New York State West Youth Soccer

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Everything You Need to Know About NYW Academy and ODP

New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) is committed to giving every player in the region the opportunity to develop, compete, and grow. This fall, two of New York State West’s premier player development programs return in The NYW Academy and Olympic Development Program (ODP). Whether your child is stepping into a high-level training environment for the first time or ready to take the next step on the path to higher competition, these are programs built for them.

Here is everything you need to know.

The NYW Academy

The NYW Academy is a six-session training program built around one goal: developing better players. Led by New York State West’s nationally certified coaching and ODP staff, the program focuses on technical ability, tactical awareness, and building confidence with the ball in a positive, high-quality learning environment.

Originally created for ODP players, The Academy opened its doors in 2015 to all eligible players across the region, no ODP affiliation required. It is open to boys and girls ages 9U through 14U who are serious about their development and ready to train at a higher level.

Fall 2026 Schedule

All sessions are held on Sundays from August 30 to October 25 across five locations in Western New York.

  • Buffalo: Ken Dev Soccer Complex, Tonawanda | 11 AM to 12:30 PM | Coach: Dave Kreger
  • Elmira: Eldridge Park | 11 AM to 12:30 PM | Coach: Zach Sarno
  • Rochester: Veteran’s Memorial Park, Penfield | Noon to 1:30 PM | Coach: Jim Gentile
  • Olean: TBA | 11 AM to 12:30 PM | Coach: Colton Bly
  • Syracuse: TBA | 11 AM to 12:30 PM | Coach: Darek Panol

Registration and Pricing

The cost of this program is $250 per player, and spots are limited at each location. All registrations must be completed online. Walk-up registrations are no longer accepted.

Olympic Development Program (ODP)

New York State West ODP is one of the most respected player development pathways in the country. The program brings together the region’s most motivated players, challenges them in a new environment alongside and against players from different clubs, and opens doors that club soccer alone cannot always provide.

ODP registration is now open across all age groups. Following is a breakdown by age group.

10U/11U Pre-ODP Program (2016, 2017 Birth Years)

The 10U/11U Pre-ODP Program is the entry point into the New York State West ODP pathway. Designed for serious and committed young players, the program provides high-level, age-appropriate training in a familiar local environment, with no tryouts required. All age-eligible players are welcome to register.

The program runs five indoor sessions on Friday evenings from December 2026 through April 2027, plus a culminating Play Day outdoor event on Sunday, May 2, 2027, at Lakefront Basket Road Fields in Webster, New York. Each session includes a 75-minute training session and a 30-minute classroom lecture covering topics such as proper training habits, team building, and age-appropriate tactics.

The program is offered at four district locations:

  • Buffalo: Sportsplex Inc, North Tonawanda | Saturdays, 12:30 PM to 2 PM | Director: Jason Gac
  • Binghamton: J.M. McDonald Sports Complex | Fridays, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Director: Zach Sarno
  • Rochester: RNY FC Indoor Soccer Complex | Fridays, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Director: Jim Gentile
  • Syracuse: OLR Indoor Training Center | Fridays, 6:00 Pm to 8:15 PM | Director: Darek Panol

Registration Information:

12U ODP (2015 Birth Year)

The 12U ODP program begins with winter indoor training at local and regional sites, designed to bring high-level development closer to players across the New York State West footprint. Site locations include Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse. Indoor training runs from December 2026 through April 2027, with 10 training sessions plus five classroom sessions. In the spring, tryouts are held to select the State ODP outdoor pool, which advances to the East Region ODP Tournament in June.

13U/14U ODP (2013, 2014 Birth Years)

District tryouts for 13U and 14U players are being held across four locations in late September, with call-back tryouts to follow in October. All tryouts are conducted outdoors on natural grass fields.

District Tryout Dates and Locations:

  • Buffalo: Saturday, September 27th | 10:30 AM to 1 PM
  • Rochester: Friday, September 26th | 10:30 AM to 1 PM
  • Syracuse: Saturday, September 27th | 10:30 AM to 1 PM
  • Binghamton: Friday, September 26th | 10:30 AM to 1 PM

Registration Details:

15U/16U/17U ODP (2010, 2011, 2012 Birth Years)

Tryouts for 15U, 16U, and 17U players are held in December at the Lakefront Indoor Soccer Complex in Rochester. Boys and girls tryouts are held on separate dates.

