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Building Pathways: A Spring Update from New York West ODP

With the spring season in full stride, the New York State West Youth Soccer Association’s Olympic Development Program (ODP) is continuing to shape talent, build connections and lay the groundwork for the region’s next generation of elite players. From an energetic play day for 11U prospects to regional showcases for emerging and established ODP teams, the last few months have reflected the core mission of ODP to identify, develop and prepare top-tier youth players for the next level.

“As we now begin to compete with other state associations, our players begin to gain a better perspective as to where they stand against the backdrop of other players throughout the Northeast,” said Dean Foti, NYSWYSA Technical Director. “That perspective will be a confidence builder to some, and it will also serve notice to all, that there are higher levels that can be achieved. Both are critical elements that will provide the motivation that aspiring players need to push themselves to the next level.”

A First Taste of ODP: 11U Pre-ODP Play Day

On May 4th, Lakefront SC in Webster played host to the New York West 11U Pre-ODP Play Day, the culminating program event after a winter of indoor training for the youngest aspiring ODP athletes. Players from across the region came together for games in a 9v9 round-robin format, experiencing the excitement of competition in a setting that emphasized development, exposure and fun.

The 11U Pre-ODP Program is designed as an entry point into the broader ODP pipeline, providing players with age-appropriate, high-level training opportunities while helping coaches identify potential for future ODP inclusion. This stage stands as a crucial first step in a long journey, one that begins with skill-building and ends with the prospect of wearing an ODP East Region jersey (and potentially an ODP National Select Team kit).

Building Pathways: A Spring Update from New York West ODP

Talent on Display: Northeast Sub-Regional Tournament in Colonie, New York

New York West ODP teams recently traveled to Colonie, New York, to compete in the Northeast ODP Sub-Regional Tournament. The event brought together state-level ODP teams from Eastern New York, New Jersey, and the New England region (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine), creating a dynamic and competitive environment under the eyes of East Region ODP Coaching Staff.

This event marked the beginning of the formal player identification process for the East Region ODP Camp, where top performers will be evaluated for regional roster spots. The Colonie showcase not only provided players with the chance to compete at a high level, but it also gave them their first taste of being scouted for advancement beyond the state level while also gaining exposure to college coaches.

Eyes on June: Outdoor Training and the Road to Regionals

Since April, New York West ODP teams have transitioned from indoor training to weekly outdoor sessions, preparing for the East Region ODP Tournament scheduled for June 6-9. Boys teams will travel to Tuckahoe Turf Farms in Hammonton, New Jersey, while girls teams will compete at PA Classics Park in Manheim, Pennsylvania. The tournament will feature elite competition between the 15 state associations that comprise the East Region and will be played on natural grass fields renowned as among the best in the Northeast.

For many players, this event is a defining moment where years of preparation meets opportunity. Regional coaches will be watching closely, as top performers from the tournament will earn invites to the prestigious East Region ODP Camp. From there, a select few will move on to compete in Inter-Regional events, battling other regional teams from across the country in hopes of earning a place on the US Youth Soccer ODP National Select Team roster.

A Legacy of Opportunity

Established in 1977, the Olympic Development Program has served as the nation’s original pathway for identifying future national team talent. Under the umbrella of US Youth Soccer and the United States Soccer Federation, ODP helps players progress from local to national stages, gaining valuable exposure to collegiate scouts, high-level coaches and professional development resources along the way.

The mission of New York West ODP is threefold. The program aims to provide top-level training to elite players, support coaching development and identify talent for state, regional and national pools. From the early days of Pre-ODP to the high-stakes environment of regional showcases, every phase is built with purpose.

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!

