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The Exceptional Senior Games Are a Veterans Day Tradition in Guilderland

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association

November 5, 2025-The Long Island Junior Soccer League (LIJSL) started the Exceptional Senior Games in 1981 so that top high school senior soccer players could be scouted by college coaches all in one venue. This all-star competition spread throughout the United States and continues on Long Island 44 years later, although it’s now organized exclusively by Nassau County Boys Soccer and the Suffolk County Boys Soccer Coaches Association.

One of the most successful Exceptional Senior Games takes place a long corner kick from the state capital in Albany every year. The Capital District Youth Soccer League (CDYSL) will be organizing its Exceptional Senior Games on Tuesday, November 11, continuing its tradition of playing these games on Veterans Day at DiCaprio Park in Guilderland. CDYSL volunteers have been partnering with NYSPHSAA Section 2 coaches in organizing this competition of both public and private schools annually during its three decades of existence with the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) providing financial support.

High school senior student/athletes are selected by their leagues/coaches to represent their individual conferences and showcase their talent by competing against other Section 2 players. Coaches from colleges and junior colleges from all over the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions have been invited to attend the games and evaluate local players who hope to continue their soccer careers next year. 

Team photos from previous versions of the Exceptional Senior Games

The schedule:

Boys Games
10:00 am, Field 1, Western Athletic Conference (WAC) vs. Adirondack
11:30 am, Field 3, Wasaren League vs. Patroon Conference
1:00 pm, Field 2, Foothills vs. Colonial Council
2:30 pm, Field 1, Suburban Council White vs. Suburban Council Red

Girls Games
10:15 am, Field 2, Colonial Council vs. Foothills
11:45 am, Field 1, Wasaren League vs. Patroon Conference
1:15 pm, Field 3, Adirondack vs. Western Athletic Conference (WAC)

Please join us for an exceptional day of high school soccer!

For more info, please contact the CDYSL at 518-435-2325.

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

Welcoming Tom Frambach as Our Director of Marketing & Membership Programs

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

October 23, 2025-The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) is proud to announce the appointment of Tom Frambach as our new Director of Marketing & Membership Programs, a position newly created to enhance the association’s support for players, coaches, referees, clubs, and leagues across the state.In this role, Frambach will lead initiatives aimed at growing participation in the Beautiful Game, expanding educational and developmental opportunities and strengthening engagement throughout the Eastern New York soccer community.

A Washingtonville, NY native and longtime product of Eastern New York soccer, Frambach fondly recalls his early playing days—where he built lifelong friendships, learned valuable life lessons, and capped his youth career by winning a State Cup championship during his senior year of high school.

Frambach continued his soccer journey at SUNY Cortland, where he captained the men’s soccer team and earned a B.S. in Physical Education. He later completed his M.S. in Sports Management at East Stroudsburg University, serving as a graduate assistant coach and helping guide the Warriors to a PSAC Conference Championship and an NCAA Division II Tournament appearance.

During a summer internship with the New York/New Jersey MetroStars (now the New York Red Bulls) of Major League Soccer (MLS), Frambach was invited to train with the first team by then–head coachOctavio Zambrano, an opportunity that allowed him to experience the professional level firsthand.

After injuries brought his playing career to a close, Frambach turned to coaching—beginning as Head Men’s Soccer Coach at St. Andrew’s College (NC), where his team was recognized among the nation’s top 10 most improved programs. He later held assistant coaching roles with North Carolina State University (Division I) and SUNY Purchase (Division III).

Frambach’s passion for teaching led him deeper into youth soccer, coaching with CASL, North Carolina FC, and the North Carolina Olympic Development Program (ODP), Asphalt Green and DUSC before transitioning to leadership and management roles.

His management career includes serving as Director of Soccer at Asphalt Green (Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League), Sports Director at Club Fit, and nearly a decade as General Manager of Downtown United Soccer Club (DUSC), also part of the CJSL. Under his leadership, DUSC players advanced to U.S. Youth National Teams, MLS and NWSL clubs and collegiate programs across all levels of play.Reflecting on his journey, Frambach shared, 

“Soccer is a microcosm of life. We all face challenges, but maintaining perspective reminds me that faith, family, and futbol are beautiful things we must cherish. I’m deeply grateful to the Eastern New York board for the opportunity to inspire a love of the game and positively impact the next generation—both on and off the field.” 

