PlayMetrics will provide all players, parents, coaches, and staff members unique access to this all-in-one club management software that is purpose-built for youth soccer organizations. PlayMetrics unifies communication, registration, session planning, coach oversight, player development, and club operations into one easy-to-manage hub. Together, we are embarking on a new era in which we will infuse this technology to take our club to the next level.
Membership Benefits: PlayMetrics offers many advantages, but most importantly, the Club Operating System delivers a single experience for member families, eliminating the need for you to download, learn, and maintain multiple apps to manage your relationship with the club. Here is just an example of what you can do in PlayMetrics as a family member:
– Access PlayMetrics on desktop, tablet, or through free mobile apps
– View club and team calendars (practices, games, special events) and sync to your personal calendar
– Register your player for club events and programs
– Add and edit additional contacts for your player, including email addresses and phone numbers
– Send and receive emails, texts, push notifications, and chats with other club members
– Fill out and access club forms, such as waivers and player evaluations
– View club and team resources, such as videos, documents, and website links
– Manage payments to the club
PlayMetrics Club Operating System is one central location for all of our club needs. Beachside Soccer Club will have the opportunity to formalize and centralize our Club Curriculum, Field Scheduler, Session Planner, Drill Library, Member Profiles, Club Communication while customizing our Forms & Evaluations.
“Partnering with PlayMetrics formalizes all of our needs under one umbrella and guarantees Beachside’s sustainability for the future. PlayMetrics simplifies & structures our club data process while offering fantastic soccer-specific resources for our coaches, players, and parents. All of our friends/fellow clubs who utilize PlayMetrics rave about the company’s Reliability, ROI & Professionalism. We look forward to starting our relationship with PlayMetrics, and growing it for years to come.”
—Mickey Kydes, Technical Director & Founder
“From the moment we met the leadership team at Beachside we could tell they were building something special,” said Michael Doernberg, PlayMetrics Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited and proud to be a part of the Beachside Family and to play an important role in their continued commitment to excellence in developing young soccer players.”
Top 95 Domestic Youth Soccer Clubs, 8,000 Players, Join Major League Soccer’s Elite Player Development Platform
Strategic objectives and competition format to be created in collaboration with Founding Member clubs
Media Availability:
MLS Technical Director of Player Development Fred Lipka to be joined by MLS club and elite academy spokespersons on a media video conference today at 3:30 p.m. ET
NEW YORK (May 13, 2020) – Major League Soccer today announced that 65 former U.S. Soccer Development Academy clubs will join the League’s existing club academies to create a partnership that will transform youth player development in the United States and Canada.
CLICK HERE for a full list of Founding Member clubs
The 65 youth clubs will join the MLS academies as Founding Members of MLS’ elite player development platform. The new platform, which will include more than 8,000 players throughout the U.S. and Canada, will consist of elite year-round competition, as well as player identification initiatives, coaching education opportunities, and additional programming to create the premier player development environment.
The platform will operate with a groundbreaking governance structure that promotes collaboration, innovation, and input across all areas of the soccer landscape. Within the structure, technical working groups will provide recommendations on the platform’s strategic objectives and standards, outline competition guidelines, and formats, as well as introduce platform programming. By unifying the elite player development landscape and creating a collaborative structure, the new platform will accelerate and enhance player development in North America.
With a focus on maximizing each player’s potential, the new development platform will not only provide high-level, year-round competition for players but will provide important programming, education, and innovation in the key areas of player development:
– Player Identification
– Coaching
– Environment
– Personal Growth
– Community Outreach
“There is strong positive momentum and excitement among MLS club academies and elite academy clubs to co-create a platform that will deliver an unparalleled experience for the nation’s top players and clubs,” said Fred Lipka, Vice President and Technical Director of MLS Player Development. “The development of professional and elite players requires a comprehensive and integrated approach, beyond just the competition format, and we are having daily conversations with Academy clubs across the country who are committed to building that environment with us.”
Since launching the MLS club academy initiative in 2007, Major League Soccer has demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to the development of top-level professional players in the United States and Canada, including an investment of more than $70 million last season alone. This investment has produced more than 250 homegrown players that have become professional and national team players, including recent standout players such as Reggie Cannon (FC Dallas, Solar Soccer Club), James Sands (New York City FC academy, New York Soccer Club) and Matt Real (Philadelphia Union, FC Delco).
The elite academy clubs that are Founding Members of the new platform have also been leaders in the development of players for college, MLS, and the national teams. Combined, MLS Academies and the elite academies joining the platform have produced more than 90% of the U.S. Youth National Team players in the last year, making the new platform the top destination for the best young players in North America.
With the launch of this new platform, MLS and the elite academy clubs will not only continue to develop world-class players but will create a world-class soccer development culture that supports and inspires elite players throughout the countries.
“The Sockers FC Chicago organization is excited about this great opportunity to collaborate with MLS, in the development of this new competition platform,” said David Richardson, Sockers FC Chicago Technical Director. “In our soccer communities, we feel that our work as leaders of Elite Academies alongside the leaders of MLS Academies will help to shape a world-class soccer culture in our country. This will be a benefit to all that play, coach, referee, and support our game from the grassroots to the professional level.”
“Major League Soccer’s inclusive approach to the greater soccer market is the most exciting aspect of this movement,” said Ryan Miller, Portland Timbers Academy Director. “This new competition will continue to provide a platform for the top player development clubs in the country to get the most meaningful games. Elite player development requires the highest level of competition and this platform will provide that.”
Applications for additional clubs to join will be available in the coming weeks. More information about the competition structure as well as the platform’s official brand will be announced at a later date.
