News

Christine Gloth, NJ Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer continues its celebration of the 2024 NJYS Awards Presented by RWJBarnabas Health, officially recognizing Roberto Aguas of FC Copa Academy as the NJYS Bob McNulty Coach of the Year. In honor of Bob McNulty, NJ Youth Soccer honors a travel level coach each year who best demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to good sportsmanship as well as player and team development.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to NJYS for bestowing upon me the prestigious title of the Bob McNulty Coach of the Year,” said Roberto Aguas of receiving the award. “It is a tremendous honor to stand among the accomplished coaches in the richly talented New Jersey community. Reflecting on the two decades since the establishment of FC Copa, I feel blessed to have had the privilege of working with exceptional players who committed themselves to learning, supportive parents who entrusted me with the education and guidance of their children and dedicated fellow coaches who collaborated with me. These past 20 years have marked an extraordinary chapter in my life, filled with cherished memories that will remain etched in my heart forever.”

Coach Aguas founded FC Copa Academy in 2004 with a desire to offer a different kind of service in the youth soccer world. His passion was to provide a true academy atmosphere that focuses on the personal development of players both on and off the field, obtaining success in the game of soccer with a high level of emphasis on education, and the ultimate goal of placement into college and universities. Coach Aguas also serves as the President and Executive Director of Coaching for FC Copa Academy, which has grown into one of the nation’s most recognized clubs.

 Coach Aguas has worked tirelessly to create an atmosphere which will enable players to find success through the pillars of respect, hard work, structure and discipline. He has led six teams to the number one ranking in New Jersey and four teams to number one rankings in the country. He has also guided teams to wins at some of the most prestigious tournaments, showcases and leagues in the country. He has personally coached over 200 players and had oversight of 400 additional players who have gone on to play collegiate soccer. He also coached and mentored FC Copa players who have reached the professional ranks or have been called up to youth national teams. His resume speaks for itself, making him a very worthy recipient of the NJYS Bob McNulty Coach of the Year Award. 

In addition to a plaque to commemorate his achievement, Coach Aguas was also treated to a congratulatory video tribute from Gregg Berhalter, New Jersey native and head coach of the US Men’s National Team, that was played on the video screens for the awards dinner audience to enjoy. He also received a custom ball from SIGND displaying a QR code that provided access to his personalized video.

NJ Youth Soccer held its 2024 NJYS Annual Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health earlier this month, where many players, coaches and guests of the soccer community were on hand at the Pines Manor in Edison, N.J. With more than 1,000 attendees, the event saw a capacity crowd for the annual celebration.

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

Christine Gloth, NJ Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer continues its celebration of the 2024 NJYS Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health, officially recognizing Juan Morales of the Roxbury Soccer Club as the NJYS Recreation Coach of the Year. Each year, this award highlights the accomplishments and dedication that a recreation level coach has displayed to their players and community.

“The beautiful game of soccer has the power to unite the entire world and bring everyone joy for a brief moment,” said Morales. “It is an honor to coach these young players.”

Juan Morales has proven to be a worthy recipient of the NJYS Recreation Coach of the Year Award. Members of the Roxbury Soccer Club rave about his contributions to the players and families of the teams he coaches. He is known for teaching sportsmanship, player development (on and off the field) and being involved in his community. Coach Morales consistently promotes values of fair play, respect and integrity, all while striving to create a training environment that encourages the enthusiasm, creativity and self-confidence that allows each player to realize their full potential. He possesses a well-defined coaching philosophy centered on holistic player development, and his approach emphasizes skill acquisition, tactical understanding, teamwork and character development. 

Many feel that the most incredible quality of Coach Morales is his inclusiveness and welcoming attitude toward all of the diverse families that make up his teams. One such example of this is when he went out of his way to pick up a father from work and drove him to his son’s game, just so he could watch him play.

In addition to a plaque to commemorate this achievement, Coach Morales was treated to a congratulatory video tribute from Juan Carlos Amoros, head coach of NJ/NY Gotham FC, that was played on the video screens for the awards dinner audience to enjoy. He also received a custom ball from SIGND displaying a QR code that provided access to his personalized video.

NJ Youth Soccer held its 2024 NJYS Annual Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health earlier this month, where many players, coaches and guests of the soccer community were on hand at the Pines Manor in Edison, N.J. With more than 1,000 attendees, the event saw a capacity crowd for the annual celebration.