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

Volunteering With TOPSoccer Led to a Career in Special Ed

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

October 28, 2025-Jocelyn Davis always wanted to become a teacher. Then known as Jocelyn Grafstein, she started volunteering as a teenager with the Smithtown Kickers’ TOPSoccer Program for four years around the turn of the millennium. TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a US Youth Soccer initiative that gives the opportunity to play soccer to those who are differently-abled.

“I always wanted to be a teacher and I think that Smithtown TOPSoccer is what sealed the deal to become a Special Ed teacher,” Jocelyn explained. “It truly is what I was meant to do and I absolutely love it!”

Smithtown TOPSoccer, now run by Bob Kinney, was led by Ronnie Whalen and Sue Rapp when Jocelyn was a teen. For her Senior Project at Smithtown High School in 2001 (before the community was divided into East and West high schools), Jocelyn organized a TOPSoccer tournament that May with up to 10 teams and 150 athletes having fun at the New York Avenue School. Helping Jocelyn pull this off were Ronnie and Sue, Jocelyn’s teenage friends plus her parents, Howard and Mary Pat Grafstein.

Howard was Jocelyn’s longtime coach with the Smithtown Kickers in the Long Island Junior Soccer League (LIJSL), the largest league in the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA).

“Dad was my coach forever!” Jocelyn said. “During this time, I babysat for families who were part of TOPSoccer which helped solidify that this is what my calling is and I absolutely love working with the kids!”

Jocelyn is now a Bronx resident, has been a Special Ed teacher for 21 years with the past 19 years at PS/MS 194 in the Bronx.

“I volunteer for a program called Autism on the Seas where I spend my school and summer breaks helping families with Special Needs children and adults have a nice vacation with assistance from this non-profit organization.”

Jocelyn coached lacrosse for a decade at the Ursuline School and Eastchester High School, she coached soccer at Ursuline plus ran a soccer program at the Bronx YMCA for six years.

She took up the whistle and has been refereeing US Soccer youth games plus school games in the Bronx and Westchester consistently for the past five years, and her involvement with soccer came full circle when she refereed the Special Olympics on October 11 on Randall’s Island.

Interested in also volunteering with TOPSoccer like Jocelyn did or even starting a program? Then contact Lauren Lee, Eastern New York’s TOPSoccer Director, at llee@enysoccer.com or 516-538-7303 and she will tell you how to get started.

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

John Fitzgerald to Receive the Mike Berticelli Excellence in Coaching Education Award

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

October 22, 2025-United Soccer Coaches has announced the selection of John Fitzgerald as the 2025 Mike Berticelli Excellence in Coaching Education Award recipient for his outstanding contributions to coaching education and his singular service to the game.

Fitzgerald becomes the 26th person to receive prestigious recognition from his peers. The award is named in honor of Mike Berticelli, the Association’s former Vice President of Education and men’s coach at the University of Notre Dame who passed away in 2000.

Fitzgerald is Sporting Director and Director of Coaching Education for the Long Island Junior Soccer League (LIJSL), the largest league in the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA).

“This is a fitting recognition for someone whom has a profound effect on Coaching Education and the development of coaching standards across Long Island,” stated LIJSL President Andrew Seabury.  “There are not many coaches who coach in the LIJSL, both past and present, who have not benefitted from John’s influence and passion for the highest coaching education standards. This high honor is well deserved.”

Fitzgerald’s extensive experience and dedication to soccer make him a prominent figure in the coaching community, particularly on Long Island where he continues to influence the development of young players and the growth of the sport.

The Smithtown resident is a highly respected coach with over 35 years of experience spanning professional, collegiate and youth soccer. He is currently the head coach of the American Soccer Club New York, a newly established team competing in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL). Fitzgerald brings an impressive depth of knowledge and a proven record of achievement to this position, having earned recognition throughout the New York soccer community.