MLS to Host Video Conference Today at 3:30 p.m. ET
At 3:30 p.m. ET today, spokespersons representing Major League Soccer, the MLS clubs, and the elite academy clubs will be available to media on a video conference.
WHO: Fred Lipka, MLS Vice President and Technical Director of Player Development
Peter Vermes, Sporting Kansas City Head Coach, and General Manager
Jesse Fioranelli, San Jose Earthquakes General Manager
Roberto Lopez, Academy Director, Clearwater Chargers Soccer Club (Tampa Bay, Fla.)
“We could not be more ready and excited to be part of a legacy that will forever revolutionize American Soccer as we know it. To create the highest and best level of competition with standards and true measurables around producing players excites us. We expect to be a club that produces professional players year in and year out.” – Noah Gins, CEO/Executive Director
All City SC – Carlsbad, CA
“As the US Soccer Development Academy era comes to a close, City SC is delighted to be announced as one of the founding members of the newly formed MLS elite youth development platform.
We are aligned with the MLS in our vision to develop the next generation of professional and collegiate soccer players in this country. This league sits at the top of the elite youth player development pyramid and offers unrivaled opportunities for boys in North County San Diego.”
Ballistic United Soccer Club – Pleasonton, CA
“We are extremely excited, pleased, and optimistic that the selection and participation of Ballistic United Soccer Club’s Development Academy into the new MLS player development academy platform will be the ideal pathway for our players in achieving the highest level of competition available in the nation. This will ultimately sharpen our young men’s abilities while providing an opportunity for them to strive towards their goals and potentials. We are honored to be a part of the inaugural season of the MLS player development academy platform! – Jerry Losson, Director of Coaching
Barça Residency Academy – Casa Grande, AZ
“Barça Residency Academy is delighted to be a founding member of the elite youth development platform. With the USSDA dissolving, this new league ensures that our players will continue to have the opportunity to compete at the highest level of youth soccer within the United States. As we prepare for the 2020-21 season we look forward to continuing our tradition of providing a top-level professional residency academy environment for our players and continue pushing them onto the collegiate, professional and national team levels while competing with other top clubs across the country.”
Bayside FC – Providence, RI
“Bayside FC is excited for the opportunity to partner and collaborate with Major League Soccer and like-minded clubs to enhance player development in the United States. This platform will provide our players with a professional and competitive environment daily that will maximize their development. The professionalism and high standard MLS will provide for the league will be second to none.” – John Mark Andrade, Academy Director
Beachside of Connecticut SC – Norwalk, CT
“The conversation and collaboration that has and will continue to take place are transformational and a game-changing moment for youth soccer development in our country. This MLS elite youth development platform that has transpired from these discussions and cooperation will influence the whole landscape of youth soccer from bottom to top. With the leadership and support of Major League Soccer and the contributions from grassroots clubs, we are finally on our way to truly becoming a soccer country.” – Mickey Kydes, Founder & Technical Director
Boston Bolts – Boston, MA
“The Boston Bolts develop exceptional soccer players who are prepared to compete at the highest levels, collegiate, national, or professional. This newly formed league provides the platform that challenges players day in day out to be the best. Those with aspirations to become a future MLS All-Star are provided a platform to be the best and play against the best to fulfill their dreams. As a founding member, it allows the Bolts staff to exchange ideas with like-minded professionals who share the same philosophy about player development. It allows us to contribute to the continued growth and development of our elite youth players, to put more domestic talent into the nation’s highest professional league, MLS, and our national teams.”
Breakers FC – Santa Cruz, CA
“Being part of the MLS family and a founding member of the MLS elite youth development platform is something special! We strongly believe that this new collaboration between the MLS Academies and the Elite Academies will accelerate the development of the players and will raise the level of the game in North America. Thanks to the organization and professionalism of MLS, this new initiative is now the best platform for player development in the US: it provides a professional pathway as well as a pathway for future college players.” – Paolo Carbone, Breakers FC Director
BW Gottschee – Queens, NY
“BW Gottschee is excited to participate in the new MLS national platform highlighting a player’s first approach. The league will uphold the highest standards and principles, which will all align with our long-standing history of player development. This will be the highest level of competition in the US. Our players are looking forward to the challenge and opportunity.”
Cedar Stars Academy – Bergen, NJ
“Cedar Stars Academy – Bergen is very excited to be part of the elite youth development platform. I think this platform will allow us to compete at the highest level of youth soccer within the United States. We strive for competition for our players and I believe this league will undoubtedly give us that. We are proud to be a founding member and look forward to collaborating with other like-minded clubs to develop the next crop of professional and collegiate players.”
Cedar Stars Academy – Monmouth, NJ
“Cedar Stars Academy – Monmouth is very excited to be part of MLS’s elite youth development platform as a founding member. This league will allow our players to compete at the highest level of youth soccer in the US and we look forward to working closely with like-minded clubs to develop the next generations of professional and collegiate players.” – Phil Swenda, Academy Director
Chargers SC – Tampa Bay, FL
“Chargers SC is extremely excited to join the new MLS player development initiative. We have been with the USDA since the very beginning, we were the 7th Club invited to join thirteen years ago, in what was arguably the best youth league in the history of soccer in the US, it was a major step forward. Now we strongly feel that this new elite youth soccer platform will take us a step further, this will be a historical, revolutionary change that will put our Club and the game in the U.S. at a different level and will provide our top players a pathway to a professional career.” – Roberto Lopez, Academy Director
Chicago FC United – Chicago, IL
“Chicago FC United could not be more proud or excited to enter the inaugural season of the elite youth development platform as a founding member. Our club, staff, players, and families look forward to participating in this new competition platform and testing our best against the very best players in the country. I would like to thank the leadership of the MLS, MLS Academy, and the Elite Club Academy for their vision, courage, and collaboration in developing this game-changing development platform for high-level youth soccer in this country.”
