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
FROM MARYLAND TO THE WORLD STAGE: COREY PARKER REPRESENTS
AT THE FIFA WORLD CUP
Maryland has long been a place where referees develop their skills, and few stories showcase that pathway better than Corey Parker's.
Originally from Edinboro, Pennsylvania, Corey grew up refereeing in Maryland, where he built the foundation for what has become one of the most accomplished officiating careers in world soccer. Today, he continues to represent both the United States and the Maryland referee community on the biggest stages the sport has to offer.
Corey's journey has included officiating at the 2021 Olympic Games, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and now, one of the sport's greatest honors, serving as an assistant referee in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal between Argentina and England. The assignment marked a historic milestone, as Ismail Elfath, Corey Parker, and Kyle Atkins became the first all-American referee crew ever selected to officiate a men's FIFA World Cup semifinal. It was also the trio's fourth match together during the 2026 tournament, highlighting the trust FIFA placed in one of the world's top officiating teams.
Despite his international résumé, Corey has never forgotten his roots. In 2022, he returned to officiate the Maryland State Cup U12 Boys Final, proving that no match is too small for one of the world's top officials. While it may not have carried the same global spotlight as a World Cup semifinal, anyone who's been to Maryland State Cup knows the pressure from the sidelines can be just as memorable.
Corey's journey is an inspiring reminder that world-class officials can come from local soccer communities. His success reflects the strength of referee development in Maryland and serves as motivation for the next generation of officials who dream of one day taking the whistle onto soccer's biggest stage.
Congratulations, Corey, on another incredible milestone. Maryland is proud to celebrate one of its own representing our referee community on soccer's biggest stage.
MSYSA SUMMER SOCCER FEST
SERIES BRINGS COMMUNITIES
TOGETHER
ACROSS MARYLAND
This summer, the Maryland State Youth Soccer Association (MSYSA) brought communities together through its World Cup Summer Soccer Fest Series, hosting events in Silver Spring, Baltimore, and Annapolis. Across all three locations, more than 600 participants enjoyed a celebration of soccer, community, and family fun.
As part of MSYSA's 50th Anniversary Celebration, the series highlighted the Association's commitment to growing the game and making soccer accessible to communities across Maryland and DC. Each event featured soccer activities, games, giveaways, and opportunities for players and families to connect while celebrating the world's game.
The series concluded on July 11 in partnership with Elite Soccer Youth Development Academy (ESYDA) and Montgomery County Government. The final celebration brought together families for an exciting day of soccer activities, community engagement, and World Cup excitement. Talon, the DC United mascot, was a crowd favorite throughout the day, while Jacob Murrell, former Maryland ODP player and current professional forward, posed for photos, signed autographs, and inspired young athletes by sharing his journey from Maryland's Olympic Development Program to the professional game.
The event also included two special recognitions celebrating the power of community partnerships. MSYSA was honored with a 50th Anniversary Plaque, presented by Jewru Bandeh, Director of Montgomery County East Regional Services, recognizing the Association's five decades of service to youth soccer in Maryland and DC. In addition, Greg Smith, MSYSA Executive Director, presented Coach FoFo and Elite Soccer Youth Development Academy (ESYDA) with a Community Partnership Award in recognition of their outstanding commitment to expanding access to the game and serving the local community.
The success of the Summer Soccer Fest Series was made possible by the incredible support of our partners, sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders. Their dedication helped create welcoming spaces where children and families could play, build connections, and experience the positive impact of soccer.
As MSYSA celebrates 50 years of serving the soccer community in Maryland and D.C., we’re excited to continue creating opportunities that bring people together and grow the beautiful game for years to come.
A special thank you to our incredible partners whose support helped bring the Summer Soccer Fest Series to communities across Maryland: Annapolis Blues, Baltimore Peninsula, Boys & Girls Club of Annapolis, D.C. United, Elite Soccer Youth Development Academy (ESYDA), Montgomery County East Regional Services, Montgomery County Recreation, the Office of Mayor Jared Littmann, Soccer Forward / U.S. Soccer Federation, and the Washington Spirit, anchor partner at all three of our Summer Soccer Fests.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 2027 ODP CYCLE OPEN TRYOUTS! WHY SHOULD YOU JOIN ODP?
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE 2027 ODP CYCLE OPEN TRYOUTS
On The Line Podcast Episode 15: ON THE LINE ➡ ON THE ROAD THE SUMMER SOCCER ACADEMY EXPERIENCE
This time, we're taking you behind the scenes at MSYSA's Summer Soccer Academy at The Saint James School to find out what makes this camp one of the best weeks of the summer.
