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This may be the best year of our (soccer) lives!

By Chris Branscome Chief Executive Officer, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

IT’S NO SECRET, AND I’VE CERTAINLY BEEN TALKING

about it nonstop to every person at every event I go to. The FIFA World Cup is coming to Philadelphia in 2026! I never get tired of saying it or hearing it.

This is perhaps the most incredible moment in our local and national soccer history. We were a very different soccer country in 1994. The event exceeded the buildup. The US Men exceeded expectations as well with a knockout round appearance vs Brazil on the 4th of July. The ’94 Cup was then quickly followed by the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta (first women’s soccer tournament and the USA’s first gold), then the hosting of the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which the US dramatically won in penalties over China. Philadelphia did step in in 2003 when the Women’s event had to be quickly moved from China. Our city and our state association provided a rapid response and pulled off a great event.

Twenty years have passed. Soccer has matured greatly. We’ve hosted numerous international games throughout Eastern Pennsylvania. We’ve gone from hosting the USWNT at our local high schools to setting the attendance record at the Linc in 2019 with nearly 50,000 fans. The Premier League makes regular stops at the Linc, and of course the Philadelphia Union has given us 15 seasons and a soccer specific stadium in Chester. It’s been wonderful, but I’m telling you we will pack thirty years of experiences into one awesome year. And it all starts now!

As the Touchline hits homes, the FIFA Club World Cup will have begun. Philadelphia will host eight matches in June featuring Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Flamengo and Juventus. An unbelievable line up over a year, let alone three weeks. At the same time the CONCACAF Gold Cup begins play, mostly on the west coast, with our USMNT seven-time champions who will be led by coach Mauricio Pochettino. As I hope you’ve been studying the team in the lead up, there is a very large Eastern PA stamp on the current USMNT- Matt Freese, Quinn Sullivan, Auston Trusty and Zack Steffan, along with several players from the Union. There is no doubt Eastern Pennsylvania clubs produce some of the best players in the country.

Of course, we are the host of the 2025 US Youth Soccer Presidents Cup. 120 championship teams from the region will come to town for the annual tournament. It’s an honor to showcase our teams here at home, in front of their families and fans, but also to showcase our facilities, hotels and people. The President’s Cup is a huge event for Montgomery County and further shows how “soccer tourism” creates an incredible amount of economic impact for the state- all because of the great jobs of our clubs and partners putting on these events each year. For sure, our elected officials are taking notice of the power of our sport!

In January, Philadelphia once again plays host to the United Soccer Coaches Convention- the largest gathering of its kind in the United States. We always set attendance records when the convention comes here. More information is to come, but our community will be called on to serve and hold our place as the number one site for the event.

And then the games will be here. June 14th at Lincoln Financial Field will be the first ever FIFA Men’s World Cup match played in Philadelphia. There will be celebrations and watch parties throughout the state. We close the event here on Independence Day, July 4th, 2026. But we can’t let it end then. It’s our combined responsibility to take advantage of this. Working along with Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the local organizer of the Cup, we will be defining our legacy from 2026. There will be some field construction, and some programming grants awarded. But the biggest opportunity for us to leave a legacy is to grow the game, not just in the number of kids playing it, but to grow a love of the game too. Let’s do our absolute best to develop a long-lasting love for soccer with today’s kids, so that they can do the same for the next generation. If we do that for kids today, imagine what they’ll do for the next generation.

SNEAK PEAK

PUBLISHED BY:

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

4070 Butler Pike, Suite 100

Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462

Phone: 610-238-9966

Fax: 610-238-9933

E-mail: info@EPYSA.org

Website: EPYSA.org

EXECUTIVE BOARD

President - Lennie Brown

First Vice PresidentMelissa Murphy Weber

Second Vice PresidentBill Fuller

Treasurer- Jim Brown

SecretaryBill Ross

At-Large - Jim Christian

At-Large - John Mickle

State Youth Referee

Administrator - Jeff Tener

District 1 CommissionerJeff Tener

District 2 CommissionerRachel Gallegos

District 3 CommissionerGary Blockus

District 4 CommissionerEric McKitish

District 5 CommissionerScott Merritt

District 6 CommissionerPhil Frederick

OFFICE STAFF

Chief Executive Officer –Chris Branscome

Chief Operating Officer –Kelly Connor

Technical Director –Gary Stephenson

Assistant Technical Director –Fernando Carrizo

Assistant Technical Director –Anna-Kate DePaolo

Director of Operations –Leo Kelly

Director of Registration Services –Meghan Petroski

Grassroots Soccer Manager –JT Dorsey

Outreach/Grassroots Soccer Specialist –Mallory O’Riordan

State Cup Manager –David Jones

Director of Communications –Morgan Weindel

Director of Marketing & Events –Karly Kaminsky

TOUCHLINE

Editor-in-Chief –Chris Branscome

Editors – Catie Branscome, Morgan Weindel, Karly Kaminsky

Photography – Catie Branscome, Joe Tacynec

Chris Branscome Chief Executive Officer, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

