Touchline Winter 2025-26

PENNSYLVANIA’S LEADING YOUTH SOCCER PUBLICATION

WINTER 2025-2026

ATHLETE

Q&A’S

United Soccer

COACHES CONVENTION

FROM THE LENS

Team USA

Philadelphia’s 2026 FIFA World Cup™ Match Lineup

RESPECT THE CALL

the

A New Age Group Cycle

Ultimate

Soccer

WISHLIST Soccer Themed Mashup Game

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Reflecting on 2025 & Looking Forward to 2026

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

City Winery February 2026

Learn more or get involved

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of City Winery in Philadelphia’s Fashion District. Tickets will be available in early January.

Scan the QR code to learn more

www.easterseals-sepa.org

Join Subaru, Philadelphia-area Subaru retailers, and the Philadelphia Union to get more kids in the game.

1 in 2 families involved in sports struggle to afford it.

Donate new or gently used soccer gear to help more kids fall in love with the game.

Donate gear and enter for a chance to win* unforgettable experiences: A trip to the 2026 MLS All-Star Weekend VIP access to a 2026 Union home match Travel to a 2026 Union away game Exclusive visit to the Union broadcast booth Get involved Now – April 3, 2026 Accepted Gear: Soccer Balls, Cleats, Goalie Gloves, Shin Guards, Socks, Shorts

philadelphiaunion.com/subarugearforgood *No donation or purchase necessary to win.

Reflecting on 2025 & Looking Forward to 2026 By the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Staff

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he holidays offer a perfect moment to pause, look back, and appreciate the incredible year our soccer community has shared. From league play and tournaments to ODP, coaching education, State Cup, Indoor Cup, and all moments between, Eastern Pennsylvania continued to shine because of the people who bring the game to life every day. Your commitment, passion, and support are what make our soccer community so strong and so special.

As we look ahead, 2026 already feels like a turning point. It will be a year unlike anything our region has ever experienced. With the FIFA World Cup coming to Philadelphia and the excitement growing across the state, the months ahead promise new opportunities for players, coaches, families, and fans. Our programs and initiatives will continue to expand as we help prepare the next generation for a moment that will inspire millions.

Thank you for being part of our community and for everything you do to grow the game. We wish you a happy and healthy holiday season and cannot wait to step into 2026 together.

CREDITS 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 President Melissa Murphy Weber Second Vice President Bill Fuller Treasurer- Jim Brown Secretary Bill Ross At-Large - Jim Christian At-Large - John Mickle State Youth Referee Administrator - Jeff Tener District 1 Commissioner Jeff Tener District 2 Commissioner Rachel Gallegos District 3 Commissioner Gary Blockus District 4 Commissioner Eric McKitish District 5 Commissioner Scott Merritt District 6 Commissioner Phil 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 Director of Soccer Development – JT Dorsey Outreach/Grassroots Soccer Specialist – Mallory O’Riordan Director of Competitions – David Jones Director of Communications – Morgan Weindel Director of Marketing & Events – Karly Kaminsky TOUCHLINE Editor-in-Chief – Chris Branscome Editors – Catie Branscome, Morgan Weindel Photography – Catie Branscome

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2026 WORLD CUP

Philadelphia’s 2026 FIFA World Cup™ Match Lineup PHILADELPHIA IS SET FOR an unforgettable stretch as the FIFA World Cup arrives in the city this summer. Lincoln Financial Field will host six matches, bringing global fanbases, top-tier talent, and a level of international attention to our region. For one month, South Philly becomes a meeting point for cultures from around the world and a showcase of how passionate this city can be.

The matchups bring a wide mix of styles and storylines.

Ivory Coast, Ecuador, Ghana, Curaçao, and Haiti are known for vibrant supporter cultures and high-energy atmospheres, while Brazil, France and Croatia deliver global star power and some of the most accomplished players in the sport. Each match is expected to draw massive

crowds and transform match days into citywide celebrations.