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

Christine Gloth, NJ Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer continues its celebration of the 2024 NJYS Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health, officially recognizing Jackson Soccer Club as the NJYS Recreation Program of the Year. This award is presented each year to highlight the accomplishments and dedication that a recreation program has initiated to its players and community.

Jackson Soccer Club has been a member of NJ Youth Soccer for many years and has served as a great partner for the state association, providing fields for NJYS State Cup games and ODP events, as well as hosting several NJYS Coaching Courses.

The Jackson Soccer Club (JSC) Recreation Program consists of intramurals, player development and referee development. JSC Intramurals is a recreation program open to children ranging in age from 3 to 17-years-old. The program strives to create a safe, fun and exciting environment for children to learn the game of soccer, and the club has a goal for every child to leave the soccer field with a sense of accomplishment and joy. The recreation program is a partnership between Tecnica Soccer and JSC coaches and parents. The Tecnica professional trainers plan and lead each session and incorporate parent volunteers to help make the experience better. This partnership allows a fantastic balance between a player’s development, including parent participation and involvement, while making sure players are receiving professional training.

JSC forms teams and divisions based on age. It follows US Soccer principles to develop kids in terms of physically, technically, knowledge of strategy and Soccer IQ. Programs offered include a Mini Kickers Peanut Program for the youngest age groups, Micro Kickers (small-sided games and training), Collegiate Division (7v7 or 9v9), Major League Division for middle school age athletes (9v9 or 11v11) and Premier Division for high school age players.

For further player development, JSC offers several clinics throughout the year. These clinics are run through Tecnica and range from general development to skill specific sessions. Examples include Goalkeeper Training, Shooting, Brazilian Skills Clinic and Defending. These offerings provide a great learning opportunity for those intramural and recreation players who want to improve their skills and gain more from a program. The clinics are open to both travel and recreation players, providing recreation players with the opportunity to play alongside travel players.

The JSC Referee Program has continued to grow over the years, and it has provided a great environment for new referees to practice their skills. One of the initiatives of the program is to bring on new referees to teach them how to officiate games. Many of their referees return year after year and provide mentorship to younger referees.

“Thank you to New Jersey Youth Soccer for honoring Jackson Soccer Club’s Recreation Program,” said Lou Vitanov, JSC Intramural Director. “I want to thank my family, JSC Board Members, training staff and our volunteers. Special shout out to Angelina Vitanov and Sophia Vitanov for their countless hours volunteering to better the community.” 

In addition to a plaque to commemorate their achievement, Jackson Soccer Club was treated to a congratulatory video tribute from Luis Robles, former goalkeeper for the New York Red Bulls, that was played on the video screens for the awards dinner audience to enjoy. Jackson Soccer Club also received a custom ball from SIGND displaying a QR code that provided access to their personalized video.
NJ Youth Soccer held its 2024 NJYS Annual Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health earlier this month, where many players, coaches and guests of the soccer community were on hand at the Pines Manor in Edison, N.J. With more than 1,000 attendees, the event saw a capacity crowd for the annual celebration.

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

Christine Gloth, NJ Youth Soccer

NJYS Soccer Parent of the Year Award Is Presented by the Soccer Parenting Association

New Jersey Youth Soccer recently held its 2024 NJYS Annual Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health, where many players, coaches and guests of the soccer community were on hand at the Pines Manor in Edison, N.J. With more than 1,000 attendees, the event hosted a capacity crowd for the annual celebration.

One of the honorees that evening was Angelica Paola, who was selected as the NJYS Soccer Parent of the Year. The award is presented by the Soccer Parenting Association, and it recognizes parents who have gone above and beyond in service to their club, team or community. The award was created to highlight the pivotal role that parents play in the youth soccer experience. 

Angelica Paola is the team manager for the U10 Perth Amboy Lions. Unbeknownst to her, she was nominated by the coach of the Lions because he knew she is too humble to think of herself as worthy of the recognition. However, the time and effort she puts into creating a fun and safe environment for the team makes her absolutely worthy. Most of the families on the team are Spanish speaking, and Paola takes the time to bridge the gap between players and coaches so that everyone’s needs and expectations are met. Further, she is always willing to help organize end of season parties and arrangements for long tournament weekends. Perth Amboy Soccer Club would be the first ones to say how lucky they are to have a parent volunteer like her. 