Gianni Infantino President, FIFA

SCORE EXTRA SAVINGS

Pre Season PREP

1 Find Your Gear

Before your season starts, take time to find, clean, and organize your soccer gear. This means making sure your cleats still fit, finding your shin guards or socks, and getting your practice and game jerseys ready. If your bag has been sitting in the garage all summer, give everything a quick check to make sure it’s in good shape.

Have a few favorite or must-have items like pre-wrap, tape, or a lucky water bottle? Make sure those are packed too! Feeling prepared helps you feel confident, and your confidence will show on the field!

A new season brings new goals, new teammates, and plenty of excitement. Whether you plan to train all summer or take a well-deserved break, there are a few simple steps you can take to make sure you’re ready when the season starts. Here’s a quick checklist to get you organized, feel confident, and be fully ready when it’s time to step on the field.

2 Drink Your Water

Hydration is one of the most overlooked and most important parts of getting ready for any sport. If you plan to spend your summer relaxing in the A/C, your hydration habits might slip a little bit.

Remember to drink water consistently throughout the day, not just during practice. Bring a reusable water bottle with you everywhere and anywhere you go! On hot days, especially during the summer, it’s important to hydrate before, during, and after practices!

3 Get Your Touches In

You don’t need to do a full training session every single day during the summer – just start playing. Kick around in the backyard, pass with a sibling or friend in the park, or juggle while watching TV. Every touch helps your feet (and brain) get back in sync with the ball.

If you have cones or training equipment, great! If not, get creative –use a water bottle as a cone, or a wall as your passing partner. The goal isn’t to be perfect. The goal is to wake up your muscle memory and build your comfort back with the ball.

4 Know Your Schedule

Being prepared off the field helps everything go smoother on it. Check with your coach or club to make sure you know the dates and times for practices, games, and team events. Put them on a calendar (yes, even if your parents use one too). Knowing where to be and when to be there shows maturity and helps your team stay on track.

It’s also important to communicate. If you are going to be late or have a conflict, let your coach know ahead of time. Good communication is a key part of being a great teammate.

5 Let’s Focus

Soccer is just as much of a mental game as it is physical. Take a few minutes to reflect on the kind of player you want to be this season. Are you aiming to be more vocal on the field? Focused during training? A better teammate? Whatever your goals, thinking about them now helps you show up with the intention from day one.

This is also a great time to reconnect with your teammates – make a group chat and get excited for the season. A strong bond with your teammates off the pitch can translate into improved communication, collaboration, and overall performance on the field. Grab your teammates and watch some soccer, whether it’s professional games or your own game highlights, and mentally get back into “game mode.”

You’ve got your gear, your mindset, your hydration and your touches in motion. Now all that’s left to do is show up and give it your best! Let’s go!

Summer Shopping Guide Summer Shopping Guide

Whether you’re a seasoned soccer parent or just getting started with your child’s soccer journey, having the right gear makes a big difference. From training tools to game-day essentials, this guide is designed to help players sharpen their skills, stay comfortable, and show love for the sport along the way. We’ve rounded up some of the best products for performance, play, and style—so you’re ready to hit the field (or the backyard) with confidence.

SKILL

CFR-1 Rebounder

• Stay sharp in the off-season! Great for improving first touch, reaction time, and goalie reflexes.

BASED FOR FUN

Hydro Flask 24 oz

Standard Mouth with Sport Cap

• Stay hydrated in style.

• Pro tip: Add stickers of your favorite team!

Kwik Goal Mini

Soccer Tennis Net

• Fun backyard game or 1v1 training tool to boost your first touch. Great for practice or downtime.

JellyCat Soccer Ball charm

• Add personality to your soccer bag or school backpack—cute and sporty!

Kwik Goal Agility Ladder

• Ideal for pre-season footwork and agility exercise

• Pro tip: Train with a friend—have them toss a ball at the end to boost goalie reaction time.

A Jersey

• Show support for your favorite Club World Cup team this summer.

GAME READY

Luna II Pro

• Good cleats for all surfaces

Nike Flex Classic

Headbands

6 Pack

• Keep hair in place on game day.

• Pro tip: Match your headband to your kit for extra style.

