News

New Collaboration Expands Competitive Opportunities for Older Players with More than 100 Teams Across Nine New Jersey Counties

The Monmouth Ocean Soccer Association (MOSA) and Mid-New Jersey Youth Soccer Association (MNJYSA) have announced the launch of a combined youth soccer league for Spring 2026, encompassing boys’ and girls’ divisions for U15, U16, and U19. More than 100 teams are competing across nine counties in New Jersey.

By aligning their older age divisions, MOSA and MNJYSA are creating deeper brackets and more varied matchups for clubs as players progress through the teen years.

“In past years, the number of youth players can tail off as players get older, which may lead to reduced competition,” said Eric Offenberg, President of MOSA. “By combining our older divisions with MNJYSA, we’re essentially doubling the number of teams in these age groups and creating opportunities for teams to face opponents they may not otherwise see.”

Each age group will feature at least two flights, with some divisions expanding to four, for a total of 15 flights for the six age groups overall. Top teams in each age group will advance to playoffs in East Brunswick to determine an overall champion.

“Clubs have shown tremendous enthusiasm for this joint league,” said Tom Finn, President of MNJYSA. “We expect participation to continue growing in the years ahead.”

Games for the joint league began during the weekend of March 21–22 and will continue through June.

New Jersey Youth Soccer and Soccer Forward teamed up for a dynamic community event at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newark, introducing local youth to the NJYS Let’s Play! Program and celebrating soccer as a tool for growth, confidence, and inclusion. Soccer Forward, in partnership with New York Life, is growing the game in Newark and highlighting organizations expanding access for local youth. At this community spotlight event, a joint donation brought new soccer programming directly to the clubhouse, giving kids opportunities to play, learn, and develop through the sport.

Kids of all ages rotated through small-sided games, skill stations, and guided activities, fully engaged in building soccer skills, teamwork, and confidence in a safe and welcoming environment. Working alongside Soccer Forward, NJ Youth Soccer transformed the space into an interactive soccer playground, creating an energetic hub where every child could participate and experience the fun of the game firsthand.

The day featured appearances by USWNT alum Sara Hess, USMNT legend Tab Ramos, and Gotham FC defender Mandy Freeman, with Gotham FC serving as the World Cup Host Committee and helping activate multiple experiences throughout the event. The activation highlighted NJ Youth Soccer’s commitment to bringing high-quality soccer programming to the Newark community while emphasizing fun, inclusion, and youth development.

Thanks to a generous $10,000 contribution from New York Life, NJ Youth Soccer is able to expand Let’s Play! programming in Newark.

“We are thrilled for this support of New Jersey Youth Soccer and our Let’s Play! Program,” said Evan Dabby, CEO of NJ Youth Soccer. “This donation will allow NJYS to bring even more kids into the game, providing consistent opportunities for growth, skill development, and community engagement.”

The Let’s Play! Program is designed to make soccer fun, accessible, and development-focused. Beyond introducing fundamental skills, it encourages social-emotional growth, teamwork, and confidence-building, giving every participant a sense of belonging while learning to love the game. The Let’s Play! Program goes beyond simply introducing kids to soccer. It also focuses on integrating nutrition and providing life skills education (SEL) to support holistic youth development. By combining skill-building with social-emotional learning and healthy habits, the program ensures that kids gain confidence on and off the field.

Building on the success of this activation, NJ Youth Soccer is excited to continue its partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newark throughout the coming year, offering ongoing Let’s Play! sessions and clinics to expand access and create consistent opportunities for kids to engage in soccer and enjoy the physical and social benefits of the sport.

“Seeing these kids light up while learning and playing is exactly why we do this,” said Bree Cassidy, NJYS Program Manager. “With partners like Soccer Forward, New York Life, and Gotham FC, we’re able to bring the game to life in Newark—one activation, one player, and one community at a time.”

For more information on New Jersey Youth Soccer and the Let’s Play! Program, check out the program online or contact Breeana Cassidy at breeana@njyouthsoccer.com.

New Jersey Youth Soccer (NJYS) announced that it has renewed its partnership with reigning NWSL Champions Gotham FC, reaffirming a shared commitment to growing the girls’ game and strengthening the youth soccer community across the state.

Together, Gotham FC and NJYS will continue to build pathways for young players and ensure that girls in New Jersey have the resources to play, grow and thrive in this sport. As a founding partner of Gotham FC’s Keep Her in the Game initiative, presented by Dove, this renewal highlights the longstanding alignment between the organizations in advancing and retaining girls in soccer, with efforts focused on elevating visibility and access for youth players.

“This partnership expansion reflects the strength of Gotham FC’s relationship with New Jersey Youth Soccer as we continue to connect and empower the youth soccer community,” said Brian Walsh, Gotham FC head of youth soccer. “We have seen firsthand how collaboration at every level of the sport can help elevate the game and inspire a lifelong passion for soccer on and off the pitch, and we’re excited to build on that momentum together in the seasons ahead. ”

The collaboration will also focus on creating unforgettable experiences for NJYS players, families, coaches and leaders in the community, with special opportunities at Gotham FC matches and engagement with the club through additional events, clinics and celebrations.