Boys Tryouts:

  • Saturday, December 12th: 15U Boys (2012s)
  • Sunday, December 13th: 16U, 17U Boys (2010s, 2011s)

Girls Tryouts:

  • Saturday, December 19th: 15U Girls (2012s)
  • Sunday, December 20th: 16U, 17U Girls (2010s, 2011s)

Register for 15U, 16U, 17U ODP Tryouts

19U ODP College Prep Program (2008, 2009 Birth Years)

New York State West has independently expanded its ODP programming to include a 19U College Prep training program, a level that does not exist nationally. Designed for serious players with an eye toward playing soccer in college, the 19U program provides high-level competitive training to supplement club and high school soccer. No tryouts are required, but the program is geared toward players with a strong desire for self-improvement and a commitment to training at an elite level.

The indoor program runs five training dates at the Lakefront Indoor Soccer Complex in Rochester (Webster). Each date includes two 90-minute training sessions with a lecture in between, covering topics such as proper training habits, tactics, nutrition, college recruiting, and mental performance. An outdoor spring phase (including scrimmages against college teams) will follow, with an additional fee assessed once that schedule is confirmed.

Boys and girls train on separate dates. An optional goalkeeper training program is also available at no additional cost for 19U goalkeepers.

Registration fee: $300 per player (indoor training only). A required ODP training kit (approximately $75) must be ordered separately.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether your child is ready to train at a higher level through The NYW Academy or prepared to take the next step in the ODP pathway, now is the time to register. Spots are limited and deadlines are approaching, so sign up today!

For more information on both programs, visit the New York State West ODP page or contact Dave Kreger at Techdir@nyswysa.org.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!

New York State West and Capelli Sport Announce Multi-Year Partnership

Capelli Sport to Become the Official Partner of New York State West Youth Soccer Association


Capelli Sport and New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) are proud to announce a new multi-year partnership beginning on June 9, 2026. This agreement will make Capelli Sport the official NFCA sponsor of the organization. The partnership will run for four years.

Established in 1982, New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) is the parent organization for more than 250 affiliated clubs and leagues throughout Western New York. Affiliated with US Youth Soccer, the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), and FIFA, NYSWYSA serves six districts spanning the western portion of New York State. Through its commitment to player development, coaching education, referee support, and community engagement, the association continues to provide opportunities for youth athletes to grow both on and off the field while advancing the game of soccer across the region.

Hugh Goodridge, President, NYSWYSA, said:

“New York State West Youth Soccer Association is proud to announce our new partnership with Capelli Sport, a relationship that reflects our commitment to providing best-in-class resources and experiences for our members. Capelli Sport’s dedication to quality, service, and the growth of the game aligns closely with our mission. Together, we look forward to supporting players, coaches, referees, and clubs across NYSW while continuing to advance the development of soccer in our region.”

Sales Executive Dan Boillon said:

“We are thrilled to welcome New York State West Youth Soccer Association to the Capelli Sport family. NYSWYSA has played a vital role in developing players, supporting clubs, and expanding opportunities for youth soccer across Western New York. Their dedication to creating positive experiences for athletes, coaches, referees, and families aligns perfectly with Capelli Sport’s mission. We look forward to working together to help grow the game and support the next generation of players throughout the region.”

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. Capelli Sport enables athletes and teams to maximize their potential through a unique global sports ecosystem.

Learn more at Capelli Sport and find Capelli Sport on Instagram (@CapelliSport).

New York State West Appoints Dave Kreger as Interim Technical Director

The New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) officially announced that Dave Kreger has been appointed Interim Technical Director, effective immediately.

Kreger, a long‑serving member of the NYSWYSA community, previously served on the Board of Directors as the District Commissioner for Buffalo and has been the organization’s Lead Coach Educator, responsible for delivering coaching education programs to member clubs across the state. His appointment ensures continuity of operations and supports timely preparation for the upcoming season.

NYSWYSA also extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to Dean Foti for nearly two decades of service to NYSWYSA as Technical Director. Dean has been a consummate professional, always cognizant of our members’ needs, as he nurtured and developed the program Dave inherits today. We wish Dean all the best in his retirement from NYSWYSA.

NYSWYSA President Hugh Goodridge welcomed the decision, noting Kreger’s longstanding contributions to the association.

“Dave’s appointment reflects both his proven dedication to NYSWYSA and the respect he has earned throughout our soccer community,” he stated. “His leadership in coaching education and his experience across our districts position him well to support the growth of our programs and deliver greater value to our members as we prepare for the upcoming season.”

Executive Director Flo Egan emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum during this transition.