“John embodies what the Berticelli Award is about and is truly deserving of this honor for his passion and dedication to coaching education,” United Soccer Coaches President Paul Payne explained.

John Fitzgerald coaching in Eastern New York’s Olympic Development Program.

Fitzgerald’s coaching journey includes several notable roles:

• Associate Head Coach, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy: In this role, Fitzgerald contributed to the team’s six NCAA Division 3 tournament appearances, helping the program achieve a strong reputation and consistent performance.

• Director of Coaching, New York Cosmos: Fitzgerald was responsible for overseeing training and player development programs. He also served as assistant coach for Cosmos B, who captured the 2015 NPSL national championship.

• Head Coach, Long Island Lady Rough Riders: Under his leadership, the Lady Rough Riders won a national championship in the W-League, further establishing his credentials.

• Longtime coach in Eastern New York’s Olympic Development Program (ODP), including Boys Director of Coaching.

• Current head coach of East Region ODP Boys 2009 team.

Fitzgerald has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to coaching. He was named the 2004 NSCAA/Adidas Northeast Regional Assistant Coach of the Year and the 1997 Newsday Coach of the Year, as well as head coach of that years’ Umbro W-League All-Star select team His involvement in coaching education includes serving as the NSCAA State Director for Long Island and as a National Staff Instructor as well as a US Soccer coach educator.  Fitzgerald’s teams have accumulated significant successes, including a record of 228-100-20 at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy as well as multiple conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. 

The Berticelli Award will be presented at the association’s Awards Ceremony on Friday, January 16, 2026, in conjunction with the 86th Annual United Soccer Coaches Convention in Philadelphia.

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

Register For the NY Winter Tournament Kicking Off December 6

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association

October 16, 2025-The Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (CJSL), the oldest league in the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) and all of American youth soccer, is pleased to announce the return of the NY Winter Tournament in partnership with Juventus Academy New York, continuing one of the city’s fastest-growing youth soccer traditions.

Open to all CJSL clubs as well as US Youth Soccer and US Club Soccer-affiliated teams from New York and New Jersey, the NY Winter Tournament gives players a rare opportunity to compete outdoors throughout the winter months.

This year, the competition will feature boys’ divisions from Under-9 through Under-16 and new girls divisions from Under-10 through Under-15 for the first time. Matches will be played primarily at Randall’s Island, Queens and Brooklyn, and with selected CJSL clubs also hosting matches. Play begins on December 6, runs through February, and concludes with playoffs on March 7–8 and the finals on March 14–15. First-place teams will receive championship trophies. Registration closes November 15, 2025. 

Click here to register and view tournament details.

The NY Winter Tournament kicked off play in 2022. In 2024-2025, the tournament featured 70 teams, up from 50 the year before, and participation is expected to grow yet again for the upcoming 2025-2026 edition. 

“Every year, the tournament grows in scale and competition,” said Giovanni Russo, Founder and President of Juventus Academy New York. “Our goal has always been to provide a professional, high-level winter platform where young players can continue to develop and compete even in the cold months. Seeing the enthusiasm and sportsmanship from so many clubs makes this collaboration truly special.”

Reflecting on the partnership, CJSL President Paul Kontonis emphasized the league’s commitment to elevating opportunities for players across the city. “The NY Winter Tournament has grown into a premier platform, paving the way for all-year soccer for boys and girls. This is a vision that the CJSL is committed to making a reality for every player in our community.”

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

The Long Island Futsal League Seeks Teams For Its 30th Anniversary Season This Winter

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association

October 28, 2025-The Long Island Futsal League (LIFL) kicked off play in the winter of 1996-97 with tournaments at World Gym in Setauket and SUNY-Old Westbury. LIFL President John Branca saw through those tourneys that there was great enthusiasm for futsal on Long Island so league play began in January 1998.

The LIFL, sanctioned by the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA), is seeking teams to play in its 30th anniversary season this winter. With over 200 squads, the LIFL is one of the largest futsal leagues in the United States and will utilize gyms in central Suffolk County on Saturdays and Sundays once again.

