Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026 | SHERATON VALLEY FORGE KING OF PRUSSIA
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
February 28, 2026
SHERATON VALLEY FORGE
KING OF PRUSSIA
Grow the Game
Our Mission
Since 1972, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer has worked throughout Eastern Pennsylvania’s 36 counties to promote, foster, and perpetuate the game of soccer to the region’s youth. Through competitions, educational programs, workshops, and coaching clinics, each year Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer impacts the lives of more than 120,000 youth soccer players from age five to 19. Additional information is available at www.EPYSA.org.
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer exists to promote and facilitate the game of soccer for all youth at all levels of play in Eastern Pennsylvania. The ultimate vision of our Association is to be the best youth sports organization in the country through the provision of services, education, and opportunities to the youth of Eastern Pennsylvania.
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer seeks to work with integrity, cooperation, fairness, accountability, professionalism, collaboration, innovation, passion, and excellence in all of our actions.
Programs
Coaching Education
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer
2026 Annual General Meeting
Saturday, February 28, 2026 |10:00am | sheraton king of prussia
Agenda
I. Opening Remarks, President Lennie Brown
II. Moment of Silence
III. Pledge of Allegiance
IV. Roll Call/Credentials Report
V. Approval of the 2025 Annual General Meeting Minutes
VI. Affirmation of the Actions of the Board of Directors
VII. Reports of Officers and Committees
VIII. New Business
a. Proposed Fees and Fines for Seasonal Year 2026-27
b. Proposed Budget Fiscal Year 2026-27
IX. Election of Officers
a. First Vice President
b. Secretary
c. Member at Large (2)
X. Election of District Commissioners - Districts 2, 4, 6
XI. Good of the Game
XII. Adjournment
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting
Saturday, February 8, 2025
I. President Lennie Brown called the meeting to order and followed with a moment of silence and the pledge of allegiance.
II. Roll Call/Credentials Report: It was established that representatives were properly credentialed and present, establishing 353 affiliate votes and thus confirming a quorum. President Brown dispensed with the roll call given the quorum was established through registration.
III. Mr. Brown asked for a motion to approve the minutes of the 2024 Annual General Meeting. Motion made by Secretary Bill Ross, seconded by Second Vice President Bill Fuller and was approved by general consent.
IV. Mr. Brown asked for a motion to accept the actions of the Board of Directors since the last council meeting in 2024. Motion made by First Vice President Melissa Weber, was seconded by multiple delegates from the floor, and was approved by general consent.
V. Reports were presented by Mr. Brown and Chief Executive Officer Chris Branscome. Additional reports were presented in writing and published in the AGM book of reports for this meeting.
a. Mr. Brown again welcomed everyone and turned the podium over to Mr. Branscome
b. Branscome also welcomed everyone and thanked them for their efforts to support the youth of Eastern Pennsylvania. He reported that registration is strong and that we are currently the fourth largest of the state associations in US Soccer. While some locations around the country have been trending downward, the clubs in Eastern Pennsylvania have been going up. He thanked and congratulated everyone for their work at the grassroots.
c. Branscome discussed sideline behavior and referees. The new policy on sideline behavior has shown positive results, but we need to continue to work harder. To be clear, referees are to manage the game with the coaches. If there are spectator issues, the referee uses the coaches as the conduit to the fans. If needed, it’s the coach who will be disciplined, not the spectators. Further, US Soccer is introducing new referee abuse policies. The goal is to curb bad behavior as well as provide safety and support for referees.
d. Branscome announced we are 491 days away from the first FIFA Men’s World Cup game to ever be played in Philadelphia. We’ve been on the journey for eight years and the countdown is on. What that means for us is to take advantage of the moment. We must use the event as leverage to grow the game. Growing the game for him means more kids, more coaches, more referees, more girls, more people of color. This the opportunity to include everyone who wants to play the world’s game, can play it here in Eastern Pennsylvania. We need to work together to fill the gaps and lower barriers for kids.
e. Branscome announced we will one again be the host of the US Youth Soccer Eastern Presidents Cup. We did such an incredible job in 2023, USYS awarded it to us with no bid, no challenge. He looks forward to our teams getting to play at home on their way to the national Presidents Cup.
f. Branscome introduced his colleague at Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the host city executive, Meg Kane. Kane gave an in-depth overview of the responsibilities and opportunities with hosting the event.
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting
Saturday, February 8, 2025 continued
VI. New Business:
a. Mr. Brown asked for a motion to accept the fees and fines for the 25-26 seasonal year, noting there were no changes to the prior year. Motion made by Treasurer Jim Brown was seconded by multiple delegates. The budget was adopted by consent.
b. Mr. Brown asked for a motion to accept the FY 25-26budget. The motion made by Jim Brown was seconded by multiple delegates. The budget was adopted by consent.
VII. Election of Officers:
a. Secretary Bill Ross presided over the election of officers. The nominations were Lennie Brown- President; Bill Fuller- Secretary; Jim Brown- Treasurer. Each nominee was the incumbent and ran unopposed, therefore elected by acclimation.
VIII. Election for District Commissioners. Even numbered Commissioners were elected electronically, prior to the meeting. Each election was unopposed and were elected by acclimation.
a. District 1, Jeff Tener
b. District 3, Gary Blockus
c. District 5, Scott Merritt
IX. Good of the Game:
a. Mr. Branscome congratulated all the previous evening’s award winners and thanked the staff for their outstanding work over the past year.
b. Bill ross provided an update on TOPSoccer, where he is also the US Youth East Region representative.
c. Technical Director Gary Stephenson gave an update on U9 travel soccer, that U8 doesn’t exist, but may play up if the league supports it.
d. Branscome explained the upcoming changes to the registration year, supported by US Soccer and that all national youth associations are in favor. It will not take effect until 26-27.
e. The group wished our world cup partners the Philadelphia Eagles best of luck in the Super Bowl the following day.