“I would like to express my gratitude to NJ Youth Soccer, Perth Amboy Soccer Club and to our coach, Liddy,” said Paola. “Thanks to my family, to each player and to all the families who always show their commitment, dedication and support in this wonderful sport. You all make a world of difference.”

In addition to a plaque to commemorate this achievement, Paola was treated to a congratulatory video tribute from Yael Averbuch, General Manager of NJ/NY Gotham FC and former member of the US Women’s National Team, that was played on the video screens for the entire crowd to enjoy. She also received a custom ball from SIGND displaying a QR code that provided access to her personalized video.

The goal of the Soccer Parenting Association is to empower parents while inspiring players. The organization also runs the SoccerParentResourceCenter.com website, which instructs youth soccer coaches and parents.

To find out more 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 

Meredith Waropay, NJ Youth Soccer

Nelson Ramirez, the longest tenured member of the NJYS Board of Directors, has officially been inducted into the New Jersey Youth Soccer Hall of Fame after having served selflessly for more than 30 years. His “Kids First” dedication to helping youth programs throughout the state has provided countless young people with the opportunity to learn the game of soccer.

Ramirez’s passion for the game started at a young age when he began playing club soccer in Colombia with Millionarios. He later moved to the United States in 1966 and continued to develop his lifelong passion for the game by playing in New Jersey and Long Island Leagues. His trajectory in youth soccer began when he started coaching his daughter’s team in Long Island. Later on, helped found the Mahwah Raiders Soccer Club to give kids a space to enjoy the game in his local community. From there, his involvement grew further by serving as an NJYS Olympic Development Program (ODP) coach.

The commitment by Ramirez to the NJYS Board of Directors began in the 1990’s as a North Area Commissioner, and it escalated to a role as the NJYS First Vice President where he oversaw the NJYS Olympic Development Program (ODP). It was there that he focused on his dream to have 11 players from New Jersey on the field wearing the national team jersey. ODP was also home to one of his fondest memories, which was winning two National Championships with his ODP girls teams.

“It has been very rewarding that we have had kids through the program we have been able to place onto college teams, and now some are professionals,” reflected Ramirez.

Another of his most notable achievements is the work he has done for Just One Soccer League in Newark. The program makes the game available to underserved youth in Newark neighborhoods, providing many kids with a space to enjoy the game and develop their skills.

“Nelson is a big advocate for creating opportunities for the players we serve, and he has revitalized the program,” said Oscar Rodriguez, co-founder of Just One Soccer League. “He has been a driving force in growing what was once a small program in Newark to being recognized nationally. His impact on our organization has been profound, and we are so incredibly grateful to have him on our team.”

In addition, Ramirez helped pioneer NJYS’ Celebration of Soccer, an event that provided underprivileged communities a free and fun soccer experience designed to develop a love of the game.

“Nelson Ramirez’ leadership played a vital role in the Celebration of Soccer Events for our inner-city programs, as well as the global awareness and significant growth of New Jersey Youth Soccer’s Olympic Development Program,” stated Rick Meana, NJYS Director of Coaching. “It is very rare to find a colleague who has inspired me in the way Nelson has.”

Still a prominent fixture in the game throughout New Jersey, Ramirez currently serves as the NJYS Third Vice President and is the Board of Directors Liaison to the Recreation Growth Advisory Board. He also continues to coach high school and club teams, forever remaining steadfast in his commitment to growing youth soccer and giving back to communities in need.

To find out more 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 

Photo: Current NJYS President and former MOSA President Jess Yeager is among the four new inductees (Cos Lymperopoulos).

Monmouth Ocean Soccer Association (MOSA) will be inducting two MOSA players and two MOSA volunteers into its 2023 Hall of Fame Class, with the induction ceremony set to take place on Thursday, February 22nd, at the Colts Neck Inn in Colts Neck, N.J.  

The 2023 player inductees include:

Danielle Colaprico – Current professional soccer player for San Diego Wave FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) who has also received several call-ups to the US Womens National Team. Prior to her time at San Diego Wave FC, Colaprico was named 2015 NWSL Rookie of the Year with the Chicago Red Stars, and she went on to spend eight seasons with the team. She previously had a tremendous career with the University of Virginia after playing high school soccer for Red Bank Catholic, where her team won three consecutive Shore Conference Championships and one State Final. Colaprico grew up in Old Bridge and played in MOSA for the Holmdel Soccer Club with a boys team that was coached by her father.

