New York State West Youth Soccer

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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!

New York State West and Project Play WNY Team Up to Inspire the Next Generation of Coaches

New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) and Project Play Western New York have partnered to launch Generation Next, a new initiative bringing free coaching education to young people across the region. Together, the two organizations are creating pathways for the next generation of coaches to learn, grow, and give back to the game.

“We are excited about this new initiative and the support we are receiving from Project Play Western New York,” said Dave Kreger, NYSWYSA Lead Coach Educator. “Our hope is that this initiative will inspire young coaches to learn more, stay involved, and give back to the game.”

Supported by a grant from Project Play Western New York, Generation Next is built on a shared belief that investing in young coaches strengthens the entire soccer community. The initiative kicked off with a 9v9 Grassroots Coaching Course at Buffalo State College, the first of several planned sessions bringing high-quality, accessible coach education directly to young people throughout the region. Future courses are already planned for Daemen University and Fredonia State University, with the program continuing to expand its reach across Western New York.

Project Play Western New York is a trusted resource for families and youth sports organizations across the eight counties of Western New York, driven and funded by Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation’s Youth Sports & Recreation focus area. Its mission (sport for all, play for life) aligns naturally with New York State West’s commitment to growing the game at every level.

What’s Next

With upcoming courses at Daemen University and Fredonia State University, the Generation Next initiative has already started building momentum. Whether you are a young player looking to take your first step into coaching, a parent encouraging a young athlete to stay involved in the game, or a club looking to develop the next wave of coaches in your community, we encourage you to take part in this program. Stay tuned for more information on the upcoming courses at Daemen University and Fredonia State University, and contact Dave Kreger at coachinged@nyswysa.org with any questions you may have.

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!

University of Rochester TOPSoccer Program Set to Begin on March 21st

Soccer is a sport for everyone, and New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) is teaming up with the University of Rochester Special Olympics Club to make sure every young athlete in the region has a place to experience it. This spring, TOPSoccer opens on the University of Rochester campus with seven inclusive sessions starting on March 21st, and registration is open now.

“Come join the fun and excitement of the inaugural University of Rochester TOPSoccer Program,” said Dean Foti, NYSWYSA Technical Director. “NYSWYSA, in collaboration with the University of Rochester Special Olympics Club, is excited to bring inclusive soccer to the University of Rochester campus. Katherine Westerheim leads a dynamic group of student-athlete volunteers who bring energy and enthusiasm to each of the seven sessions included in this spring semester program. You will find community, companionship, camaraderie, confidence building. And oh yeah, did I mention a whole lot of inspirational soccer going on in the Goergen Athletic Center’s Palestra Gym!”

TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a nationally recognized program developed by US Youth Soccer specifically to give young athletes with disabilities the opportunity to play soccer in a safe, supportive, and inclusive setting. Modified training sessions and gameplay meet participants where they are, regardless of ability, with a focus on learning, teamwork, confidence building, and most importantly, having fun.

What began last fall with a pair of TOPSoccer Jamborees on the University of Rochester campus continues this spring as a full seven-session program. The University of Rochester Special Olympics Club, whose student-athlete volunteers brought great energy and heart to those first sessions, returns once again as the driving force behind the program, in partnership with New York State West.

Spring Schedule

All seven sessions are held at the Goergen Athletic Center (specifically at the Palestra Gym) at the University of Rochester River Campus Sports Complex, which is located at 720 Library Road in Rochester. Sessions will run 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM every Saturday:

  • Saturday, March 21
  • Saturday, March 28
  • Saturday, April 4
  • Saturday, April 11
  • Saturday, April 18
  • Saturday, April 25
  • Saturday, May 2

Register Before the First Session

The spring sessions kicks off on March 21st, and registration is currently open. If you have a child who deserves a welcoming, inclusive space to play soccer, we encourage you to sign up today. For any questions, please contact Site Coordinator Katie Westerheim at kwesterh@u.rochester.edu.

Every athlete deserves a place to play. Come be part of University of Rochester TOPSoccer this spring!

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!

Binghamton TOPSoccer Returns on Sunday

For young athletes with disabilities across the Binghamton area, Sunday mornings are about to get a whole lot more fun. Binghamton TOPSoccer is kicking off its spring season on February 22nd, and there is still time to register and be a part of the program

Developed by US Youth Soccer, TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a nationally recognized program to give young athletes with disabilities the opportunity to play soccer in a safe and supportive setting. Designed to meet the needs of individuals with diverse abilities, TOPSoccer provides modified training sessions and gameplay that encourage learning, teamwork, and most importantly, having fun.