Dr. Jessica L. Christ Joins New York State West Staff as Operations Manager

Dr. Jessica L. Christ Joins New York State West Staff as Operations Manager

New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) is proud to announce that Dr. Jessica L. Christ has joined the state office as our new Operations Manager. Her hiring not only brings a seasoned professional to the organization but also welcomes home a native resident with deep connections to the region and our soccer community.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining NYSWYSA and grateful to be back working within the community where I grew up!” said Dr. Christ. “This opportunity allows me to give back to the place that played such an important role in shaping who I am. I look forward to helping drive the growth and development of youth soccer throughout the region.”

Dr. Christ brings more than 15 years of expertise in event and operations management, with a resume that includes a variety of major sports and entertainment milestones. She has led initiatives and supported logistics for global brands and premier events including the NFL Draft, Super Bowl and MLS All-Star Game. Her work with industry leaders such as the National Football League, Major League Soccer, VF Imagewear (Majestic Athletic) and Legends Global Merchandise underscores a career built on collaboration and business development.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jessica to the New York State West Youth Soccer Association as our new Operations Manager,” said Devon McFadden, Executive Director of NYSWYSA. “Her passion, expertise and dedication to sports administration and operations will undoubtedly elevate our team and help us achieve new heights. We look forward to the positive impact she will bring to our organization.”

Known for her sharp attention to detail, strategic thinking and commitment to creating meaningful experiences, Dr. Christ has established herself as a leader who values both structure and comradery. Beyond her event credentials, she is also an educator and mentor, currently serving as an adjunct professor at Grand Canyon University, further expanding her passion for youth development and leadership.

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!

Rochester TOPSoccer Kicks Off New Season on May 6th

New York State West Youth Soccer Association has officially announced the spring/summer schedule for its Rochester TOPSoccer Program, with sessions kicking off at the RNY FC Indoor Soccer Complex on Tuesday, May 6th. The program will run on Tuesdays at 4:00 PM for eight consecutive weeks, with the final training set for June 24th.

“We are excited to once again partner with RNY FC to bring TOPSoccer opportunities to the Rochester area,” said Dean Foti, Technical Director of New York State West Youth Soccer Association. “We are grateful for RNY FC’s unwavering commitment to TOPSoccer and for providing lead instructor Cameron Steer and all the TOPSoccer players in the area with a terrific home for this popular US Youth Soccer program.”

Program Details:

Sessions Details:

  • Session 1: Tuesday, May 6 at 4:00 PM 
  • Session 2: Tuesday, May 13 at 4:00 PM 
  • Session 3: Tuesday, May 20 at 4:00 PM 
  • Session 4: Tuesday, May 27 at 4:00 PM 
  • Session 5: Tuesday, June 3 at 4:00 PM 
  • Session 6: Tuesday, June 10 at 4:00 PM 
  • Session 7: Tuesday, June17 at 4:00 PM
  • Session 8: Tuesday, June 24 at 4:00 PM 

TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a nationally recognized program developed by US Youth Soccer 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.

The program is structured to provide an environment where every participant can grow, build confidence and enjoy the sport alongside trained volunteers and buddies who are there to support their experience.

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 to Host Free TOPSoccer Jamboree on March 29th

New York State West Youth Soccer Association is looking to bring the joy of soccer to athletes of all abilities with its upcoming TOPSoccer Jamboree on Saturday, March 29th. Hosted at the Lakefront Indoor Soccer Complex in Webster, New York, this event aims to provide an opportunity for athletes with intellectual, emotional and physical disabilities to experience the game in a fun, inclusive and structured environment.

Event Details:

Sessions Details:

  • Session 1: 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM for Players 13 and Under
  • Session 2: 5:30 PM to 6:45 PM for Players 14 and Up

This free event is open to all interested participants, but pre-registration is required. Registering allows organizers to gather basic information, understand any unique needs of individual participants and ensure the proper number of TOPSoccer Buddies are available to provide dedicated support.

“This is a great way to introduce your child to the game of soccer, meet our staff and learn more about the TOPSoccer program in Rochester,” said Dean Foti, Technical Director of New York State West Youth Soccer Association. “Bring a friend and come join us at this fun event!”