With kickoff times spanning afternoon and evening windows, fans will experience everything from sunny summer tailgates to high intensity matches under the lights.

Philadelphia has long been recognized as a major soccer hub, and this tournament offers another chance to highlight the strength of the sport in our area. Youth players will have the opportunity to see FIFA World Cup-level soccer in their own backyard, and local communities will feel the impact of the global event throughout the month. The excitement peaks on July 4, when Lincoln Financial Field hosts a Round of 16 match on one of the biggest days of the year.

FIFA WORLD CUP SCHEDULE IN PHILADELPHIA Round of 16

JUNE 14

JUNE 19

JUNE 22

JUNE 25

JUNE 27

JULY 4

Côte d’Ivoire vs Ecuador

Brazil vs Haiti

France vs Playoff Winner 2

Curaçao vs Côte d’Ivoire

Croatia vs Ghana

TBD vs TBD

4 P.M. ET

5 P.M. ET

5 P.M. ET

Bolivia Suriname Iraq

7 P.M. ET

9 P.M. ET

5 P.M. ET

ALL GAME S PLAYE D AT

Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia, PA 6

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

epysa.org

AG E G R OU P C H A RT

A New Age Group Cycle US Youth Soccer, AYSO, and US Club Soccer have announced a new age-group cycle beginning Fall 2026.

Here’s everything parents should know.

S

tarting in Fall 2026, youth soccer will shift to a new August 1-July 31 age-group cycle.

This change was made together by US Youth Soccer, AYSO, and US Club Soccer, with the direction and guidance of U.S. Soccer, to better align with the school year and create a more consistent, easy to understand structure for families.

Why the Change is Happening Right now, age groups are based on the calendar year, which can place teammates in different brackets than their classmates. The new August to July structure means players will more often compete alongside friends and peers from school.

It also reflects how most youth sports are organized by school grade or graduation year, helping simplify things for families involved in multiple activities.

The updated timeline also reduces the number of players caught in “in-between” age groups who need to move up unexpectedly. Aligning more closely with the school calendar makes team formation smoother for players, coaches, and clubs across the country.

What Families Can Expect

Nothing changes for the 2025-26 season. Teams and age groups will continue to follow the current January 1-December 31 format for one more year.

Clubs will begin transitioning during tryouts in 2026, and the new cycle will take full effect beginning Fall 2026.

Many players will stay with the same teammates they play with now, and clubs will communicate any updates in advance. The updated cycle will apply across all major national programs, including the National Championship Series, Presidents Cup, and National League.

A Positive Step for Everyone

This shared decision unites the country’s leading youth soccer organizations under one clear structure and reflects a coordinated effort guided

by U.S. Soccer. Families can expect less confusion, easier registration, and teams that better match the school communities players are already part of.

It’s an exciting step toward a more connected, consistent, and player focused youth soccer experience.

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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FALL 2026 AGE CHART 6U

August 1, 2020 - July 31, 2021

7U

August 1, 2019 - July 31, 2020

8U

August 1, 2018 - July 31, 2019

9U

August 1, 2017 - July 31, 2018

10U

August 1, 2016 - July 31, 2017

11U

August 1, 2015 - July 31, 2016

12U

August 1, 2014 - July 31, 2015

13U

August 1, 2013 - July 31, 2014

14U

August 1, 2012 - July 31, 2013

15U

August 1, 2011 - July 31, 2012

16U

August 1, 2010 - July 31, 2011

17U

August 1, 2009 - July 31, 2010

18U

August 1, 2008 - July 31, 2009

19U

August 1, 2007 - July 31, 2008

World-Renowned Orthopedics & Sports Medicine for Kids We were one of the first pediatric orthopedic programs in the country — and we’re still recognized as one of the best.

We help young athletes get back into the games they love, with individualized care plans to treat any type of sports-related health issue and meet each child’s specific goals.