What makes the Binghamton program especially unique is who manages it. Since 2019, the program has been organized and staffed entirely by Binghamton University students, many of whom grew up participating in TOPSoccer programs themselves. That connection shows up every session in the energy, enthusiasm, and genuine fellowship they bring to the field.

“NYSWYSA is a proud supporter of Binghamton University TOPSoccer,” said Dean Foti, NYSWYSA Technical Director. “In 2019, this one-of-a-kind program was organized by college students who were previously involved with TOPSoccer programs as youth players in their hometown soccer clubs. Today, this university sponsored club is directed, organized and staffed by BU students. This unique coaching staff injects energy, enthusiasm and fellowship into each session. Come experience the joy of ‘sharing the beautiful game’ through Binghamton University TOPSoccer.”

Spring Schedule

The season begins indoors at the Greater Binghamton Sports Complex (1500 Airport Rd, Binghamton) from Noon to 1:00 PM on the following Sundays.

  • Sunday, February 22
  • Sunday, March 1
  • Sunday, March 8
  • Sunday, March 22

As spring arrives, sessions move outdoors to Binghamton University (4400 Vestal Parkway E, Binghamton) from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on the Sundays listed below.

  • Sunday, April 12
  • Sunday, April 19
  • Sunday, April 26

The season then concludes with an End-of-Season Picnic on Sunday, May 3rd.

Join Us for Binghamton TOPSoccer!

Registration is still open! Don’t miss the first session this Sunday. Sign up for the Binghamton TOPSoccer Program online or reach out to Site Coordinator Isabella Vento at binghamtontops@gmail.com with any questions.

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!

Honoring Excellence: New York State West Celebrates Its Annual Award Winners

Each year, the New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) takes time to pause, reflect and recognize the people who make the game thrive across our region. The Annual General Meeting (AGM) provides that moment each year, bringing state leadership together not only to look ahead, but also to acknowledge the coaches, administrators, referees and volunteers whose dedication fuels the growth of youth soccer in meaningful and lasting ways.

The New York State West Annual Awards exist to shine a spotlight on the individuals who go above and beyond in service to players, clubs and communities. Whether through coaching, officiating, administration or volunteering, these honorees represent the very best of what our soccer community stands for regarding commitment, leadership and a deep belief in the positive impact the game can have on young lives.

This year’s award recipients reflect the wide-ranging strength of New York State West and the depth of passion that exists throughout our region. From grassroots recreational programs to competitive environments, each award winner has played a role in shaping a better experience for young athletes.

New York State West Award Recipients

  • TOPSoccer Coach of the Year – Elida Green (Olean Soccer Club)
  • TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year – Lennox Green (Olean Soccer Club)
  • Girls Recreational Coach of the Year – Lillian Ameigh (Schuyler Strikers)
  • Boys Competitive Coach of the Year – Chad Freelove (Corning United)
  • Girls Competitive Coach of the Year – Zach Sarno (Soaring Capital Soccer Club)
  • John R. Galli Volunteer of the Year – Mary Jane Hoskins (Genesee Valley Bronze Bears)
  • GotSport Administrator of the Year – Pamela Whitcomb (WNY Flash)
  • Young Male Referee of the Year – Nicholas Raeff
  • Young Female Referee of the Year – Casey Fetzner
  • New York State West Hall of Fame – Abby Wambach

New York State West Hall of Fame Inductee – Abby Wambach

Few names in the history of American soccer are as recognizable, or as influential, as Abby Wambach. A two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Wambach is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever represent the United States. She remains one of the all-time leading goal scorers in international soccer history and was known throughout her career for her leadership, competitiveness and an uncanny ability to deliver in the game’s biggest moments.

Before becoming a global icon, Wambach’s journey began in New York State West, where she developed through the ODP system and played for the Rochester Spirit. Her induction into the New York State West Hall of Fame is not only a recognition of her extraordinary achievements on the world stage, but also a celebration of the pathway and community that helped launch one of the most impactful careers in the history of the sport.

A Community Built by People

While these awards honor a select group of individuals, they also represent something much bigger. They reflect the thousands of coaches, referees, administrators and volunteers across our region who give their time, energy and passion to the game each year. Often quietly, and always with the players’ best interests at heart.

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!