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Registration Open for 2024-25 ODP Tryouts

New Jersey Youth Soccer has opened registration to tryouts for its 2024-2025 Olympic Development Program (NJODP) for players born between 2008 and 2013. NJODP is a USYS Identification program designed specifically for players with aspirations to play at the highest level. Selected State Team players will be considered for US Youth Soccer East Region Teams, which may offer opportunities for national or international competition.

Try-Out Dates/Times:

Stage 1

  • July 27th and 28th, August 3rd and 4th (Stage 1 ODP Tryouts)
  •  Location: Friendship Field/Bordentown FC (455 Ward Ave Chesterfield, NJ 08515)

Stage 2 (By Invite Only)

  • August 17th and 18th(Stage 2 ODP Tryouts – By Invite Only)
  • Location: Rider University (2083 Lawrenceville Rd. Lawrenceville, NJ 08648)

Click here to view schedules and locations.

Registration: Once a $25 registration fee has been paid, players have the option and are encouraged to participate in all four tryouts dates for Stage 1. The $25 fee includes an ODP t-shirt that will be used during all the tryout phases. The fee also covers, if invited, Stage 2 of the tryouts. Please click here to register for the 2024-2025 ODP Initial Tryouts. Scroll down the page until Registration Links are viewable.

Selection: NJODP will select elite male and female players from each age group to form the final state team that trains and competes throughout the 2024-2025 season.

Evaluation Process: Candidates are evaluated in four key areas: Technique, Insight, Mindset and Athleticism. Players will be evaluated by official NJODP coaching staff.

NJODP Curriculum Outline: NJODP is scheduled to consist of 13+ hours of on-field training, four tournaments and three seminars including: Mental Toughness, Tactical Awareness and a College Recruitment Webinar. (Players receive a comprehensive evaluation at the end of the ODP season.)

College Recruitment: NJODP provides direct access to college coaches on the staff, at summer tournaments, special events and ID camps. Additionally, NJODP will host a College Recruitment Seminar for incoming 2008, 2009 and 2010 ODP players.

Club Neutral Program: ODP is not in competition with club soccer but rather supplements player development, making players more effective for their respective clubs. Our schedule is designed to minimize schedule conflicts with club soccer.

Regional/National Selection: ODP players begin initially by being selected on the State NJODP Team. All players are evaluated throughout the year, and the best performers are invited to the East Region ID Camp/Inter-Regional Events. Players can also be scouted for the East Region ID Camp throughout the year at ODP events.

For all of the latest news regarding New Jersey ODP, make sure to follow our official ODP page on Facebook. To find out more information about the program, click here. To contact us directly, please email odp@njyouthsoccer.com. Also make sure to follow NJ Youth Soccer on social media: @NJYouthSoccer

NJ Youth Soccer Hosts TOPSoccer Jamboree with Toms River FC

Meredith Waropay, NJ Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer recently hosted a TOPSoccer Jamboree at the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams in collaboration with RWJBarnabas Health and Toms River FC. The purpose of the event, and the overall goal of TOPSoccer, is to give players with disabilities an opportunity to develop physical fitness, technical skills, courage and self-esteem through the game of soccer.

The turnout was great for the TOPSoccer Jamboree, which consisted of TOPSoccer training for players, along with a gathering for volunteer buddies and coaches who helped with activities. Volunteers first gathered in the morning to learn how to contribute to TOPSoccer training in their own organization before the youth player participants joined in the afternoon for a celebration full of soccer activities.

“It was a privilege to host a NJYS TOPSoccer Jamboree at the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams, a one-of-a-kind, inclusive recreational complex created for the disability community,” said Justin Edelman, Senior Vice President Corporate Partnerships, RWJBarnabas Health. “This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to inclusion and supporting community-based initiatives, and it was incredibly rewarding to work with NJ Youth Soccer and Toms River FC at such a meaningful event.”

TOPSoccer emphasizes development and training over competition, helping athletes to develop at their own pace and participate based on their individual abilities. The Toms River FC TOPSoccer Program is spearheaded by Vincent Guardino and Donna King, and it is one of the largest in the state.

“The two-hour session on a beautiful spring afternoon was well attended by players, buddies and coaches,” said Lou Mignone, NJYS TOPSoccer Director. “Participants enjoyed a variety of safe, fun and engaging activities that emphasized skill building, positive team dynamics and exercise wellness. Festive music was also part of the exciting experience. The morning of the event featured free in-person TOPSoccer Coach and Buddy Courses, and the evening prior offered the same free training within a virtual format.”

