This past weekend, MSYSA Technical Director and Coach Educator Gandalf French traveled to Maryland’s Eastern Shore to lead U.S. Soccer Grassroots 7v7 and 9v9 coaching courses. “Bringing coaching education to underserved areas of our state is invaluable," said French. "Better coaches create better environments for our players. This can’t happen without the support of our member clubs - a big thank you to AC Salisbury for hosting the courses and
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 2026 ODP CYCLE OPEN TRYOUTS! WHY SHOULD YOU JOIN ODP?
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE 2026 ODP CYCLE OPEN TRYOUTS
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: TOPSOCCER TAKES THE FIELD AT AUDI STADIUM
Thanks to the incredible generosity of Trollinger Law LLC and support from D.C. United, players, coaches, and families from LaPlata Youth Soccer Associations TOPSoccer program were treated to an unforgettable experience at Audi Field. From a chartered bus ride to walking side-by-side with professional players onto the pitch, the night was a celebration of what soccer is truly all about: community and inclusion.
A special shoutout goes to La Plata Youth Soccer Association, whose TOPSoccer coaches Lauren Martin and Matt Petricoin work tirelessly to create a supportive, joyful environment for players of all abilities. Events like this are only possible because of the dedicated families, volunteers, and advocates who bring the spirit of the game to life week after week.
“It was amazing to see our players highlighted, making connections with professional athletes, and joining their families to enjoy the game.” said Lauren Martin, TOPSoccer Coach at LPYSA. “For some, it was their first professional game, making the night even more special. It was a wonderful way to involve families in such a memorable and enjoyable experience.”
WHAT IS TOPSOCCER?
US youth soccer TOPSoccer (the outreach program for soccer) is a recreational sports program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional or physical disabilities offered only through local US Youth soccer, affiliated soccer clubs. TOPSoccer provides people with diverse abilities an opportunity to play soccer in a structured environment that is safe fun, supportive, and inclusive
The Benefits of TOPSoccer
Every child, regardless of ability, gets a chance to participate and shine. Players grow both on and off the field, by exercising, having fun, making friends, building selfesteem and social skills.
Brings Communities Together Through Inclusive Play
Bringing TOPSoccer to your community is easier than you think and the impact is enormous.
WANT TO START A PROGRAM IN YOUR AREA?
To get started connect with MSYSA’s Director of Outreach and Grassroots, Nathean Meadows to express your interest.
With support from US Youth Soccer and MSYSA, you’ll have everything you need to launch a successful program that changes lives.
Moments like The DC United Game remind us why inclusive programs matter. Let’s keep creating spaces where every player belongs, every family feels seen, and every game ends with high-fives and joy.
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MARYLAND REFEREE? CHECK OUT
Step 1: Register Online
Register for the clinic titled “Referee Online Lessons”
Step 2: Complete Online Lessons
Complete the materials contained within the U.S. Soccer Learning Center
Step 3: Select a Field Training Session
Upon completion of lesson, select the button on your OMS Homepage to transfer to an in-person Field Training session. Select the button next to the session you want to attend
*Make sure to select location: *Maryland* REGISTER FOR AVAILABLE COURSES HERE!
If you would like financial assistance to help cover the cost of the referee license, then please complete and submit a MSYSA Heffelfinger Scholarship request.
If you have questions pertaining to becoming a new referee, please send an email to the Maryland State Director of Instruction, Larry Mittleman.
SUMMER SOCCER ACADEMY WRAPS UP ANOTHER INCREDIBLE SUMMER
MSYSA just wrapped up our 9th consecutive year of the Summer Soccer Academy (SSA) and what a summer it was! Held at the Saint James School in Hagerstown, MD, this overnight soccer camp welcomed 298 campers across two action-packed weeks filled with soccer, friendships, and unforgettable experiences.
From morning training sessions to evening games in the dorms, players stayed busy on and off the field. With the support of 42 counselors, 21 licensed coaches, many from our MD ODP program and former players, campers improved their skills, grew their confidence, and made memories that will last well beyond the summer. A highlight this year was the use of the brand-new Turner Athletic Center, featuring an indoor turf field that gave players even more space to play, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
"Every year the energy grows, and this summer was one of the best yet,” said Camp Director Jimmy Shiflett. “The kids had fun, worked hard, and really connected with each other. That’s what this camp is all about; developing great players and even better teammates.”
SSA is open to all genders, serving players born in 2010-2015 for the 2025 camp, and is run by experienced ODP coaches with a dedicated goalkeeper staff. It’s more than just a soccer camp, it’s a place to grow, challenge yourself, and be part of something special. If your child loves the game and hasn’t experienced SSA yet, there’s no better time to start. New friends, better skills, and a whole lot of fun await.
