The American Youth Soccer Organization is the oldest national youth soccer program in the United States and a nonprofit. Our mission is to develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs throughout the country which promote a fun, family environment built on the foundation of our Six Philosophies.
Beginning with only nine teams and a handful of soccer enthusiasts, AYSO was established in 1964 out of a garage in Torrance, California. The goal was, and still is, to ensure that kids have the opportunity to be introduced to the beautiful game of soccer. More than 50 years later, AYSO now has thriving programs for kids and adults in nearly 900 communities all over the country as well as internationally in the Virgin Islands and Trinidad and Tobago. With over eight million AYSO alumni, we are a name that’s synonymous with excellence and recognized nationwide.
For more information and an overview of AYSO’s Six Philosophies, please visit https://ayso.org/our-history-mission-vision/
Our philosophies are pretty simple. Honestly, if you need a manual, you might be overthinking it—but just in case, here are a few quick explanations.
“Everyone Plays” means just that — every kid spends about the same amount of time on the field. We’re not running the World Cup here; no one’s riding the bench like an NBA rookie. If they’ve got shin guards on, they’re getting minutes!”
“Positive Coaching” means cheering kids on for what they do right instead of grumbling about what they miss. Think more high-fives, less sideline shouting—because kids play better when they feel like superheroes, not suspects.
“Good Sportsmanship” means we win with humility, lose with grace, and never blame the referee for needing glasses. Shake hands, play fair, and save the trash talk for Mario Kart.
Balanced Team Rules
Balanced teams in youth soccer are crucial for several reasons. First, they ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all players, fostering a positive and inclusive environment. Secondly, balanced teams allow for more competitive matches, promoting skill development and growth for each player. Lastly, a balanced team dynamic encourages teamwork and collaboration, teaching valuable life lessons that extend beyond the soccer field.
Springfield AYSO’s focus is on Player Development, Good Sportsmanship, and preventing ‘one-sided’ games. Let’s ensure that players and volunteers leaving the field, want to come back. Coaches, games with final scores like 0 to 6 are unacceptable for recreational soccer. Please make adjustments to ensure a better balance.
General Rules:
- All players should play at least half a game.
- All players should have the opportunity to play all positions at some point during the season.
- All players should play both a defensive and an offensive position in the same game if possible.
Balancing Rules:
- When the score is imbalanced by:
3 – losing team adds a defender
4 – winning team removes a forward
5 – losing team adds a defensive midfielder
6 – winning team removes a defender
- Additional balancing strategies:
- Shuffle scoring players into non-scoring positions.
- Non-dominant players are allowed to shoot on goal. Dominant players pass only.