From improving footwork and reaction time to expressing team pride, the right soccer gear can elevate the experience for both players and parents. Whether you’re preparing for the next big match or just enjoying the game, this buyer’s guide covers all the must-haves to stay game-ready all season long. Here’s to sharper skills, more smiles, and a stylish season on and off the pitch!

BEYOND THE BASICS

Every coach brings their own style to the sidelines but there are a few essentials that every great coach carries with them, both literally and figuratively. From mindset to must-haves, here’s a rundown of the tools, habits, and values that help build strong teams and stronger leaders.

1. A Coaching Philosophy:

When you know what you stand for, decision-making becomes clearer. Your philosophy becomes your compass and your culture-builder, setting the foundation of the environment you want to create for your players.

2. Knowledge of the Game:

From tactics to technique, a coach’s understanding of the game lays the foundation for everything. You don’t need to know it all—but you do need to keep learning, adapting, and seeing the game clearly.

3. Clipboard, Notepad, or Tablet:

Whether you’re tracking player minutes, jotting down adjustments, reviewing film, or sharing team notes with parents, having something in hand keeps you organized and professional.

4. Soccer Equipment:

Balls, cones, pinnies—it’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. Good sessions need the right tools, and being prepared shows your players you take their development seriously.

5. Whistle and Watch: Literal tools, yes—but they represent structure and timing, two cornerstones of an effective session. Even the simple stuff matters.

6. Activities and Planning Materials:

The best coaches have a plan. Having a library of activities, sessions, and seasonal structures gives you confidence, clarity, and the ability to adjust on the fly.

7. A Coaching Journal or Tracker:

From documenting sessions, player progress, ideas, and reflections helps you stay organized and intentional. It becomes a roadmap of growth for both the coach and the team.

8. First Aid Kit: You might not be the trainer, but basic safety knowledge and access to supplies is part of being responsible for your players’ well-being.

9. Support System: Whether it’s your assistant coach, your partner, your mentor, or your friends—you need people in your corner. Coaching is better when you’re not doing it alone.

10. Passion for the Game & Coaching:

The passion has to be real. Love for the process, the people, and the purpose is what keeps you going through the long days, hard losses, and quiet wins no one else sees.

Community First, Champions Next Phoenixville’s Season to Remember

FOR OVER 50 YEARS,

Phoenixville Area Soccer Club has quietly worked to grow the game in its town. This spring, the work paid off in a big way. The club made history by winning three State Cup championships, the most it’s ever claimed in a single season.

It was a season of firsts and records. Five teams reached the semifinals, another club best, and Phoenixville took home its first ever Presidents Cup title. The titles came from teams in some of the state’s most competitive age groups: U10, U11, and U13. For a club built from the ground up, with rosters made up almost entirely of homegrown players, this success reflects years of steady growth and deep community investment.

“I just think overall the cool thing about these teams that won, and really about many of our teams, is it was built from the bottom up within our community,” said Mike Carney, President of Phoenixville Area Soccer Club.

“I would say 80 to 90 percent of all three of these teams started in our rec program, played in our rec program, and then came into travel,” Ryan Gottier, Executive Director for Phoenixville Area Soccer Club, added.

Phoenixville’s roots run deep. The club was founded in 1969 by a Yugoslavian immigrant and steelworker and has served as a soccer home for generations ever since. Ask around town and odds are someone will tell you they played for the club or coached it.

“You go to a township meeting or to the grocery store and grandparents are stopping you and saying that their kid used to play or they used to coach in the club,” Gottier said. “It’s definitely had an important role in fostering interest in the sport within the community.”

The community spirit is still the backbone of the club, even as it’s grown in size and competitiveness. Over the last five years, Phoenixville has ramped up its investment in coaching education, player development, and club-wide curriculum. But it’s done so without losing its identity. Most of the athletes on these title-winning teams started in the club’s recreational program before moving up through the ranks.

“It’s been built slowly, intentionally,” said Carney. “This didn’t happen overnight.”

Behind every training session and game day is an army of volunteers, coaches, board members, and team managers, who make the club’s mission possible.

“There’s a lot that happens behind the scenes to just allow one single soccer game to happen,” Gottier said. “We still rely heavily on volunteers, and that’s by design. It keeps us connected to the community.”

The club also leans on community-focused programs: free after-school soccer at the local elementary school, scholarships for both rec and travel players, and partnerships to support Phoenixville’s large Latinx population.

“We’re trying to make soccer accessible and meaningful for everyone in this town,” said Gottier.

And while the trophies are a welcome sign of progress, they’re not the end of the goal.

“It’s great to win State Cups and it’s great to win in general,” Gottier said. “The goal though is, can we create an awesome experience rooted in our community in which we’re maximizing development?”