“Dave brings a unique combination of experience, relationships, and practical knowledge of our player and coach development pathways,” she noted. “His familiarity with our programs will allow us to move forward without delay, and I look forward to working closely with him as we strengthen our technical operations.”

As part of his interim role, Kreger will collaborate with the Executive Director to develop recommendations regarding the Assistant Director of Coaching model and broader organizational structure for future Board review.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!

NYW Academy Is Back: Register Now Before the Early Bird Deadline

In today’s youth soccer landscape, games dominate the calendar. Tournaments fill weekends, schedules stay packed, and meaningful training time gets squeezed out. The NYW Academy was created to change that, and registration for the 2026 fall program is open now.

Early Bird pricing is available through August 9th, so don’t wait to sign up!

What Is The NYW Academy?

The NYW Academy is a six-session training program built around one goal: developing better players. Led by New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA)’s nationally certified coaching and ODP staff, the program focuses on technical ability, tactical awareness, and building the kind of confidence with the ball that translates directly to better performance on game day.

Originally created for ODP players, The Academy opened its doors in 2015 to all eligible players across the region, no ODP affiliation required. If your child is a serious player who wants to train at a higher level, this program was designed for them.

Who Can Participate?

The Academy is open to boys and girls ages 9U through 14U. Players are evaluated on technical ability and soccer IQ, not age alone. And the program is designed to challenge and develop players at every level within those age groups.

When and Where?

All sessions are held on Sundays across six dates this fall: August 30, September 13, 20, and October 11, 18, and 25. The program is offered at five locations throughout Western New York, each led by a member of NYSWYSA’s ODP coaching staff:

  • Buffalo: Ken Dev Soccer Complex, Tonawanda | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Coach: Dave Kreger, NYSWYSA Technical Director
  • Elmira: Eldridge Park | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Coach: Zach Sarno, NYW ODP Coaching Staff
  • Rochester: Veteran’s Memorial Park (VMP), Penfield (Sept. 20 at Rothfuss Park) | 12:00 – 1:30 PM | Coach: Jim Gentile, NYW ODP Coaching Staff
  • Olean: TBA | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Coach: Colton Bly, NYW ODP Coaching Staff
  • Syracuse: TBA | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Coach: Darek Panol, NYW ODP Coaching Staff

Registration and Cost

Registration is open now at a standard fee of $250. Register by midnight on Sunday, August 9th to lock in the Early Bird rate of $225 to save $25. Spots are limited and NYSWYSA reserves the right to close registration when capacity at any site is reached, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

Following are a few things to keep in mind about this year’s program:

  • There is no required training kit this year. Players may wear whatever training gear they wish.
  • All players must register online, as walk-in registrations are no longer accepted.
  • Players who register after 5:00 PM on the Friday prior to the start of the program must bring a copy of their registration confirmation to check-in.

Click here to register for The NYW Academy. Any questions? Please contact Dave Kreger at Techdir@nyswysa.org.

Don’t Miss the Early Bird Deadline

The August 9th Early Bird Deadline is just around the corner. Whether your child is a returning Academy participant or stepping in for the first time, this is one of the best player development opportunities in Western New York, and it fills up fast. Register today and give your player the training environment that will elevate their game to the next level this fall.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!

New York State West ODP: Where Ambition Meets Opportunity

For decades, the New York State West Olympic Development Program (ODP) has been a proving ground for Western New York’s best soccer talent. ODP is a program built on competition, quality coaching, and the belief that every serious player deserves a bigger stage.

ODP is one of the most respected player development pathways in the country, and it is a nationally recognized program that brings together motivated players and challenges them in a new environment. For players across Western New York, ODP is a chance to test themselves against the best players in the region, train with nationally licensed coaches, and discover just how far their game can take them.

What Is ODP?

The Olympic Development Program was established by US Youth Soccer in 1977 with one clear objective: identify and develop the nation’s top youth talent. Through state, regional, and national platforms, ODP creates a structured pathway that can take players from open tryouts all the way through national team identification.

But ODP is about more than identification. It is about development. Players who participate in ODP train with coaches who are recognized for their ability to identify and shape talent. They compete alongside and against players from different clubs and backgrounds. They are also pushed outside their comfort zones in ways that accelerate their growth both on and off the field.

The impact of ODP at the national level speaks for itself. Of the 23 players on the U.S. Women’s National Team’s 2023 World Cup roster, 21 were ODP alumni. The program has helped shape some of the greatest players in American soccer history, including one who got her start right here in Western New York.