What is TOPSoccer?

TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a nationally recognized program developed by US Youth Soccer 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.

The program is structured to provide an environment where every participant can grow, build confidence and enjoy the sport alongside trained volunteers and buddies who are there to support their experience.

A Celebration of Inclusion

The NYW TOPSoccer Jamboree is more than just a soccer event, it is a celebration of inclusion, opportunity and community. New York State West remains committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has the chance to participate and experience the excitement of soccer. Whether you are a returning player or new to the program, March 29th promises to be a day of fun, friendship and soccer for all. Interested in joining us? Register today and be part of this incredible event!

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!

From Small Town Champion to National Hero

Addie Edwards Named USYS National Volunteer of the Year

In the world of youth sports, where dedication and community spirit often make the difference, Addie Edwards stands out as a shining example of leadership, integrity and service. A tireless advocate for the game of soccer, Addie currently serves as the President and Travel Coordinator of Arcade Storm Soccer Club.

For nine years, Addie has coached teams within the Buffalo Western New York Junior Soccer League (BWNYJSL) in addition to her responsibilities with Arcade Storm Soccer Club. Despite being a small community club, her teams have consistently defied the odds. Such situations include U16 and U19 travel teams she coached, which finished second and first overall in the BWNYJSL, respectively.

“One of the most rewarding things about coaching our youth is having an active role in their development and a front row seat to the progression of these young athletes,” Addie reflected. “I am fortunate enough to get to coach these kids starting at the U10-U12 level and see them all the way through U19 travel, and have the opportunity to coach them at the varsity level through high school. I love seeing these transformations, not only in their game play but in their life skills as well. Instilling values of teamwork, sportsmanship and resilience that extend beyond the soccer field, and having these kids transfer them into their everyday life, is the greatest feeling.”

Addie’s contributions to her community go far beyond the play on the field. One event in particular occurred during warm-ups for a game this past May, when an assistant referee alerted her about an emergency regarding the head referee. Addie’s quick thinking and life-saving skills proved to be crucial at that moment. With CPR training and an AED at her disposal, she immediately sprang into action.

Finding the referee unresponsive, Addie performed CPR and delivered two shocks with the AED, successfully restoring his pulse before paramedics arrived. By the time the head referee reached the hospital, he was conscious and stable, thanks in large part to Addie’s heroic efforts. The referee has since made a full recovery and has repeatedly expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Addie for saving his life.

This act of heroism, combined with her unwavering dedication to youth soccer, earned Addie the 2024 New York State West Youth Soccer Association Volunteer of the Year Award. But the acknowledgement has not stopped there. After hearing about her story, US Youth Soccer recognized Addie’s exceptional service and moral leadership by naming her its National Volunteer of the Year, a prestigious honor that will be celebrated at the USYS Awards Luncheon during the United Coaches Convention in Chicago on Thursday.

“Grateful does not begin to express the magnitude of emotion and gratitude I have for US Youth Soccer, New York State West Youth Soccer Association,  Buffalo Western New York Youth Soccer League and my very own small town Arcade Storm Soccer Club, as well as Pioneer Central School District,” Addie stated. “I am honored to be a part of these organizations and its shared love for the youth and also the sport of soccer.”

Through leadership, selflessness and commitment to her community, Addie Edwards has shown that one person can make a profound difference. Whether on the field, in her club’s operations or during a critical emergency, her actions inspire us all to rise to the occasion and make an impact wherever we can.

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!

NY State West Hosting Special Course Opportunities

New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) is excited to announce that it is hosting two special coaching course opportunities, with registration for both programs set to open in January 2025. These offerings include a Women’s Only 9v9 and 11v11 Grassroots Coaching Course and a US Soccer National C License Course, providing great opportunities for NYSWYSA membership to advance their coaching education.

“We are excited to provide all of our membership with these great coaching education offerings,” said Dave Kreger, Lead Coach Educator for the New York State West Youth Soccer Association. “New York State West is committed to providing coaching educational opportunities that meet the needs of all our members.”