“It’s not like, hey, we did all these awesome things this year,” Carney added. “It was coming, you know. And it was built over time.”

That steady build isn’t just about wins and titles. It reflects the club’s commitment to doing things the right way, with the right people, for the right reasons.

“We feel strongly in the value of youth soccer to enhance the holistic development of children as we strive to make a positive impact within the community,” said Gottier. “While these cup wins certainly validate the work being done by an excellent staff of coaches, directors, board members, and volunteers, we will continue to strive to enhance the experience we can provide for boys and girls of all ages within both recreational and competitive programming at PASC.”

For Phoenixville, this season is a milestone—not a finish line.

ARE PROUD SPONSORS OF THE PHILADELPHIA UNION

ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE PACK WITH A SIGNED JERSEY AND GAME TICKETS!

SCAN TO ENTER

2025 STATE CUP

FROM 2-2 TO TITLE NO. 4

IN THE U15 BOYS FINAL, HUNTINGDON VALLEY ATHLETICS ASSOCIATION STINGERS 2010 AND LIGHTHOUSE SC FORCE battled to a 2-2 draw, with HVAA clinching the title 4-3 on penalties. The win marked one of a club-record four State Cup championships for HVAA this year.

BOARD CERTIFIED CHAMPIONS

THE U13 GIRLS FROM NORTH UNION UNITED SC 12F STRIKERS earned a hard-fought 1-0 win over FC Europa 2012 Girls G1 in the Presidents Cup final—then took their rightful place at the 2025 Board of Champions.

GRINS, GOALS, GLORY

THE TOWAMENCIN TORNADOES cruised to a 3-0 win over Western Lehigh United SC 2006/2007 U19 Girls – Missmer. The Tornadoes sealed their championship moment in style—medals in hand, and smiles all around.

BRINGING SOCCER TO EVERY KID What Grow the Game Festivals Are All

NOT EVERY CHILD HAS EASY ACCESS to soccer in Eastern Pennsylvania. Financial challenges, transportation issues, or simply no nearby leagues or tournaments can prevent children from playing the game we love. That’s where Grow the Game Festivals come in.

These one-day events are all about fun, community, and making soccer more accessible, especially in areas that don’t have access to many resources. There’s no pressure, no travel, and no high costs. Just a chance for kids to play the game they love in their own neighborhood, with their friends and families cheering them on from the sidelines.

About

smiles and pure soccer joy. Just a few weeks later, we brought the same energy to Reading on May 17, complete with giveaways, games and families enjoying the day together. Then, on May 31, Harrisburg wrapped up the month with another day of community and fun! These festivals prove what’s possible when we show up for our communities and meet players where they are.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer works hand-in-hand with local clubs to make these events possible. We help cover some costs, provide equipment, and offer a simple event plan that clubs can follow to create an awesome experience for everyone involved.

UPCOMING FESTIVALS

We’re excited to keep the momentum going with more Grow the Game Festivals this summer. These free, fun-filled events are open to all and a great way to get out, play, and connect with your local soccer community. Check out the upcoming dates and locations below! Bring a friend, bring your cleats (or sneakers), and come join the fun!

West Philly

Saturday, July 12

10 A.M.-4 P.M.

Lee Cultural Center 4328 Haverford Ave, Philadelphia PA 19104

North Philly

Saturday, August 16

10 A.M. - 4 P.M. 6201 Torresdale Ave, Philadelphia PA 19104

This spring, that mission came to life in Lebanon, Reading, and Harrisburg. On May 2, more than 100 kids turned out in Lebanon for a full day of small-sided games, laughs,

At the end of the day, it’s more than just soccer. Grow the Game Festivals are about showing up for our communities and giving every child a chance to play, grow, and fall in love with the game.

Southwest Philly

Saturday, September 6

3-7 P.M.

7600 Lindbergh Blvd, Philadelphia PA 19176

Early Intervention services helping children with developmental delays and disabilities achieve goals and meet milestones

Topgolf King Of Prussia

Learn more or get involved AT June 26th~ 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Tournament Play ~ Open Bar

Buffet ~ Gift Bags

Exceptional Care For Young Athletes

London (2012/13 Girls)

Emmy L.

Manchester (2012/13 Boys)

Chase M.

Tottenham tour. Favorite snack or food you’ve tried on the trip?: Chicken tacos from food truck outside of Tower of London.

Milan/Turin (2010/11 Boys)

Connor H.

Getting to tour the soccer stadiums and getting to be up close to the pitches.

Favorite snack or food you’ve tried on the trip?: Authentic Fish and Chips.