A New York State West Success Story

Abby Wambach grew up in Pittsford, a suburb of Rochester, and came through the New York State West ODP system on her way to becoming one of the greatest soccer players in American history. She excelled at the ODP state and regional levels before earning her first U.S. Women’s National Team call-up at age 15 in 1996. She went on to win two Olympic gold medals, a FIFA Women’s World Cup title, and six U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year awards. After scoring an incredible 184 goals over 255 international appearances, she was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2019.

Abby Wambach’s path to the top of the sport ran through New York State West ODP. Her story is a reminder of what level of talent has come through the program.

What Players Gain

The value of ODP is felt long after the final whistle. Players who participate often point to a growth in confidence, adaptability, and competitive readiness as hallmarks of their experience, qualities that carry over to their club teams, high school careers, and beyond.

“She walked into her first session not knowing what to expect, but she quickly learned to step outside of her comfort zone, communicate with new teammates, and adapt to different personalities, coaching styles, and ways of playing. Those are skills that every player needs as they continue their soccer journey.”

Nicole Bartholomew, New York State West ODP Parent, Coach, and Administrator

“Being a part of the ODP program has been very beneficial for my daughter. The experience she has gained by playing with other talented girls in the NY West region and the players in the East Regional Pool has been invaluable. I’ve watched my daughter grow in confidence and ability with the opportunities ODP has provided.”

New York State West ODP Parent

“My son has been involved with the ODP program through NYS West and has really enjoyed the experience. The coaches provided well structured practices, and the training environment attracted many focused and hard working players. I would recommend this program to anyone looking for their child to get out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves to compete at a higher level.”

New York State West ODP Parent

ODP Tryouts Are Coming: Stay Tuned

New York State West ODP tryouts for the upcoming season are on the horizon. Dates, locations, and registration details will be announced soon. Whether you are a player looking to take the next step or a family exploring what ODP has to offer, now is the time to start learning about the program.

In the meantime, we encourage you to visit the NYSWYSA ODP webpage to learn more about the program, the pathways available, and what to expect.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!

New York State West Helps Bring the World Cup to Buffalo with Free 4v4 Soccer Festival

Soccer has a way of bringing people together, and that spirit was on full display when New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) recently hosted a free 4v4 World Cup Soccer Festival at D’Youville University in Buffalo. Nearly 70 boys and girls students across 5th through 8th grade spent four hours playing the beautiful game. No fees, no barriers, just soccer.

Participants were split into eight teams, each taking on the name and colors of a nation that was participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. One team played as the Netherlands, and after a full slate of competitive 4v4 matches, the tournament came down to a championship final between Argentina and Spain. Following the games, awards were handed out to recognize standout players and performances at the event.

The 4v4 World Cup Soccer Festival was made possible through the continued support of Project Play Western New York and Beyond Borders Athletics, two organizations that share New York State West’s commitment to making soccer accessible to every young athlete in the region. Beyond Borders, a Buffalo-based nonprofit that empowers underserved youth through sports and mentorship, helped bring even more energy and participation to the day, while Project Play’s ongoing grant support continues to power free, community-first events like this one across Western New York.

Part of a Bigger Movement: U.S. Soccer’s Soccer Forward Initiative

The 4v4 World Cup Soccer Festival was held as a Soccer Forward Fest, part of U.S. Soccer’s legacy and social impact initiative. Soccer Forward works to expand access, inclusion, and opportunity through the game, equipping communities across the country with the resources to bring soccer to more kids, in more places. Events like the 4v4 World Cup Soccer Festival at D’Youville University are a direct extension of that mission.

Growing the Game, One Event at a Time

Initiatives like the 4v4 World Cup Soccer Festival reflect what New York State West, Project Play Western New York, and Beyond Borders Athletics are working toward together. That ambition is a future where every young athlete in Western New York has the chance to play, compete, and have fun, regardless of background or ability to pay. As evidenced by the nearly 70 kids on the field at this event, that future is already taking shape.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!

Champions Crowned at New York West State Cup

Hosted at the SUNY Cortland Stadium Complex, the 2026 New York West State Cup Championship Weekend delivered an incredible three days of high-level youth soccer and competitive matches that the teams, families, and coaches in attendance will not soon forget.

From the opening whistle on Friday through the final weekend matches on Sunday, the best teams in the New York State West footprint went head-to-head for a state title. When the dust settled, champions were crowned across 12U–19U boys and girls divisions, with each one earning the right to call themselves 2026 New York West State Cup Champions.