The event featured a special guest in Pete Bussa, who is a US Youth Soccer East Region TOPSoccer Committee Member.

“Lou ran an awesome practice. He had all the players involved all the time, and the Buddies were equally involved with their players,” said Bussa. “I especially liked having the music playing. Every now and again, I would catch players throw in a little dance move as they played. Vinnie and Toms River FC could not have been a more gracious host. The whole day was the essence of what TOPSoccer is all about. It is not all about soccer, but we can do it through soccer. I tell new coaches all the time, ‘if we send these kids home with rosy cheeks and a smile on their face, it has been a great day!’”

This NJYS TOPSoccer Jamboree was made possible with support and donations from RWJBarnabas Health, Hudl, Wilson Trophy and Jersey Mike’s, along with additional giveaways from the sponsors of the Toms River FC TOPSoccer Program.

To become a recognized NJYS TOPSoccer Program, a minimum of five players with disabilities must be registered. Also, a minimum of one TOPSoccer Coach needs to complete a four-hour TOPSoccer Coach Course, and at least one TOPSoccer Buddy needs to successfully complete a two-hour TOPSoccer Buddy Course. These courses help train Buddies and Coaches on how to make TOPSoccer Programs a fun, safe and inclusive experience. Emphasis is placed on effective communication strategies, problem-solving and successfully guiding players.

If you are interested in starting a TOPSoccer Program at your club or community organization, we encourage you to contact Coach Lou Mignone at lou@njyouthsoccer.com.

WAGS All-Female C Course – Highlighting Our Instructors

NJ Youth Soccer and Women and Girls in Soccer (WAGS) recently hosted the in-person week for an All-Female National C License Course, which consisted of two full days and two half-days of small group activities and individual field work. Coach candidates from 11 different states across the country are participating in this year’s course.

This National C License Course continues a strong collaboration between NJ Youth Soccer and WAGS in our goal to increase female participation in soccer throughout the State of New Jersey and beyond. The partnership further strengthens the impact of the NJYS Growing the Girls Game (G3) Initiative, which focuses on empowering females both on and off the field, and at all ages and stages of the soccer experience.

Please see below to learn more about the instructors from this course!

Heather Pedersen

Heather served as the Lead Instructor for the All-Female C Course that was hosted by NJ Youth Soccer and WAGS.

Heather is a former college soccer player who currently coaches with the ODP East Region 2009 Girls as well as with Virginia State/District ODP. A coaching educator since 2019, Heather holds a USSF ‘A’ License and National Youth License. She also works with the Virginia Youth Soccer State Staff and has served in various coaching and executive roles throughout her soccer career. Additionally, Heather currently coaches with Virginia Reign FC in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Caitlin Young – In Her Own Words

As I reflect back on some of the most influential things in my life, soccer reigns supreme. Soccer has made me a better wife, mother and member of the community. This has turned into my why. I have been fortunate enough to work full time in soccer for over 15 years.

Prior to going full time into soccer, I taught in the local high school and achieved a masters degree in High School Counseling. While working in the school, I was also coaching on the side and climbing the soccer ladder. By the age of 22, I had my A license. This achievement was able to propel me into a dream soccer job and allow me to exit the high school.

I began running a club at the young age of 22. While I was chalking up more failures than successes, I was able to learn everyday. As I figured out, slowly but surely, how to run a club, I was hired on by US Soccer in their coaching education and youth national scouting departments. During this time, I was able to win a National Championship with the team I was coaching. This success propelled me into a job with the Utah Royals in the NWSL.

Since the exit of the Utah Royals, I have been able to help grow the C License as a member of the content working great, scout for youth national teams and continue to run my club, Utah Celtic.

When I’m not on the field, I enjoy time snowboarding, running and boating with my husband and being a room mom in my 6 year old twin’s 1st grade class.

NJ Youth Soccer Pilots Its Student Mentorship Program

Breeana Cassidy, NJ Youth Soccer

Starting this fall, New Jersey Youth Soccer introduced its pilot Student Mentorship Program. The program has achieved great success over the past eight months, and students have expressed that they are gaining insightful knowledge on where they ultimately want to start their career in sports.