What’s the coolest thing you did or saw while over there?: The coolest thing I saw was the Sforzesco Castle. How has this experience helped you grow as a player?: I learned new tactics, and met new players while I was in Italy.

Milan/Turin (2010/11 Girls) Emmelia L.

What’s the coolest thing you did or saw while over there?: The Cathedral.What was your favorite moment on the trip?: Going to Lake Como.

Athlete

MIA R.

Age: 12

What’s your favorite position to play and why?: Defense, it’s so fun to shut down the goals. And I love being tough in the back.

BUILD YOUR DREAM SOCCER TEAM

Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer

Right Back: Sergio Ramos

Center Back: Virgil van Dijk

Center Back: Lillian Thurman

Left Back: Rio Ferdinand

Defensive Midfielder: Neymar

Central Midfielder: Diego Maradona

Central Midfielder: N’Golo Kanté

Right Winger: Péle

Striker: Lionel Messi

Left Winger: Luis Suarez

KOEN K.

Age: 10

Who’s your soccer idol?: I love Luka Modric. He is so much fun to watch. His vision, creativity and amazing technical skills. His passes are always perfect.

What’s your favorite soccer memory so far?: Volleying the ball out of the air on a corner kick and scoring top bins.

Get to Know Your Soccer Peers

LUCY F.

Age: 15

What’s your go-to pregame song?: My go-to pregame song is Hey-Ya by OutKast-it gets me very pumped up!

Do you have any pre-game superstitions?: If I don’t warm up good, then I won’t have a good game (I also always wear my hair in a bun for good luck )

LOGAN H.

Age: 13

If you could play for any professional team, which one would it be and why?: Manchester City, I would love to learn from Pep.

What’s the best advice a coach has ever given you?: My coach said to focus on the things that I can control.

Spot the 7 differences between photo A and B.

MADNESS IN PHILADELPHIA

FILL IN THE BLANKS FIRST, THEN READ THE STORY!

FILL IN THE BLANKS

1. Adjective: ____________________

2. Plural noun: ____________________

3. Verb ending in -ing: ____________________

4. Silly word: ____________________

5. Famous soccer player: ____________________

6. Type of animal: ____________________

7. Verb: ____________________

8. Place: ____________________

9. Number: ____________________

10. Adjective: ____________________

11. Sound effect: ____________________

12. Favorite snack: ____________________

13. Emotion: ____________________

14. Team name: ____________________

15. Adjective: ____________________

WRITE IT OUT

This year’s Club World Cup is going to be (1)_______________! Teams from all over the world are bringing their best (2) to Philadelphia this June. The stadium is packed with fans (3)_______________ and shouting “(4)_______________!”

Today, the superstar (5)_______________ scored an epic goal by kicking the ball like a (6)_______________ doing a cartwheel! The whole crowd jumped up to (7)_______________ in celebration. Even the mayor of (8)_______________ came to watch the match and brought (9)_______________ vuvuzelas (horns)!

The final game was so (10)_______________, everyone held their breath until the last (11)_______________. When the final whistle blew, fans threw (12)_______________ in the air and hugged each other with (13)_______________ joy.

In the end, (14)_______________ lifted the trophy high in the sky. It was a truly (15)_______________ day for soccer lovers everywhere!

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is excited to launch a new section of Touchline celebrating the creativity of our youth soccer community!

PROTECTING THE GAME

NEW POLICY TAKES AIM AT REFEREE ABUSE

In March 2025, U.S. Soccer put new rules in place to help make the game safer and more enjoyable for everyone- including referees.

WHAT CHANGED?

Referees are essential to soccer, but too often, they face verbal or even physical abuse from players, coaches, and fans. To stop this, U.S. Soccer updated its Referee Abuse Prevention Policy (Policy 531-9). The goal is simple: protect refs, set clear expectations, and hold people accountable for bad behavior.

WHAT DOES THE NEW POLICY SAY?

• Abuse of any kind is not okay. That includes yelling, threatening, or making physical contact with a referee.

• Stronger penalties are now in place. Depending on the situation, suspension could last for a number of games or even months.

• Everyone has a role. That means players, coaches, and parents can, and should, report referee abuse if they see it happen.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

• Learn what counts as abuse so you can avoid it

• Speak up when you see someone cross the line

• Be a role model for good sportsmanship, on and off the field.

Referees make the game possible. By supporting them, we’re supporting the future of soccer. Whether you’re a player, coach, or parent on the sidelines, your actions set the tone. Let’s lead with respect, keep the focus on the game, and create an environment where everyone, especially our refs, feels safe, valued, and empowered to keep coming back.