The league’s 8-week season kicks off the weekend of January 3 and 4, 2026. The team fee is as follows:

Boys-Under-7 and Boys-Under-8: $475
Boys-Under-9 to Boys-Under-12: $975
Boys-Under-13 to Boys-Under-19: $995

Girls-Under-7 and Girls-Under-8: $475
Girls-Under-9 to Girls-Under-13: $975
Girls-Under-14 to Girls-Under-19: $995

Team discounts available for clubs or trainers who register multiple squads. There is an additional $10 individual player fee, which is paid just once even if that player is rostered on multiple teams. 

To register or for more info, please click https://lifutsal.com or phone John Branca at 631-790-7481. The registration deadline is December 1. 

Futsal is a great skill-developer, demanding quick reflexes, fast thinking and pin-point passing that players utilize when they return to playing outdoor soccer in March. Soccer superstars such as Pelé, Zico, Maradona, Ronaldo, Messi and Marta grew up playing a version of the game and credit futsal with developing their skills. Brazil defeated Argentina, 2-1, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan to win the 2024 Futsal World Cup, which is held every four years just like the Men’s and Women’s World Cups. 

Remember that if your children are not playing in an ENYYSA-affiliated league or tournament, then they are not covered by our insurance, and chances are, they are not covered by any insurance. Always ask about the insurance coverage before registering your children or team. And unlike like most other indoor leagues, the LIFL has certified referees and heat in the gymnasiums.

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

Marianne Volpe 5K and Pumpkin Fun Run in Baldwin on October 25

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association

October 9, 2025-The 14th Annual Marianne Volpe 5K and Pumpkin Fun Run takes place on Saturday, October 25 at Baldwin Harbor Park.

Blood cancer support is important to the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) because of the life of Marianne Volpe. The Baldwin resident was 56 years old when she died of Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL), an aggressive form of blood cancer, leaving behind her husband Jim, daughters Chelsea and Shaun, three brothers, five sisters and countless friends. There are many stories of extraordinary people like Marianne whose lives are cut tragically short by this horrible disease. 

Marianne Volpe

Jim is a Long Island Junior Soccer League (LIJSL) and Eastern New York Hall of Famer, an ENYYSA Trustee who served as Director of the Eastern New York Olympic Development Program (ODP) for over a decade. Both Chelsea and Shaun grew up playing in the LIJSL, then played for Manhattan College and are still involved in the game today. The family started the Marianne Volpe 5K and Pumpkin Fun Run the day before Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and both the soccer and running communities have been helping out ever since.

More than $300,000 has been raised for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), which has helped advance 55 of the 65 blood cancer treatment options approved by the FDA since 2017. It’s the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding research towards cures for blood cancers. Since its inception in 1949, the Society has provided more than $1.2 billion to research specifically targeting blood cancers and its mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma.

Shaun, Jim and Chelsea Volpe

On Saturday, October 25, the kids’ half-mile run dubbed the Pumpkin Fun Run (for ages 10 and younger) is at 9:00 am and it’s free. The Marianne Volpe 5K starts at 9:30 am. 

Click here to register for the 5K or simply to donate.

In addition to utilizing the website, you can also send a donation check made payable to The Leukemia & Lymphoma’s Society to: LLS Northeast Territory LLS – PO Box 22470, New York, NY 10087-2470

For more information about the Marianne Volpe 5K and Pumpkin Fun Run, please contact Jim Volpe at 516-805-3765.

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and United States Youth Soccer Association. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

Introducing the Green Badge to Help Support Young Refs Even More

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

October 2, 2025-Nobody yells at Student Drivers who are properly identified and the adult drivers around them show patience instead. That’s the concept behind the new Green Badge introduced by US Soccer. Those in the referee community, including myself, have advocated for this concept. This new badge, worn by all certified referees under the age of 18, becomes a key element of US Soccer’s ongoing #RespectTheCall campaign.

