News

EDP SOCCER NAMED OPERATOR OF FLORIDA STATE PREMIER LEAGUE

Auburndale, Florida (April 13, 2026) – Florida Youth Soccer is proud to announce that EDP Soccer will serve as the league operator of the Florida State Premier League (FSPL) beginning with the 2026-2027 season, ushering in a new era for premier team-based competition across the state. 

FSPL represents a top level of statewide team-based league play within Florida Youth Soccer, designed to complement local affiliate leagues while providing a pathway to regional and national competitions. Under EDP Soccer’s leadership, the league will be reimagined with a focus on consistency, quality, and competitive integrity. 

EDP Soccer, in partnership with its parent company 3STEP Sports, brings a proven track record of operating top-tier leagues across the country, with an emphasis on professional league management, structured scheduling, and a best-in-class club and player experience. As the largest youth sports operator in the country, 3STEP Sports serves more than 2.5 million athletes nationwide. Their expertise will enhance the overall competition environment while allowing Florida Youth Soccer to remain focused on supporting and growing its member affiliates. 

“EDP Soccer is proud to partner with Florida Youth Soccer to operate the Florida State Premier League,” said Jen Marcella, EDP Executive Director of Leagues. “Our focus is on delivering a high-quality, professionally managed league experience that prioritizes competition, consistency, and club support. We look forward to working with clubs across Florida to build a league environment that provides meaningful games.” 

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation and competition development. Top-performing teams from FSPL qualifying leagues will have the opportunity to earn promotion into FSPL, while the league will also include an application-based entry process to ensure a strong and competitive field across all divisions. 

Additional operational details, including application timelines, league structure, and participation requirements, will be shared in the coming weeks. 

Florida Youth Soccer and EDP Soccer look forward to working together to strengthen the competitive landscape and provide new opportunities for players and clubs throughout the state. 

To contact Florida Youth Soccer, please email communications@fysa.com. Also make sure to follow us on social media: @FYSASoccer 

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About Florida Youth Soccer Association

Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is a 501(c)(3) affiliated with U.S. Youth Soccer and the US Soccer Federation, comprised of 200+ clubs/leagues, 105,000+ registered players, and 20,000+ coaches/officials. The association governs recreational, competitive soccer clubs at multiple skill levels, operates leagues, the FYSA Olympic Development Programs (ODP), state tournaments, coach education programs, and TOPSoccer, a program for children with special needs.

About EDP Soccer

Founded in 1999, the Elite Development Program (EDP) is one of the largest organizers of youth soccer leagues and tournaments in the country. EDP manages more than 10 leagues for boys and girls from ages levels 8U to 25U and also runs over 20 tournaments each year. More than 8,500 teams participate in EDP’s leagues, and more than 5,000 teams compete in EDP tournaments annually. EDP focuses on providing teams and clubs the best league and tournament experiences possible for their players, coaches, and families.

About 3STEP Sports

3STEP Soccer serves youth soccer clubs and their teams, players, parents, and coaches by offering professionally managed leagues and events that provide competitive opportunities for boys and girls at multiple levels. 3STEP Soccer operates in 28 states. In addition to its own leagues and events, including EDP Soccer, 3STEP Soccer manages operations for other youth soccer organizations.

3STEP Soccer is a division of 3STEP Sports, the largest and most connected youth sports organization in the country, reaching more than 2+ million athlete participants each year across seven sports.

FLORIDA YOUTH SOCCER AND TRACE LAUNCH FREE CAMERA INITATIVE 

FYSA sanctioned teams are eligible to receive (1) FREE sideline camera and (1) PRO subscription for the first person who checks out. 

Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is proud to announce a partnership with Trace, naming the company as the Official Video Partner of FYSA. This collaboration launches a statewide initiative to bring advanced AI-powered video technology and performance insights to FYSA member clubs and teams. 

Through this partnership, FYSA members will gain access to Trace’s innovative video solution designed to simplify game recording while delivering powerful tools for player development, analysis, and recruitment. Trace’s camera system automatically records matches, using intelligent AI technology to identify, follow, and spotlight players on the field. Following each game, the platform generates personalized highlight reels and performance data for every athlete. 