Chula Vista FC – Chula Vista, CA
“We are excited to join a new platform that will be more inclusive and solely focus on elite player development with extremely high standards.”
Cincinnati United Premier (CUP) – Cincinnati, OH
“We are humbled to be a founding member of the MLS elite youth development platform. One pillar of our philosophy of development includes a club-based league model that allows players the opportunity to express themselves in a highly competitive environment, and we feel that this platform will allow us to continue providing top-tier competition and an ideal developmental environment for our elite players.” – Scott Bower, Technical Director
Empire United – Rochester, NY
“Under the new guidance of MLS, our coaches, support staff, and ultimately our families here at Empire United are extremely excited for the future of player development in this country. We are proud to represent Western New York at the highest level of youth soccer in the United States. Competing every weekend against MLS-youth opposition and the top like-minded amateur clubs is an essential piece to the player development cycle. With the platform and resources provided to us by MLS, the training environments and playing standards in this country will continue to improve exponentially. MLS and their desire for a collaborative approach represent their desire to push the envelope of improvement and inclusion and we couldn’t be more excited about the future.” – Rory Charcholla, Boys Academy Director
FC DELCO – Conshohocken, PA
“We always strive to challenge our players in the highest level of competition and we are excited to join the MLS Elite Youth Development League.” – Rob Elliott, General Manager
IMG Academy – Bradenton, FL
“IMG Academy is proud to be a founding member of the newly formed MLS elite youth development platform which brings together the best MLS Academies and Elite youth clubs throughout the nation. This unique development platform aligns with our Academy philosophy that is player-focused, coach driven and club led. We are excited to partner with the MLS and the other Elite Academies as we strive to support the growth and development of our outstanding pool of players. IMG Academy Soccer delivers a residential ten-month holistic development program that is focused on supporting our student-athletes in the pursuit of their soccer, academic, and personal goals.”
Internationals Soccer Club – Cleveland, OH
“We are extremely honored and excited about the new league of elite programs from around the country. Working in conjunction with MLS will allow clubs to continue to keep player development at the forefront of how we grow our
sport. It is amazing how clubs from around the country have banded together to ensure that our players can continue to compete at the highest level possible regularly.”
LA Surf Soccer Club – Pasadena, CA
” We are incredibly excited to join the new Major League Soccer player development initiative as founding members of this new league.
By bringing together some of the nation’s top talents and funneling them toward a professional pathway, we are confident that we are aligning our country’s most talented players with the best possible pathway by connecting directly to MLS. In this way, we are confident that our young men will thrive under the new umbrella, but most importantly develop their ability to potentially become professionals in America’s top soccer competition.
For us as a country to have one of the top leagues in the world in MLS, we need to have our very own young players develop in better ways. At Los Angeles Surf, we’re excited to be a founding member and partner in this project to ensure that we are doing just that, having the best players and best coaches working together toward a pro pathway.” – Radames Lafaurie, Program Director
LA United Football Academy (LAUFA) – Los Angeles, CA
“LAUFA is grateful for this opportunity to be part of the new elite youth development platform. We embrace the responsibility that this brings, we are honored to join this competition as a founding member…we look forward to growing with MLS and other elite academies as partners.” – Martin Vasquez, Academy Director
Lanier Soccer Association – Gainesville, GA
“I am very excited to be part of this new league and new efforts to develop players across the nation. MLS is a young league that has taken giant steps to becoming a top league around the world. I am looking forward to helping develop the next top talent” – Jonathan Cueva, Executive Director
Metropolitan Oval – Queens, NY
“The goal of MLS and Elite Academies is aligned to create the premier platform for the development of world-class youth players. By providing a bespoke pathway to the professional game, this union will kick off a new era in elite talent development.” – Jeffrey Saunders, Sporting Director
Miami Rush Kendall SC – Miami, FL
“The creation of this new elite youth development program will be remembered as the most valuable win for soccer in the USA!” – Raul Renatto Soriano, Technical Director
Michigan Wolves – Livonia, MI
“The Michigan Wolves Soccer Club is very excited to become a founding member of this new elite youth development platform. We believe that this new competition will empower us to more fully realize our mission of preparing players for their next steps in soccer—and in life.” – Lars Richter, Academy Director
Murrieta Surf Soccer Club – Murrieta, CA
“We are delighted that Major League Soccer, a world-recognized global brand which has seen incredible growth and success at the professional level, can now also help change the landscape of all youth soccer development programs in a way that will truly revolutionize youth development here in the USA”.
New England Football Club (NEFC) – New England
“We are working towards teaching and inspiring the next generation of players who will set the standard for our region and country. Our commitment and mission of creating an elite developmental environment is the ultimate goal for our staff and players throughout NEFC’s programs. Our mission, to develop players for their next level, is the core tenet of our club. NEFC promotes players from within, from the grassroots level through their college of choice and into the professional pathway environment through our relationship with the New England Revolution. NEFC is excited to be a part of this new chapter within the MLS structure.”
Nomads Soccer Club – La Jolla, CA
” Nomads Soccer Club can assure our Players/Families and friends that this league will be the place to play “For Those Serious About Soccer”.