Jake Nerwinski – Current professional soccer player for St. Louis SC of Major League Soccer (MLS). Prior to his time with St. Louis, Nerwinski spent seven seasons with the Vancouver Whitecaps after becoming the seventh overall pick in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft. He played his college soccer at the University of Connecticut, where he was a four-year starter, two-time captain and received UConn Male Athlete of the Year accolades. Before college, he attended Notre Dame High School in Lawrenceville, where he received All-County and All-State Honors over his four-year career, leaving as the all-time assist and goal-scoring leader. Nerwinski grew up in Jackson and played soccer at Jackson Soccer Club for the Jackson Raptors in MOSA.

“Thousands of children currently playing MOSA dream to get to the level that these players have gotten,” said Eric Offenberg, 1st Vice President of MOSA. “We are thrilled that Danielle and Jake have made it to the highest levels of soccer after getting their starts playing in MOSA. These players 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.”

NJ Youth Soccer Executive Director Evan Dabby echoed those sentiments.

“Soccer players continue to develop in New Jersey into top national and international players,” said Dabby. “It has been a thrill to watch Danielle and Jake compete and know that current youth players throughout the state are trying to emulate their accomplishments.”

In addition to the player inductees, two volunteers are also being inducted to the MOSA Hall of Fame as well on February 22nd.

Jess Yeager – Current President of NJ Youth Soccer who spent eight years on the MOSA Board before he became President of MOSA in 2016. Yeager eventually left MOSA to pursue leadership of NJ Youth Soccer and was elected NJYS President in 2020. He got his start in youth soccer in 1996, joining the Toms River Youth Soccer Board at that time. He eventually became a head coach and then President of the club.

Bill Tumbleson – Currently the most distinguished and tenured referee assignor for MOSA who has been involved with soccer since 1980. After his initial involvement in the game, Tumbleson quickly became a referee, assignor, instructor and assessor who developed a significant numbers of referees still officiating today. He currently referees high school and college soccer as well.

“Jess and Bill truly represent the foundation of youth soccer in New Jersey,” said Offenberg. “Their decades of devotion to growing the beautiful game deserve to be commended.”

The MOSA Hall of Fame will continue to install new inductees for years to come. Full biographies of players and volunteers can be found at mosa.gotsport.com. 

For any questions about this announcement, please contact Eric Offenberg at eoffenberg1@hotmail.com.

Christine Gloth, NJ Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer hosted its 2024 NJYS Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health on Friday, February 2nd, where players, coaches and guests of the soccer community attended the annual celebration at the Pines Manor in Edison, N.J. This year’s event was witness to a record setting audience with more than 1,000 attendees.

“As NJ Youth Soccer offers a full line-up of competitive, recreation and inclusive programs for kids of all ages and levels, RWJBarnabas Health is delighted to serve as a longstanding partner,” said Justin Edelman, Senior Vice President, Corporate Partnerships, RWJBarnabas Health. “The Awards Dinner continues to be a highlight of the soccer calendar, and it is inspiring to see NJYS recognize so many individuals who make a meaningful impact in communities across the state.”

In addition to hundreds of players, parents, award winners and scholarship recipients, a host of VIPs and special guests were also present to celebrate the evening. Jess Yeager, President of NJ Youth Soccer; Skip Gilbert, CEO of US Youth Soccer; and Dr. Jason Krystofiak, Medical Director of Sports Medicine and Medical Director of the Matthew J. Morahan III Health Assessment Center for Athletes at RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Athletics Team Physician; delivered the opening remarks. Other distinguished guests in attendance included Tab Ramos, former US Men’s National Team captain, National Soccer Hall of Fame and NJYS Hall of Fame member; Ed Foster-Simeon, President and CEO of the US Soccer Foundation; Michael Lazar, Managing Director of External Relations at the US Soccer Federation; Dan Lynch, representing the NYNJ FIFA World Cup Host Committee; Chris Savino, Senior Director of Major League Soccer; as well as Glenn Crooks, radio voice of New York City FC and an NJYS Hall of Fame member. 

“As I said at the event, decades ago when I played, New Jersey was revered as a hotbed for soccer in the US, and the awards dinner simply amplified that sentiment for today’s soccer ecosystem,” said Skip Gilbert, CEO of US Youth Soccer. “With over 1,000 in attendance, the dinner was an exciting reflection of the passion for the sport, the success on the field and the commitment to excel by New Jersey players, coaches, referees and families. My thanks to Evan Dabby and the NJYS team for inviting me to their incredible celebration, and I look forward to watching what the state will do next to drive soccer forward.”

