THE LATEST FROM WYOMING SOCCER | | |
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INNOVATE TO GROW
Wyoming Soccer Receives Its 4th Innovate to Grow Grant from USSF
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Wyoming Soccer is pleased to announce that we have received our 4th Innovate to Grow grant from US Soccer Federation. This new grant will focus on engaging our older youth players and college aged players and incentivizing them to work as mentors and coaches or our younger players. As we continue to grow, we need to work to keep our players engaged with the sport, as they will be providing our next generation o youth soccer players and keeping them engaged with the sport paves a stronger future of Wyoming Soccer. We will be talking a lot more about this at our upcoming AGM and Workshops on March 2nd.
We have two other active Innovate to Grow grants currently rolling as well. Our first grant, which was to fund a Futsal League in 2018-2019 is the only one that has ended, however, we have seen significant growth across Wyoming in Futsal, with many of our clubs providing Futsal programming in the winter months and two Futsal style events in the state. We also have tons of Wyoming Futsal uniforms, so if your club is in need of uniforms for your Futsal programs, please let us know - we can hook you up!
Our current grant programs are SOW Soccer, which clubs can tap into to create programming that breaks down barriers to participation (this can be a soccer clinic geared towards a specific demographic, creating club scholarships, forming a TOPSoccer program in your community, or anything else that drives participation). Clubs can receive up to $15,000 for these programs. The other grant is Call of the Whistle, and we are going to launch our final phase of this grant, which we are calling the Game Changer, at our 2024 AGM. There are financial incentives for players, teams and clubs and we can't wait to share this with all o fyou on March 2nd!
To view the list of programs that were funded this year, please click HERE. We invite you to check out the list and if you get any bright ideas inspired by the programs of other members, please let us know and we would be thrilled to work with you on writing a grant for next year. I think we know a thing or two about how to secure these funds...use us as a resource. We are here for our clubs and our members! Clubs CANNOT apply directly for these grants, so bring your ideas to us and we will do what we can to grow grassroots soccer throughout Wyoming!
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WYOMING 307 SELECT
Our Wyoming 307 Select teams are in full swing and traveling to several events across the region.
Our ODP teams did great at this year's ODP Championships in Arizona, we had four Wyoming players who participated in the ODP Interregional event in January and one of those players, Reagan Barthel, made it to the national 2011 ODP Girls team roster! Wyoming 307 Select is the starting point for all of it, and we encourage you to tryout for next year. Tryouts are only $50 for up to two weekends, they are open and the link to register is below.
Wyoming Soccer Association is actively seeking a state sponsor for our state programs. If you are aware of a business or organization who would like statewide exposure to families and young athletes, we would like to visit with them! Please contact our Sponsorship Committee Chair, Andrew Apfelberg, if you or anyone you know would be interested in this amazing opportunity.
To find out more about our Wyoming 307 Select program please check out the Wyoming 307 Select page on our website.
Our Wyoming 307 Select Coaches are constantly scouting for players at our events across the state. If you want your player to be evaluated at an upcoming event, please let us know!
Tryouts for the upcoming 2024/2025 will occur over two weekends in June (June 1-2, 2024 & June 29-30, 2024) in Casper.
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WYOMING SOCCER PARTNERS WITH GLOBAL COMPANY
You go. You save. They give.
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Wyoming Soccer Association has partnered directly with Go & Give, a philanthropic global company that believes travel can be a transformative experience that not only enriches our lives, but also has the power to create positive change in the world. Go & Give has committed to giving back a portion of proceeds to non-profits, including Wyoming Soccer and our local clubs.
Book your next adventure with Go & Give and join us in our mission to create a better world through travel. Watch the below video to see exactly how it works!
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You can access all club codes below so you can be sure your next trip benefits your local soccer club! You go. You save. They give!! | |
BE PREPARED FOR THE ACT/SAT TESTS
We are here to help through the eKnowlede PowerPrep10
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Wyoming Soccer Association's partner, eKnowledge, has boosted their programming to assist our high school aged soccer players across the state in gaining some amazing ACT and SAT test prep for a deal almost too good to be true.
The PowerPrep10 Beta Program is a course that is intuitive, student-driven, comprehensive, multi-media, content rich and focused precisely on your student's needs with instant access to a LIVE teacher!
The value of this is $350, but as a member of Wyoming Soccer Association you can get in for as low as $19.99 and can receive EVERYTHING for only $49.99 - a $1500 value!
Registration deadline to register for the first available ACT Test of 2024 (April 13, 2024) is March 8, 2024.
The deadline to register for the first available SAT Test of 2024 (March 9, 2024) is February 23, 2024.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE POWERPREP 10... and ensure your student is ready!
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THE LATEST FROM US YOUTH SOCCER | | |
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PLAYER MENTAL HEALTH & THE COACH-PLAYER RELATIONSHIP
Everyone once in a while US Youth Soccer is contacted to help facilitate reserach to help improve the youth soccer landscape. We have an opportunity to help with this research, and we are asking that you consider participation in an important current study.
McKenzie Bromback is a doctoral student and soccer coach in Minnesota and is conducting research on the coach-athlete relationship. The purpose of the research is to understand if there is a relationship between adolescent athlete's perceptions of the coach-athlete relationship and their depression, anxiety, and stress. This research may help to improve the sporting environment and participation experience for millions of children moving forward!
McKenzie is looking for athletes ages 14-18 to complete a 10-minute survey.