Nomads believe that the environment created by MLS will be one of the best Programs in the World. Nomads are excited for Soccer here in the USA. After 13 Years nobody could deny it, “It was great a true Elite Player League” said Technical Director David Armstrong. MLS is willing to work with all academies on strategy and leadership. The Pathway to the Pro Game is important to our players here in the USA. This will also be the place to be for College Players who aspire to play Division 1 Soccer. The USSDA Academy provided a great platform and exposure for Serious Student/Athletes who aspire to play for D1 Colleges. We have the same expectations for this League.
The Nomads was a leader in 2007 working diligently to support US Soccer in creating a world-class environment for elite players. Nomads Soccer Club are delighted with the decision by MLS to take over leadership in this new landscape. MLS will provide a Governing Body, League Platform, Administration, and Leadership.” – David Armstrong, Technical Director
Orlando City SC – Orlando, FL
“I believe we are going to change once and for all the development of players in this country with the new platform. The decision from MLS to continue what USSF started and get it to the next level is paramount on the future of our sport.” – Marcelo Neveleff, Academy Director
Phoenix Rising Football Club – Phoenix, AZ
“All of us at Phoenix Rising FC are incredibly honored and excited to be announced, and compete, as a founding member of the MLS elite youth development platform.
We have always expressed our desire to provide the very best practices in elite player development through the Phoenix Rising FC Professional Academy, and this platform will enable us to do so by competing at the highest level of youth soccer possible, and further improve the PRFC Professional Player Pathway.
It is tremendously important that professional clubs lead the education and development of elite young players, and as a high performing professional club we, at Phoenix Rising FC, are very confident that we will provide the very best culture, learning environment and methodology to expedite the development of our young players and their teams.
Our whole club commitment to elite player development will provide outstanding opportunities and experiences for the dedicated and ambitious soccer player.
Through each player’s hard work, we will maximize their playing abilities, and in doing so, will give our young homegrown players the chance to compete at the professional level in the future, and hopefully with Phoenix Rising FC.” – Steve Cook, Director of Soccer Development
Real Salt Lake – Salt Lake City, UT
“We are delighted to be part of the new MLS elite youth league and look forward to continuing to develop homegrown players to represent both Club and Country.” – Tom Spall, Academy Director
Real Salt Lake-Arizona – Tempe, AZ
“We are very excited to be a founding member in the MLS’s new elite youth development platform. In this tumultuous time in youth soccer, MLS has picked up the torch and we at Real Salt Lake – Arizona are excited to be one of the clubs leading the way with them.”
RISE Soccer Club – Missouri City, TX
“RISE is proud to have been named a founding member club in the new MLS elite youth development platform. As a club and an academy, we feel it is important for our top players to consistently play with and against the best players, teams, and clubs in the country. We look forward to partnering with the other founding member clubs to create an unparalleled environment focused on player development and providing opportunities for the next generation of elite level players in the US” – Jon Burklo, Director
SC del Sol – Scottsdale, AZ
“SC del Sol is incredibly excited and proud to be one of the founding members of the new MLS elite youth competition platform. It is inspiring to hear that Major League Soccer is deeply committed to developing world-class players through this elite competitive pathway for youth players. This will ensure that SC del Sol players will continue to have the opportunity to participate in, and develop at, the highest levels of youth competition in the U.S. and Canada. We are convinced that this new MLS elite environment will continue to elevate our players, staff, and teams
to be their very best while showcasing them against some of the best teams in the country. We will strive to keep our feet firmly on the ground, whilst continuing to work hard, and we will embrace this new platform with open arms”. – Pete Leebrook, Academy Director
Seacoast United – Hampton, NH
“Seacoast United is excited to be a part of the elite youth development platform, under the guidance of MLS leadership. This allows our players to continue to play at the elite level of the youth game in this country, competing against the top programs, both MLS & non-MLS on a Regional & National Platform. We firmly believe this will continue to challenge our players to maximize their potential. As a founding member of the league, we are excited to work with like-minded professionals, with the major focus being centered around maximizing player development in the US. The collaboration between clubs from all over the country & MLS leadership has been fantastic and welcoming. We firmly believe the new league will continue to raise the bar of the elite youth game in this country and we are thrilled to be part of the new venture.”
Shattuck-St. Mary’s – Faribault, MN
“Shattuck-St. Mary’s is excited about the next evolution of youth soccer development, believing that the elite youth development platform will see our next generation of players emerge as the collective-best yet. The leadership of MLS has swept in with authority, humility, and vision creating an environment of collaboration and trust. This, in turn, has created a new level of excitement for what lies ahead for our youth and our clubs as we cooperatively seek to further this game and the joy that can come from playing it.”
Silicon Valley Soccer Academy (SVSA) – Redwood City, CA
“Here at SVSA, we are honored to come into the league as founding members. This new league will allow our players to continue playing against the top competition in the country against MLS academies and the top non-MLS academies in the country. Our players always want to be tested against the best and this will allow for these challenges to still be a possibility for them” – Gerson Perez, Academy Director
“En SVSA, es un honor poder entrar a esta liga como un miembro fundador de este proyecto. Esta liga le dará la oportunidad a nuestros jugadores de seguir jugando contra los mejores equipos MLS y los mejores clubes del todo el país y de nuestra region. Nuestros jugadores siempre quieren jugar contra lo mejores y esta liga le seguirá dando estos retos a nuestros jugadores” – Gerson Perez, Director de SVSA
Sockers FC Chicago – Chicago, IL
“The Sockers FC Chicago organization is excited about this great opportunity to collaborate with MLS, in the development of this new competition platform. In our soccer communities, we feel that our work as leaders of Elite Academies alongside the leaders of MLS Academies will help to shape a World-Class soccer culture in our country. This will be a benefit to all that play, coach, referee, and support our game from the grassroots to the professional level.” – David Richardson, Technical Director
South Florida Football Academy – Boca Raton, FL
“Our entire organization here at South Florida Football Academy is extremely excited and proud to become one of the Founding Members of the new MLS elite youth development platform.