The Trace platform delivers valuable video and data to players, parents, and coaches, enabling them to analyze performance, accelerate development, and celebrate key moments. Additionally, the system enhances the viewing experience by allowing users to follow individual players throughout the match. 

“Trace is proud to partner with Florida Youth Soccer Association to help elevate soccer across the state”, stated Gentry Contreras, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Trace. “By providing automated video to players, coaches, and parents, we are supporting FYSA’s to create a more rewarding experience for the entire Florida soccer family.” 

Teams interested in requesting their free Trace camera and PlayerFocus™ Pro subscription should click here to begin. Use code FYSAFREE at checkout. Must be redeemed at checkout with a new camera. 

Get Started with Trace

To get started, FYSA members can do the following:

1.      Go to https://traceup.com/partner/fysa

2.      Select Pro or Basic (We recommend Pro since it is free!)

3.      Watch their total drop to $0 on the checkout page (FYSAFREE auto-applied at checkout)

This is valid for the first person from each team who checks out and registers members of their team.

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About Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA): 

The Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is the state’s official governing body for youth soccer and a member of US Youth Soccer and the United States Soccer Federation. Representing over 100,000 players, coaches, and volunteers, FYSA is dedicated to promoting and growing the game of soccer through education, competition, and community. 

About Trace: 

Trace is an AI video highlights company focused on capturing life’s most important memories. Trace PlayerFocus™ seamlessly identifies, follows, and spotlights each player during the game, automatically delivering a playlist of highlights with your player—front and center. Every week, Trace captures over a million highlights from thousands of games, allowing players, coaches, and parents to rewatch plays, use video to develop skills, and share playlists with friends, family, and recruiters. For more information, visit https://traceup.com/partner/osa. 

USCSA Expands Reach to More than One Million Members with Addition of Florida Youth Soccer Association

The United States Consortium of State Associations (USCSA) is excited to announce its expansion to include a new member organization, Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA), bringing its current total membership to 17 State Associations representing more than one million players and coaches.

Florida Youth Soccer Association’s decision to join the USCSA reflects its commitment to collaboration, modernization, and delivering greater value to the clubs, players, and families it serves. As the youth soccer landscape continues to evolve, FYSA recognizes that aligning with peer State Associations through the Consortium creates meaningful opportunities to share resources, adopt innovative approaches, and strengthen operational effectiveness. By participating in this unified network, FYSA aims to enhance the quality and efficiency of its programs while contributing to a stronger collective voice for State Associations nationwide. This partnership supports FYSA’s ongoing efforts to modernize its operations, expand opportunities for its membership, and play an active role in advancing the broader soccer community.

“FYSA is proud to join and support the efforts of the USCSA,” said Ryan Foley, CEO of Florida Youth Soccer Association. “We view participation in the Consortium not only as a benefit to our own membership, but as an opportunity to help strengthen the collective voice and effectiveness of State Associations nationwide.”

Florida Youth Soccer Association serves as the State Association for more than 250 clubs and leagues across the State of Florida and supports over 105,000 registered players alongside 10,000 coaches. FYSA provides membership for recreational and competitive soccer players at multiple skill levels while operating statewide leagues, Florida Olympic Development Program (ODP), State Cup competitions, coach education, and TOPSoccer, an inclusive program for children with disabilities. Guided by its mission to serve Florida’s youth soccer community, FYSA strives to lead the state soccer landscape toward a better, simpler playing experience. This work is grounded in core principles of serving the game first, strengthening local identity, and embracing progress.

USCSA President Evan Dabby, who is also the CEO of New Jersey Youth Soccer, voiced his excitement in adding the Florida Youth Soccer Association to the organization.

“The USCSA is thrilled to add Florida Youth Soccer to the Consortium, and we know their expertise will help accelerate our efforts,” said Dabby. “Specifically, this expansion will enhance our efforts leveraging their experience and build upon our team’s successes.”