Six Convenient Locations Across the Delaware Valley Nemours Children’s Hospital 1600 Rockland Road Wilmington, DE 19803

Glen Mills 101 Applied Bank Boulevard Suite 11 Glen Mills, PA 19342

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Deptford 1280 Almonesson Road Deptford, NJ 08096

Malvern 30 Worthington Boulevard Malvern, PA 19355

Ranked in the Top 10 Nationally

Call 800.416.4441 or visit Nemours.org to learn more.

© 2025. The Nemours Foundation. Nemours Children’s Health® is a registered trademark of The Nemours Foundation. All rights reserved. MC20474 (10/25)

S O C C E R FA N D O M

FROM THE LENS

Our readers captured the passion, pride, and unforgettable energy of cheering on the USMNT and USWNT. From big game moments to celebrations at home and in the stands, these fan photos show the incredible spirit behind Team USA.

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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BUILD YOUR GAME Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Camp 2026

From July 12 to 16, 2026, campers aged 9–15 will gather at Bryn Athyn College for a week of soccer training, skill-building, and summer fun.

• • • • • • •

CAMP HIGHLIGHTS

Daily sessions with U.S. Soccer Federation-licensed coaches and the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Technical Staff Technical development and tactical awareness for all skill levels Confidence-building and performance-focused training habits Resident and commuter options Yoga, futsal, street soccer, backyard sports, and guest speaker sessions Supportive environment that fosters growth on and off the field A pathway to ODP tryouts

CAMP FAST FACTS DATES: July 12–16, 2026 AGES: 9–15 LOCATION: Bryn Athyn College FORMAT: Resident and commuter options TRAINING: Daily sessions with U.S. Soccer Federation-licensed coaches and the EPYS Technical Staff FOCUS AREAS: Technical skills, tactical development, confidence, performance habits OFF-FIELD ACTIVITIES: Yoga, arts and crafts, guest speakers, and special sessions with coaches and players

Early bird special for registration begins on December 22!

EPYSA.ORG/CAMP-2026

Quarterly Calendar JANUARY Jan. 2-5 Jan. 4 Jan. 4-Mar. 8 Jan. 10 Jan. 14-17 Jan. 17-18 Jan. 24-25 Jan. 30-Feb. 1 Jan. 31-Feb. 1 Jan.-Feb.

FEBRUARY Jan.-Feb. Jan. 30-Feb. 1 Jan. 31-Feb. 1 Feb. 7 Feb. 14-15 Feb 27 Feb. 28 ---

MARCH

Mar. 15-May 17 Mar. 29-Apr. 6 Mar. 28 ---

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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ODP at Far West Championships – Mesa, AZ Grassroots In-Person 7v7 – Phoenixville, PA U.S. Soccer National D License – West Chester, PA All Female Grassroots In-Person 9v9 – Philadelphia, PA United Soccer Coaches Convention – Philadelphia, PA ODP In-House Play Day – Palmyra, PA Indoor Cup Grassroots In-Person 11v11 - Media, PA Indoor Cup ODP Boys & Girls Regional Players at USYS ODP Interregional Event, Florida ODP Boys & Girls Regional Players at USYS ODP Interregional Event, Florida Grassroots In-Person 11v11 - Media, PA Indoor Cup Grassroots In-Person 7v7 & 9v9 – Bethlehem, PA ODP at MD Friendlies Annual Awards Banquet Annual General Meeting ODP at MD Friendlies & VA Friendlies U.S. Soccer National D License – Philadelphia, PA ODP International Trips Grassroots In-Person 9v9 & 11v11 – Levittown, PA ODP International Trips

UNITED SOCCER COACHES CONVENTION

Soccer’s Biggest Week Returns to Philadelphia FOR ONE WEEKEND IN JANUARY, THE CITY OF BROTHERLY LOVE BECOMES THE CITY OF SOCCER

E

ach January, the United Soccer Coaches Convention transforms one city into the center of the soccer world – and this winter, that city is Philadelphia.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup may still be months away, but the excitement starts now as the game takes over the Pennsylvania Convention Center for the 2026 United Soccer Coaches Convention from January 14-17.