Upon proper motion, the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully Submitted, Melissa Weber
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Report of the Chief Executive Officer Chris Branscome
2026 and the World Cup is finally here. We’ve been waiting for this since the launch of the bid in 2017. As you enter the AGM this year, it will be 106 days to kick off.
Over the next 106 days, plus the 39 days of the tournament, there will be time for celebration and excitement of our game. This is a time to enjoy the game together, with your family, friends old and new, with visitors from around the globe. Enjoy this special moment.
In addition, we need to get to work. We need this moment to be a movement. We need to use the momentum of the World Cup to take soccer to new heights. This is an opportunity to grow the game. Growing means bringing new children and new families into your clubs. We still need to provide quality programming and good times for our current kids and keep them involved. Let’s be sure we nurture the joy of the sport so that they play for many years to come. Of course, we want the joy of the game to keep today’s young players in the game and replace all of us. We should want all the kids to become fans and grow the next generation of soccer.
Our mission is to foster and perpetuate the game at all levels. We should all pledge to support this mission. There are multiple ways for us to do this, but the primary ways are from financial resources and human resources. We will be investing financially in our sport this summer and beyond. We will be using the resources we have in our strong reserves to bring more children, coaches, referees and others into the game. We will take the game to places we haven’t been to and places that need additional assistance. We’ll provide educational resources and equipment. We’ll provide training and lots of soccer balls, and lots of kids.
It’s also time for us to think forward and imagine where we can take the sport. This is happening on a national level and will trickle down over the next few years. I’ve been fortunate to be selected to participate in those discussions with US Soccer and US youth Soccer. We’ve also been working with our competitors to strike the right balance for all kids and clubs to have a clearer pathway for their youth soccer career. This won’t be easy, but it is necessary to seek unity. The goal is to lower costs and provide better experiences. We will need to address those ideals and competitive models here at home.
Over the past year I’ve been preaching “don’t say no” to any child who wants to play soccer this year. Let’s all find simple or unique ways to allow new kids to join in on our fun. To me, that’s the primary legacy of this year and this World Cup. Get creative, loosen the reins, open your doors. If you need help, we’re here and committed to growing the game. With the investments we look to make, we can remove barriers to participation at all levels.
Enjoy this incredible, once in a generation moment. Go USA!
On behalf of our 120,000 players, thank you. On behalf of our future players, I thank you even more.
Annual General Meeting
Report of the treasurer jim brown
FY ENDING 8/31/2025
It is reassuring to report once again that the financial profile of the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association remains stable and secure. Chief Executive Officer Chris Bransome and Chief Operating Officer Kelly Connor monitor revenues and expenditures with vigilance. The independent accounting firm Brinker, Simpson & Company, LLC works closely with Chris and Kelly providing sound financial and accounting guidance. The goal is to always maintain the accuracy and integrity of the Association’s financial position while anticipating future opportunities and challenges e.g. this year’s World Cup.
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Total assets were $5.44M The value of invested assets at year’s end was $4.13M versus $3.57M in the prior year. Investments are managed by Mirus Financial Partners and are targeted to maximize gains and to minimize losses from market downturns, to support capital projects and grants, as well as to strengthen the Association’s reserves and stability. The investment mix includes growth assets (equities), income assets (bonds), and other income opportunities (real estate-REITs)
Total Liabilities - $558,575 Total Equity - $4.88M
Total for Liabilities and Equity - $5.44M
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITY
Total Revenue was $3.97M compared to $3.64M in the prior year.
Total Expenditures were $3.85M including staff compensation, benefits, payroll taxes, insurance, grants, scholarships, office supplies, office rent and utilities, uniforms, USYSA and US Soccer fees and other operating expenses. Prior year expenditures were $3.41M
Net Operating Income = $122,986. In the prior year it was $234,249
Submitted by Jim Brown, Treasurer
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
PROPOSED BUDGET, FISCAL YEAR 2026-27
PROPOSED BUDGET, FISCAL YEAR 2026-27
Continued
Continued
PROPOSED BUDGET, FISCAL YEAR 2026-27
Budget Summary
Continued
!"#A!%C'EF*+I*E-.!
!"#A!%C'EF*+I*E-.!
PROPOSED BUDGET, FISCAL YEAR 2026-27
Continued
Proposed Budget, Fiscal Year 2026-2027 continued
PROPOSED BUDGET, FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 PROPOSED BUDGET, FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 Continued
PROPOSED BUDGET, FISCAL YEAR 2026-27
!"#$%&'! /!!!!E)*+I)EEE-E. /!!!!!E)*00)E*1-EI E)**I)2E1-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!E)*3+)2+E-33
!"#A!%C'EF*+I*E-.!
!"#AB#CD!EAFG! +I!-.-/M-.-N +I!-.-/M-.-N +I!-.-NM-.-O! +I!-.-OM-.-P
!"#AB#CD!EAFG! +I!-.-/M-.-N +I!-.-/M-.-N +I!-.-NM-.-O! +I!-.-OM-.-P
!"#A!%C'EF*+I*E-.!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!E)*+I)EEE-E. /!!!!!E)*00)E*1-EI E)**I)2E1-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!E)*3+)2+E-33 !456'#7'! /!!!!!!!*.E)1I*-.. /!!!!!!!!+*0)*E3-*3 80I)E08-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!80E)82+-33
!4.4!RS"! 789:C; Y:FBG9 E:##G=9 "#A>A?GF
!4.4!RS"! 789:C; Y:FBG9 E:##G=9 "#A>A?GF
!"#$%&'! /!!!!E)*+I)EEE-E. /!!!!!E)*00)E*1-EI E)**I)2E1-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!E)*3+)2+E-33
!456'#7'! /!!!!!!!*.E)1I*-.. /!!!!!!!!+*0)*E3-*3 80I)E08-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!80E)82+-33 !/C*!M.N-OC! T!!!!A3#A"34R"6R# T!!!!!A3A893:;A6:8 A3AY#3;;Y6## T!!!! T!!!!!!A3#;Y3ARY6##
!456'#7'! /!!!!!!!!+*0)*E3-*3 80I)E08-33 /!!!!!!!