NJ Youth Soccer is now looking to accept college students into its Fall 2024-Spring 2025 Student Mentorship Program! Keep reading if you are interested in taking part.

The current students in the NJYS Student Mentorship Program have come from prestigious colleges such as Caldwell University, Immaculata University, Montclair State University, Ocean County College, Rider University and Tufts University. This new program initiative by NJ Youth Soccer is dedicated to using youth soccer as a vehicle for professional development and career opportunities. Further, this developing program is focused on educating college students on additional leadership and growth opportunities, on and off the field during webinars and in-person events.

The program featured speakers throughout the course of the year that included:

The core of the Student Mentorship Program is an umbrella of three NJYS Services:

The NJYS Student Mentorship Program provided participants with an opportunity to establish career-themed experience in NJ Youth Soccer events, such as NJYS State Cups (Fall and Spring), NJYS Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health and the NJYS Annual General Meeting. The program also focused on professional training and networking within key webinars, along with one-on-one mentoring throughout the duration of the program.

This year’s pilot program featured key monthly webinars with meaningful speakers in different topic areas. The webinars focused on providing students with insightful information regarding specific areas in different organizations across all levels.

Webinars included guest speakers such as Shaun Oliver, who is the Vice President of Operations for the New York Red Bulls. He spoke about the operations side of professional sports, giving students knowledge about the ins and outs of the operations within the Red Bulls organization. He also helped students grasp the realms of the day-to-day environment.

The next speaker was Rick Meana, who is the Director of Coaching at NJ Youth Soccer. He led the students through his coaching career path and let participants know what to expect from some of the coaching education courses offered by NJ Youth Soccer.

Current students in the program showed a strong interest in sports marketing, so John Archibald and Ellie Carlson were invited to weigh in on some of the marketing aspects and questions they had. John Archibald is the CEO of Resolutions Promotions, and Ellie Carlson is the Marketing Coordinator for Gotham FC. Both speakers alluded to very similar yet very different career paths that helped students learn the many sides of sports marketing. Students learned more about both the professional sports side of marketing as well as smaller organization sports marketing.

The students in the program are looking to step into their professional careers after completion of college, so Donna Riollano was invited to speak about recruiting on a webianr. Riollano is the Senior Director of Talent Acquisition at Major League Soccer. Within this webinar, the students focused their efforts on asking questions and seeking advice on how to land a position within the sports industry, along with what talent acquisition looks for in candidates.

The webinar series also spotlighted John Terry, Senior Director of Events from U.S Soccer, and Jen Maurillo, Chiefs Events Officer at Major League Soccer. The two executives spoke about the topic area of major sporting events. Both speakers weighed in on what it is like to put on a major event and what goes into the preparation for these events. They also referenced their notable careers and what they have experienced along the way.

In addition to these mentoring services, the NJYS Student Mentorship Program also provided scholarship opportunities and stipend travel to NJ Youth Soccer events for the student members in the program. This initiative also provides the opportunity of receiving free training for the students within the program (e.g. coaching education).

“I am very appreciative of the opportunity the Student Mentorship Program has given me to participate in and understand the amount of work that goes into various events hosted by NJYS, as well as connect with like-minded peers,” said Melanie Lockwood, a student who took part in the program.

NJ Youth Soccer is now looking to accept participants into its Student Mentorship Program for the upcoming fall! Students who are interested are encouraged to submit a Student Mentorship Application (please include a resume) or reach out with interest to breeana@njyouthsoccer.com.

About U.S. Soccer’s Innovate to Grow Fund
Recognizing the vital role that its member organizations play in the growth of soccer in the U.S., U.S. Soccer established the Innovate to Grow (ITG) Fund in 2017 to help U.S. Soccer member organizations launch new and innovative programs designed to grow participation in their markets, providing up to $3 million of funding total per year. Since its inception, ITG has granted over $9.8 million in funding through 145 awards to U.S. Soccer members across the country, as well as provide COVID-19 relief and recovery funds during 2020 and 2021. Learn more about U.S. Soccer’s members at https://www.ussoccer.com/organization-members.

NJYS Partners with MLS, MLS GO and Cal North to Support Access and Participation to Recreational Soccer

Major League Soccer today announced partnerships with leading United States Youth Soccer (USYS) state associations Cal North Youth Soccer Association and New Jersey Youth Soccer with MLS GO, the youth recreational soccer program of MLS, to support access to, participation in, and the growth of soccer for children across the country.