From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll feel the energy, the connection and the buzz that comes from thousands of soccer people from across the country gathering with a shared purpose: to learn, to connect, and to celebrate the world’s game.

Across four action-packed days, attendees will find hundreds of sessions, field demonstrations, and workshops covering every aspect of the game. Whether you coach a grassroots team or a college program, you’ll leave with new ideas, a fresh perspective, and plenty of inspiration.

Off the field, the Exhibit Hall brings the game’s biggest brands and organizations together in one place. You’ll find the latest equipment, technology, apparel, and programs, plus a few great giveaways and more than a few surprise guests.

This year’s Convention comes at a special time for our region, as Philadelphia prepares to welcome the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It’s a great opportunity for coaches to be part of a moment that celebrates both the growth of the game and the people who make it thrive. The sessions, networking, and connections you’ll find here are the same energy driving soccer forward across the country.

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

Schedule of Events Exhibit Hall Grand Opening

Thursday, Jan. 15 | 5:30pm–8:30pm

High School Coaches Breakfast (Meal Function) Friday, Jan. 16 | 7:30am–9:30am

United Soccer Coaches Awards Ceremony (Meal Function) Friday, Jan. 16 | 6:00pm–8:30pm

Coaches of Women’s Soccer

Breakfast (Meal Function) Saturday, Jan. 17 | 7:30am–9:30am United Soccer Coaches All-America Ceremony and Reception (Meal Function) Saturday, Jan. 17 | 1:00pm–4:00pm

Coaches Socials API Coaches Community TBA

Black Coaches Community

Thursday, January 15th. 9:30 PM | Marriott Grand Ballroom Salon H

Disabilities Allies Coaches Community

Saturday, January 17th. 11:30 am | Marriott Grand Ballroom, Salon K

Faith-Based Coaches Community TBA

High School Coaches Community Thursday, January 15th. 5:00 pm | Marriott Grand Ballroom Salon K

Latino Coaches Community TBA

LGBTQ+ & Allies Coaches Community

Saturday, January 17th. 1:00 pm | Marriott Grand Ballroom Salon K

Native American Coaches Community

Friday, January 16th. 2:30 pm | Marriott Grand Ballroom Salon K

Veterans, Active Military & Affiliates Coaches Community

Friday, January 16th. 8:30 pm | Marriott Grand Ballroom Salon K

Women Coaches Community

Thursday, January 15th. 9:00 pm | Marriott Liberty Ballroom

SCAN THE QR CODE TO REGISTER AND JOIN US!

epysa.org

Convention Must-Do Checklist

Don’t Miss the Field Sessions Watch top coaches bring their ideas to life right in front of you. The field sessions are fast-paced, practical, and packed with inspiration for every level of the game. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your training routines or pick up new small-sided activities, this is where learning turns into action.

Catch a Classroom Session Take time to sit in on a session that challenges the way you think about coaching. From leadership and player motivation to tactical trends and team culture, classroom sessions give you the tools to grow as both a coach and mentor. Bring a notebook – you’ll want to take ideas home.

Explore the Exhibit Hall The Exhibit Hall is where soccer meets innovation.

Browse rows of equipment, technology, and resources from the biggest brands and programs in the game.

Test new products, grab giveaways, and connect with organizations shaping the sport’s future. Set aside at least an hour to wander – it’s worth it!

Sign Up to Get a Diploma If you’ve been thinking about earning more coaching qualifications, the Convention is the perfect place to do it. United Soccer Coaches offers on-site education that blends classroom learning with field application, giving you a complete and hands-on experience. To earn the diploma, you’ll need to attend all six required meetings, so plan your schedule early and make sure each session is marked on your calendar.

Network, Network, Network Some of the best takeaways from the convention happen off the field. Say hello to someone new, exchange cards, and join a conversation. You never know which connection will lead to future opportunities, mentorship, or collaboration. Don’t skip the socials or receptions!