New York West State Cup is part of the USYS National Championships Presented by New York Life, the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament.

2026 New York West State Cup Champions:

  • U12 Girls: Clarence Inferno 2014G Black
  • U13 Girls: Clarence Inferno 2013G Black
  • U14 Girls: NY Rush Select 12G DPL
  • U15 Girls: Rochester Rush 2011 Girls Blue
  • U16 Girls: SDA 2010 Girls
  • U17 Girls: Buffalo Stallions Girls 2009
  • U19 Girls: NY Rush Select 08G DPL
  • U12 Boys: INVICTUS FC 2014 BOYS
  • U13 Boys: NY Rush Select 13B MLS Next AD
  • U14 Boys: Upstate Elite 2012
  • U15 Boys: Upstate Elite 2011
  • U16 Boys: Fox Soccer Academy Binghamton 2010B
  • U17 Boys: Buffalo Pro Soccer USL Academy U17B
  • U17 Boys: NY Rush Binghamton 2009B
  • U19 Boys: RNY FC 07/08B

Next Stop: USYS National Championships

For the teams that left Cortland with a trophy, the summer is far from over. In a significant format change for 2026, New York West State Cup champions advance directly to the US Youth Soccer National Championships. Boys champions will compete at the USYS National Championships in Utah (July 13–23), while girls champions head to Tennessee (July 13–25).

Commemorate the Season with Official 2026 State Cup Apparel

Whether you were on the field or cheering from the sidelines, official 2026 New York West State Cup apparel is still available through Fine Designs. From hoodies to performance tees and crewnecks, the full collection starts at $30 and is customizable to fit your style. You can browse and order apparel at Fine Designs’ official online shop for New York West State Cup.

A Weekend to Remember in Cortland

The 2026 New York West State Cup Championship Weekend delivered great competition, memorable moments, and a stage worthy of the teams that earned their way to SUNY Cortland. Congratulations to all of this year’s champions, and to every player, coach, and family who made the 2026 State Cup season one for the history books.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!

New York State West Crowns State Cup Champions this Weekend in Cortland

The playdowns are complete. The brackets have been set. And this weekend, the best youth soccer teams across the New York State West footprint will converge on Cortland, New York, to compete for a state championship.

The 2026 New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) State Cup Finals kick off this weekend, May 29–31, at the SUNY Cortland Stadium Complex, with 12U–19U boys and girls teams competing across age divisions. Semifinal action gets underway on Friday, with champions being crowned on Sunday when the finals bring the season to a close.

New York West State Cup is part of the USYS National Championships Presented by New York Life, which is the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament. The competition provides State Cup champions with the opportunity to showcase their skills against the best competition in the nation, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and fair play.

The Road Beyond New York State West

For the teams that leave Cortland with a championship, the journey does not end there. In a significant format change for 2026, New York West State Cup champions will now advance directly to the US Youth Soccer National Championships. The elimination of the regional layer reduces travel demands and puts New York State West champions directly on the national stage, competing against State Cup winners from across the country.

The 2026 USYS National Championships take place this July, with boys competing in Utah (July 13–23) and girls playing in Tennessee (July 13–25).

Stay, Play, and Enjoy with Travel Desk

Heading to Cortland this weekend? New York State West has partnered with Travel Desk to make your tournament experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Through their trusted relationships with a wide range of hotels, Travel Desk secures exclusive rates and convenient accommodations tailored to fit every team’s needs and budget, from family-friendly stays to upscale properties close to the fields.

Secure your group block or reservation for the 2026 NYSWYSA State Cup Final Four at reservetravel.com, or reach out to Travel Desk directly via email at Jaime@traveldeskinc.com with any questions.

Gear Up with Official 2026 State Cup Apparel

Want to represent the 2026 New York West State Cup in style? Official event apparel is available now through Fine Designs, with a full lineup of customizable items including hoodies, performance tees, crewnecks, and more starting at just $30.

Please note that all pre-orders are available for shipping only and cannot be picked up on-site. Orders ship directly to the address provided at checkout. You can browse the full collection and place your order online. If you have any questions, please reach out to Fine Designs at contact@fdkyteam.com.

It All Comes Down to This Weekend

Months of playdown competition, tight matches, and hard-fought results have all pointed to this moment. The 2026 New York West State Cup Finals are here, and the SUNY Cortland Stadium Complex will be the backdrop for some of the best youth soccer in the state this weekend.