I am so grateful to MLS for taking this bold step and establishing a youth development platform that offers a clear pathway to a professional playing career for elite youth soccer players in the United States both in MLS and non-MLS Academy clubs.
I feel that this new MLS platform will be pivotal in dramatically improving the landscape of youth soccer and will put our professional league fully in charge of elite player development for the first time in time in the history of our country.
As a former US Olympic and World Cup National Team member and long-time youth coach, I could not be more excited about the future of player development in the USA!” – Eric Eichmann, Academy Director
Southern Soccer Academy – Marietta, GA
“Southern Soccer Academy is excited to be a founding member of the MLS elite youth development platform. This Platform will provide fantastic opportunities for our players, staff, and community. The growth and development of our
players are always at the heart of our mission statement and the new platform will give our players a professional pathway and an elite player pathway for our future college-bound players.
We are looking forward to exciting times ahead for United States youth development after the creation of this new competition.”
Tampa Bay United Rowdies – Tampa Bay, FL
“Our club is extremely honored to be one of the founding members of the elite youth development platform. We know that all of the clubs in this new competition will work together to provide a platform for youth development that will be highly respected throughout the country and we are excited to be a part of it. “
Total Futbol Academy – Los Angeles, CA
“Total Futbol Academy is excited to join the MLS Elite Youth Development platform. We are looking forward to initiatives and collaboration with other clubs to create opportunities and exposure at an elite level. Founded in 1999, the club has always kept its mission, initiative and core values to provide a pathway for all players to higher education.”
TSF Academy – Wayne, NJ
“Under the new platform created by Major League Soccer and guidance, we can only see a huge benefit for our players in their overall development. The level of competition in our region has always provided good challenges but we feel the new platform will create a genuine purpose and drive behind the competition – leading to the challenges that the players need to face in their development.
We are extremely excited to be among one of the founding members and make sure the next generation of players in our community are given a genuine platform, opportunity, and platform to both perform and compete.
There has always been such huge potential for soccer in this country, but I truly believe that with all the good people involved in helping move quickly to put this platform together, the support of Major League Soccer and those genuinely invested in player development, the future is bright and we are looking forward to getting underway in this new competition.” – Lee Bakewell, Technical Director
Vardar Soccer Club – Rochester Hills, MI
“Vardar Soccer Club is proud to be a founding member of this new and exciting elite youth development platform. Over the last 35 years, we have taken great pride in developing Michigan’s finest collegiate and professional soccer players, and we are certain this competition helps us continue that tradition.
From our initial discussions with the members within our region, it became apparent that this platform takes into consideration all facets of a player’s environment including the impact on their families, coaches, and clubs. Playing against the best talent in the region each week and playing more games is a welcome change which is exciting for the players and staff. We feel this holistic approach, will both promote individual growth and heighten the overall experience of being an elite soccer player in the United States.
As a founding member, we feel we have a responsibility to uphold the highest standards in the country so we can help promote our game, attract top talent, and guide them in their journeys. This new platform allows for continuity in uncertain times and we are thankful that our members, families, and players will have a voice in the evolution of this new endeavor so we can move forward together.” – Morris Lupenec, Director
Ventura County Fusion – Ventura, CA
“We are going to be facing some of the best teams in the country including MLS Academy competition as well as foreign competition. This league provides a great testing tool for our players showcasing themselves and we want to see how they respond in the most difficult environments and this is going to create that. This is great for youth soccer in the USA as it will help develop the next generation of breaking talent in America.”
West Florida Flames – Tarpon Springs, FL
“We are extremely excited about the creation of this unique youth soccer platform by a world-class organization in MLS. The ability for our club, staff, and members to continue in a competition platform that fits our developmental philosophy, core values, and player development model will be a tremendous pathway, not only for our players but for those across the country.” – Academy Director, Jorge Zavala.
Weston FC – Weston, FL
“This new platform created by the MLS will elevate the level of every soccer club involved and will develop players that will be able to reach the highest level of soccer.” – Luis Mendoza, Technical Director
Norwalk, CT native and Beachside alum Niko Petridis was recently selected by the NY Red Bulls in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft. It was something he dreamed of starting back in the days with his U12 Beachside premier team.
When talking with his former coaches, one thing stayed true throughout his development. His love for soccer. From day one Niko had a competitive passion for the game. His desire to challenge himself and improve every time he stepped on a field maximized his development. Niko was no stranger to putting in extra work and making sacrifices to be the best he could be.
I recently talked with Nico and he had a few words to share with our Beachside family.
“My dream, since the day I could remember, was to always play professional soccer and I can proudly say that dream has finally come true. It was not an easy path and was one that took a lot of sacrifice from not just myself, but my entire family as well. The number of countless hours, days and years that it took put me in the best position to succeed took a lot of determination and focus. On weekends where my friends would be together to hang out, I would travel to games and tournaments. On days that I didn’t feel like training, I would still get up and put in the work that was needed. I knew that if I didn’t work hard, then my dreams would not be possible to reach.
