New York State West Youth Soccer

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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!

New York State West Unveils 2025–26 ODP Pathways

In youth soccer, every journey begins with the desire to grow. To find that next challenge, that next level, that next opportunity to rise. For players across Western New York, that journey continues this winter as New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) announces information for its three Olympic Development Program pathways.

From the early touches of the 11U Pre-ODP Program to the competitive intensity of ODP Tryouts and the college-prep demands of the 19U ODP Program, New York State West provides a complete developmental pathway designed to identify, train and inspire the region’s most committed players.

A Proven Pathway to Excellence

The Olympic Development Program (ODP) remains one of the most respected avenues for elite player development across the country. Through its state, regional and national platforms, ODP challenges athletes to push beyond their comfort zones and test themselves against the best competition.

“The ODP program is designed to be a supplement to what players do with their club and scholastic teams,” said Dean Foti, NYSWYSA Technical Director. “Playing with and against other good players from across the state, at good facilities and at the direction of top coaches, accelerates player development. Training sessions that include purposeful, competitive, game-like activities designed to gradually nudge players outside their comfort zone, make previously unfamiliar encounters more familiar (if not commonplace). Every player transforms into a more confident, more composed and a more functional problem solver on the field. There is a reason why ODP players are often referred to as being more seasoned.”

Since its inception, ODP has carried a clear objective to deliver top-level training and identify players capable of thriving on the regional and national stage. Within New York State West, that mission takes shape through three distinct programs, each a vital stage of the overall soccer journey.

ODP Tryouts: 2009, 2010 and 2011 Players

For players born in 2009, 2010 and 2011, the road to elite competition begins this December via ODP Tryouts. All tryout sessions will take place at the Lakefront Indoor Soccer Complex in Webster, New York, and an early-bird registration discount is available through Sunday, November 23rd. Learn more.

Upcoming Boys Tryouts:

  • Saturday, December 13th: 2011 Boys
  • Sunday, December 14th: 2009, 2010 Boys

Upcoming Girls Tryouts:

  • Saturday, December 20th: 2009, 2010 Girls
  • Sunday, December 21st: 2011 Girls

These tryouts offer players direct exposure to nationally licensed coaches, competitive evaluation and the chance to earn selection into New York State West’s state ODP pools, which can lead to regional and national team identification.

11U Pre-ODP Program

For players born in 2015 and 2016, the 11U Pre-ODP Program offers an introduction to the ODP experience in a fun yet structured setting. Beginning in December 2025, the program will be hosted in four convenient districts (Buffalo, Cortland, Rochester and Syracuse), ensuring families across the region can participate close to home. Learn more.

The Pre-ODP cycle includes five sessions, with each featuring a 75-minute indoor training session followed by a 30-minute classroom lecture. Training emphasizes technical skills, small-sided play and tactical awareness, while the lectures focus on teamwork, mindset and proper training habits.

The program concludes with an outdoor “Play Day” on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, at the Lakefront Basket Road Fields in Webster, bringing all four districts together for a round-robin day of play and celebration. With no tryouts required, the 11U Pre-ODP Program is open to all serious, age-eligible players eager to experience New York State West’s high-caliber coaching and the developmental environment that has shaped many of the state’s top talents.

19U ODP Program

For players born in 2007 and 2008, New York State West’s 19U ODP Program bridges the gap between youth soccer and college preparation. While traditional ODP programs conclude at the 17U level, New York State West independently expands its offerings to provide a college-prep training environment for older athletes seeking elite instruction beyond club or high school play. Learn more.

The 2025–26 cycle begins with indoor sessions on Sunday, December 14th (Boys) and Saturday, December 20th (Girls) at the Lakefront Indoor Soccer Complex in Webster. The indoor phase features five full training dates, each consisting of two 90-minute training sessions and a 90-minute midday break (consisting of a lunch break and lecture led by the New York State West ODP Coaching Staff). Lecture topics include Tactics, Proper Training Habits, Nutrition, College Recruiting and Mental Training for Peak Performance. The 19U ODP Program’s outdoor phase adds training and scrimmages against college teams, offering players the ideal transition toward higher-level competition.

One Mission, Three Pathways

From the early learning environment of Pre-ODP to the competitive proving grounds of ODP Tryouts and the high-performance preparation of the 19U Program, New York State West’s ODP pathway is built to nurture ambition at every stage. Each program shares a common goal to elevate player technical, tactical and mental readiness while fostering a lifelong passion for the game.

Whether you are beginning your ODP journey or preparing for college soccer, the 2025–26 season offers every opportunity to grow, compete and thrive. Learn more.

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!

NYSW TOPSoccer Partners with University of Rochester Special Olympics Club

The New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) and the University of Rochester Special Olympics Club are joining forces this November to host a pair of TOPSoccer Jamborees on the University of Rochester campus. These free, community-based events invite young athletes with disabilities to experience the fun and camaraderie of soccer in an inclusive, encouraging environment led by student-athletes, volunteers and trained instructors.

Event Details: Soccer, Smiles and Inclusion

Both jamborees are free of charge, and participants are welcome to attend one or both sessions. To ensure a fun, organized experience, pre-registration is required to ensure proper staffing and event preparation.

Fostering Connection Through Sport

The University of Rochester Special Olympics Club brings together university students and athletes in the Greater Rochester Area with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The club’s mission is to create a competitive yet supportive atmosphere, one where inclusion, awareness and friendship take center stage both on and off the field.

“We are excited to partner with US Youth Soccer and New York State West Youth Soccer Association to bring TOPSoccer to the University of Rochester campus. Our Special Olympics Club continues to look for new opportunities to connect with our community in meaningful ways, and TOPSoccer is a natural extension to our Special Olympics movement,” said Katherine Westerheim of the University of Rochester Special Olympics Club. “Our student athletes take great pride in being role models in our community and being proactive contributors who enjoy spending time sharing their experiences with young people. We can’t wait to host these fun Jamborees and welcome everyone to campus!”

This partnership reflects a shared belief between NYSWYSA and the University of Rochester Special Olympics Club that sport can build bridges and open doors. Together, both organizations are helping to ensure every athlete, regardless of ability, has a place to play, grow and belong.

About 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.

“We are excited to continue our tradition of bringing TOPSoccer programming to the Rochester area through this exciting new collaboration with the University of Rochester Special Olympics Club,” said Dean Foti, NYSWYSA Technical Director. “The University of Rochester student volunteers bring an energy and enthusiasm that is contagious and uplifting to all who participate in the Jamborees. Together, we truly embrace the opportunity to provide enjoyment, confidence-building and friendship through tailored sporting activities. Growth through participation in sport is universal. Come join us for a couple of inspirational days of soccer!”

Looking Ahead

These jamborees mark the start of an exciting collaboration between NYSWYSA and the University of Rochester Special Olympics Club. The two organizations plan to use these sessions to gauge community interest and lay the groundwork for a potential multi-week program launching in 2026, expanding access to inclusive soccer opportunities across the Rochester region. To learn more about the University of Rochester Special Olympics Club, we encourage you to visit them online.

Everyone deserves the chance to play. Join us this November and be part of something truly special!

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.