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This past weekend, New Jersey Youth Soccer brought together the top youth soccer talent in the state for the conclusion of its Spring 2026 State Cup Championships. Thousands of spectators lined the sidelines at Capelli Sports Complex in Tinton Falls on Saturday and Sunday, with families and friends rallying behind the players. With teams competing in the 15U-19U age brackets, 44 teams battled for the title of “State Champion” across the National Championship Series, Presidents Cup and Challenge Cup competitions. 

“What an incredible weekend celebrating our State Cup Champions. From the opening whistle to the final trophy presentation, the atmosphere was electric with passionate players, dedicated coaches, proud families, and spectators filling the sidelines all weekend long.

The level of competition, sportsmanship, and excitement on display truly showcased the very best of youth soccer. Congratulations to all of our champions and finalists for their hard work and determination throughout the season. Thank you as well to the referees, volunteers, staff, and supporters who helped make the event such a memorable experience.

Weekends like this are what make soccer so special. Unforgettable moments, championship celebrations, and an amazing community coming together around the game we all love.”

Bill Smith, President of NJ Youth Soccer

Celebrating Champions 

Thanks to ONit Creative Solutions, the Official Trophy Partner of New Jersey Youth Soccer, awards were presented to the champions and finalists to celebrate their achievements in style.

Notable Achievements

Old Bridge Thunder continued their incredible run, capturing back-to-back Presidents Cup titles over the past two years before adding a National Championship Series crown in 2026 to cement themselves among the state’s elite.

Several clubs enjoyed massive championship weekends, with NJ Nationals FC, Torpedoes SC, Cohansey Premier, and Manalapan SC each seeing two teams rise to the top and bring home State Cup championships.

One of the weekend’s best stories belonged to Passaic FC Academy, who made an unforgettable first impression in their State Cup debut by capturing the 18/19U Boys Presidents Cup Championship in their very first appearance in the competition.

Championship history was also on full display as Torpedoes SC – Red 18/19U Girls and East Greenwich SA – Kingsway Premier 17U Girls repeated as back-to-back Presidents Cup Champions. On the National Championship Series side, NJ Nationals FC – Elite 16U Girls continued their dominance by earning back-to-back National Championship Series titles.

Community Support

JAG Physical Therapy was onsite all weekend ensuring that players received the best pregame care and during any unfortunate injuries. Attendees also had the chance to grab Capelli Sports merchandise to commemorate this unique event. 

Record Breaking Digital Engagement

Digital traffic and engagement achieved record heights. Social reach increased by 63% from the 2025 Spring State Cup Finals, and the event surpassed 112% more views over the two-day event.

Spring 2026 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: Cohansey Premier – Navy
• 15U Girls: Old Bridge SC – Thunder
• 16U Boys: JAE Academy
• 16U Girls: NJ Nationals FC – Elite
• 17U Boys: Cedar Stars Academy – North
• 17U Girls: NJ Nationals FC – Elite
• 18/19U Boys: Torpedoes SC – Red
• 18/19U Girls: Real FA

Presidents Cup Champions 

• 15U Boys: Morris United SC – STA
• 15U Girls: Cohansey SC – Premier
• 16U Boys: East Greenwich SA – Kingsway Premier
• 16U Girls: Washington United
• 17U Boys: NJ Santos FC Rush – Black
• 17U Girls: East Greenwich SA – Kingsway Premier
• 18/19U Boys: Passaic FC Academy
• 18/19U Girls: Torpedoes SC – Red

Challenge Cup Champions 

• 15U Boys: Match Fit Surf – South Jersey Liverpool
• 15U Girls: Sporting Club Premier of NJ – Roxbury
• 16U Boys: Lacey Soccer Club – Cedar Stars Academy
• 17U Boys: Manalapan SC – United
• 18/19U Boys: Manalapan SC – Vipers
• 18/19U Girls: Monroe Township Soccer Club – Wildcats

Looking Ahead 

Winners of the National Championship Series competitions (13U and above) are now afforded the opportunity to compete at the national level of the tournament. Winners of the Presidents Cup (12U and above) are afforded the opportunity to compete at the regional level of the tournament.  US Youth Soccer (USYS) Northeast Presidents Cup will be held in June 2026 and all national events will be held in July 2026.

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 Trace cameras onsite is also a valuable tool for post-game referee growth and education. 

About 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 

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 announced a new partnership with Trace, a leader in AI-powered soccer video, to launch a state-wide initiative providing advanced filming technology to its member clubs and teams.

Teams interested in requesting a FREE Trace camera and PlayerFocus™ Pro subscription can visit traceup.com/partner/njys to get started. Make sure to use code NJYSPRO at checkout. (Note: Code must be redeemed at checkout with a new camera.)

Trace, established in 2011, is leveraging AI technology to seamlessly identify, follow, and spotlight each player on the field, automatically delivering a personalized playlist of individual highlights for every player after each game. Additionally, Trace cameras are specifically designed to provide an enhanced viewing experience, allowing parents, coaches, and scouts to zoom in and follow a player throughout the match.

In a significant move to support player development across the state, NJ Youth Soccer and Trace have teamed up to offer every member team, from grassroots to competitive levels, a complimentary sideline camera and a PlayerFocus™ Pro subscription. Proof of membership will be required for each team via submission of an official NJYS roster at checkout.

“At New Jersey Youth Soccer, we are constantly looking for ways to provide our members with the best possible tools to succeed,” said Evan Dabby, Chief Executive Officer of NJ Youth Soccer. “By partnering with Trace, we are reducing the financial barrier to elite-level video technology. This initiative ensures that every NJYS member team, regardless of their level of play, has the opportunity to use video for development, recruitment, and capturing lifelong memories on the pitch.”

By providing automated videos to players, coaches, and parents, this partnership supports the NJ Youth Soccer mission to provide affordable and innovative resources that enhance the experience for every soccer community in New Jersey.

“Trace is honored to partner with New Jersey Youth Soccer to further their mission of connecting and empowering the youth soccer community,” stated Gentry Contreras, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Trace. “By providing automated video technology to NJYS players, coaches, and parents, we are supporting the tools necessary to inspire a lifelong passion for the game and help every athlete in the Garden State reach their full potential.”

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

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.