Beachside was a club that taught me how to work hard and how to be professional with everything you do from a very young age. I joined the club when I was 12 years old and they helped me develop as a player and as a person all the way leading up to my senior year in high school. Without the Beachside family, I would not be in the position that I am in today and I am truly thankful to all of the coaches that were involved in my development. I hope that I can continue to grow and develop as a player and a person and am looking forward to this new chapter in my life.”
—Niko Petridis
Congrats Niko! Niko is one of the most recent success stories from a talented Beachside class and we are all really proud of him. We look forward to your continued successes on the pitch and in life.
“We are so proud of Nico, who spent the majority of his youth career with Beachside. Nico has been part of some of the best teams in our club’s history and his contribution while at Beachside is immense. Nico epitomizes what our club stands for, hard work, commitment, and incredible love for the game. His competitive attitude and desire to constantly learn and improve will serve him well at the Pro level.”
Beachside Soccer Club is excited to announce that we’ve solidified strategic partnerships with the following five clubs!
–MLS: Sporting KC
–MLS: Toronto FC
–HB Koge of Denmark
–MSV Duisburg of Germany
–Estudiantes de la Plata Club-Argentina
The purpose and objective of these relationships are to continue working and developing together, with the ultimate goal of maximizing player development.
The areas of common interest to work and develop together are, but not limited to:
–Potential Player Placement –Hosting Teams –Coaches Education Exchange –Management Tools Information Exchange –Scouting Education Exchange
Beachside Soccer Club continues to strive to create the best possible player development environment & opportunities for all of our Beachside Soccer Club members. Each partnership brings something special to our club and offers a wealth of knowledge, experience, and opportunity for all of our club members to benefit from.
“Having a healthy balance of domestic and international affiliations only broadens the horizons for Beachside Soccer Club. I feel passionate about making Beachside Soccer Club the best it can be. Establishing and strengthening these strategic partnerships is a big step in the right direction, which will leave immediate and long-lasting impressions on our club.”
–Mickey Kydes, Technical Director & Founder
About our Strategic Partners:
MLS – Sporting KC Sporting KC is recognized as one of the top MLS Professional Organizations & Youth Academies in the country. MLS Head Coach & Technical Director Peter Vermes, as well as Academy Director John Perry, have been friends of Beachside Soccer Club for years, and solidifying our partnership guarantees our cooperation for years to come. Peter Vermes also sits on our Beachside Advisory Board.
–Gianluca Armellino successfully transitioned to Sporting KC from Beachside and is currently playing on their U15 USSDA Academy Team. We wish him well!
MLS – Toronto FC We are excited to formulate an official relationship with the 2017 MLS Cup winners Toronto FC. MLS Club President Billy Manning has assisted Beachside as a member of our Advisory Board, and we appreciate all the time and effort he continues to provide to our club. Toronto FC has been gracious in offering our elite Beachside Academy players an opportunity to be evaluated with their 1st Team in training. The most recent player was Austin DaSilva, who is currently rostered with the University of Albany, Division 1 Men’s Soccer Program.
HB Koge – Denmark & MSV Duisburg – Germany By joining the Capelli Sport family, we have expanded our network of international partnerships and are very excited about what the future holds with working with HB Koge & MSV Duisburg.
Phineas Callahan took advantage of an opportunity to train with HB Koge over the summer, and we look forward to extending those opportunities to other players in the future. MSV Duisburg was rated as a Category 3 by world-renowned soccer consulting firm Double Pass. That is the highest rating awarded to youth club by their standards in the world.
Estudiantes de la Plata Club–Argentina Each year for the last 3 years, our Beachside Soccer Club’s U15 Academy & Premier teams have had the experience of a lifetime by traveling to Argentina to play Boca Juniors, San Lorenzo & Estudiantes during April break. We were so humbled and impressed with the talent level and dedication to player development witness in Argentina, we plan to continue this experience every year. We are extremely grateful for the hospitality of each club, and the open door policy granted to us by Estudiantes. Over the summer, several Beachside players were hosted by Estudiantes, and now we’ve made our partnership official.
How Do You Measure Success? There are so many little signs of success all across the program but for Beachside it all revolves around our culture. Our culture remains strong and that is what has allowed us to sustain and grow throughout the last 26 years.
How Do We Evaluate Culture? What we call our ‘Culture Triangle’ is the key, that consists of three main components: Players, Parents, and Coaches. All three are the driving force to creating a positive and patient environment where young people can grow and develop both on and off the field. We are at a point where we not only have the players we want; we have the parents and coaches we want.
Boys Academy Update 2018-2019 academy season has been our most successful year since we entered in 2013-2014. Not because of wins and losses which overall was very good, but because of the way our teams played and competed against the best clubs in the country. The other obvious improvement has been in our training sessions where all the hard work of the players and coaches takes place. I am very happy with the improvement I have observed at our training sessions; we continue to get closer and closer to being on the same page with every team and coach, which is not the easiest of tasks.
Boys Premier Update Two years ago, we discussed raising the level of our premier teams and we have, but there is still more work to do. And we will focus on that going forward. We have added players for next year’s teams, as some premier players have made the jump to Academy which is always a good sign. I think the biggest misconception is that we focus more on the Academy, that is not true. We offer the same level of commitment, methods and coaching at the Premier level as we do in Academy. What I think really needs to change is how our premier families and players accept what we do and how we do it, and that the only way they can benefit is by being fully committed, fall, winter, and spring. I get the sense some times that our premier families think it’s ok not to show up, take the winter off, not line up your bags, or not tuck in your shirts. The biggest change with our premier program will be to reinforce our Beachside standards and hold our players accountable.
