for players across the state.

“The inaugural Leagues Cup was a special day for NJ Youth Soccer. Seeing teams from across New Jersey come together to compete, connect and represent their leagues made it clear how strong and united our soccer community truly is,” said Bill Smith, NJYS President. “This event was about more than just trophies. It was about celebrating the players, coaches, clubs, leagues and families who make youth soccer thrive throughout our state.”

The Journey to the Leagues Cup Championships

Each team earned its spot in NJYS Leagues Cup via a successful journey through its league season or league tournament. Champions or qualifiers from these events were then invited to participate in the NJYS Leagues Cup, which featured a one-day showcase of games. Matches were generously hosted by Marlboro Soccer Association and Toms River FC.

NJ Youth Soccer and its member league are proud to recognize and congratulate the 2025 Leagues Cup Champions and Finalists:

  • 11U Boys Champion: Hazlet United SA Lightning (MOSA)
  • 11U Boys Finalist: Plainfield SC Kid Stars Red (MNJYSA)
  • 11U Girls Champion: Wall SC Southampton (MOSA)
  • 11U Girls Finalist: Berkley Heights SC Chaos (MNJYSA)
  • 12U Boys Champion: Complete Athletic Training (MNJYSA)
  • 12U Boys Finalist: Berkley SA Blast (MOSA)
  • 12U Girls Champion: Berkley Heights SC Galaxy (MCYSA)
  • 12U Girls Finalist: Hanover SC Honey Badgers (MNJYSA)

“I was happy to attend the Inaugural Leagues Cup tournament last weekend at both sites,” said Tom Finn, MNJYSA President. “The teams I watched were evenly matched, and families expressed appreciation of the format and opportunity to compete in this inaugural competition.”  

Looking Ahead

MOSA, MCYSA and MNJYSA, in partnership with NJ Youth Soccer, now turn their attention to planning the 2nd Annual Leagues Cup event in 2026, which will also welcome Northern Counties Soccer Association (NCSA) into the expanded field of competition. 

New Jersey ODP Competes in ENY ODP SubRegional Tournament

New Jersey ODP recently took part in the Eastern New York SubRegional Tournament in Albany, New York. This annual event brought together a range of talented youth athletes, with boys and girls teams from the 2008 to 2013 birth years competing in a weekend filled with high-level soccer. Several ODP State Associations were represented at the event, including Eastern New York, New York West, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and New Jersey.

“We wanted to put together another tournament to prepare for the ID tournament and give our kids and our neighbor’s kids a second chance to be identified. We have been lucky enough to have states like NJ, Mass, CT, NH, NYW and ME to support us,” said Jim Volpe, Eastern New York ODP Director. “We made it as affordable as possible. We just wanted to give the kids one more opportunity. The moral to the story is we can do anything if we all work together. It has been my privilege and pleasure to work with all of you on this event.”

The Eastern New York SubRegional offered valuable match experience, allowing players to showcase their abilities in a competitive environment and further their development in preparation for future ODP events.

“Having competition at the ODP level allows the NJ ODP players to learn and develop individually in a good team setting,” added Auke Wiersma, NJYS ODP Training Director. “To have the opportunity to play with and against players at those excellent levels surely makes the players better. They can bring the experiences back to their clubs, making ODP an invaluable part of their and others’ soccer and life development.”

New Jersey Youth Soccer and New Jersey ODP would like to extend their gratitude to Eastern New York ODP for their hospitality and for organizing such a well-run tournament. We also want to thank the dedicated players, families and coaches who made the trip to Albany and made it such a rewarding weekend.