!"#A!%C'EF*+I*E-.!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!E)*+)EI-.. /!!!!!!!!EII+)))-)) EE0+I))-)) /!!!!!!! !/!!!!!!!!!1*1+I))-))!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!E)*+)EI-.. /!!!!!!!!EII+)))-)) EE0+I))-)) /!!!!!!! !/!!!!!!!!!1*1+I))-))!
!/C*!M.N-OC! T!!!!A3#A"34R"6R# A3AY#3;;Y6## T!!!! T!!!!!!A3#;Y3ARY6##
!"#$%&'! /!!!!E)*+I)EEE-E. /!!!!!E)*00)E*1-EI E)**I)2E1-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!E)*3+)2+E-33
!"#$%&'! /!!!!E)*+I)EEE-E. /!!!!!E)*00)E*1-EI E)**I)2E1-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!E)*3+)2+E-33 !456'#7'! /!!!!!!!!+*0)*E3-*3 80I)E08-33 /!!!!!!!
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!*11+6)1-70 /!!!!!!!!8)E+7I)-)) 8).+7I)-)) /!!!!!!! !/!!!!!!!!!80E+.I)-))!
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!*11+6)1-70 /!!!!!!!!8)E+7I)-)) 8).+7I)-)) /!!!!!!! !/!!!!!!!!!80E+.I)-))!
!/C*!M.N-OC! T!!!!A3#A"34R"6R# A3AY#3;;Y6## T!!!! T!!!!!!A3#;Y3ARY6##
!456'#7'! /!!!!!!!*.E)1I*-.. /!!!!!!!!+*0)*E3-*3 80I)E08-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!80E)82+-33
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!--NB-NPC4a E!!!!!!!!-/cB.N.C.. -O.BNN.C.. E!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!d44BdN.C..
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!--NB-NPC4a E!!!!!!!!-/cB.N.C.. -O.BNN.C.. E!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!d44BdN.C..
!/C*!M.N-OC! T!!!!A3#A"34R"6R# A3AY#3;;Y6## T!!!! T!!!!!!A3#;Y3ARY6##
!"#"!=>OE.EF*+I*E-.!
!"#"!=>OE.EF*+I*E-.!
!/C*!M.N-OC! T!!!!A3#A"34R"6R# T!!!!!A3A893:;A6:8 A3AY#3;;Y6## T!!!! T!!!!!!A3#;Y3ARY6##
!"#"!=>OE.EF*+I*E-.!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!E1*)188-I8 /!!!!!!!!!!1+)333-33 E0)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33 !456'#7'! /!!!!E)..E)80E-*I /!!!!!E)I01)333-33 E)I2.)333-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!E).3.)333-33
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!E1*)188-I8 /!!!!!!!!!!1+)333-33 E0)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33
!"#"!=>OE.EF*+I*E-.!
!4.-!eG?fFG=9!ECD>!
!4.-!eG?fFG=9!ECD>!
!456'#7'! /!!!!E)..E)80E-*I /!!!!!E)I01)333-33 E)I2.)333-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!E).3.)333-33
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?A38":38Y86:;@ T!! ?A38#R3###6##@ T!!! ?A384"3###6##@ T!!! ?A389Y3###6##@ T!!!!
!"#"!=>OE.EF*+I*E-.!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!E1*)188-I8 /!!!!!!!!!!1+)333-33 E0)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33 !456'#7'! E)I2.)333-33 /!!!!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!.1*+)*1-I) /!!!!!!!!.66+0I)-)) 0.I+I))-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!0*8+E0I-))
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!.1*+)*1-I) /!!!!!!!!.66+0I)-)) 0.I+I))-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!0*8+E0I-))
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?A38":38Y86:;@ T!! ?A38#R3###6##@ T!!! ?A384"3###6##@ T!!! ?A389Y3###6##@ T!!!!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!E1*)188-I8 /!!!!!!!!!!1+)333-33 E0)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!E1*)188-I8 /!!!!!!!!!!1+)333-33 E0)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33 !456'#7'! E)I2.)333-33 /!!!!
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!.*7+E*6-.) /!!!!!!!!.81+0))-)) .6)+0I)-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!.IE+60I-))
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!.*7+E*6-.) /!!!!!!!!.81+0))-)) .6)+0I)-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!.IE+60I-))
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?A38":38Y86:;@ T!! ?A38#R3###6##@ T!!! ?A384"3###6##@ T!!! ?A389Y3###6##@ T!!!!
!456'#7'! /!!!!E)..E)80E-*I /!!!!!E)I01)333-33 E)I2.)333-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!E).3.)333-33
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!!!ddBdaaC/. E!!!!!!!!!!/4B.N.C.. dNB-N.C.. E!!!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!!!PPBc..C..
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?A38":38Y86:;@ T!! ?A38#R3###6##@ T!!! ?A384"3###6##@ T!!! ?A389Y3###6##@ T!!!!
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!!!ddBdaaC/. E!!!!!!!!!!/4B.N.C.. dNB-N.C.. E!!!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!!!PPBc..C..
!"#Y!AI+BC*E.'!C! a-OOE.ENI*E-.F!
!"#Y!AI+BC*E.'!C! a-OOE.ENI*E-.F!
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?A38":38Y86:;@ T!! ?A38#R3###6##@ T!!! ?A384"3###6##@ T!!! ?A389Y3###6##@ T!!!!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!113)881-*. /!!!!!!!!!!2+)333-33 E1.)333-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!E+E)333-33
!"#Y!AI+BC*E.'!C! a-OOE.ENI*E-.F!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!113)881-*. /!!!!!!!!!!2+)333-33 E1.)333-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!E+E)333-33
!4.d!eGgG#GG!SGhG;A>DG=9!
!456'#7'! /!!!!!!!11*)2EI-2. /!!!!!!!!E**)333-33 E8.)333-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!110)333-33
!"#Y!AI+BC*E.'!C! a-OOE.ENI*E-.F!