The Green Badge is one way of strengthening that culture by helping protect our most vulnerable referees: Youth refs, who also make up the largest portion of our referee community.

Young referees are often the most exposed to sideline pressure and verbal abuse. By providing a clear visual cue that an official is a minor, the Green Badge reminds players, coaches and spectators to show patience, encouragement and respect. The Green Badge creates safer spaces for young refs to learn, gain confidence and stay connected to the Beautiful Game.

• The Green Badge is now required for all refs under 18 at the time of certification or recertification

• Even if a ref turns 18 mid-season, he or she will continue to wear the Green Badge until the end of that registration year

• Everybody is expected to demonstrate respectful behavior to all refs but especially to those wearing the new Green Badge

Referees are vital to the game’s success and ensuring that officials of every age feel safe and valued is essential to continuing to grow soccer in the United States. The Green Badge is more than just a symbol, it’s a pledge from the soccer community to stand behind refs to not only survive but help them thrive.

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

LIJSL Expanding the Qualification for the IberCup

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

September 10, 2025-The largest league in the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) is the Long Island Junior Soccer League (LIJSL), which launched a competition to qualify for the IberCup in Cascais, Portugal.

This competition is open to LIJSL teams as well as squads outside the league through the Elite Clubs Alliance League (ECAL). The Girls-Under-11 Commack Crush played in the 2025 IberCup this past July by qualifying through the ECAL last spring.

Commack Crush

ECAL is growing in 2026 as the competition will now have Under-9 to Under-13 divisions for both boys and girls.

“Expanding the age groups in ECAL provides a great opportunity for more clubs to compete for the experience of playing in the IberCup, something they will never forget,” LIJSL Technical Director Ronan Wiseman said. “Going to the IberCup not only gives the players a great soccer experience but also a great multicultural experience. In addition  to our players interacting with the local Portuguese teams, they will have interactions with teams from all over the world.”

In the LIJSL’s agreement with the IberCup, squads that qualify through ECAL receive free accommodation during the trip as well as three meals per day. Transport to and from the airport in Portugal as well as to and from the tournament venues is provided. 

All ECAL games to qualify for the 2026 IberCup must be played by April 1, 2026. For more info, please contact the LIJSL at 631-648-9020.

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

Soccer Coaches Can Apply to Help Keep Their Girls in the Game

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association

August 29, 2025-Gotham FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has opened up applications for coaches to join its Keep Her in the Game program. Please see the flyer on the right for more details and apply here by September 5. 

Since launching last year, Keep Her in the Game has trained almost 100 coaches and reached over 1,700 girls across New York and New Jersey.

Keep Her in the Game provides Girls-Under-12 to Under-14 coaches with research-backed training to help support the growth and development of the girls on their teams on and off the field. The training includes helping girls build their confidence, develop a growth mindset and strengthen their relationships with their coaches and teammates. It also provides opportunities for youth players to have special access to Gotham FC.

Coach training: All coaches must complete a 2-hour training run by Girls Leadership in partnership with Gotham FC, where they will be trained on incorporating teamwork, confidence and resilience-building learning activities into their weekly soccer practices. The training is centered on building your team’s sense of community and athlete emotional intelligence and growth mindset.

Special access to Gotham FC: Keep Her in the Game teams and their families receive complimentary tickets to a Gotham FC home game with a special Keep Her in the Game celebration. Some Keep Her in the Game teams will also have the opportunity of Gotham FC player visits to their youth team practices.

Virtual parent workshop: Keep Her in the Game parents are invited to a free, optional workshop on the role they can play in raising resilient athletes and keeping their girls in the game, led by experts in social-emotional learning.

Early September: All Keep Her in the Game coaches attend a training session at Gotham FC’s headquarters (Exchange Place in Jersey City, New Jersey) led by Girls Leadership.

o    There will be several dates/times offered.

o    A virtual training will be offered for those who cannot attend in person.

For questions, please contact Corinne Counsell, Senior Manager of Community and Social Impact, at CCounsell@gothamfc.com.

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. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage 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 the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log onto http://www.enysoccer.com/