Collectively, these associations service over 100,000 youth recreational soccer players and hundreds of clubs that have established recreation programs in their communities. Through these partnerships, organizations from both state associations can apply to be MLS GO league operators and receive access to MLS GO programming and resources, including MLS-branded MLS GO uniforms and benefits from their local MLS clubs, the New York Red Bulls and Philadelphia Union for New Jersey and the San Jose Earthquakes for Cal North.

“Partnering with Cal North and New Jersey Youth Soccer Associations is a testament to the vision of both organizations and the top-tier resources MLS GO can provide,” said Kyle Albrecht, Vice President of MLS GO. “We look forward to continuing to grow the game at the grassroots level and increase participation and access to soccer through these partnerships and the implementations of the MLS GO PLAY FUND and MLS GO PLAYBOOK.”

Among the resources available to the state associations, as well as MLS GO league operators and individual MLS GO players, is the MLS GO PLAY FUND, an annual financial commitment from MLS to help offset seasonal costs such as equipment and facilities. The PLAY FUND will continue to ensure as many children as possible can participate in youth recreational soccer programs and advance MLS GO’s objective of removing economic barriers to play.

RCX Sports, the leader in creating accessible, inclusive youth sports experiences, will facilitate all applications for the MLS GO PLAY FUND via its philanthropic arm, the RCX Sports Foundation. MLS GO league operators can apply for support annually while individual MLS GO athletes will be able to apply prior to the start of each season. RCX also facilitates similar financial support programs for other professional sports leagues’ recreational programs.

“The MLS GO PLAY FUND is a continued commitment by Major League Soccer to do our part to ensure that any child that wants to play soccer can,” said Sola Winley, MLS Executive Vice President, Chief Engagement and Inclusion Officer. “Through this initiative, MLS GO leagues will now have the opportunity to include and introduce more players to their program and the sport by removing cost as a potential barrier to access.”

Additionally, MLS announced the launch of the MLS GO PLAYBOOK, a free-to-access coaching resource available via desktop on the MLS GO website. The PLAYBOOK is split into six age-specific, interactive manuals that give coaches a basic understanding of the physical, mental, technical, and tactical development of children between the ages of 4 and 14 and specific areas of focus for each age group. The MLS GO PLAYBOOK will be available on mobile through the TeamSnap app and in the MOJO app, with exclusive benefits for all MLS GO league operators. The curriculum includes hundreds of fun, age-appropriate training exercises and session-by-session practice plans for coaches and players between the ages of 4 and 14.

“We are excited to launch the MLS GO PLAYBOOK as a resource that increases access to youth soccer coaching materials and aids in MLS GO’s mission of improving participation in recreational soccer by players from all backgrounds and genders,” said Fred Lipka, MLS Vice President of Player and Youth Development. “The curriculum encourages steady development for both players and coaches while creating an enjoyable soccer experience.”

The MLS GO PLAYBOOK was developed by MLS in collaboration with NANOCOM, a leading European company in soccer content.

What They’re Saying

“NJ Youth Soccer is aligned with MLS GO’s mission and that is why this relationship is a priority,” said Evan Dabby, Executive Director of New Jersey Youth Soccer. “Both NJYS and MLS GO are eager to grow participation at the youth level in an inclusive and affordable manner. We look forward to working together to build our soccer community and cultivate a lifelong passion for the game.”

“Cal North is proud to partner with MLS GO to continue bringing inclusive and affordable youth recreational soccer to communities in Northern California,” said Marley Wilson, Cal North Executive Director. “We are excited to work with MLS and the San Jose Earthquakes to further develop community and passion through soccer at the grassroots level with MLS GO’s top-tier resources for players and coaches across all levels.”

“At RCX Sports, everything we do is dedicated to improving accessibility and inclusion to youth sports for athletes everywhere,” said RCX Sports CEO Izell Reese. “The MLS GO PLAY FUND breaks down barriers to entry for kids across the country who want to get involved with one of the world’s most popular sports, soccer, and RCX is proud to work with MLS through MLS GO to help create a new generation of youth soccer players.”

“Coaches are the backbone of any team, and at TeamSnap, we are committed to empowering them with the resources to feel confident and supported,” said Peter Frintzilas, CEO of TeamSnap. “We are thrilled to partner with MLS GO and Major League Soccer to make the MLS GO PLAYBOOK accessible to our millions of daily users, further revolutionizing coaching and player development.”