Pro Pathway and Relationships We are a college placement soccer club. 90% of our players get placed, which continues to be one of the highest percentages in the country. This remains one of our top objectives. Saying this, we do have relationships all across the country with MLS clubs, in Spain and now in Argentina, for the small percentage of players who may have pro potential. When there is a player in our club who may have that potential, has physically matured & socially ready we will always help and do what is right for that player and family.
Trip to Argentina Our 2004 (U15) Academy and Premier teams had a fantastic experience both on and off the field. As coaches, we learned a lot and I will personally implement some new standards taken from the Argentine way of developing players.We are also working with Estudiantes Club and will be creating partnership initiatives that will benefit both. This trip, for our U15 teams, will be an annual event.
End of Season All of our teams have finished and our U15 Academy team is headed to US Soccer Academy Showcase in San Diego to play Vadar (central), LA United (southwest), Crossfire (northwest). Our U17 team made the Academy Playoffs will also be playing in San Diego in a bracket of four, with De Anza (southwest), Chicago Sockers (central), Carolina Rapids (southeast). We are looking forward to these games.
Final Comments I wanted to thank the Beachside families for all their commitment, hard work, and discipline and wanted to wish them a relaxing and enjoyable summer. Players take some time off.I am very excited to get back to work with our staff to continue to improve on everything that makes this club so unique.
For the second consecutive year, Beachside’s U15 Academy and Premier teams traveled to Buenos Aires during their Spring Break to immerse themselves in the soccer-crazed culture of Argentina and to test themselves against teams from the youth academies of some of the country’s greatest professional clubs.
After spectating at the fierce Argentine derby of San Lorenzo versus Huracán, during the week, the Beachside teams played teams from San Lorenzo, Boca Juniors and Estudiantes. The visits to the youth campuses and facilities of the Argentine clubs were eye-opening as each club featured a different environment – from the relaxed country club vibe of Estudiantes to the hyper-intense professional atmosphere of Boca Juniors. Playing teams of such high quality with lineups likely featuring several future professionals was a great learning experience for the boys.
In addition to the games, the Beachside teams participated in a technical session with the coaches from Estudiantes emphasizing speed of play and transition through various 2v1, 2v2 and 3v2 drills. Beachside Director of Coaching, Mickey Kydes, and coaches, Shane Recklet and Javier Miraballes, took in the session and exchanged coaching philosophies on fitness and playing style with their Argentine counterparts.
In their free time between games, the players had the chance to visit the great stadiums such as River Plate’s Monumental and Boca Juniors La Bombonero and come to better understand the history and love of the sport in Argentina.
Both teams returned home looking forwarding to implementing what they learned in Argentina into their upcoming games and showcases.
Beachside would like to THANK Sergio Neveleff and his organization for making this experience a trip of a lifetime.
“Argentina is #1 in the world at producing top young players. Having the opportunity to play against these top teams and youth players is something our players will benefit from and never forget. The hospitality and openness from these clubs to share information was priceless. We look forward to building on these relationships moving forward.” Mickey Kydes (Beachside Technical Director)
“It was a wonderful trip and the perfect mix of soccer and Argentine culture. It was especially amazing to witness the passion of the fans in San Lorenzo for the game we all love.” Michael Ryan (Parent)
“The Club’s initiative to send its Academy and Premier players to train and play abroad is a fantastic step forward. The trip tightened the bonds between teammates, improved their technical skills and tactical awareness, and exposed our coaches to new ways of preparing our players that are already being implemented.” – Jay Radecki (Parent)
Beachside’s Giovanni Calderon is currently in Puerto Rico, competing with their U17 National Team. Gio’s has been in contact with the club and is loving his experience playing at the national level.
“ Having known Gio for the time I have, the one word that comes to mind is determined. Gio has been working very hard to improve his game, so it isn’t surprising to me for him to get this call up to the National Team. We all wish Gio well and look forward to his return to our team.
– Beachside USSDA Academy Director, Paul Melitsanopoulos
Gio wishes all of his teammates well and is looking forward to his arrival back with his teammates to help their U17 Academy team make the USSDA Academy Playoffs.
Beachside’s Kellan Grace will have the opportunity to compete in US Soccer New Youth National Team U14 Talent Identification Program in the upcoming week. Kellan is a current member of our Beachside’s U14 Academy boys team. Kellan will be in attendance with 78 other players selected, who will have the opportunity to showcase their skills in front on Youth National Team Scouts in attendance.
“Kellan exemplifies everything it means to be a Beachside player. He is technical, has a very smart soccer IQ, discipline, motivated, and above all, a very hard working & humble young man. I’ve had the opportunity to coach Kellan for multiple years now, and I couldn’t be happier for his opportunity.”
– Beachside U14 Boys Academy Coach, Gabe Stan
To read more about US Soccer New Youth National Team Talent ID Program, please click here.
Beachside Soccer Club’s Former Player Kyle Zajec Signs His First Professional Contract with Red Bulls II.
“I am very excited for the next chapter of my soccer career. The Westport soccer and Beachside family gave me the foundation in my early soccer years that helped me build my soccer career. I had some great coaches that made development easy and enjoyable. My advice would be… Whatever journey you are on, there are two important things to remember; sort out your priorities and don’t forget to have fun.” – Kyle Zajec
Beachside Soccer club is very pleased to Congratulate Kyle Zajec on signing his first professional contract.
“I’ve known Kyle since he participated in our Westport Rec Program at 5 years old, and to see him progress to the professional game gives me great joy. Kyle knows that if there is anything he ever needs from myself and our Beachside Family, we are only a phone call away.” – Beachside Technical Director, Mickey Kydes.