The Women’s Only 9v9 and 11v11 Grassroots Coaching Course is a trailblazing initiative to increase the number of female coaches throughout the region and on a national basis. Registration for the course will be restricted to female participants, and coaches will be fully reimbursed upon its conclusion. Taking place at the Lakefront Soccer Complex in Webster next spring on Sunday, April 27th, registration will officially open on January 15th, 2025.

These sessions will be tailored around the new Grassroots game models addressed in the US Soccer Player Development Initiatives. The course will offer coaches of every level the chance to learn more about how to develop a player-centered approach to coaching.

The US Soccer National C License Course is slated to begin on October 20th, 2025, and it will run until February 2nd, 2026. The in-person sessions will be held in Rochester, with course registration officially opening on January 15th, 2025. The cost per coach for the program will be $1500.

The US Soccer C license aims to support student coaches in developing competencies essential to lead programs for player and team development. Coaches who register for this course can expect weekly learning opportunities that feature a mixture of independent learning using online modules, live virtual meetings and in-person sessions led by a licensed U.S. Soccer Educator.

Registration Open for New York West State Cup

The registration window is now open for the New York State West Youth Soccer Association State Cup, which will kick off in the early spring of 2025. Registration is available for teams in the 12U-19U age divisions, with the window officially closing on December 2, 2024.

“We are excited to begin the registration process for the 2025 NYSW State Cup,” said Pam Whitcomb, New York State West Operations Manager. “Last year, we had 127 teams compete in the event, and we are looking forward to having more teams take the opportunity to compete at the next level this season. Don’t miss out on your chance to participate, register now!”

New York West State Cup competition will commence on March 1, 2025, and continue through mid-May. The final round of play will then take place on May 30th and June 1st at the SUNY Cortland Stadium Complex in Cortland, New York. State Cup Champions will become eligible for the US Youth Soccer (USYS) Eastern Regional Championships next June, with regional winners at the 13U age group and higher moving onto the USYS National Championships in July at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida.

For complete scheduling and additional information regarding New York West State Cup, make sure to visit our event webpage online.

“The State Cup is the New York State West premier tournament, which is open to all NYSW member clubs,” said Peter Lautensack, New York West State Cup Chair. “It affords an opportunity for clubs to challenge their teams to play at the next level against other teams across the state. The tournament concludes with our state championship weekend on the SUNY Cortland college campus, home to some of the finest fields in New York State. We welcome all NYSW teams to participate in this competition and look forward to meeting so many of you during this year’s tournament.”

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 winners from each state with the opportunity to showcase their soccer skills against the best competition in the nation while emphasizing teamwork, discipline and fair play.

USYS National Championships Come to a Close in Orlando

The 2024 US Youth Soccer National Championships have officially come to a conclusion, with the week-long event wrapping up after champions were crowned in the 13U to 19U age groups at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida.

The New York State West Youth Soccer Association had a pair of teams participating in the USYS National Championships. Representing the region were two teams from Western New York Flash, with their 2009 Girls (15U) and 2010 Girls (14U) reaching the national competition. Unfortunately, the two New York West representatives saw their tournament run come to an end following group play.

The USYS National Championships Presented by New York Life are the final stage of the USYS National Championships, which begin at the state level before progressing to the regional and then national stages. The event is a culmination of a year-long series of competitions, providing approximately 185,000 players on 10,000 teams from US Youth Soccer’s 54 State Associations with the opportunity to showcase their soccer skills against the best competition in the nation.

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!

National Championships Update from US Youth Soccer

An Open Letter from US Youth Soccer CEO Skip Gilbert:

Greetings from Frisco, Texas – the home of US Youth Soccer.

This year marks US Youth Soccer’s 50th anniversary. As proud as we are of our legacy, the start of 2024 also marked the beginnings of meaningful change. Earlier this spring, we began an earnest, in-depth evaluation of our National Championships, presented by New York Life.