About Major League Soccer

Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer – celebrating its 29th season in 2024 – features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada, including a new expansion team in San Diego that will debut in 2025. All MLS, Leagues Cup, and select MLS NEXT Pro and MLS NEXT matches can be watched through MLS Season Pass, available on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at tv.apple.com. MLS Season Pass features the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit mlssoccer.com. For more information about the Apple TV app, visit apple.com/apple-tv-app.

About Cal North Youth Soccer Association

Cal North is the original youth soccer organization in Northern California, who has served generations of players, coaches, leagues, and clubs with storied histories since 1969. Cal North is a member of a much larger soccer community, and as a member, you are also a member of this world community. Players register to play with one of the more than 200 clubs or leagues formed by Cal North. Through affiliation, our leagues and clubs are also members of US Youth Soccer, US Soccer, and US Futsal. US Soccer, along with over 197 other national soccer organizations, are members of FIFA, the Federation Internationale de Football Association. FIFA serves as the international governing body for soccer and US Soccer has been a member since 1913. Together, local, national and international organizations form a family of support for the young soccer players of Cal North.

About New Jersey Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer, a 501(c) (3) organization affiliated with US Youth Soccer and the U.S. Soccer Federation, is comprised of more than 100,000 players from 5 to 19-years-old; 10,000+ coaches; and thousands of volunteers. Members collectively support the sport of soccer through training, practice, competition and the spirit of good sportsmanship. The association features recreational and travel soccer programs at multiple skill levels; Olympic Development Programs (ODP); tournaments including the National Championship Series; coach and referee training and certification programs; and TOPSoccer, a program for children with disabilities.

About RCX Sports

RCX Sports is the premier youth sports experiences business, running and operating leagues, camps, combines, tournaments, and events. Working directly with professional leagues, national governing bodies, and sports-centric businesses, such as MLS, NFL, Jr. NBA, MLB, NHL and NAIA, RCX is committed to improving the accessibility and inclusivity of sports by creating opportunities for all athletes to play. For more information, visit rcxsports.com.

About RCX Sports Foundation

The RCX Sports Foundation works to develop, promote and implement diversity and inclusion in youth sports as the non-profit arm of RCX Sports. The foundation focuses on expanding youth sports opportunities so all children can experience athletics in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment. Sports for all.

About TeamSnap

TeamSnap is home to the largest online community for everything youth sports. It is consistently rated the No. 1 sports management platform by its loyal audience of more than 25 million youth sports coaches, administrators, players, and parents and over 19,000 sports organizations—across more than 100 different types of sports and activities. The leading sports-tech company offers consumer brands innovative new ways to connect with passionate youth sports audiences from across the globe. It is currently in high-growth mode, expanding its footprint toward becoming THE platform and marketplace for all things youth sports.

TeamSnap Impact is the company’s initiative aimed at enhancing the lives of kids by creating a world where youth sports programs are accessible and equitable for all.

NJYS Comeback Player Spotlight: Stella Kropfl

Comeback Player Series Presented By JAG Physical Therapy

Christine Gloth, NJ Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer believes adversity should be acknowledged and celebrated, which is why we have chosen to recognize Stella Kropfl of Wyckoff Torpedoes SC in our NJYS Comeback Player Spotlight Presented by JAG Physical Therapy. The Comeback Player Spotlight was created to honor individuals who have overcome adversity or injury to exceed expectations and return to the soccer field.

After not feeling like herself for months, Stella Kropfl was rushed to the hospital in May of 2023, where it was discovered that she was suffering from DKA (Diabetic Keto Acidosis), a life-threatening complication of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Stella had to spend four days in the hospital, two of them in the PICU, while doctors and nurses worked to get her DKA under control.

Three days after her hospital stay, Stella decided to play in her soccer game with the Torpedoes. She scored three incredible goals, not her first hat trick but certainly her most memorable one. That day, she showed her teammates, coaches and family that Type 1 Diabetes was not going to define her. Since that game, Stella has learned how to tackle T1D as an athlete and manage her lifestyle to accommodate the challenges that it brings to her every day. She has also become an advocate for T1D sufferers at the young age of 10, spearheading an effort to raise $2,500 for her local police department to have life saving supplies of glucose tablets and gels for other diabetes patients. The money has also gone towards informative classes on diabetes for her community. Further, Stella has helped raise nearly $10,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. She has risen above the obstacle of Type 1 Diabetes and has become a role model for all children who may suffer from the disease. 