Recharge and Explore the City Philadelphia has earned its reputation as one of the best sports cities in the country. Between sessions, grab a bite to eat at Reading Terminal Market, take a walk through City Hall Plaza, or meet up with fellow coaches for dinner. Don’t forget to grab a cheesesteak and soft pretzel!

A N N UA L AWA R D S

ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET

Friday, February 27th Sheraton Valley Forge, 480 N Gulph Rd., King of Prussia, PA 19406

SAVE THE DATES ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING & AWARDS BANQUET

February 27-28, 2026

SCAN HERE FOR FUTURE UPDATES ON AWARD NOMINATIONS & EVENT REGISTRATION

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Saturday, February 28th Sheraton Valley Forge, 480 N Gulph Rd., King of Prussia, PA 19406

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E A S T E R N P E N N S Y LV A N I A Y O U T H S O C C E R P L AY E R S P O T L I G H T

lete h t

Young athletes from our soccer community share their passion, inspirations, and favorite moments from the pitch.

LIAM & ISABELLA B. Age: 12 What’s the best advice a coach has ever given you?

LIAM: If you never try, you’ll never be what you want to be.

ISABELLA: You can always control your effort and attitude.

Who’s your soccer idol?: LIAM: Cristiano Ronaldo

ISABELLA: Lindsey Heaps

JADE B.

KENNEDY N.

Age: 13 What’s your favorite soccer skill or move?

Age: 9 What’s your go-to pregame song?:

Taylor Swift - 22 (my number)

What’s your favorite soccer memory so far?:

Trin spin.

Build your dream soccer team:

Scoring a hat trick this year!

GOALKEEPER:

Alyssa Naeher RIGHT BACK:

Emily Fox

CENTER BACK:

Naomi Girma CENTER BACK:

Millie Bright LEFT BACK:

Crystal Dunn

DEFENSIVE MIDFIELDER: Sam Coffey

CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Aitana Bonmati CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Alexia Putellas RIGHT WINGER: Trinity Rodman STRIKER: Sophia Smith

LEFT WINGER: Alyssa Thompson

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

epysa.org

DOMENIC Age: 16 If you could play for any professional team, which one would it be and why?

I would choose the Philadelphia Union because it’s my home team.

Playing for them would let me represent where I’m from and make my city proud. It would be an honor to wear their jersey and give back to the community that supports me.

Do you have any pre-game superstitions?: I jump 3 times before kick off.

shop GIANT.

save bigger. all season long!

C O O L S T U F F F O R S O C C E R P L AY E R S

The Ultimate Soccer Wishlist

The offseason is the perfect time for players to refresh their gear, try something new, or finally get the cleats they’ve been eyeing all season. This wishlist is packed with items that make training more fun, help you sharpen your skills, or let you show off your love for the game wherever you go.

Whether you want to build your own wishlist or just need a little inspiration, these picks cover everything from backyard training tools to must-have merch and fun extras for downtime. Big upgrades, small essentials, and a few just-for-fun items all made the cut, and every one of them is player approved.

SOCCER BALL JELLYCAT A fun, soft soccer plush that makes the perfect comfort item or desk buddy.

EA FC 26 – VIDEO GAME Take a break from the real pitch and jump into a virtual one.

Compete, build squads, and play with friends during the holidays.

Nike Soccer Boots

High-performance boots to kick off the new year.

TIEMPO LEGEND 10

PHANTOM 6 LOW ELITE

MERCURIAL VAPOR 16 ELITE

Soft touch, great control, all-around comfort.

Built for players who love creativity and accuracy.

Lightweight speed for players who want to outrun everyone.

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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Training Set

Agility cones, ladders, and mini hurdles that help you build speed, balance, and footwork from anywhere. Perfect for winter training or backyard workouts.

Philadelphia Union 2025 PHILADELPHIA UNION HOME JERSEY Show your Philly pride with the latest Union kit. It’s great for training, cheering on the team, or just wearing around.