This year, there are three Gotham FC home matches dedicated as NJYS Outings, offering discounted tickets for the NJYS community and unique matchday programming for players, including pre-game parades, post-match autograph sessions, in-game recognitions and more.

The designated NJYS Outings include:

• Sunday, March 29 vs. Orlando Pride (7 p.m. ET)
• Saturday, May 9 vs. Boston Legacy (6:30 p.m. ET)
• Friday, August 28 vs. Portland Thorns (8 p.m. ET)

“Extending our partnership with Gotham FC is a powerful statement about our shared commitment to the soccer community in New Jersey,” said Evan Dabby, CEO of New Jersey Youth Soccer. “When our youth players see a professional club thriving in our region, it reinforces what’s possible. Together, we are creating opportunity, visibility and inspiration for the next generation.”

Additionally, Gotham FC and NJYS will integrate through co-branded marketing opportunities and activations at select NJYS tournaments. Gotham will continue to serve as presenting partner of the NJYS Save of the Year Award, which recognizes an extraordinary save made by an NJYS player during the seasonal year at the NJYS Awards Celebration presented by RWJBarnabas Health.

Gotham will also be the presenting sponsor of the NJYS League Cup, showcasing champions of various NJYS community-based leagues for both boys and girls teams in the 11U and 12U age groups.

New Jersey Youth Soccer formally inducted Alecko Eskandarian and Denise Reddy into the NJYS Hall of Fame during a ceremony held at the New Jersey Hall of Fame inside American Dream.

The NJYS Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership, dedication, and achievements have made a lasting impact on the growth and development of soccer throughout the state. Inductees are selected in one of two categories (player or contributor), reflecting distinct but equally meaningful paths of influence within the game. Alecko Eskandarian and Denise Reddy both represent those paths at the highest levels.

Alecko Eskandarian: A New Jersey Player with National Impact

Alecko Eskandarian’s career traces a direct line from New Jersey youth soccer to the top tiers of the sport. A standout at Bergen Catholic High School, Eskandarian earned national recognition, including Gatorade National High School Athlete of the Year honors and three New Jersey State Player of the Year Awards. He continued his development at the University of Virginia, where he became one of the nation’s most decorated collegiate players. In 2002, he captured the Hermann Trophy as the top player in college soccer after scoring a single-season record of 25 goals for the Cavaliers.

Selected first overall in the 2003 MLS SuperDraft, Eskandarian built a professional career highlighted by an MLS Cup championship, MLS Cup MVP honors, multiple All-Star selections, and appearances with the U.S. Men’s National Team.

Following his playing career, he has transitioned into leadership roles that continued to shape the game. Eskandarian served as Youth Technical Director for the Philadelphia Union and later as assistant coach and head coach of the New York Cosmos, guiding the club to an undefeated season and league championship. He currently serves as Vice President of Player Relations & Player Development with Major League Soccer, overseeing initiatives that impact players across the league.

Eskandarian’s recognition reflects both his achievements on the field and his continued investment in the sport’s long-term growth. To the day, the New Jersey resident remains engaged with NJ Youth Soccer events and development programs, reinforcing the pathway that shaped his own career.

Denise Reddy: A Career Defined by Leadership and Development

Denise Reddy’s soccer journey also began in New Jersey. Raised in Hazlet, she developed as a youth player with the Middletown Cosmos before becoming a four-year starter at Rutgers University. During her collegiate career, she helped lead Rutgers to two Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference championships and earned NSCAA All-America second-team honors in 1991.

Reddy’s professional playing career took her to Sweden, where she competed for Umeå IK and later Malmö DFF. Over a decade with Malmö, she served as team captain for seven seasons, contributing to a Swedish Cup title and deep runs in European competition, including appearances in UEFA Women’s Cup semifinals.

She began coaching while still playing, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in player development. Her coaching résumé includes roles with the New Jersey Olympic Development Program (ODP), NJ/NY Gotham FC (formerly Sky Blue FC), the Chicago Red Stars, Washington Spirit, Chelsea FC Women, and most recently the United States Women’s National Soccer Team, where she serves as Assistant Coach.

Reddy is recognized for sustained leadership, mentorship, and technical expertise at the highest levels of the women’s game, and for maintaining strong ties to the New Jersey soccer community throughout her career.

A Broader Standard of Excellence

The New Jersey Youth Soccer Hall of Fame is designed to recognize more than accomplishments alone. It honors individuals whose work elevates the game and whose influence extends beyond individual teams or seasons.

The careers of Alecko Eskandarian and Denise Reddy reflect the long-term impact of the state’s development system, and the enduring responsibility many of its alumni carry forward. Their induction serves not only as recognition of distinguished careers, but as affirmation of the role New Jersey continues to play in shaping leaders across the sport.

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

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.