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
9V9 GRIP COURSE 3/23/2026-3/24/2026@ELLICOTT CITY, MD
HOST FC Frederick
9v9 GRIP COURSE 4/21/202 @BUCKEYSTOWN, MD
Executive Director, Greg Smith and Technical Director, Gandalf French visited the U.S. Soccer Federation Youth National Team Mid-Atlantic Talent ID Center. During their visit, they observed the training session and learned more about how U.S. Soccer Talent Scouts apply player profiles in their search for in potential Youth National Team players.
IN BECOMING A MARYLAND REFEREE? CHECK OUT THE STEPBY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS FOR BECOMING A CERTIFIED REFEREE
Step 1: Register Online
Register for the clinic titled “Referee Online Lessons”
Step 2: Complete Online Lessons
Complete the materials contained within the U.S. Soccer Learning Center
Step 3: Select a Field Training Session
Upon completion of lesson, select the button on your OMS Homepage to transfer to an in-person Field Training session. Select the button next to the session you want to attend
MARYLAND FIRST TIME REFEREE COURSES
March 7, 2026 – 08:15 AM ET
�� Pomfret (Charles County), MD
March 8, 2026 – 08:15 AM ET
�� Fallston, MD
March 15, 2026 – 09:15 AM ET
�� Easton, MD
March 21, 2026 – 08:15 AM ET �� Mt. Airy, MD
March 21, 2026 – 09:15 AM ET
Mt. Airy, MD
March 22, 2026 – 08:15 AM ET
Gaithersburg, MD
March 22, 2026 – 09:15 AM ET
Gaithersburg, MD
March 29, 2026 – 08:15 AM ET
Hagerstown, MD
COACHES GROW THE GAME AT THE D COURSE
HOSTED BY BALTIMORE CELTIC
The February D Course was successfully hosted by Baltimore Celtic, bringing together coaches committed to advancing their knowledge and improving the game for players across the region. Led by experienced educators John Dingle and Gandalf French, the course provided a valuable mix of classroom learning and on-field instruction.
Throughout the course, participating coaches focused on developing training sessions, understanding player development principles, and creating positive learning environments for young athletes. Opportunities like the D Course continue to strengthen coaching education and help elevate the quality of soccer experiences for players and clubs in the community.
LEARN MORE ABOUT COACHING EDUCATION!
MARYLAND ODP INVITATIONAL
The ODP Invitational took place February 14–15 and brought together top players from four state Olympic Development Programs, including Maryland, PA East, PA West, and New Jersey. Hosted by Maryland State Youth Soccer Association at Liberty Sports Park, the event marked an exciting start to the 2026 ODP cycle.
“After weeks of not being able to play due to region wide field closures, the environment during the Maryland ODP invitational was electric” said MSYSA Technical Director Gandalf French, “We are proud of the strength of our partnership with Liberty Sports park and we were grateful they plowed the fields so we could play. Teams from four state ODP programs came together and made the event a successful kickoff to the 2026 ODP cycle. We are now in a better position to achieve our program’s goals: Identify, Develop, and Promote players!”
On The Line Podcast Episode 11: BUILDING THE GAME BIGGER THAN YOURSELF FT. HUGH ROBERTS II ��⚽
This week on On The Line, Priestly jumps on a video chat with Hugh Roberts II, an 11-year USL pro, leader, and co-founder of the United Black Players of the USL. From grinding his way through the professional ranks to staying ready when no one’s watching, Hugh breaks down the real work, resilience, and mindset it takes to make it and stay in the game.
But this episode goes way beyond the pitch. Hugh opens up about building something bigger than himself through the United Black Players of the USL and his nonprofit, Footy’s Got You Foundation, which is creating real impact in underserved communities across Charlotte, Monterey, and Jamaica. Free coaching education. After-school programs. Access to the game for kids who need it most.
This is a conversation about purpose, community, and legacy. Growing the game means making sure everyone has a seat at the table. Hugh isn’t just playing the game… he’s helping reshape it. Grit. Impact. Giving back.
6SPOTSLEFT
COACH TIPS FOR WORKING WITH OFFICIALS
INTERVENING ON THE SIDELINES
MSYSA MAZE
Find your way to the goal! Try the maze and see if you can make it from Kickoff to Goal. Share with your teammates and see who finishes first!