!4.d!eGgG#GG!SGhG;A>DG=9!
!456'#7'! E8.)333-33 /!!!!!!!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!.6+1I)-)) .6+1I)-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!.0+)))-))
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?43A8"6A#@ T!!!!!!!!! ?9"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?Y#3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?R"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!.6+1I)-)) .6+1I)-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!.0+)))-))
!"#Y!AI+BC*E.'!C! a-OOE.ENI*E-.F!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!113)881-*. /!!!!!!!!!!2+)333-33 E1.)333-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!E+E)333-33 !456'#7'!
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!.6+1I)-)) .6+1I)-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!.0+)))-))
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?43A8"6A#@ T!!!!!!!!! ?9"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?Y#3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?R"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!.6+1I)-)) .6+1I)-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!.0+)))-))
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!113)881-*. /!!!!!!!!!!2+)333-33 E1.)333-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!E+E)333-33 !456'#7'! E8.)333-33 /!!!!!!!
!@G9!A=8ADG!
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?43A8"6A#@ T!!!!!!!!! ?9"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?Y#3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?R"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?43A8"6A#@ T!!!!!!!!! ?9"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?Y#3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?R"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!113)881-*. /!!!!!!!!!!2+)333-33 E1.)333-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!E+E)333-33 !456'#7'! /!!!!!!!11*)2EI-2. /!!!!!!!!E**)333-33 E8.)333-33 /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!110)333-33
!"#;!cE*+CINd!
!"#;!cE*+CINd!
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?43A8"6A#@ T!!!!!!!!! ?9"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?Y#3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?R"3###6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!E3)3*3-33 /!!!!!!!!!!E0)333-33 EE)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33
!"#;!cE*+CINd!
!4./!EAC8M!N8MAA;!
!4./!EAC8M!N8MAA;!
!"#;!cE*+CINd!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!E3)3*3-33 /!!!!!!!!!!E0)333-33 EE)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33 !456'#7'! /!!!!!!!!!EE)8.1-10 /!!!!!!!!!!I*)333-33 I*)133-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!II)833-33
!456'#7'! /!!!!!!!!!EE)8.1-10 /!!!!!!!!!!I*)333-33 I*)133-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!II)833-33 !/C*!M.N-OC! ?A3R;"6":@ T!!!!!!!!! ?:Y3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:;3"##6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:83;##6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!"#$%&'! /.6I+.*7-)8 /!!!!!!!!.)E+I))-)) ..6+I))-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!.IE+)))-))
!"#;!cE*+CINd!
!"#$%&'! /.6I+.*7-)8 /!!!!!!!!.)E+I))-)) ..6+I))-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!.IE+)))-))
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!E3)3*3-33 /!!!!!!!!!!E0)333-33 EE)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33 !456'#7'! /!!!!!!!!!!I*)333-33 I*)133-33
!234'#5'! /6I+*78-I* /!!!!!!!!!!EE+6))-)) 1)+8))-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!67+*I)-))
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?A3R;"6":@ T!!!!!!!!! ?:Y3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:;3"##6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:83;##6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!E3)3*3-33 /!!!!!!!!!!E0)333-33 EE)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33 !456'#7'! /!!!!!!!!!!I*)333-33
!234'#5'! /6I+*78-I* /!!!!!!!!!!EE+6))-)) 1)+8))-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!67+*I)-))
!@G9!A=8ADG! EaaBP//CN4 E!!!!!!!!!!daBP..C.. /cB4..C.. E!!!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!!!OOBON.C..
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?A3R;"6":@ T!!!!!!!!! ?:Y3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:;3"##6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:83;##6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!@G9!A=8ADG! EaaBP//CN4 E!!!!!!!!!!daBP..C.. /cB4..C.. E!!!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!!!OOBON.C..
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!E3)3*3-33 /!!!!!!!!!!E0)333-33 EE)333-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!E3)333-33 !456'#7'! /!!!!!!!!!EE)8.1-10 /!!!!!!!!!!I*)333-33 I*)133-33 /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!II)833-33 !/C*!M.N-OC! ?A3R;"6":@ T!!!!!!!!! ?:Y3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:;3"##6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:83;##6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!/C*!M.N-OC! ?A3R;"6":@ T!!!!!!!!! ?:Y3###6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:;3"##6##@ T!!!!!!!! ?:83;##6##@ T!!!!!!!!!
!e-*II! gh!"#"8i"#"Y gh!"#"8i"#"Y gh!"#"Yi"#"R gh!"#"Ri"#"; !M.N-OC! /!!!!0)8I2)218-11 /!!!!!0)I88)I01-EI 0)+01)8*8-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!0)8*3)3*+-33
!e-*II! gh!"#"8i"#"Y gh!"#"8i"#"Y gh!"#"Yi"#"R gh!"#"Ri"#"; !M.N-OC! /!!!!0)8I2)218-11 /!!!!!0)I88)I01-EI 0)+01)8*8-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!0)8*3)3*+-33
!4.N!R:9FAA#!E:>!
!4.N!R:9FAA#!E:>!
