PROGRAMS
CORE PROGRAMS
PRIMARY CORE PROGRAM
The heart of AYSO is our Primary Core Program, offering youth soccer for players ages 4 to 19.
Age Divisions:
• 5U (5 and under): Teams start with four-year-olds, referred to as 5U because players are five years old or younger by the end of the season.
• Single-Year Groups: 6U (6 and under)
• Two-Year Groups: 8U, 10U, 12U, and 14U
• 19U: For high school-aged players
Progressive Gameplay:
AYSO uses a progressive approach to soccer, ensuring the game evolves as players grow. For younger players, the game is simple, with smaller teams, smaller fields, and modified rules. As players advance, these elements gradually build up to the full 11-a-side game introduced at 14U.
How the Season Works
• Season Start: Coaches contact players during the third week of August to announce team meetings, practice schedules, and game details.
• Fall Season: Teams practice for 2–3 weeks before the first game.
• Game Schedule: Eight consecutive Saturday games in September and October.
• Winter Break: Teams take a break from November to February.
• Spring Season: Coaches reconnect with players in February to prepare for another eight Saturday games in March and April.
This structure provides consistent opportunities for skill-building, teamwork, and fun throughout the year while allowing players and families a break during the winter months.
AYSO EPIC
The mission of the AYSO EPIC Program is to provide athletes with disabilities the additional support they need to fully participate in a quality soccer experience. The program offers a holistic AYSO experience for players, families, and volunteers. From team uniforms and playing on a team to cheering from the sidelines, EPIC ensures everyone has a chance to be part of the action.
What is an EPIC Buddy?
EPIC Buddies are volunteers who assist players during games. They help athletes learn soccer, build friendships, have fun, and develop skills and self-esteem. Buddies play a key role in ensuring players enjoy the full AYSO experience—scoring goals, celebrating on the sidelines, and more. The program’s vision is to create EPIC teams in every AYSO region to expand opportunities for players with disabilities.
PIC & AYSO’s Six Philosophies
The AYSO EPIC Program is rooted in AYSO’s six core philosophies:
• Everyone Plays: All athletes, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to play.
• Balanced Teams: Teams are formed to maximize safety and player experience in age-appropriate groups.
• Open Registration: Open to all athletes with disabilities ages 4–99. No tryouts; all players are welcome.
• Positive Coaching: Coaches recognize and encourage individual efforts, with EPIC Buddies providing additional support during games.
• Player Development: Players build skills, learn soccer fundamentals, and engage in physical movement at their individual ability level. Families are involved in the process to support their players’ growth.
• Good Sportsmanship: Players and families learn the value of teamwork, fair play, and celebrating the efforts of all participants.
When:
Sunday afternoons
Where:
Montgomery Park (on Comanche, 1 block east of San Mateo)
Cost:
$50 per participant, which includes registration, 16 games, jerseys, team pictures, and end-of-season trophies.
Registration:
Once registered, participants will be wait-listed. The EPIC Coordinator will contact you with additional season details.
For questions or concerns, please contact the EPIC Coordinator at epic.program@ayso104.org
AYSO PLAYGROUND
AYSO Playground is a child development program designed for children ages 3, 4, and 5. The program focuses on developing fundamental motor skills in a fun, supportive environment. With soccer as the central activity, children and their parents or guardians work together to build essential coordination and physical skills.
Program Details
• When: Fall 2024 (Fridays, September 20 – October 24, 2024)
• Time: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
• Where: Rotary Park
• Duration: 6 weekly sessions, each lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Parent/Guardian Participation: One parent or guardian is required to actively participate with their child during each session.
• Facilitator: Sessions will be led by a trained AYSO Playground Program Leader.
What Does My Child Need?
• Soccer shoes or appropriate athletic footwear
• Size 3 soccer ball
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen (recommended)
A T-shirt is provided as part of the registration fee.
Registration Fee
The registration fee includes:
• A jersey/T-shirt
• A non-refundable $25 national fee that covers insurance and Program Leader training
Is There Competition in AYSO Playground?
No, AYSO Playground is a non-competitive program! The focus is on helping kids develop fundamental motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and social interaction in a safe and fun environment. There are no games or scores—just the joy of discovering soccer through play and bonding with parents or guardians.