KWIK GOAL MINI SOCCER TENNIS

Set it up indoors or outdoors and challenge friends or siblings to a match. Great for footwork, creativity, and quick touches.

Rebounder

A must- have for improving first touch, volleys, and passing on your own.

PHILADELPHIA UNION TRADING CARDS A fun way to collect your favorite Union players. Trade them, display them, or keep the full set together.

2026 FIFA World Cup™

KWIK GOAL CFR-1

Strong and perfect for consistent backyard training.

KWIK GOAL EFR-1

Adjustable angles to simulate different game-like passes.

2026 PHILADELPHIA WORLD CUP POSTER

Add some soccer spirit to your room with a collectible poster celebrating a once-in-a-lifetime event.

2026 PHILADELPHIA WORLD CUP HOODIE

A cozy way to get excited for the World Cup coming to Philly. Great for school, training, or travel days.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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Our hat trick:

People. Tech. Experience.

Bring the time-saving HR and payroll tech trusted by the Philadelphia Union to your office. Our platform, mobile app, and AI assistant can streamline management, payroll, and the employee experience so your people have more time to focus on bigger wins.

primepoint.com

The official HR & Payroll team of the Philadelphia Union.

THE GREEN REFEREE BADGE

RESPECT THE CALL Protecting Young Referees and Shaping the Future of the Game

T

his season, soccer in the United States is taking an important step forward.

Beginning in 2025, U.S. Soccer will introduce the Green Referee Badge, a new identifier worn by every certified referee under the age of 18. It is a small patch with a big purpose.

The badge is part of the nationwide #RespectTheCall movement, an ongoing effort to make the game safer, more respectful and more supportive for referees at every level.

For years, U.S. Soccer, state associations, and local leagues have worked to address a growing challenge. In many parts of the country, referee retention is at risk. Some officials leave after only a season or two, citing sideline pressure, verbal abuse, and a lack of support. The problem is especially clear at the youth level, where teenage referees often make up the largest part of the referee pool. These officials are young players, students, and community members who step onto the field to learn, gain experience, and stay connected to the game.

They deserve an environment that values and protects them.

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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The Green Badge was designed with that goal in mind. When a referee under the age of 18 puts on the badge, it serves as a visible reminder to everyone on the field. The official wearing it is a minor. They are learning. They are giving their time to the sport. And they have the right to do their job without fear of intimidation, disrespect, or verbal aggression. For coaches, spectators, and athletes, the badge is a cue to pause, show patience, and lead with encouragement.

Although it is new, the idea behind the badge is not. Respect for referees has long been a priority in the game, yet recent seasons have shown how important it is to strengthen that message. Stories from around the country reveal moments when young referees have been pushed to their limits. Some have walked away from the field in tears, while others have quit altogether.

The sport cannot thrive without officials, and the youngest ones need room to grow without being met with hostility.

The requirements for the badge are simple. Any referee who is under 18 at the time of certification or recertification will receive and wear the Green Badge. Even if they turn 18 during the season, the badge stays on until the registration year ends. This helps create consistency and reinforces the idea that building respect is a shared effort, not something that switches on and off on a birthday.

Coaches, parents, and players also play an important role. A culture of respect is not created by policy alone. It happens when teams commit to sportsmanship, when adults model the behavior, they want their athletes to follow, and when the sideline becomes a place of support rather than tension. The badge invites the entire community to take responsibility for how they interact with officials, especially those who are still learning and developing their skills.

What Respect Looks Like on the Sideline

Respect is something you can see. You notice it in the way a coach talks, the way a parent reacts to a tough call, and the way a player resets after a mistake. As the Green Badge becomes part of fields across the country, here is what a truly respectful game environment looks like from every angle.

FOR COACHES

The launch of the Green Badge is also part of U.S. Soccer’s broader investment in referee development.

Creating a positive environment helps retain officials who may one day work high-level matches, lead crews at national tournaments, or even officiate on the international stage. Confidence is built early, and mentorship begins the moment a young referee steps onto the field. If they feel valued, respected, and protected, they are more likely to stay in the game and continue their path.

