Coming together for the win.
Publix is a proud sponsor of youth soccer.
487 FEMALE COACHES
in 3 years - a huge success!
WRITTEN BY GORDON MILLER, VYSA TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Empowering Women: The Vital Role of Grants in Coaching Education Grants have played a significant role in increasing the participation of women in soccer coaching education and licensing, acting as a powerful tool to break down barriers and foster a more inclusive coaching landscape. By addressing key challenges such as financial costs, lack of mentorship, and cultural biases, these initiatives have empowered countless women to pursue their coaching aspirations and contribute to the growth of the sport. Thanks to these efforts, nearly 500 women have gained access to formal coaching education over the past three years equipping them to develop players, inspire future leaders, and strengthen the game in Virginia.
Addressing Financial Barriers
The cost of coaching education and licensing can be a substantial obstacle, particularly for women who may face existing financial disparities. Grants directly alleviate this burden, making coaching pathways more accessible. The Virginia Youth Soccer Association (VYSA), through a U.S. Soccer Innovate to Grow (ITG) grant, eliminated tuition costs for eligible female candidates in courses ranging from Grassroots to D, C, and B Licenses. By removing these financial obstacles, the ITG grant opened doors for women who may never have had the opportunity to pursue their coaching ambitions.
Course Structure
When analyzing previous data, the overwhelming majority of course participants were men. To address this imbalance, VYSA set two clear objectives; increase the number of female coaches in the game and provide them with a safe, supportive, and high-quality learning environment for their development. The ITG grant allowed VYSA to implement two course formats 1) Female only courses and 2) 50:50 courses with equal numbers of women and men, co-taught by one female and one male instructor. Both formats provided an environment where female coaches could thrive and feel supported in their professional growth.
VYSA is grateful to U.S. Soccer and their belief in VYSA’s CED department. Their support has enabled VYSA to expand opportunities for women in coaching—advancing the game for everyone.
DMV Athletics Impact Foundation, in partnership with the AC Milan Academy DMV, kicked off their new TOPSoccer program for athletes with special needs on June 21st at Chantilly High School. Coach Will Pulisic, plenty of enthusiastic volunteers, and over 40 registered athletes with disAbilities celebrated Virginia’s newest TOPSoccer program with a morning of soccer fun.
For more information about this new Northern Virginia based TOPSoccer program, please send a message to acmdmvtopsoccer@gmail.com or visit their website at www.dmvathleticsfoundation.org/top-soccer
LEARN
DEAN MCDANIEL, CEO OF AC MILAN ACADEMY DMV
"AC Milan Academy DMV was proud to support TOPSoccer Virginia in their mission to create an inclusive, empowering soccer experience for athletes of all abilities It was a joy to be part of a day filled with teamwork and community We look forward to continuing this meaningful and very needed partnership in the future.”
WILL PULISIC, AC MILAN ACADEMY DMV TOPSOCCER
DIRECTOR
“I am so proud to help start the TOPSoccer Program for AC Milan Academy DMV. Soccer has given so much to my life, including experiencing new cultures, learning different perspectives, and creating lasting relationships. So, I feel very passionate about every kid having the opportunity to have similar experiences through soccer as I did. Soccer is an amazing teacher of skills I use for all aspects of my life.”
JERRY SULLIVAN, NEW TOPSOCCER PARENT
"Thank you very, VERY much for this incredible TOPSoccer experience! I was amazed to see how much effort my son put into it we couldn't be happier with the outcome and are looking forward to the next TOPSoccer practice!"
P R O G R A M
Congratulations to the players selected and clubs represented to be a part of VA ODP!
View the selections below.
SOUTHEAST DISTRICT
WEST DISTRICT
CENTRAL DISTRICT
WEST CENTRAL DISTRICT
NORTH DISTRICT
VIRGINIA YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION
SANCTIONED TOURNAMENTS
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 15-16. 2025
NVSC/NPSC FALL CLASSIC RECREATIONAL TOURNAMENT HOSTED BY NVSC & NPSC
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NOVEMBER 14-16. 2025
ALEXANDRIA HARVEST CUP HOSTED BY ALEXANDRIA SOCCER ASSOCIATION
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NOVEMBER 22-23. 2025
NVSC/NPSC HUNT COUNTRY FALL CLASSIC
HOSTED BY NVSC & NPSC
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NOVEMBER 22-23. 2025 CHAMPIONS SHOOTOUT HOSTED BY VIRGINIA LEGACY
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DECEMBER
DECEMBER 6-7, 2025
RVA TURF WARS
HOSTED BY DYNAMO SOCCER CLUB
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DECEMBER 13-14, 2025
CAPITOL FUTSAL CUP
HOSTED BY ALEXANDRIA SOCCER ASSOCIATION
DECEMBER 13-14, 2025
ADIDAS COLLEGE SHOWCASE HOSTED BY CLUB CHAMPIONS
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VIEW ALL SANCTIONED TOURNAMENTS
US SOCCER SAFESPORT
What is SafeSportSafesport is a comprehensive program of policies and processes through education and training to help participants detect and report abuse, respond to it, and prevent future occurrences
Required By: Congress and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC)
Who Completes It: Participants who come in contact with a minor (Club staff & ALL coaches) Frequency: Completed annually
How To Report a Concern
To make a report, either fill and submit the form below, or call the US Soccer Integrity Hotline at (312) 528-7004 to leave a voicemail. Please provide as much detail in your report as possible, including contact information, should you wish to be contacted concerning your report. U.S. Soccer does not retaliate and does not tolerate retaliation against any individual who makes a report in good faith. Please see below for more information.
Information on Safesport for parents can be found at the US Soccer Safeguarding Hub as well as the VYSA website for more detail on what Safesport is and how to report a concern.
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