AYSO SCHOOLYARD
AYSO Schoolyard is an introductory soccer program designed for 4- and 5-year-olds. The program introduces basic soccer skills like kicking to score and dribbling into scoring positions in a fun, interactive way. Children learn these skills by playing games facilitated by a trained coach, with active participation from a parent or guardian.
Program Details
• When: Fall 2024 (Fridays, September 20 – October 24, 2024)
• Time: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
• Where: Rotary Park
• Duration: 6 weekly sessions, each lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Parent/Guardian Participation: Required at every session to work alongside their player.
• Facilitator: Sessions are led by a trained Playground Program Leader.
Equipment Needed
• Soccer shoes or athletic footwear
• Size 3 soccer ball
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen (recommended)
A T-shirt is included with registration.
Registration Fee
The registration fee includes
• A jersey/T-shirt
• A non-refundable $25 national fee that covers insurance and Program Leader training
Session Structure
Each session is approximately 60 minutes, including rest and breaks
• 30 Minutes: Fun, skill-based learning games
• 20 Minutes: A scrimmage to practice skills in a game-like setting
TRYOUT BASED TEAMS & PROGRAMS
AYSO ALLIANCE
AYSO Alliance focuses on providing a competitive environment for players seeking more advanced play.
Program Details
AYSO Alliance (formerly ACT) is a tryout-based program designed to identify and develop players and teams who are ready for a more competitive soccer experience. Players must try out and be selected to join an Alliance team.
Dual Teams: Players selected for an Alliance team will also continue to play on their regular AYSO season team.
Tournament Play: Alliance teams participate in tournaments:
In the Fall, after the regular season ends
Occasionally in February, between seasons
In the Spring, after the regular season ends
Additional Practices: Alliance players attend additional team practices alongside their regular season practices, requiring a greater time commitment.
No Conflicts: Alliance activities are scheduled to avoid conflicts with regular AYSO season practices and games.
TOURNAMENT INFORMATION
General Overview
AYSO Region 104 participates in two exciting tournaments hosted by Area 12/C and AYSO Challenge FC:
1. Meltdown Tournament
2. Duke City Shootout Tournament
These tournaments welcome players from Albuquerque and surrounding AYSO regions, providing a fun and competitive environment for players and teams of all levels.
Who Can Participate?
• Regular Season AYSO Teams: All U9 and older teams are invited to participate in both tournaments.
• Younger Teams: Teams as young as U7 can participate in the Funfest at the Meltdown Tournament.
• Challenge and ACT Teams: These more competitive teams are also part of the tournaments.
Tournament Highlights
• A chance for regular season AYSO teams to experience a more competitive level of soccer.
• Teams play three games in a single weekend.
• A fun, team-building experience for players and families.
End-of-Season Tournaments
For divisions U11 and older, there is an option to organize End-of-Season Tournaments.
• These tournaments are coordinated by the division commissioners or their designee.
• Scheduling must be arranged with the Field Scheduler to ensure field availability.
Why Are These Tournaments Important?
AYSO liability insurance does not permit regular season teams to participate in non-AYSO events. These tournaments provide a safe and sanctioned opportunity for our regular season teams to enjoy the excitement of tournament play while staying within AYSO guidelines.
SKILLS & CAMPS
CAMPS & CLINICS
Stay Tuned for More Information!
Details about upcoming camps and clinics are coming soon.
AYSO is committed to providing world-class youth soccer programs that enrich children’s lives, offering opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun.
AYSO’s Mission and Vision
Vision: To provide world-class youth soccer programs that enrich children’s lives.
Mission: To develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs that promote a fun, family-friendly environment based on AYSO’s Six Core Philosophies:
1. Everyone Plays: Every child gets to play. No one sits on the bench!
2. Balanced Teams: Teams are carefully formed to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all.
3. Open Registration: Soccer for everyone—no tryouts or cuts.
4. Positive Coaching: Coaches provide encouragement and guidance to build skills and confidence.
5. Good Sportsmanship: Players learn teamwork, respect, and the value of fair play.
6. Player Development: Soccer skills are developed in a supportive environment, helping players grow both on and off the field.