The American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) is a national, non_profit organization which provides soccer development and instruction for children between the ages of 10 and 19 in all fifty states and some territories. AYSO is mostly run at local levels by volunteer coaches and referees, many of whom are parents or family of the youth they coach. The AYSO National office, which consists of 50 paid employees, is based in Hawthorne, California and provides programs for instruction of coaches and referees and child protection education to its volunteers. AYSO is affiliated with the United States Soccer Federation.

AYSO believes strongly in five basic philosophies: Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, & Good Sportsmanship. Over 50,000 teams and 650,000 players participate, supported by 250,000 volunteers. All players on a team should have the opportunity to play at least one half of every game. There are usually two seasons a year, and teams are often formed new each year so that all teams are roughly equal in skill and ability of players. Players are taught ethics of good teamwork and good character. AYSO has programs to encourage good sportsmanship not only among players and coaches, but also from fans and parents.

Sponsorship

For a random fact, Capri Sun is the "Official Beverage of the AYSO" as stated on their 10 pack box of the Capri Sun All Natural juice drink.

External links

• AYSO-The American Youth Soccer Association website (http://soccer.org)