About

ABOUT AYSO REGION 93

Springfield AYSO, Region 93, is a part of the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), which has been providing a world-class youth soccer program for more than fifty years. Every year, Springfield AYSO hosts two seasons in the Spring and in the Fall. Practices are held at various schools throughout the Springfield area, and games are ALWAYS on Saturday, and ALWAYS at Thurston Middle School (TMS).

Why Choose AYSO?

Core AYSO Philosophies

• Springfield AYSO is rooted in the nationally recognized Six Philosophies:
  • Everyone Plays®
  • Balanced Teams
  • Open Registration
  • Positive Coaching
  • Good Sportsmanship
  • Player Development
• Our focus is on inclusivity, fair play, and personal growth over competition. Every child gets game time, teams are balanced by skill, and registration is open to all.

Preschool Program

• The program includes a structured Preschool Program for children aged 3 to 5 that focuses on building fundamental motor skills in a non-competitive, parent-involved environment. Sessions are about 40-50 minutes, held on Saturdays, held at Thurston Middle School, and include equipment like a ball and uniform.
• This mirrors AYSO’s national Playground Soccer Program, which emphasizes motor skill development and parent bonding rather than competition.

Safety & Standards

• Safe Haven: Every AYSO volunteer must complete annual applications, background checks, and specific child-safety training. A designated Child and Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA) oversees these efforts locally.
• Kids Zone: A positive sideline initiative that encourages respectful and supportive behavior from parents and sideline attendees, reinforcing a safe and welcoming atmosphere.

Cost-Conscious and Supportive

• Fees for U6 through U12 range from $85–$105, plus a $25 AYSO membership. Uniforms cost extra (or are included for preschool), and a $25 Oregon Trail Card discount is available for qualifying families. Payment plans are offered, and limited scholarships and equipment assistance are available to ensure access for all.

Convenient Logistics

• All games are played on Saturdays in Springfield, which provides consistency and convenience for families.
• Games for U12 and under are held at Thurston Middle School, and several local elementary and middle schools host practices, emphasizing community integration and ease of access.

Is AYSO right for you?

Level of Competition

• AYSO is recreational at its core. Every player is guaranteed playing time, teams are balanced by skill, and the focus is on development and fun.
• If your child is highly skilled, very driven, or seeking a competitive pathway (e.g., state cup, college recruiting, ECNL/GA exposure), AYSO may feel too casual

Volunteer-Based

• All AYSO teams are coached and refereed by parent volunteers with varying soccer knowledge. While many get training through AYSO, the coaching level is inconsistent compared to professional/paid coaches in club programs.
• Families who want consistently advanced coaching or game officiating may prefer a club environment.

Shorter Seasons & Training

• AYSO runs in seasonal sessions (fall and spring), with one or two practices per week plus Saturday games.
• Serious players often need more training, year-round play, and higher intensity — something AYSO doesn’t provide.

No Travel or Advanced Leagues

• All games are local. That’s a perk for convenience, but players miss the experience of traveling to compete against tougher opponents in other regions.
• Families looking for broader competition may find AYSO limiting.

Uniformity Over Specialization

• Because AYSO emphasizes balanced teams, standout players aren’t always grouped with others at their level.
• Stronger players may feel held back, while those needing extra support may not get as much individual focus.

AYSO runs on volunteer power

This means registered volunteers run the local AYSO programs all over the country. Additionally, our National Board of Directors, National President, as well as every coach, referee, and Regional Commissioner – the list goes on – is a volunteer. When registering your child, it’s important to know we cannot operate without enough volunteers, so consider how you can help keep AYSO going!

Game Day Reports

Anyone can submit a Game Day Report. If you see something, say something. It could be someone doing a job, going above and beyond–or where there’s room for improvement. Every submission is reviewed by the board and we will reach out if requested or if the submission requires more information.

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