!MklC.FC! /!!!!0)+12)22*-28 /!!!!!0)080)3E3-*3 0).03)E88-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!0)+E2)3*+-33
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!887+707-.) /!!!!!!!!8.E+)))-)) 8I)+E0I-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!I.0+1I)-))
!MklC.FC! /!!!!0)+12)22*-28 /!!!!!0)080)3E3-*3 0).03)E88-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!0)+E2)3*+-33
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!887+707-.) /!!!!!!!!8.E+)))-)) 8I)+E0I-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!I.0+1I)-))
!e-*II! T!!!!!!!AA939"46"Y T!!!!!!!!A#838"A6:8 A#"3RA#6## T!!!!!!! T!!!!!!!!!ARA3###6##
!e-*II! gh!"#"8i"#"Y
!e-*II! gh!"#"8i"#"Y gh!"#"8i"#"Y gh!"#"Yi"#"R gh!"#"Ri"#"; !M.N-OC! /!!!!0)8I2)218-11 /!!!!!0)I88)I01-EI 0)+01)8*8-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!0)8*3)3*+-33 !MklC.FC! /!!!!!0)080)3E3-*3
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!0*1+)II-E1 /!!!!!!!!0*0+)))-)) 087+)))-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!0E8+)))-))
!e-*II! T!!!!!!!AA939"46"Y T!!!!!!!!A#838"A6:8 A#"3RA#6## T!!!!!!! T!!!!!!!!!ARA3###6##
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!0*1+)II-E1 /!!!!!!!!0*0+)))-)) 087+)))-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!0E8+)))-))
!e-*II! gh!"#"8i"#"Y gh!"#"8i"#"Y gh!"#"Yi"#"R gh!"#"Ri"#"; !M.N-OC! /!!!!0)8I2)218-11 /!!!!!0)I88)I01-EI 0)+01)8*8-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!0)8*3)3*+-33 !MklC.FC! /!!!!!0)080)3E3-*3 0).03)E88-33 /!!!!
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!-4-BcPdC/d E!!!!!!!!4c/B...C.. -.4BO-NC.. E!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!-/cBPN.C..
!e-*II! T!!!!!!!AA939"46"Y A#"3RA#6## T!!!!!!! T!!!!!!!!!ARA3###6##
!e-*II! T!!!!!!!AA939"46"Y T!!!!!!!!A#838"A6:8 A#"3RA#6## T!!!!!!! T!!!!!!!!!ARA3###6##
gh!"#"Yi"#"R gh!"#"Ri"#"; !M.N-OC! /!!!!0)8I2)218-11 /!!!!!0)I88)I01-EI 0)+01)8*8-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!0)8*3)3*+-33 !MklC.FC! /!!!!0)+12)22*-28 /!!!!!0)080)3E3-*3 0).03)E88-33 /!!!! /!!!!!!0)+E2)3*+-33
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!-4-BcPdC/d E!!!!!!!!4c/B...C.. -.4BO-NC.. E!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!-/cBPN.C..
!e-*II! T!!!!!!!AA939"46"Y T!!!!!!!!A#838"A6:8 A#"3RA#6## T!!!!!!! T!!!!!!!!!ARA3###6##
!4.O!A=FAA#!E:>!
!4.O!A=FAA#!E:>!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!78+I00-)) /!!!!!!!!.)7+1I)-)) ..I+I))-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!..7+0I)-))
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!78+I00-)) /!!!!!!!!.)7+1I)-)) ..I+I))-)) /!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!..7+0I)-))
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!!!I7+E61-.8 /!!!!!!!!!!18+I))-)) 10+77)-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!18+)EI-))
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!!!I7+E61-.8 /!!!!!!!!!!18+I))-)) 10+77)-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!18+)EI-))
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!!!d/Bcd/CcO E!!!!!!!!!!dNB-N.C.. /-BN4.C..
!@G9!A=8ADG! E!!!!!!!!!d/Bcd/CcO E!!!!!!!!!!dNB-N.C.. /-BN4.C.. E!!!!!!!!! E!!!!!!!!!!!/NB4cNC..
!444!l"IN7!7mn!
!"#$%&'! /!!!!!!!!!0)+77*-)) /!!!!!!!!!!.I+)))-)) .1+I))-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!0)+)))-)) !234'#5'! /!!!!!!!!!6E+1E6-)8 /!!!!!!!!!!1I+)))-)) 68+I))-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!70+0))-))
!234'#5'! /!!!!!!!!!6E+1E6-)8 /!!!!!!!!!!1I+)))-)) 68+I))-)) /!!!!!!!!! /!!!!!!!!!!!70+0))-))
!@G9!A=8ADG! oONBPPNC./p
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Proposed Fees and Fines Summary 2026-2027 Registration Fees
and
Player Data Due Dates
Organizational Membership Fee
Team Fees (Insurance/General and Administrative)
PLAYER FEES
Intramural Player
Recreational Player
Travel Player
Secondary Player
Player Transfer Fee
Player Release Fee
SPECIAL TEAMS/PLAYER CARD FEES
Export Team Fee
Tournament Team Fee
Direct Player Fee
Export Player Fee
$25.00 per Delegate Vote
$39.00 per Team*
$9.75 per Player
$10.75 per Player
$15.75 per Player
$3.00 per Player
$1.00 per Player
$1.00 per Player
$275.00 per Team
$200.00 per Team
$25.00 per Player
$25.00 per Player
REGISTRATION FEES AND PLAYER DATABASE ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE:
FINES/LATE FEES
Late Registration Payment and/or Player Database
$250.00
Non-Attendance at Annual General Meeting 1st year: $250.00 2nd year: $500.00
Appeal/Arbitration Fee: $200.00
• Failure to submit any of these materials and payment of fine may also result in a suspension of membership
NATIONAL/REGIONAL/STATE CUP
Game Forfeit – Intrastate
$150.00
Non-Attendance – US Youth Soccer Region I Competition $500.00 (In addition to any fine instituted by the competition)
Annual General Meeting
Elections 2026
Candidates for election
OFFICER CANDIDATES
First Vice President
Melissa Weber (incumbent)
Secretary Bill Ross (incumbent)
Member at Large
John Mickel (incumbent)
Dan Loney
Tim Murphy
DISTRICT COMMISSIONER
The District Commissioner vote will be an electronic vote taking place prior to the AGM. An email will be sent to the primary delegate from each registered organization. Each Commissioner election will be limited to each specific district. Nominations will be called for in advance and the voting will proceed and close before the start the AGM. The votes will be tallied, and winners will be announced during the AGM.
NOMINATIONS
District 2
District 4
District 6
District 6
Rachel Gallegos (incumbent)
Eric McKitish (incumbent)
Phil Frederick (incumbent)
Christina Loss
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
john mickel candidate for member at-large
election 2026
I’ve been playing soccer for almost 45 years and played in a men’s league until my 15-knee operations put a hold on that in 2022.