USCSA Membership:

• Alabama Soccer Association (Jennifer Pfeiffer, Executive Director)
• Arizona Youth Soccer (Jonathan Berzins, CEO)
• Florida Youth Soccer Association (Ryan Foley, CEO)
• Georgia State Soccer Association, (Jim Walker, Executive Director)
• Indiana Soccer (Dave Guthrie, Executive Director and USCSA Secretary)
• Iowa Soccer Association (Dan Cataldi, CEO)
• Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (Kris Zander, Executive Director)
• Massachusetts Youth Soccer (Rob Holliday, Executive Director and USCSA Treasurer)
• Michigan Youth Soccer (Thomas Faro, Executive Director)
• New Mexico Youth Soccer (Gloria Faber, Executive Director)
• New Jersey Youth Soccer (Evan Dabby, CEO and USCSA President)
• Ohio Soccer (Gordon Henderson, CEO and USCSA Vice President)
• South Texas Youth Soccer (Jennifer Davis, Executive Director)
• Tennessee State Soccer Association (Hans Hobson, CEO)
• Utah Youth Soccer (Bryan Attridge, CEO)
• Vermont Soccer Association (Andrew Minnis, Executive Director)
• Wisconsin Youth Soccer (Melissa Zielinski, Executive Director)

To learn more about the USCSA, make sure to follow the official LinkedIn page.

About Florida Youth Soccer Association

Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is a 501(c)(3) affiliated with U.S. Youth Soccer and the US Soccer Federation, comprised of 200+ clubs/leagues, 105,000+ registered players, and 10,000+ coaches. The association provides membership for recreational & competitive soccer clubs at multiple skill levels, operates leagues, the Florida Olympic Development Programs (ODP), State Cup competitions, coach education programs, and TOPSoccer, a program for children with special needs.

Florida Youth Soccer Partners with Sports Sponsorship & Event Consulting

Auburndale, FL (Feb. 16, 2026) — Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Sports Sponsorship and Event Consulting (SSEC), an agency dedicated to helping sports organizations build, develop, and grow impactful sponsorship programs. 

Through this partnership, SSEC will work closely with FYSA to strengthen and expand its sponsorship and partnership initiatives. SSEC continues to build a strong presence in grassroots soccer and is currently partnered with 13 United States Youth Soccer (USYS) State Associations nationwide and the United States Adult Soccer Association. Their growing footprint reflects their success in developing strategic sponsorship programs that align brand partners with the values of youth soccer organizations across the country. 

“This relationship is a strategic step forward in how FYSA fuels reinvestment into FYSA programs,” said Ryan Foley, FYSA CEO. “SSEC’s experience working with USYS State Associations and the greater youth sport landscape will help us build meaningful, impactful sponsorships that support our mission and our members.” 

On behalf of FYSA and its member organizations, SSEC will focus on finding and cultivating sponsorships and partnerships with brands seeking to support soccer at the state and local levels. These partnerships aim to deliver long-term value, enhance youth soccer experience, and create sustainable revenue opportunities that benefit FYSA programs and initiatives. 

This partnership represents FYSA’s continued commitment to growth, innovation, and providing enhanced programming for its players, coaches, and affiliates throughout the state of Florida. 

“Florida Youth Soccer Association is a national leader in youth sports, and we are proud to partner with them at such an important moment in their growth,” said Garrett Shea, President, Sport Sponsorships & Events Consulting. “Together, we will build innovative partnership strategies that enhance the experience for members while creating new opportunities for brands to authentically engage with the youth soccer community.” 

To support FYSA programming initiatives through sponsorships, partnerships, or gifts, contact communications@fysa.com.  

About Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) 

The Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is the state’s official governing body for youth soccer and a member of US Youth Soccer and the United States Soccer Federation. Representing over 100,000 players, coaches, and volunteers, FYSA is dedicated to promoting and growing the game of soccer through education, competition, and community. 

About Sports Sponsorship and Event Consulting (SSEC) 

SSEC Sponsorship and Event Consulting is a marketing agency specializing in sponsorship sales and the development of custom partnership programs. Founded to help organizations build strategic brand relationships, SSEC takes a solution-based approach—working to understand a brand’s goals and challenges and creating tailored marketing and sponsorship opportunities that deliver meaningful value. 

To all of our FYSA families, coaches, and players,

As Hurricane Helene approaches our west coast and the panhandle, we want to remind everyone that your safety is our utmost concern.

Please follow all local emergency guidelines and updates closely. We encourage you to check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially those who may need extra assistance during this time.

We understand how difficult and uncertain these moments can feel, but remember that your FYSA community is here with you. Stay strong, care for each other.