As the event emcee, Ally Melendez treated the crowd to an exceptional evening. A New York Emmy nominated sports and lifestyle host, Melendez is currently working as the in-arena host for the New York Red Bulls (Major League Soccer), Brooklyn Nets (National Basketball Association) and New York Mets (Major League Baseball).

To highlight the evening, Nelson Ramirez was inducted into the NJYS Hall of Fame. To commemorate his induction, Just One Soccer League created a video tribute that was shared with the crowd. Ramirez was also joined on stage with fellow NJYS Hall of Fame inductees in attendance such as Tab Ramos, Glenn Crooks, Raul Donoso, Flo Egan and Barry Towbin. 

Award winners were also treated to video tributes from prominent members of the soccer community.  Gregg Berhalter, New Jersey native and head coach of the US Men’s National Team; Cindy Parlow Cone, President of the US Soccer Federation; Tony Meola, NJYS and National Soccer Hall of Fame member; Tab Ramos, NJYS and National Soccer Hall of Fame member; Mark Geiger, legendary US Soccer referee and NJYS Hall of Fame member; Yael Averbuch, General Manager of NJ/NY Gotham FC; Daniel Edelman, player for the New York Red Bulls; Michelle Betos, goalkeeper for NJ/NY Gotham FC; Skip Gilbert, CEO of US Youth Soccer; Juan Carlos Amoros, head coach of NJ/NY Gotham FC; and Luis Robles, former New York Red Bulls goalkeeper; all offered their praises.

NJ Youth Soccer also revealed its Goal of the Year Powered By the New York Red Bulls and Save of the Year Powered By Gotham FC. Each of the winners will be invited to a home match at Red Bull Arena this season where their goal and save videos will be displayed on the video board. 

“The NJYS Awards Dinner has become a highlight on the youth soccer calendar, and it has grown to be a true destination for our soccer community,” said Evan Dabby, NJYS Executive Director. “We aim to develop a lifelong passion for the sport, and this event is a true embodiment of that value. We thank RWJBarnabas Health for their incredible support towards the celebration of New Jersey’s soccer community.”

More than 20 NJYS State Cup Champions, as well as USYS Regional and National Champions, were celebrated throughout the evening, culminating with USYS National League Elite 64 National Champions FC Copa Academy 2006 Girls. Each team was honored with a team parade and photos on stage in front of the capacity crowd, as well as being featured in their own personal Red Carpet Interview.

Juan Ramirez, Gabby Gil and Olivia Russomanno led the interview festivities on the Red Carpet. Ramirez is a member of the New York Red Bulls Freestyle Crew who entertains fans with their ball skills before every Red Bulls home game. Gil and Russomanno are products of NJ Youth Soccer and members of the Rutgers University Women’s Soccer Program.

The NJYS Olympic Development Program (ODP) was on display with USYS Interregional players in attendance. These players and parents were treated to a special Meet And Greet with Tab Ramos, where Ramos highlighted meaningful takeaways with respect to his development as a player from youth to professional levels, including his representation of our nation during two FIFA World Cups. He also described his coaching experiences with youth national teams and Major League Soccer in terms of guiding the development of players at these levels of the game. Ramos further emphasized the importance of taking accountability and responsibility for one’s own development and performance as these players strive toward reaching their full potential. With the official announcement being released the night prior, there was also a special opportunity to celebrate and recognize Dylan Pino, Sandro Cunningham and Madelynn Sadusky on their selections to the USYS ODP National Team. 

Players also had the opportunity to win giveaways from many NJYS partners and donors as part of a social media campaign during the event. Players took a shot at posting their best photos and videos from the night for a chance to go home with a free gift from RWJBarnabas Health, JAG Physical Therapy, New York Red Bulls, US Soccer and Hudl.

Important to note is the 2024 NJYS Awards Dinner Presented By RWJBarnabas Health was made possible due to the tremendous hard work and enthusiasm from a team of more than 30 NJYS staff, volunteers and student mentors. Their collective effort created an unforgettable night for all attendees.

Follow NJ Youth Soccer over the coming weeks to celebrate the award winners and scholarship recipients from the NJYS Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health, including more details on each of the honorees.