“I really appreciate this recognition, because it makes me feel like all of the extra steps I have to take with this disease are noticed and appreciated,” Stella remarked. “I hope one day to be a role model for newly diagnosed T1D athletes. When I first got diagnosed, I thought I was never going to be able to play well again. I quickly realized that by keeping my numbers under control and eating the right foods, I play at my best. I hope one day I can inspire others to follow their dreams and never give up.”

The perseverance and bravery shown by Stella Kropfl during her journey is a true inspiration for all, and it makes her incredibly worthy to be recognized in our NJYS Comeback Player Spotlight Presented by JAG Physical Therapy.  

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 

Wayne and Carol Cordiner Honored with NJYS Distinguished Service Awards

Meredith Waropay, NJ Youth Soccer

New Jersey Youth Soccer is proud to honor Wayne and Carol Cordiner with Distinguished Service Awards. Serving on the NJYS Board of Directors since 1993, both made significant contributions to youth soccer programming throughout the state and impacted hundreds of thousands of young players through those efforts. After retiring last year, Wayne and Carol recently spoke with us to reflect on some of their accomplishments and experiences.

Wayne Cordiner first got involved with NJ Youth Soccer by coaching several recreation and travel soccer teams in Freehold. He held many board positions with Freehold Soccer League, some of the most notable being Recreation Commissioner, Referee Assignor and Jersey Coast Travel Representative.

“I enjoyed watching how players were able to develop better skills in the various programs,” he reflected. “I had the pleasure of seeing a young referee become a World Cup Referee. I saw recreational players develop to the level of travel player, college player and even a few pro players.”

Wayne previously served as both Shore Area Recreation Commissioner and Shore Area Travel Commissioner. Additionally, he was very involved in the Olympic Development Program (ODP), having taken on the position of US Youth Soccer Eastern Regional ODP Tournament Representative.

While reminiscing about his time at NJ Youth Soccer, Wayne recalled his favorite memory.  

“Attending a USYS AGM in Scottsdale, Arizona, a former travel player I had the pleasure of coaching many years past recognized me, and we reminisced about our team. She had been invited to the AGM as a representative for a major soccer equipment supplier.”

“I was extremely fortunate to have many great coaches and office staff who made my job easy, whether it was State Cup or ODP,” Wayne continued. “I enjoyed each new season where returning players came out looking for more from the beautiful game. I was happy to see fresh players trying to advance their skills and play up to the level of their soccer idols.”

Carol Cordiner first became involved with NJ Youth Soccer after attending a workshop in Kentucky where she learned about USYS TOPSoccer, a program that gives people with disabilities the opportunity to learn soccer in an inclusive environment. She immediately became increasingly more involved with TOPSoccer.

“I was so impressed with the program I viewed that I knew this was the path I wanted to go on with NJYS,” Carol recalled. “From there, I signed up to take the required certification course. Shortly after, NJYS approached me to take over the role as the chairperson with the state’s TOPSoccer Programs.”

Carol played a vital role in starting TOPSoccer Programs in other states as well. She attended many regional conferences to present about TOPSoccer’s impact. She also presented for the NJYS Board of Directors about TOPSoccer’s regional expansion.

When asked about her favorite memory as part of NJ Youth Soccer, she responded, “Attending area TOPSoccer Festivals and seeing the interaction between coaches, players, buddies, parents and our pro players from Red Bull and Gotham FC.”

“Collaborating with the professional team at NJYS made it very easy to communicate our registrations, safety protocols and current opportunities for additional coaches, players and buddies to become part of the TOPSoccer Program,” she continued. “I am honored to have had the opportunity to participate with the NJYS community and value all of the many wonderful people involved whose paths I crossed.”

Jess Yeager, NJYS President, applauded Wayne and Carol’s commitment to NJ Youth Soccer and the youth game beyond our state’s borders. 

“Wayne and Carol both gave their time and never asked for anything in return,” he remarked. “Wayne advocated for ODP and supported the NJYS professional team. He helped grow the State Cups as 1st Vice President and left a strong program for the next person. Carol’s belief in the value of TOPSoccer gave many disabled athletes the opportunity to participate. New Jersey Youth Soccer is in a better place today because of their efforts.”