Please stay safe, and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Warm regards,
Florida Youth Soccer Association

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soccer Resilience and Florida Youth Soccer Association Announce Groundbreaking Partnership to Elevate Mental Training in Soccer

Florida, August 22, 2024 — Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is excited to announce its new partnership with Soccer Resilience, becoming the first state association to invest in and provide Soccer Resilience’s mental training resources to its members.

In this innovative move, FYSA will subsidize Soccer Resilience’s online courses for its members, aiming to make crucial mental training accessible to a wider audience. The goal is to build and strengthen players’ mental health and performance both on and off the field.

Key Highlights of the Partnership:

• Unprecedented Investment: FYSA is the first state association to invest in Soccer Resilience’s mental training programs, reflecting their commitment to the mental well-being of their entire membership.
• Subsidized Access: FYSA will help cover the cost of Soccer Resilience’s online courses, making them more affordable for members.
• Focus on Mental Health: The collaboration aims to enhance mental health and performance by providing players with tools to manage stress, overcome challenges, and excel in their sport.
• True Role Models: Soccer Resilience’s courses feature ambassadors from MLS, NWSL, and USL—professional players who have worked on their own mental health. This offers genuine role models in a world where social media often shows misleading images.
• Innovative Learning: The courses consist of short, bite-sized videos delivered by Soccer Resilience’s pro ambassadors and clinical psychologist Brad Miller, Psy.D. These are complemented by a Playbook designed to integrate mental fitness exercises into daily routines.
• Evidence-Based Training: Soccer Resilience’s curriculum is grounded in evidence-based mental health and sport psychology strategies, ensuring that players receive highly effective tools for resilience and performance.
• Accessible and Practical: Courses are designed for coaches, players, and parents, with a curriculum that fits into as little as 10 minutes per week, making it easy to incorporate mental training into busy schedules.

The Soccer Resilience Mental Fitness Courses are meticulously crafted for players of all levels, focusing on enhancing mental resilience, mastering pressure situations, and fostering a success-oriented mindset. Designed by a clinical psychologist with input from top soccer professionals, these courses offer valuable strategies for self-belief, focus under pressure, and increased enjoyment of the game.

Quotes from Leadership:

“Partnering with FYSA is a monumental step in our mission to provide top-notch mental fitness resources to soccer players. We are excited to work alongside FYSA to promote a culture of resilience and well-being within youth soccer,” said Dr. Brad Miller, Founder of Soccer Resilience.

“FYSA is committed to the comprehensive development of our athletes. By integrating Soccer Resilience’s mental training programs, we are reinforcing our dedication to the mental health and overall success of our players,” stated Daragh Cullen, President, Florida Youth Soccer Association.

This partnership is set to make a significant impact, providing young athletes with essential skills to succeed on and off the field. Soccer Resilience and FYSA look forward to a successful collaboration and the benefits it will bring to the soccer community.

About Soccer Resilience: Soccer Resilience offers innovative mental fitness courses designed by a clinical psychologist and MLS, NWSL, and USL professionals. The courses are tailored for players, coaches, and parents, focusing on resilience, mental well-being, and performance enhancement.

About Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA): Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is dedicated to promoting the growth and development of soccer in Florida. FYSA provides resources, support, and opportunities for players, coaches, and parents to advance the sport and foster a positive soccer experience.

FYSA Members – Stay tuned for a follow-up email next week with instructions on how to get started.

For more information about the online courses, please click the button below.

Media Contact:
Soccer Resilience
info@soccerresilience.com 

Chris Waugh
Director of Programs and Partnerships
Florida Youth Soccer Association
cwaugh@fysa.com 

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Orlando Pride & FYSA have teamed up to offer up to two (2) complimentary tickets to the Orlando Pride match on September 28th vs. Houston Dash! Tickets are courtesy and paid for by Hector Ledesma and Mary Teruya.

By claiming tickets and attending the match, you will receive a special offer for the Pride match on 10/6.

ALL TICKETS ARE GENERAL ADMISSION IN SECTIONS 131-137

Through this exclusive offer you will receive up to two (2) complimentary tickets. Additional tickets may be purchased at $10 per ticket

Complimentary Ticket Redemption Instructions:

1. Select the number of seats you need and add them to the cart

2. Check Out

3. Tickets will automatically be loaded into your Account Manager. The Account Manager link can be found here.

If you have any questions, please reach out to grouptix@orlandocitysc.com.