We achieved a significant degree of consensus – near unanimity – among our 54-member State Associations with our plans to reimagine our signature championship.

We are thrilled to implement these exciting changes that will, undoubtedly, deliver on goals that centered around the vision to create the best youth sport event in the country. Universal agreement established that the ideal competitive format impacted these core areas:

1.  Player Experience/True Competitive Balance

2.  Lower Costs/Financial & Travel Sensitivity

3.  Central Location/Dynamic Facilities

Looking ahead, our goal is for USYS to host a competitively balanced championship event for the 2025-26 season, featuring teams from each of the 54 State Associations that will qualify directly from their State Cup competitions into three divisions. Our National League will also have a direct pathway into this incredible program which will come together at a single site to play for national titles.

Our revamped National Championships will create even more opportunities for lifelong memories for players and their families, coaches, and referees. More than 10,000 teams historically enter our National Championship Series, and we expect even more to be drawn to the format in the years to come.

On behalf of USYS Board Chair Todd Lockhart, our Board of Directors, Chief Soccer Officer Tom Condone, and the entire USYS staff, we thank the working group who helped facilitate these key changes (and will continue to lead the redesign).

  • Louis Mateus, US Youth Soccer Board of Directors, Member at Large
  • Jonathan Berzins, Arizona Youth Soccer Association, Chief Executive Officer
  • Chris Branscome, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association, Chief Executive Officer
  • Jennifer Davis, South Texas Youth Soccer, Executive Director
  • Dave Guthrie, Indiana Soccer, Executive Director
  • Gordon Henderson, Ohio Soccer Association, Chief Executive Officer
  • Hans Hobson, Tennessee State Soccer Association, Chief Executive Officer
  • Melissa Zielinski, Wisconsin Youth Soccer Association, Executive Director 

With our Golden Anniversary Championships later this month in Orlando, we cannot wait to crown another set of champions. In addition, we are bullish to begin our second 50 years with a reimagined National Championship to be played against the backdrop of the 2026 World Cup in the U.S.

Stay tuned for updates as we use this momentum to finalize planning to debut the nation’s best youth sports event, capping the 2025-26 soccer season!

Thanks for your continued support of our great game,

Skip

USYS Eastern Regional Championships Come to A Close in West Virginia

The US Youth Soccer Eastern Regional Championships came to a close today in West Virginia. The New York State West Youth Soccer Association was well represented throughout the tournament, with SDA 2009B (15U Boys) and SDA 2008B (16U Boys) both punching their tickets to the final round of play on Tuesday.

SDA 2009B (15U Boys) had an incredible run at the Eastern Regional Championships, advancing to the knockout stage after earning six points (2-1 record) and an 8-1 goal differential in group play. The New York West representative booked their reservation in the final by recording a clean sheet over FC Frederick 09B (MD) in the semifinals, 1-0. SDA 2009B then battled BVB International Academy Pittsburgh 09 Boys Premier (PAW) in a hard-fought final on Tuesday, but they fell to the Pennsylvania West side by the slimmest of margins, 1-0.

Also playing in the finals on Tuesday was SDA 2008B (16U Boys), who earned their spot in the championship match by defeating Chelsea Piers Juventus (CT) in the semifinals, 3-1. SDA 2008B opened play at the Eastern Regional Championships by winning their first-round bracket, going undefeated in group play and outscoring the opposition, 7-1. In the championship match for their age group, they paired up with Torpedoes BU16 Red (NJ), but they unfortunately fell to the New Jersey representative on Tuesday.

Winners at the USYS Eastern Regional Championships move onto the USYS National Championships in July at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. The USYS National Championships Presented by New York Life is the country’s most prestigious national youth soccer tournament. The competition provides winners from each state with the opportunity to showcase their soccer skills against the best competition in the nation while emphasizing teamwork, discipline and fair play.

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!