By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association
January 20, 2026-The Olympic Development Program (ODP) is the highest level of play in each state association. The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) has a particularly strong ODP and four current players of the US Women’s National Team––Sam Coffey, Crystal Dunn, Claire Hutton and Phallon Tullis-Joyce––all refined their skills with Eastern New York ODP when they were younger.
There are hundreds of girls in Eastern New York ODP currently dreaming in following in those alumnae’s large footprints. Two players who particularly stand out are Cali Robilotti and Molly Barrett, who have both played in Eastern New York ODP for the past three years. They are underclassmen who saw significant playing time with the Shenendehowa High School girls varsity team last fall during their 12-3-1 season.
“Cali (above) made history last fall by becoming the first 7th grade student ever to earn a spot on the Shen girls varsity soccer team. Despite her young age, she made an immediate impact as she played both forward and in the midfield, scoring six goals, contributing several assists and starting nearly every game of the season,” stated Shenendehowa girls varsity coach Holli Nirsberger. “Crafty and creative with the ball, Cali sees the game exceptionally well, and consistently plays with confidence and poise beyond her years.”
Cali, who lives in Mechanicville, has played for the Ballston Spa Soccer Club, Nirvana/Firestorm, New York Elite and Alleycats in club soccer in addition to ODP.
“Soccer challenges me mentally and physically—I enjoy coming up with ideas, trying new things and solving problems on the field. At times, it feels like a puzzle: Finding the perfect pass to the weak side or picking the right spot to bury a 30-yard free kick,” Cali explained. “There is always something new to learn, improve or try. At the same time, the game offers a great deal of freedom on the field, which allows me to be creative. That combination of challenge and freedom is why I love playing soccer.”
Molly (above) has competed for New York Elite and Alleycats in her club career plus obviously ODP.
The Waterford teen said, “I like the fact that there is always a next level to get to in soccer. That next skill. That next problem to be solved on the field. Even when I score or beat a player, I look back on whether I made the best decision in that situation. I’m never not learning.”
“Molly became the first 8th grade player to earn a spot on our girls varsity team in the past 20 years. As a center midfield player, she is disciplined and hardworking, with exceptional skill and outstanding field vision. Her composure, soccer IQ and ability to control the flow of the game set her apart and made her a valuable asset to the team last season,” Coach Nirsberger concluded.
With over 100,000 youth soccer players––both boys and girls––and more than 25,000 volunteers, the non-profit Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) stretches from Montauk Point, Long Island to the Canadian border, east of Route 81. ENYYSA encourages the healthy development of youth players, coaches, referees and administrators. All levels of soccer are offered––from intramural, travel team and premier players as well as Children With Special Needs. No child who wants to play soccer is turned away. ENYYSA is a proud member of US Soccer and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/