SOCCER PLAYING CAREER:
• Northampton Intramurals
• Buckingham ‘73 Travel Team
• Inter-County Select
• State Select/ODP
• Council Rock High School
• Eastern College - Captain and All-League
• Philadelphia Freedom (reserves) - 1 year
SOCCER COACHING CAREER (D LICENSE):
• Training kids since I was 16
• Intercounty Select Teams
• ODP Evaluator
• ODP Coach
• Council Rock United Girls Travel Teams
• Octorara Girls Travel Teams
• Octorara Boys Travel Teams
I am the current Member at Large for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and was elected to the position in 2023.
Professionally, I’ve worked within logistics. IT security and project management fields for large and small companies. The past few years, I’ve been primarily in the Banking/FinTeach verticals. My primary area of concentration has been focusing on delivering targeted programs while recognizing opportunities for risk and quickly mitigating those factors while simultaneously looking at areas of improvement. This I believe partners will with youth sports as we are constantly working on how we can make the players experience better and at the same time, provide them with a safe environment to do so.
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
dan Loney candidate for member at-large election 2026
It is exciting to throw my hat in the ring because soccer in this part of the state has been part of my life for several decades.
• Youth player for the old Wynnewood Soccer Club
• High school for local legend Joe Tata at The Haverford School
• College for two years at Ithaca College for longtime coach Andy Byrne.
My three children are all playing with various clubs (HVAA, VE, Penn Alliance). My two youngest (HS juniors) play at Germantown Academy and for HEX FC and Reading Rage Surf.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Current Business News Anchor, Compass Media Networks
National broadcast journalist focusing on corporate world, politics and financial markets
2014-2025
Business radio & Podcast Host, Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
Wall Street, leadership, economic impact, small business, technology, sports business and more.
2011-2014
Host of Inside Ivy League Football & Inside Ivy League Basketball Ivy League. Weekly broadcasts for the Ivy League
2016-2018 Radio Host, WPHT Philadelphia
Hosted Sunday evening talk show on important local issues
2001- 2016 Play-by- play broadcaster, Princeton University Athletics Voice of the Princeton Tigers- Football, Basketball and Lacrosse
2007-2014 Reporter/Anchor, Wall Street Journal Radio Network
Business reports for stations nationally, voiceover and production, host and writer for weekly sports & business podcast and WSJ Radio
2001-2007 Radio/TV Broadcaster & Director of Marketing and Communications Trenton Thunder Baseball Club
2000-2001 Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations, Lakewood BlueClaws Baseball Club
1996-2000 Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations, Charleston Alley Cats Baseball Club
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
tim murphy candidate for member at-large election 2026
SOCCER CAREER:
Lawrenceville HS (NJ)
Davis & Elkins College
Varsity starter 1973-1976, captain 1976, All-South Region 1975, Senior Bowl selection 1976, Olympic Trials 1974, Assistant Coach 1977
Trenton Extension 1976 US National Amateur Cup finalists
NASL Portland Timbers 1977, 1978
MISL Cleveland Force 1979
ASL Columbus Magic 1979
Ohio University Head coach 1980
BUSINESS CAREER:
Spectacor (SMG)
Philadelphia Spectrum Event management, Philadelphia 76ers
Regional VP/GM Pittsburgh Civic Arena 1992-94
VP Stadium Operations and European Operations 1997-2001
Comcast Spectacor
General Manager, Philadelphia Charge, WUSA 2002-2005
General Manager Philadelphia Kixx, MISL 2002-2005
Global Spectrum General Manager, Citizens Bank Park 2005-2008
Comcast Spectacor VP/General Manager, Wachovia Center/Wells Fargo Center 2008-2011
Spectra
Oak View Group
Regional VP -oversight of 12 arenas, 2 convention centers
Regional VP/ GM Core Entertainment Arena Ontario, CN
Regional VP/ GM Subaru Park (Talen Energy Stadium) 2012-2021
General Manager Subaru Park , Union Yards, WSFS Sports Complex 2022- 2025
Annual General Meeting
EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER
Compliance & Best Practices
KEEPING OUR PLAYERS SAFE STARTS WITH US
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer requires all member Clubs and Leagues to ensure that every individual in a leadership or administrative role remains fully compliant with background clearance and training requirements. This applies to ALL Coaches, Team Managers, Club Staff, and Board Members, regardless of their level of direct contact with players.
WHO MUST BE COMPLIANT?
Head & Assistant Coaches Team Managers Club Staff All Board Members (Board members are required to maintain compliance even if they do not supervise or work directly with athletes.)
REQUIRED BACKGROUND CLEARANCES
All clearances must be current and uploaded to the individual’s GotSport profile.
Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check
Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance
FBI Federal Criminal History Background Check (or Volunteer Affidavit)
REQUIRED TRAINING
U.S. Soccer SafeSport Training (Must be completed and kept current at all times)
IMPORTANT COMPLIANCE NOTES
Compliance is mandatory under Eastern PA Youth Soccer and U.S. Youth Soccer Athlete & Participant Safety Policies. Missing or expired documentation may impact:
Coaching eligibility Team or club participation
Tournament or league approval Grant funding or program approval
TAKE ACTION NOW
Review your club’s compliance records
Confirm all required documents are uploaded and current
Address any missing or expired items immediately
For questions or assistance, please get in touch with the Eastern PA Youth Soccer Risk Management Department or visit the EPYSA.org website for compliance resources.
Together, we protect the game—and the kids who play it.
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
POLICY ON SIDELINE BEHAVIOR AND CONDUCT DURING A MATCH
GENERAL EXPECTATIONS
All participants in matches sanctioned by Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer, regardless of age or competition level, must adhere to the bylaws, policies, and codes of conduct of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer. Additionally, participants must follow the policies of FIFA, US Soccer, US Youth Soccer, and the specific rules of any sanctioned competition. Players, coaches, referees, and spectators are held to the same standards of conduct.
PROMOTING SPORTSMANSHIP
Leagues, clubs, teams, and spectators are expected to exemplify sportsmanship and fair play. Clubs are responsible for the behavior of their members and spectators, ensuring that players can enjoy a safe and supportive environment. The head coach is directly accountable for the conduct of the team and its supporters.
TEAM AND SPECTATOR AREAS
Only rostered players, coaches, and administrators with the necessary clearances are allowed in the team’s technical area (bench). Spectator areas must remain separate from the bench. Member leagues may impose additional rules regarding the placement of teams and spectators.
REFEREE AUTHORITY AND DISCIPLINE
Referees have full control of the match and can issue warnings, yellow cards, or red cards for inappropriate conduct by players or coaches. If spectators display inappropriate behavior, such as foul language or disruptions, the referee will pause the match and inform the head coach to address the issue. Referees do not interact directly with spectators. Continued misconduct may result in disciplinary actions against the coach, including yellow or red cards, or the match being terminated if no additional rostered staff is available.
BEHAVIOR BEYOND THE MATCH
Misconduct can occur at any time—before, during, halftime, or after a match. Referees retain authority throughout these periods, and all participants must respect the referee’s personal space.
REPORTING AND DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Referees will document incidents of misconduct in their match report and submit it to the league or competition director. Cases of referee abuse or assault will be reported directly to the State Association for a disciplinary hearing. Consequences for sideline behavior may extend beyond individuals and affect their club.
Annual General Meeting
Registration 2025-2026 DISTRICT 1
Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting
League Registration 2025-2026
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Award Winners
Female Youth Referee of the Year
Taryn Ludwig
Male Youth Referee of the Year
Michael Orlando
Administrator of the Year
Irene Dobrin (Dynamo United & Penn Athletics)
Boys Coach of the Year
Charlie Dodds (Lower Merion SC)
Girls Coach of the Year
Adam Freeman (Penn FC Youth)
Service to Community
Carlos Najera
Boys Team of the Year
YMS 10B Premier United
Girls Team of the Year
Carlisle Area Youth Soccer Cannons 07/08G
Volunteer of the Year Award
Janine & Pete Afflerbach
Mike Barr Excellence in Coaching Award
Danielle Fagan
Mike Barr Excellence in Coaching Award
Antonio Bayon
Service to Youth
Randy Garber
Service to Youth
Mike Gorni
D’Anjolell Award
Phoenixville Soccer Club
Union League of Philadelphia
Good citizenship award winners
Logan Bock // FC Delco/Colonial SC
Stephen Buczek // Patriot SC
Emily Chi // AC Inspire
Tyler Do // Hershey SC
Carson Kramer // Lititz YSC
Kevin Levan // ENCO United
Drew Lucot // FC Europa
Alexa Misiolek // PA Classics - Harrisburg
Bryan Nihart // Coventry SA
Max Noh // FC Montco
Nathan Perley // Inter Philly FC
Tessa Pirolli // Philadelphia SC
Kaitlin Quinn // Hunter SC
Cameron Rolph // PA Classics - Lancaster
Samantha Seager // Capital Areas SA
Tyson Sippel // Langhorne Neshaminy United SC
Bailey Walder // Springfield SC
Clara Webb // PA Classics - Harrisburg
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Age Group Formation Update for 2026-27
Following extensive review and discussion, US Youth Soccer, AYSO, and US Club Soccer have collectively decided to move to an age group player formation cycle that runs from August 1 to July 31, beginning in the 2026/27 season/registration year. This change will better align with youth soccer with the school calendar and reduce situations where players are placed in a different age group than their classmates.
For the 2025-26 season, there are no changes – age groups will continue to follow the current January 1-December 31 format. The updated cycle will take effect beginning Fall 2026.
Why the Change?
The new August-July age group cycle is designed to:
• Align youth soccer with the academic calendar
• Align with other youth sports typically grouped by graduation year
• Reduce the number of “trapped” or “forced-up” players
• Simplify communication for clubs, leagues, and families
• Support consistency across programs and levels of play
This collective decision among national youth soccer organizations creates a unified structure that better supports player development and team formation throughout the country.
Key Details & Timeline
• 2025-26 Season: No Changes – age groups remain January 1-December 31.
• 2026-27 Season: Age groups will be formed based on August 1-July 31. Clubs will transition to the new age group model during tryouts in 2026.
• The new cycle will apply across programs and competitions under US Youth Soccer, AYSO, and US Club Soccer, including the National Championship Series, Presidents Cup, and National League
What This Means for Clubs, Teams & Families
• Starting with the 2026-27 season, players will be grouped using August 1-July 31 rather than January 1-December 31.
• Many players will remain with the same teammates and classmates they currently play with.
• Clubs and leagues will communicate any team-specific or registration updates ahead of the transition.
For the 2025-26 season, all registrations, rosters, and competitions will continue under the current structure.
FALL 2026 AGE CHART
6U 7U 8U 9U 10U 11U 12U 13U 14U 15U 16U 17U 18U 19U
August 1, 2020 - July 31, 2021
August 1, 2019 - July 31, 2020
August 1, 2018 - July 31, 2019
August 1, 2017 - July 31, 2018
August 1, 2016 - July 31, 2017
August 1, 2015 - July 31, 2016
August 1, 2014 - July 31, 2015
August 1, 2013 - July 31, 2014
August 1, 2012 - July 31, 2013
August 1, 2011 - July 31, 2012
August 1, 2010 - July 31, 2011
August 1, 2009 - July 31, 2010
August 1, 2008 - July 31, 2009
August 1, 2007 - July 31, 2008
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Coaching Education A Pathway for Organizations at Every Level
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer provides coaching education opportunities in partnership with U.S. Soccer. These opportunities are designed to support coaches working in recreational, intramural, travel, and league-based environments throughout the state.
The coaching education pathway is structured to meet organizations where they are. It provides accessible entry points for new coaches while offering clear progression for experienced staff, technical directors, and coaching leaders. For clubs and leagues, participation in coaching education is more than individual development. It is a way to establish consistent standards, align methodology, and strengthen the overall player experience across programs.