Beachside players on to MLS Academies: 14 – NYCFC (last 2.5 years, all age groups U12-U19) 6 – Red Bulls (last 6 years, 1 per year, after U14 only) 2 – DC United (last 2 years, U16 and U19 Only) 1 – San Jose Earthquakes (fall 2014-U15) 1 – Orlando City (spring 2018, U15) 1 – KC Sporting (fall 2018, U14)
—Custom uniform, training gear and apparel to be prepared for 2019-2020 season—
Norwalk, Connecticut – Beachside of Connecticut Soccer Club (Beachside Soccer Club), one of two U.S. Soccer Development Academy soccer programs in CT focused on serving highly motivated, dedicated and enthusiastic athletes on and off the field, are thrilled to announce a partnership with Capelli Sport, the international sportswear and team wear brand.
Per the terms of the agreement, Capelli Sport will become the official uniform, training gear and apparel supplier for the Beachside Soccer Club athletes, coaches and staff as the club prepares to take the field for the 2019-2020 season.
Beachside Soccer Club, since its foundation in 1994, has remained unique by aligning with its original core values created by Founder and Technical Director, Mickey Kydes. Beachside Soccer Club prides itself on integrity, and in turn, maintains high, professional standards in addition to emphasizing a flexible, technical and attractive style of play that allows for the development of personal values, growth and soccer talent.
Throughout its history, Beachside Soccer Club has utilized the lessons in both success and defeat to form a consistent, positive environment that inspires and creates proven player development initiatives on both the regional and national levels. Beachside prides itself on its proven track record of alumni: current & former NCAA Division I, II and III athletes, U.S. Youth and Senior National Team members, Major League Soccer (MLS) and European professionals, and most importantly, successful, hardworking, and respected members of their communities.
“Forming a long-lasting partnership with George Altirs and Capelli Sport was a no brainer for me,” Beachside Soccer Club Founder and Techincal Director Mickey Kydes said. “Their values, work ethic, integrity and passion for the game was evident from our first conversation. We look forward to working with everyone involved with Capelli Sport, and having our Beachside Soccer Club families benefit from the quality and customer service which Capelli Sport will provide.”
Capelli Sport was founded in 2011 by President George Altirs, with the mission to provide quality, functionality, and design for high-level performance on the field. Altirs’ more than 30 years in the apparel, fashion and accessory business with parent company GMA Accessories led to the creation of Capelli Sport. The brand’s innovative, world-class training gear, equipment, and uniforms have yielded many global recreational, youth, club, collegiate, semi-professional and professional sports partnerships.
“I have a great appreciation for Mickey Kydes, his staff at Beachside Soccer Club and the standard for youth soccer they have worked to develop in Connecticut,” Capelli Sport President George Altirs said. “This is an incredible opportunity for Capelli Sport to provide its world-class training gear, apparel, and equipment, as well as the resources within our network, to help this decorated program continue its growth on and off the field.”
In eight years of operation, Capelli Sport has become the partner of, and the official outfitter for, a number of internationally recognized sporting organizations, professional clubs, and international teams. Currently, Capelli Sport distributes its world-class training gear and apparel in more than 25 countries worldwide.
About Capelli Sport
Capelli Sport is an innovative sportswear and team wear brand focusing on design of the highest quality, latest fabric technology and design functionality for world-class performance on the field.For more information on Capelli Sport, current partners, and how to join the team SHOPCAPELLI SPORT, visit the ONLINE CATALOG PAGES at capellisport.com, follow them on Twitter (@capellisport) and Instagram (CapelliSport), or visit the Capelli Sport Facebook page.
About Beachside Soccer
Learn more about the historic program by visiting their website www.beachsidesoccer.org or stopping by their Facebook (BeachsideSoccerClub), Twitter (@BeachsideSC) and Instagram (@beachsidesoccerclubct) accounts.
Norwalk, CT native and Beachside alum Niko Petridis was recently selected by the NY Red Bulls in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft. It was something he dreamed of starting back in the days with his U12 Beachside premier team. 
Congrats Niko! Niko is one of the most recent success stories from a talented Beachside class and we are all really proud of him. We look forward to your continued successes on the pitch and in life.
Beachside Soccer Club is excited to announce that we’ve solidified strategic partnerships with the following five clubs!
MLS – Sporting KC
MLS – Toronto FC
HB Koge – Denmark & MSV Duisburg – Germany
Estudiantes de la Plata Club–Argentina
How Do You Measure Success?
For the second consecutive year, Beachside’s U15 Academy and Premier teams traveled to Buenos Aires during their Spring Break to immerse themselves in the soccer-crazed culture of Argentina and to test themselves against teams from the youth academies of some of the country’s greatest professional clubs.
Beachside’s Giovanni Calderon is currently in Puerto Rico, competing with their U17 National Team. Gio’s has been in contact with the club and is loving his experience playing at the national level. 
“I am very excited for the next chapter of my soccer career. The Westport soccer and Beachside family gave me the foundation in my early soccer years that helped me build my soccer career. I had some great coaches that made development easy and enjoyable. My advice would be… Whatever journey you are on, there are two important things to remember; sort out your priorities and don’t forget to have fun.”
Norwalk, Connecticut – Beachside of Connecticut Soccer Club (Beachside Soccer Club), one of two U.S. Soccer Development Academy soccer programs in CT focused on serving highly motivated, dedicated and enthusiastic athletes on and off the field, are thrilled to announce a partnership with Capelli Sport, the international sportswear and team wear brand.