To find out more 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 

The second-ever New Jersey Youth Soccer Skills Challenge was held last summer, with more than 200 players from different clubs and teams throughout the state in attendance. The participants were challenged in a skills competition that including passing, dribbling, shooting, chipping and juggling drills. The event was a huge success, and that would not have been possible without the help of Glenn Gargan.

Glenn attended the 2023 NJYS Annual General Meeting and heard both US Youth Soccer and NJ Youth Soccer representatives encourage technical skill development through alternative fun programs. This made him immediately start thinking about bringing the Skills Challenge at West Windsor Plainsboro Soccer Association (WWPSA) to the state level.

Soccer has been a staple in the life of Glenn Gargan since he was a young child, with his family sharing that same passion for the game. His father was the President of Neptune Soccer Association for years, as well as his mother being one of the first girls’ soccer coaches in the region. This type of support and encouragement allowed Glenn and his brother to have highly decorated playing careers that led to them both being inducted into the Hall of Fame at their respective colleges.

Glenn’s involvement with youth soccer started by coaching his sons Jake and Max’s travel team at West Windsor Plainsboro Soccer Association (WWPSA). He eventually became Director of Travel for WWPSA as well. While in that position, he developed the Travel Development Academy (or TDA Program) for young players in the club, introducing them to the technical side of the game as well as their families to the travel soccer lifestyle. Additionally, Glenn created the first multi-year Skills Challenge at WWPSA to encourage the importance of technical skill development. The program was a huge success, resulting in dramatic player improvement throughout the club.

“I would like to see New Jersey take the lead in true player development, thus bringing New Jersey back to the top of the nation for high-level players,” Glenn stated when asked about the importance of the Skills Challenge. “I feel as our players develop, the game as a whole will develop.”

After his sons aged out of the travel program, Glenn took a few years off from soccer before returning to serve as an US Soccer Federation Licensed Referee, coach at Allentown High School and President of Home Town FC. He also founded The Phil Gargan Foundation, which has a mission of empowering lives and community through soccer, on and off the field.

We asked Glenn what some of the most rewarding aspects are when it comes to working in youth soccer.

“Honestly, most rewarding for me is being able to give back to the next generations of skills, both on the soccer field and in life,” he said. “I was blessed throughout my life. Soccer has given me some of my closest friends and special life experiences.”

Among the many positive memories that the game has afforded Glenn, there is one in particular that has always stuck out.

“One of the greatest experiences is I was fortunate enough to have been trained by some great European players such as Frans Beckenbauer,” he reflected. “I am happy to now be able to share that same experience with our young players today through a summer camp I have created, coached by two veteran players from Inter Milan, Giuseppe Bergomi and Giuseppe Baresi. I am hopeful I can give today’s players something that made a difference in my game to improve their game, as well as to help those underserved here in our area and those in other parts of the world who face great challenges.”

Glenn Gargan’s profound journey in soccer is not merely a tale of personal achievements but also a testament to the transformative impact of dedication, mentorship and community engagement. His commitment to imparting both soccer skills and life lessons upon youth players reflects a passion that has continually extended far beyond the pitch.

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

The United States Consortium of State Associations (USCSA) is excited to announce it has launched operations. Led by its Legacy Members from seven US Youth Soccer State Associations, its vision is to create a highly functioning network of state associations that will grow soccer participation by:

• Working collaboratively with US Soccer, US Youth Soccer, State Associations and other Organizational Members of US Soccer.
• Revolutionizing how State Associations interact.
• Focusing on developing processes that can expand influence.
• Grow soccer participation.
• Reducing costs and improving services by scaling business operations.

The USCSA believes that State Associations can provide an anchor in the local soccer communities by providing exceptional service, resources and inspiration that grows soccer participation by unlocking the potential within every community. Traditionally, each State Association has its own governance, policies and procedures, and resources, which limits the ability to scale and incorporate efficient solutions. We aim to expand our influence, reduce costs, and enhance services by scaling operations together. The USCSA wants to evolve the traditional model by integrating business strategies and shared resources to increase efficiency and effectiveness of its State Association members.

“I applaud the leaders involved in this initiative,” said Evan Dabby, NJ Youth Soccer Executive Director and USCSA President. “We are a group that is eager to work with others who are interested in transforming the way we interact, with the primary goal of growing soccer participation.”

