Our Fall Core program is the foundation for all the fun, excitement and learning that happens on the fields. AYSO is best known for our core program – it’s where the large majority of kids fall in love with soccer and make memories that will last a lifetime.

There are six core values – or what we call AYSO’s Six Philosophies – that are the foundation of our programs: Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship and Player Development. These are the essence of AYSO.

In AYSO, teams are put together in a way that makes playing soccer about the experience, not wins or losses. It’s not about blowing out another team with an unbelievable score; it’s about sportsmanship and learning to be the best possible teammate and opponent. Developing players is what we’re about, because soccer skills and life skills go hand in hand. AYSO’s main purpose is to get kids on the field, provide them with great coaches, and teach them to play soccer.

REGISTER HERE

For the first two weeks of the season, sessions are led by trained First Touch Coaches, who model exactly how practices and scrimmages work. During this time, parents are encouraged to observe, participate, and get comfortable. After those first two weeks, the program transitions to parent volunteers, with each volunteer guiding a small team of six players.

No soccer or coaching experience is needed. Parent volunteers receive coach training through AYSO, which provides age-appropriate instruction, simple practice ideas, and clear expectations. You do not need to know the rules or design drills—the training and program structure are designed to help you succeed and feel confident.

Parent volunteers help organize players, set up the field, keep time, and gently guide scrimmages. While children are playing, volunteers interfere as little as possible, stepping in only when needed—for safety, substitutions, confusion, or the occasional moment of distraction that naturally comes with this age.

The 5U program is non-competitive. Goals are not tracked, and every player is successful simply by participating. The emphasis is on fun, exploration, and building confidence with the ball. Children wear jerseys or pinnies, cleats, and shin guards, and they leave the field feeling proud and excited to play again. The post-game tunnel will be the highlight of the day!

Volunteering in the 5U program is a supported experience—not a solo responsibility. With AYSO training, First Touch guidance, and help from other parents, you’ll have everything you need. Your encouragement and involvement make a meaningful difference in your child’s first soccer experience.