First up, Camp Director Jimmy Shiflett breaks down why Summer Soccer Academy is so special. From unforgettable experiences and incredible staff to creating a safe, fun environment where kids can grow on and off the field, Jimmy shares what keeps campers coming back year after year.
Then, we sit down with Brody, a 5th-year returning camper and Maryland ODP player, who gives us the real insider perspective. What's his favorite part of camp? The soccer? The friends? The food? (Spoiler: the food gets a huge shoutout.)
We also catch up with counselors, head counselors, and more campers to hear the funniest moments, favorite activities, and why the vibes at Summer Soccer Academy are unmatched.
If you've ever wondered what Summer Soccer Academy is really like, this episode gives you an all-access pass. Whether you're thinking about signing up next summer or just want to see the energy for yourself, this is one episode you won't want to miss!
Check out 5th-year returning camper Brody as he talks about the Maryland ODP and Summer Soccer Academy cross over! ⚽ AND what makes camp so much fun beyond the soccer, friendships, and nonstop fun...
�� Kona Ice, of course!
MORE WEEKS. MORE SMILES. MORE SOCCER.
This summer, the Maryland State Youth Soccer Association's Summer Soccer Academy was bigger and better than ever with the exciting addition of a third week of camp. The extra week meant even more young players had the opportunity to spend their summer doing what they love most, playing soccer, building friendships, and creating lifelong memories.
Throughout the summer, campers of all skill levels came together to learn, grow, and have
fun in a positive and supportive environment. Whether they were scoring their first goal, learning a new move, or cheering on a teammate, every day was filled with smiles, confidence, and unforgettable moments on and off the field.
One of the highlights of Summer Soccer Academy is the outstanding coaching staff. Campers learned from experienced coaches within the Maryland Olympic Development Program (ODP), alongside dedicated counselors, many of whom once attended the camp themselves. Their passion for the game and commitment to mentoring the next generation helped create an experience that went far beyond soccer.
Returning Summer Soccer Academy coach Diana Lombardi, who serves as the Maryland ODP U12 Girls Coach, coaches with Baltimore Armour Academy, and holds a U.S. Soccer B License, has become a familiar face at camp and looks forward to returning each summer.
"Summer Soccer Academy truly is the highlight of the summer. Every day you see kids arrive excited to play, and by the end of the week they've built friendships, gained confidence, and fallen even more in love with soccer. As a mom, I can't wait until my own children are old enough to attend. MSYSA and Camp Director Jimmy Shiflett have created something really special, a camp where every child feels welcome, has fun, learns valuable life skills, and gets to experience the joy of the beautiful game."
Summer Soccer Academy is about more than developing soccer skills, it's about building confidence, encouraging teamwork, creating friendships, and fostering a lifelong love for the game. The addition of a third week allowed even more families to experience everything the camp has to offer, making this one of the most successful summers yet.
Thank you to our incredible coaches, counselors, campers, and families for making Summer Soccer Academy 2026 one to remember. We can't wait to see everyone back on the field next summer for even more soccer, even more
MSYSA's Director of Outreach & Grassroots, Nathean Meadows was proud to partner with the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Montgomery County Public Schools to bring the Soccer for Success in School program to more than 50 middle and high school Physical Education teachers.
Together, we're equipping educators with a standardsaligned curriculum that uses soccer to get students active while building teamwork, communication, confidence, and lifelong healthy habits. This partnership will positively impact thousands of students across Montgomery County for years to come. Thank you to our partners for investing in the power of sport to inspire, educate, and transform lives.
Big thank you to Crown Sports center and AC Salisbury for not only hosting a 7v7 and 9v9 course, but also for giving these coaches and players an opportunity to get better inside out of the heat!
Maryland U14 older group representing Maryland and DC at the east region talent ID camp in Connecticut!
This is an incredible opportunity to compete, learn, and showcase their talents alongside some of the top players in the region. We're proud to see you representing Maryland & DC. Best of luck, and make the most of every moment!
Big shoutout to FC Frederick for hosting Week 1 of the D Course! Thank you for helping invest in the education and development of our coaches. Your commitment to growing the game and supporting coach education is making a lasting impact. Keep up the great work!
The 9v9 and 11v11 Grassroots Courses in Rockville, Maryland! ⚽��
Coaches are on the field learning, growing, and sharpening their skills to create even better experiences for players across Maryland. Best of luck to everyone taking the course, we can't wait to see the impact you'll make back at your clubs! ��
