Photo credit: 2026 ODP International Trips, London U12/13 Girls
MSYSA is the primary advocate for youth soccer in Maryland and DC and works collaboratively with our Affiliates, partners, and sponsors to grow the game by educating, promoting, supporting, and providing.
EDUCATE PROMOTE SUPPORT PROVIDE
Grow the game of soccer by educating, promoting, supporting, and providing
Provide an opportunity for everyone to participate in the game of soccer
Membership organization with more than:
230 member clubs and leagues
85,000 players
10,000 coaches, administrators, and volunteers
2,500 referees, assignors, mentors, and coaches
AVAILABLE GRASSROOTS IN-PERSON COACHING COURSES!
2026 GRIP COURSES
HOST DC FOOTBALL CLUB
7V7 GRIP COURSE 4/17/2026-4/19/2026@WASHINGTON, DC
STRENGTHENING SOCCER COMMUNITIES THROUGH MENTORSHIP
The future of soccer isn’t just shaped on matchday, it’s built in the communities, classrooms, and training sessions that empower those leading the next generation.
Recently, MSYSA’s Director of Outreach & Grassroots, Nathean Meadows, traveled to Philadelphia, one of the host cities for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, to facilitate the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Coach Mentor Blueprint Training, in partnership with Love Futbol and Philly Plays.
The Coach Mentor Blueprint, developed by the U.S. Soccer Foundation, is a nationally recognized course designed to equip coaches and community leaders working in underserved and community-based soccer environments with the tools to effectively mentor others, support player development, and foster more inclusive soccer spaces. The training emphasizes relationship‑building, reflective coaching practices, and long term coach development to strengthen the overall soccer ecosystem.
By leading this U.S. Soccer Foundation course, MSYSA continues to play an active role in advancing coach education and mentorship at the national level, ensuring that more coaches, and ultimately more players, have access to positive, high‑quality soccer experiences.
MARYLAND ODP PLAYERS TAKE THE GLOBAL STAGE ON UNFORGETTABLE
INTERNATIONAL
TRIPS
The Maryland Olympic Development Program (ODP) continues to elevate the youth soccer experience by giving players opportunities that extend far beyond the pitch. This year, Maryland ODP players embarked on incredible international journeys, representing their state while competing, learning, and growing across some of Europe’s most iconic soccer destinations.
Players from multiple age groups traveled abroad, each experiencing a unique blend of high-level competition and cultural immersion. The U12/13 Boys explored Glasgow, Scotland, while the U12/13 Girls traveled to London, England. At the next level, the U14/15 Boys visited Paris, France, and the U14/15 Girls headed to Lisbon, Portugal. The U16/17 Boys journeyed to Amsterdam, Netherlands, where they capped off their ODP experience on an international stage.
Throughout each trip, players were exposed to the global game in ways few young athletes experience. From training sessions led by professional international coaches to competing against top-tier international teams, every moment challenged players to raise their level of play. These matches provided not only elite competition but also a chance to showcase Maryland talent on a worldwide platform.
Off the field, the experiences were just as impactful. Players attended professional matches, witnessing the game at its highest level and gaining a deeper appreciation for the sport. They explored worldrenowned landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and Big Ben in London, walked through historic streets, d i d th l i lt through local cuisine and traditions.
What made these trips truly special, were the connections formed along the way. Players built lasting friendships not only with their teammates but also with competitors from around the world. These relationships, combined with the shared experiences of travel and competition, created memories that will last a lifetime.
The Maryland ODP International Trips exemplify what makes the program so unique, providing opportunities that go beyond soccer. These journeys help shape wellrounded athletes, fostering independence, cultural awareness, and a global perspective while representing Maryland with pride.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to our incredible Maryland ODP players, dedicated parents, amazing WorldStrides Sports tour guides, and supportive MSYSA board members for making these international trips unforgettable experiences. These moments go beyond the game, building memories, friendships, and a lifelong love for soccer while representing Maryland on the world stage.
Ready to be part of the journey? If you’re interested in traveling abroad and representing the best state through Maryland ODP, learn more at MSYSA.org.
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNITED CLUBS LEAGUE FILL OUT THE UCL INTEREST FORM
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF GROWING THE BEAUTIFUL GAME AT DC UNITED
This year marks a major milestone for the Maryland State Youth Soccer Association (MSYSA) as we celebrate 50 years of growing the beautiful game across Maryland and Washington, D.C. For five decades, MSYSA has proudly supported players, coaches, referees, clubs, and families who continue to build a strong and vibrant soccer community throughout the region.
The celebration kicked off in exciting fashion at a D.C. United match in Baltimore, where members of the MSYSA community came together to mark the historic anniversary. Before kickoff, MSYSA hosted a pregame tailgate, welcoming affiliated clubs, teams, players, and families for an afternoon of snacks, games, and community connection. It was a great opportunity for our soccer family to gather, celebrate the game, and enjoy time together before heading into the stadium.
During halftime, MSYSA was honored on the field with a special award presented by Dan Helfrich, Chief Operating Officer of the United States Soccer Federation. The commemorative plaque was presented to Mark Cantor in recognition of MSYSA’s decades of dedication to youth soccer development and its lasting impact on the game in our region.
It was a proud moment for everyone who has contributed to MSYSA’s legacy over the past 50 years. From grassroots programs to competitive pathways, MSYSA continues to provide opportunities for young players to learn, grow, and fall in love with the game.
We are excited to continue celebrating MSYSA’s 50th Anniversary throughout the year with special events, recognitions, and moments that highlight the incredible people and programs that make our community so strong.
KATELYN GEORGE REPRESENTS MARYLAND ODP ON THE NATIONAL STAGE WITH U13 SUCCESS!
Maryland ODP standout Katelyn George continues to make her mark on the national stage, earning a starting role with the U13 National Team in an international friendly against Canada in Orlando, FL.
Selected to compete among the top players in the East Region, Katelyn joined a high-level squad featuring four East Region standouts, including two players from Connecticut and one from Virginia. The group came together to represent the best young talent in the country, showcasing the depth of the Olympic Development Program pathway.
Katelyn was named in the starting 11 for the match, a significant accomplishment highlighting both her skill and consistency in goal. The U13 National Team delivered a strong performance, securing a 2–0 victory over Canada.
Her selection and performance reflect the continued success of Maryland’s player development pathway through the Maryland State Youth Soccer Association Olympic Development Program, which continues to
er establishes herself as one of Maryland’s rising
5SPOTSLEFT
COACH TIPS FOR WORKING WITH OFFICIALS
INTERVENING ON THE SIDELINES
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS THIS TEAM?
Test your global soccer knowledge! Match each city to the correct club or national team.
LOCATIONS:
1.London, England
2.Paris, France
3.Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.Lisbon, Portugal
5.Glasgow, Scotland
6.Madrid, Spain
7.Munich, Germany
8.Milan, Italy
9.Buenos Aires, Argentina
10.Los Angeles, USA
⚽ CLUBS:
A. Ajax
B. LA Galaxy
C. Real Madrid
D. Paris Saint-Germain
E. Sporting CP
F. Bayern Munich
G. Celtic
H. Chelsea
I. AC Milan
J. Boca Junior
BONUS QUESTION:
Which of these cities hosted a Champions League Final in the last 10 years?