Why Coaching Education Matters at the Organizational Level
A consistent coaching framework benefits entire organizations, not just individual teams. When coaches participate in formal education, clubs and leagues can expect:
• Age-appropriate training standards across all levels of play
• Greater alignment between recreational, intramural, and travel programs
• Shared terminology and methodology among coaching staff
• Clear developmental expectations for players and families
• Improved retention through positive, structured player experiences
Coaching education supports continuity from entry-level programs through competitive environments. It also provides families with confidence that coaches are trained under nationally recognized standards.
The U.S. Soccer Coaching Education Pathway
GRASSROOTS
EDUCATION
U.S. Soccer Grassroots courses are designed for the everyday coach and serve as the foundation of the pathway. These courses are appropriate for:
• Parent and first-time coaches
• Recreational and intramural coaches
• Entry-level travel coaches
• Assistant coaches seeking formal training
Grassroots education focuses on practical application, including:
• Planning simple, effective training sessions
• Teaching through game-based activities
• Understanding age-specific game models (4v4, 7v7, 9v9, 11v11)
• Creating safe, structured learning environments
• Communicating effectively with players
Before attending an in-person course, coaches complete the Introduction to Grassroots Coaching module through the U.S. Soccer Learning Center, which serves as the national registration and education platform.
CONTINUED PROGRESSION
Following Grassroots, coaches may advance through additional U.S. Soccer licensing levels. As education progresses, coursework expands to include:
• Coaching methodology and curriculum development
• Training game-based behaviors and tactical understanding
• Game analysis and team concepts
• Leadership and staff management
• Long-term player development planning
This tiered structure allows organizations to build internal coaching pathways and align technical standards across age groups and competitive levels.
ACCESS, HOSTING, AND SUPPORT
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer works to make coaching education accessible across the state. Support for member clubs and leagues includes:
• Hosting in-person coaching education courses locally
• Sharing registration opportunities and timelines
• Assisting organizations interested in serving as course hosts
• Connecting technical leaders to additional learning resources
By bringing education directly to communities, clubs and leagues can support their coaches while strengthening program-wide consistency.
Coaching education is not limited to one segment of the game. It is a resource available to all member organizations committed to providing structured, developmentally appropriate experiences for players at every level.
Any questions, please contact Fernando Carrizo at fcarrizo@epysa.org for more information with Coaching Education.
Annual General Meeting
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Travel LEAGUE
• A league with a minimum of two (2) age divisions of five (5) teams from at least four (4) different clubs.
Intramural LEAGUE
• A league/ in-house program based on a recreation play philosophy with constitution and bylaws, registrar, appeal process, insurance coordinator and officers.
• Intramural fees for players and teams must be paid.
Recreational LEAGUE
• Required to have constitution and bylaws, registrar, appeal process, insurance doorinator, president, treasurer; and use licensed referees.
• Required to register players with passes, rosters and pay travel league team fees.
• Participation in a travel league qualifies a team for travel team tournament and/or US Youth Soccer/ Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer play.
EXAMPLES OF TRAVEL LEAGUES: Inter-County Soccer League (ICSL), Central Penn Youth Soccer League (CPYSL), Central League, Atlantic Premier Soccer League etc.
• Participation does not qualify a team for travel team tournament and/ or US Youth Soccer/ Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Cup play.
• All players are registered through one in-house affiliate (Soccer Organization).
EXAMPLE OF INTRAMURAL LEAGUES: In-house, Pee-Wee, Little Kickers, etc. - anything organized within your own club where recreational level players compete against/ with each other in practice and game play.
• A league/ in-house program based on a recreation play philosophy with constitution and bylaws, registrar, appeal process, insurance coordinator and officers.
• Intramural fees for players and teams must be paid.
• Participation does not qualify a team for travel team tournament and/ or US Youth Soccer/ Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Cup play.
• All players are registered through one in-house affiliate (Soccer Organization).
An example of why recreational teams participate in a Recreational League is when there is not enough players to run an Intramural League (in-house program) within a soccer club/ organization.
2025-26 Board of Directors
Thank You Sponsors
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Chris Branscome
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Kelly Connor
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Gary Stephenson
DIRECTOR OF COMPETITIONS
David Jones
DIRECTOR OF SOCCER DEVELOPMENT
J.T. Dorsey
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & SPECIAL EVENTS
Karly Kaminsky
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Leo Kelly
DIRECTOR OF REGISTRATION SERVICES
Meghan Petroski
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Morgan Weindel
ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Anna-Kate DePaolo
ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Fernando Carrizo
OUTREACH/GRASSROOTS SOCCER SPECIALIST
Mallory O’Riordan
COMMUNICATIONS
Catie Branscome FEBRUARY 28,
Philadelphia’s 2026 FIFA World Cup™ Match Lineup
Philadelphia is set for an unforgettable stretch as the FIFA World Cup arrives in the city this summer. Lincoln Financial Field will host six matches, bringing global fanbases, top-tier talent, and a level of international attention to our region. For one month, South Philly becomes a meeting point for cultures from around the world and a showcase of how passionate this city can be.
The matchups bring a wide mix of styles and storylines. Ivory Coast, Ecuador, Ghana, Curaçao, and Haiti are known for vibrant supporter cultures and high-energy atmospheres, while Brazil, France and Croatia deliver global star power and some of the most accomplished players in the sport. Each match is expected to draw massive crowds
and transform match days into citywide celebrations. With kickoff times spanning afternoon and evening windows, fans will experience everything from sunny summer tailgates to high intensity matches under the lights.
Philadelphia has long been recognized as a major soccer hub, and this tournament offers another chance to highlight the strength of the sport in our area. Youth players will have the opportunity to see FIFA World Cup-level soccer in their own backyard, and local communities will feel the impact of the global event throughout the month. The excitement peaks on July 4, when Lincoln Financial Field hosts a Round of 16 match on one of the biggest days of the year.
FIFA World Cup Schedule in Philadelphia