At its core, the Green Badge is more than a symbol. It is a promise from the soccer community. It says referees matter. It says young officials deserve kindness instead of criticism. And it says that the future of the game depends on the way we treat the people who keep it fair, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

The next time you see a referee wearing a Green Badge, know it represents a collective pledge. It challenges all of us to #RespectTheCall and create an environment where every official can learn, succeed, and thrive.

Coaches play one of the biggest roles in setting the tone. Respect shines through in the moments when emotions run high, and they choose leadership over frustration.

What It Looks Like: • Addressing the team with calm, clear communication instead of venting at the referee • Asking questions respectfully during stoppages instead of shouting across the field • Modeling sportsmanship after difficult calls so players learn how to respond • Thanking the referee postgame, especially when the official is wearing the Green Badge A coach’s body language tells a story too. A simple thumbs-up, a nod, or a clap from the technical area can relax a young referee in seconds.

FOR PARENTS

Parents bring energy, and young referees feel it instantly. Positive sideline habits help protect developing officials and keep the entire environment enjoyable for players.

What It Looks Like • Cheering for effort, hustle, and teamwork instead of focusing on officiating • Choosing patience when a call doesn’t go their team’s way • Avoiding negative reactions that might intimidate or distract the referee • Staying mindful of younger siblings who often repeat the behavior they see Sometimes the most powerful moment is quiet. A sideline that stays supportive during tense

moments sends a message that the game belongs to the kids, not the adults.

FOR PLAYERS

Players interact with officials more than anyone else. Their actions can reinforce confidence, create trust, and keep the game enjoyable.

What It Looks Like: • Handing the ball back to the referee with a quick “thank you” • Asking clarifying questions respectfully when they don’t understand a decision • Playing through close calls instead of stopping to argue • Showing maturity by accepting mistakes and refocusing on the next play When players treat referees as part of the team environment, younger officials feel respected and supported on the field.

Respect on the sideline is something everyone contributes to, no matter what their role. When coaches lead with composure, parents keep the atmosphere positive, and players treat officials with maturity; the entire field feels different. Young referees gain confidence, games run smoother, and the sport becomes more enjoyable for every person involved.

The Green Badge is a reminder of the shared responsibility we must protect and support developing officials but the real change happens in the everyday moments. When the entire soccer community chooses patience, encouragement, and empathy, we create fields that young referees want to return to and a game environment that reflects the best of who we are.

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ACTIVITIES

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Grab someone to play with first!

2. Draw your spiral • Your friend should draw a spiral inside the circle.

• When you say “Stop!”, they stop drawing.

3. Count the Rings • Count how many rings are in the spiral, that number is your Magic Number!

4. Fill in the Categories • In each box, write 4 choices.

Example: Coach – Pep Guardiola, your teacher, Ted Lasso, your teammate

5. Use Your Magic Number • Starting at the top of the “Captain” list, count each option.

• When you land on your Magic Number, cross that option out.

Keep counting and crossing out across all the boxes. Continue looping until only one option is left in each category.

YOUR SPIRAL H

ER

E

Count the Rings on the spiral to get your magic number

MAGIC NUMBER: 26

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

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LEAGUE

GOALIE

D

W RA

COACH

Get ready to build your ultimate soccer squad! In this MASH-style game, you’ll pick your players and coaches, use your Magic Number, and let the game reveal your final lineup. Spiral, count, and reveal your squad!

CAPTAIN

Soccer Themed MASH Game

A RT SU B M I S S IO N

Soccer Is Fun!

By: Sean R. | Age: 6

I kick the ball across the field, It rolls fast on the grass.

I try my hardest every day To make a perfect pass.

I love when we start playing games, ’Cause that’s the most fun part.

Sometimes I score a little goal, And it makes me feel so smart.

My teammates always cheer for me, And I cheer for them too.

Soccer makes me really happy— I hope it makes you happy too!

28

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

epysa.org