To view full game schedules, field maps, event rules, and additional resources, visit the NYSWYSA State Cup page.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!

Registration Now Open for 2026 ODP East Region Tournament

One of the most prestigious events on the US Youth Soccer calendar is just around the corner, and registration is now open for New York State West ODP players who were named to their respective ODP Tournament Team rosters. The 2026 ODP East Region Tournament takes place during the weekend of June 5–7, bringing together elite youth soccer talent from across the East Region for three days of high-level competition.

“The ODP Tournament is a terrific opportunity to get NYW players exposure. To the ODP East Region coaching staff for selection to the regional portion of the program, and also to college coaches looking for talented players who will fit into their collegiate programs,” said Dean Foti, NYSWYSA Technical Director. “ODP players have long been thought of as more ‘seasoned’ players due to their participation in the supplemental high-level training and games that the ODP program provides. The ODP Tournament is an opportunity to showcase their improvement, test themselves against the best players in the East Region, and walk away with a renewed confidence that they are making significant strides to raise their game get to the next level.”

The Olympic Development Program (ODP) is one of US Youth Soccer’s premier player identification and development pathways. Designed to challenge and elevate the region’s top players, the East Region Tournament is the culmination of a year of training and evaluation, a stage where players get the opportunity to compete at their highest level, showcase their abilities, and represent their state associations.

For older players, the tournament also carries significant recruiting visibility. Players in the 2009–2011 age groups are encouraged to complete a College Recruiting Information Form to connect with college coaches who may be in attendance.

Event Details

The 2026 ODP East Region Tournament will take place from Friday, June 5th, through Sunday, June 7th. The event is hosted in New Jersey for the girls and across multiple field locations in Pennsylvania for the boys:

  • Tuckahoe Turf Farm (Hammonton, New Jersey)
  • Classics Soccer Park (Manheim, Pennsylvania)
  • Hempfield High School (Landisville, Pennsylvania)
  • East Petersburg Elementary School (East Petersburg, Pennsylvania)
  • Junction Road Soccer Complex (Manheim, Pennsylvania)
  • Lititz Road Turf (Manheim, Pennsylvania)

Boys and girls schedules will be posted on the US Youth Soccer event page as they become available.

Register Now

Registration for New York State West ODP players named to their respective ODP Tournament Team rosters is open now via GotSport. For full event details, field maps, event rules, and additional resources, visit the 2026 ODP East Region Event page on the US Youth Soccer website.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!

New York State West Hosts Inaugural Coaches Collective in Buffalo

This past weekend, New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) participated in bringing together coaches from across the Buffalo region for its inaugural Coaches Collective, a one-day workshop designed to elevate the quality of coaching at every level of the game. The event was another step forward in New York State West’s ever-evolving commitment to coach development.

The Coaches Collective brought a collaborative, community-first approach to coach education. Offered as a clinic to youth clubs in the Buffalo area, the event featured a mix of classroom and field sessions led by Rudy Pompert, Buffalo Stallions Technical Director, and Dave Kreger, New York State West Lead Coach Educator, covering a variety of topics designed to meet coaches where they are and give them practical tools to take back to their clubs.

New York State West Kicks Off Inaugural Coaches Collective in Buffalo

The event would not have been possible without the support of some key community partners. SoccerDrive and Rudy Pompert of the Buffalo Stallions played an important role in making the inaugural Coaches Collective a success, reinforcing a partnership that reflects the kind of cross-community collaboration that New York State West is looking to build upon.

“I would like to thank SoccerDrive and Rudy Pompert from the Buffalo Stallions for supporting this year’s Coaching Collective,” said Dave Kreger, NYSWYSA Lead Coach Educator. “We are hoping to continue building relationships with clubs and communities in NYSW to support future events. Our hope is that this will become a much larger annual event that will meet the needs of all the members across our footprint.”

New York State West Kicks Off Inaugural Coaches Collective in Buffalo

A Foundation for Something Bigger

Coach development is the backbone of a healthy soccer ecosystem. When coaches learn, players benefit. And when players benefit, entire communities grow stronger through the game. That is the philosophy driving New York State West’s investment in initiatives like the Coaches Collective, and it is a vision that extends throughout the region. The goal is to make top-level coaching education accessible to every club, in every corner of the New York State West footprint.

Stay tuned for updates on future Coaches Collective events as New York State West continues to build this program across the region.

For all of the latest news and information from the New York State West Youth Soccer Association, make sure to follow us on social media!