Wayne and Carol currently reside in a lakefront home in Mississippi with their family, but they continue to remain connected to youth soccer.

NJ Youth Soccer Launches Integrated Training Platform with Stack Sports and etrainu

New Jersey Youth Soccer has teamed up with Stack Sports, the largest provider of sports management solutions, camps, recruiting and elite player development software, etrainu and US Youth Soccer to launch a new integrated training platform on Sports Connect. Through this new integration, the USYS University will be available to all USYS members with NJ Youth Soccer leading the charge as the first State Association to leverage the integration. As pioneers in sports tech adoption, NJ Youth Soccer has created a connected ecosystem for every club utilizing the Sports Connect platform.

This integration allows NJ Youth Soccer to deliver a Single Sign-On (SSO) experience, enabling youth soccer clubs in New Jersey to access the USYS University directly via the Sports Connect platform. The integration will also allow NJ Youth Soccer and its member clubs to seamlessly relay course completion results into the Sports Connect platform, facilitating greater ease of learning management and reporting requirements. This will also enhance the capabilities that organizations have to better understand their data through the already best-in-class insights platform on Sports Connect.

“Through our partnership with US Youth Soccer and etrainu, Stack Sports is thrilled to unveil this new integrated platform on Sports Connect,” said Adam Abney, GM of Sports Connect. “This advancement marks a significant step forward in enhancing the experience for all USYS members, with New Jersey Youth Soccer leading the way as the first state to implement this innovative solution. Together, we’re transferring the sports experience and giving time back to organizations so they can focus on what matters most.”

In line with their innovative approach to best utilize the USYS University, NJ Youth Soccer has also leveraged etrainu’s in-house studio team for course development. etrainu is supporting the State Association in developing the State Certificate and “Y” Course in an autonomous format. The course covers topics aimed at equipping soccer coaches with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully run clubs and training sessions, as well as satisfaction of the NJ Little League Law for volunteer coaches. The courses are expected to launch in their new digital format later this spring.

“New Jersey Youth Soccer is proud to partner with etrainu and Stack Sports to pioneer solutions that democratize access to practical soccer education,” said Ryan Foley, Operations Manager for New Jersey Youth Soccer. “This integration serves as a model for other USYS members and State Associations, and NJYS is excited to help deliver the implementation.”

“We are excited to release the etrainu and Sports Connect integration for the USYS University,” said Paul Hoon, CEO of etrainu. “We also want to thank New Jersey Youth Soccer for their commitment to innovation as the first State Association to implement the integration. We look forward to seeing the impact this has on the soccer community.”

The integration with Sports Connect is available to other State Associations through the USYS University. If you are interested in leveraging the integration with Sports Connect, please reach out to the Sports Connect team.

NJYS State Cups Eclipse 1,000 Teams for Fourth Consecutive Year

Play has officially commenced for the NJYS Spring State Cup competitions, featuring single elimination play for 15U-19U teams. Across the three tournament tiers, overall participation has exceeded 1,000 teams for the fourth consecutive year.

“Our State Cups proves to be the most prestigious single elimination competition for teams in New Jersey,” said Ryan Foley, NJYS Manager of Operations and tournament supervisor. “We are proud to continue our record-breaking participation for the fourth straight year.”

With the National Championship Series, Presidents Cup and Challenge Cup tournaments, every participating team vies for the opportunity to be crowned “State Champion” in their age group and bracket. This spring’s tournament will feature 15U-19U teams in a traditional single elimination format.

“NJYS State Cups continues to evolve and support the modern game,” said Bill Smith, NJYS First Vice President and State Cups Advisory Board Chair. “Our ability to provide these competitions for over 1,000 teams competing at various levels speaks to the organizational depth of NJYS.”

Competition preparation involved a host of stakeholders. The NJYS State Cups Advisory Board, which includes Board Members, League and Club representatives and the State Youth Referee Administrator, was actively involved in strategic planning. NJYS State Office staff, including Nicole Petras (NJYS Events Coordinator) and Ryan Foley (NJYS Manager, Operations), worked diligently to coordinate with team applicants and complete their registrations.

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.

Throughout the competition, NJ Youth Soccer will provide highlights and recaps of key moments. For more information regarding the 2023-24 NJYS State Cups, click here.

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