Venue

Orlando Pride
Inter&Co Stadium
655 W Church St
Orlando, FL, 32805, US

57 Florida Soccer Players Selected for Olympic Development Program Region Teams

In a significant achievement for youth soccer in the state, 57 talented players from Florida have been selected to join the Olympic Development Program (ODP) Region Teams. These players, representing various age groups, have demonstrated exceptional skills and dedication, earning them a spot on one of the most prestigious youth soccer platforms in the country.

ODP is designed to identify and develop the best soccer talent in the United States, offering players the opportunity to train and compete at a higher level. Making it to the Region Teams is a major milestone for these young athletes, as it places them on the radar of scouts and college recruiters.

The selection process was highly competitive, with hundreds of players from across the state vying for a limited number of spots. The chosen 57 players stood out for their technical abilities, tactical understanding, and overall potential to excel in the sport.

Below is the list of the selected players, along with their respective age groups:

2007 Boys
Matthew Wright
Julian Walby
William Kourakis
Alfredo Adrian Chan
Kaden Barela

2007 Girls
Morgan Weaver

2008 Boys
Tristan Fredrickson
Logan Tsopanoglou
Ian Stinnett
Raul Parnell
Carter Byrom
Derick Andrade

2009 Boys
Ryker Daily
Ethan Underwood
Kai Jonason
Landon Rhymer

2009 Girls
Anyah Ricketts
Carmen Trickey
Taylor Heaton
Fiona Foster
Camile Adame
Brooke Shefsky
Vivien Muchuruza
Brianna Burkhalter

2010 Boys
Marko Menjivar
Cooper Ball
Mason Ross
Lennox Alvarado
Ariel Pineda

2010 Girls
Kylie Ekra
Aziza Symmonds
Zoriah Jones

2011 Older Boys
Chase Cobb
Zyiden Hichri
Jackson Maxwell

2011 Older Girls
Soren Rogers
Blake Rabin
Fiona Mcmenemy-Hoang
Auribella Bergstrom
Emily Ortega
Ava Strauss

2011 Younger Boys
John Specnce
Geronimo Sola
Asher Lopez

2011 Younger Girls
Iara D’amore-Troupe
Kennedy Bethel

2012 Older Boys
Micah Reynolds

2012 Older Girls
Zara Graham
Margaret Alderman
Karis Edwards
Bella Kelley

2012 Younger Boys
Jason Mitchell
Jackson Brewer

2012 Younger Girls
Aubrey Shoaf-Levasseur
Malina Bunwat
Kylie Ecker
Alya Symmonds

The Florida youth soccer community is proud of these players’ achievements and looks forward to seeing their continued development and success on their ODP Region teams.

FYSA’s 50th AGM Rundown

Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) held its momentous 50th Annual General Meeting (AGM) August 2-4, 2024, at the JW Marriott in Grande Lakes, Orlando. The weekend was filled with inspiration, recognition, and celebration, marking five decades of dedication to the growth and development of youth soccer in Florida.

Cullen’s leadership is expected to guide FYSA through its next phase of growth, continuing the association’s commitment to fostering a positive environment for youth soccer in Florida.

In addition to Cullen, the Board of Directors includes: 

Secretary: Becky McLaren
Treasurer: Justin Goldman**
VP Admin & Communication: Mike Hyatt**
VP Competition: Olaf Henke
Registrar: Alice Smith
VP of Region A: Marino Torrens
Region A Commissioner – North: Russell Walker**
Region A Commissioner – South: Lance Lass
VP of Region B: Justin Lauer*
Region B Commissioner – North: Hugo Arce
Region B Commissioner – South: Moncef Hadiji
VP of Region C: David DiTillio
Region C Commissioner – North: Mike Callaway*
Region C Commissioner – South: Ed Kinsey
VP of Region D: Louis Richard**
Region D Commissioner – East: Melissa Alfrod**

*Indicates members elected at the 2024 AGM
**Indicates members re-elected at the 2024 AGM

This new leadership team brings a wealth of experience and a shared vision for the future of youth soccer in the state, promising to build on FYSA’s strong foundation and further its mission to serve its members.

To view the gallery from this event please click the button below