The USCSA Legacy Members include:

• Evan Dabby, NJ Youth Soccer Executive Director and USCSA President
• Gordon Henderson, Ohio Soccer CEO and USCSA Vice President
• Dave Guthrie, Indiana Soccer Executive Director and USCSA Secretary
• Dan Cataldi, Iowa Soccer CEO
• Laura Halfpenny, Georgia State Soccer Association Executive Director
• Hans Hobson, Tennessee State Soccer Association CEO
• Kris Zander, Kentucky Youth Soccer Association Executive Director

To be successful, the USCSA will rely on its core values: Trust, Innovation, Compromise and Alignment. To learn more about the USCSA, visit https://consortiumofsoccerassociations.org/.

Meredith Waropay, NJ Youth Soccer

This past spring, Khiesa Granger and Sebastian Gomez interned at New Jersey Youth Soccer as they were completing their degrees in Sports Management at Rutgers University in New Brunswick. Sharing a passion for soccer and a desire to work professionally in the sports industry, interning with NJ Youth Soccer provided Khiesa and Sebastian with valuable experience that will assist them in their career pursuits.

Khiesa Granger grew up playing soccer in Trinidad and Tobago for two club teams and the top ranked St. Anthony’s high school team.

“It was this culture that helped instill my strong passion for the beautiful game, and my desire to help grow the game wherever I go,” Khiesa reflected.

After moving to the United States in 2019, Khiesa attended Essex County Community College with aspirations of playing soccer. However, he tore his adductor muscle which took three years to fully rehabilitate.

Once he received his Associate Degree in Business Administration, Khiesa transferred to Rutgers and played for its Men’s Club Soccer Team, where he helped them qualify for the first national tournament in the team’s history.

“I specifically chose NJ Youth Soccer because of my desire to see soccer grow in the US and their emphasis on providing opportunities for aspiring youth soccer players,” Khiesa said regarding his decision to intern with NJ Youth Soccer.

Sebastian Gomez began playing soccer at a young age and spent most of his club career with the Dover Strikers in his hometown of Dover, New Jersey. He also played for the Dover High School Soccer Team throughout the entirety of the time he attended high school. Additionally, he is a Grade 8 USSF Referee for Morris County Youth Soccer Association (MCYSA) and EDP.

“I chose to target NJ Youth Soccer because I knew that I could learn a lot about different professionals with tons of experience, get a behind the scenes look at how youth soccer here in the state is progressing, and learn new soft and hard skills to take on to my next role,” Sebastian stated.

Khiesa and Sebastian looked back on what they learned throughout the course of their internship at NJ Youth Soccer.

“NJ Youth Soccer taught me how to prepare for large soccer events like award ceremonies, soccer tournaments and meetings,” Khiesa remarked. “It also taught me how to implement different soccer policies and programs like the ‘Let’s Play’ soccer initiative.”

“During my time at NJYS, I learned that there are tons of pieces that need to go together in order for an event to be successful,” Sebastian commented. “For example, the State Cup Finals were months of preparation, from various meetings, outlines, bracket creation, setup, breakdown and small details in between.”

When asked about a standout experience during the internship, Khiesa answered, “My favorite experience from the internship was seeing how the youth soccer system operates in New Jersey behind the scenes.”

When asked the same question, Sebastian responded, “My favorite experience from this internship was the Awards Dinner, being able to help out with planning it, setting up, and being behind the scenes was awesome. On the day of the dinner, to see all the recipients and families dressed up, excited to be recognized, that put a smile on my face.”

Since completing their internships with NJ Youth Soccer, Sebastian and Khiesa continue to set goals for themselves. Khiesa aspires to start a soccer coaching academy as well as work in administration for a soccer organization. Sebastian hopes to obtain a full-time role in the sports industry now that he has graduated. This summer, he worked with the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.

Following the completion of their internships, both individuals provided advice for fellow students interested in an internship with NJ Youth Soccer.

“Be a sponge and absorb as much information as possible from the elite hierarchy of the organization,” Khiesa noted. “Savor each moment as it will be over in the blink of an eye.”

“Come eager to learn and help out,” Sebastian added. “There are many ways to get involved. Just listen, observe and stay on top of your tasks assigned. Do not be afraid to ask questions, and pick the team’s brain.”

To learn more about internship opportunities with NJ Youth Soccer, please contact us at communications@njyouthsoccer.com.