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US YOUTH SOCCER REGIONAL EVENTS 2024 | |
The 2024 Regional Events will occur next June, but the time to prepare is NOW! | |
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The 2024 Farwest Regionals event will take place June 21-27, 2024 in Honolulu, HI. The event entry fee is $1800 and an additional $1500 state fee will be accessed to cover expenses of state representation and referees.
The National Championships will be held July 23-28, 2024 in Orlando, FL.
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The USYS Regional Presidents' Cup event will be held June 14-18, 2024 in Salt Lake City, UT. The event entry fee is $1600 and an additional $1500 state fee will be accessed to cover expenses of state representation and referees.
The National Presidents' Cup event will be held July 12-16, 2024 in Wichita, KS.
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Teams aged 12U - 19U can qualify for either of the above events by placing 1st or 2nd place at the 2023 Equality State Championships or by placing in the top 3 of the Championships Division at the 2024 Wyoming Cup & Championships over Memorial Day Weekend.
If you have questions about either event, please reach out to Lisa Hulshizer at the state office at (307) 742-2306 or via email at wssa@wyomingsoccer.com.
Initial commitments will be requested by US Youth Soccer in January.
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THE LATEST FROM US SOCCER FEDERATION | | |
U.S. SOCCER ELECTS NATHÁN GOLDBERG CRENIER
AS VICE PRESIDENT
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During the National Council Meeting on February 10, 2024, Nathán Goldberg Crenier was elected Vice President by earning 75 percent of the vote from Membership. A simple majority was necessary for Goldberg Crenier to join the board for the next four years.
“We’re excited to welcome Nathán as U.S. Soccer’s Vice President,” said Cone. “His energy, passion and dedication to help grow the game combined with his background working across different areas of the sport will be a great asset to the Federation.”
To view all the highlights of the 2024 USSF AGM, please click HERE.
To read more about Nathán, please click HERE.
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OVERCOMING THE REFEREE SHORTAGE | |
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Wyoming Soccer is working hard to gain more referees, and the best way to do that is to host or attend a referee clinic. We invite you to take advantage of the opportunity to offset some of the costs of youth soccer, earn some extra money, familiarize yourself with the rules and see things from a new perspective!
We also have incentives for those who return. You can find out about the 2024 recertification discount HERE.
Contact Roger Brown if you have questions.
Click the below button to find out about all our upcoming Wyoming Referee Clinics.
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If your club is interested in hosting a referee clinic, please click HERE.
If you are interested in becoming a referee in 2024, please click HERE.
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USYS PARTNERS WITH OFICIATING COLLECTIVE | | |
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Last month, US Youth Soccer (USYS) and the Officiating Collective (OC) teamed up in an effort to enhance the referee experience for its membership, placing an emphasis on retention of youth sport officials.
The two-year partnership will pair the largest youth sport organization in the country with the
Australian-based company, furthering each’s commitment to officiating. US Youth Soccer
referees will have access to a discount code that can be used on OfficiatingCollective.com to unlock several of the training resources that provide support, education, training, and professional development for individuals at various stages of their refereeing pathway.
You can view the full release HERE.
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JANUARY - ANTONIA (NIA) ABERNATHY (LANDER STRIKERS)
FEBRUARY - RYAN HERNANDEZ AYALA (JACKSON HOLE TOPSOCCER)
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Lander Strikers player, Antonia (Nia) Abernathy is in the spotlight for the month of January.
Antonia Rose Abernathy “Nia” started recreation soccer at 6 years-old or so…played a couple of seasons and then joined Lander’s club team — Strikers! Hunter Roseberry took her under his wing as a 2011 Striker and has coached her on various girls’ teams, and more recently coed.
Nia demonstrates much versatility on the soccer field. She showed an early interest and aptitude for the goalkeeper position with quick reflexes and agility. However, she wants to be where the action is and enjoys playing the field just as much. It seems like Nia plays midfield and forward positions most times on the field, but I’ve heard Coach Hunter describe her as a “utility” player. She can play anywhere. Nia loves the game of soccer and enjoys the team and social aspect as much as anything.
Antonia tried out for Wyoming 307 Select in 2021. Playing for Wyoming 307 Select has elevated Nia’s competitive soccer skills and experience in so many ways. It has been an invaluable opportunity for Nia to get outside of her comfort zone introducing coaches and players from across the state and playing opportunities beyond. Most recently Nia participated on the 2011 ODP team affording her opportunities to travel and play at an ODP training in New Mexico and at the ODP Far West Championships in Phoenix.
In addition to soccer, Nia just started AAU volleyball. When she’s not playing sports, she helps on the family ranch spending much of her summer horseback, dabbling in rodeo on the side.
Antonia is a great athlete and student with a kind and sensitive heart — and lots of fire! This has been the message from an early age. Her teachers have described her as "sweet and spicy” and a "hot tamale”. Antonia was the youngest participant on a Wilderness Cowgirl Camp two summers ago and received the “grit” award. Antonia's dad, Rhett, echoes all of the above, adding that she is "strong and smart with common sense. She is a natural leader both on and off the field.
Her coach, Hunter Roseberry, had this to say about Nia, "I’ve had the pleasure to coach Nia for over six years. She is the epitome of a utility player and she excels at any position on the field. She often is our starting keeper and is my “ace in the hole” for the second half of the game out on the pitch. She plays the field with often unmatched speed and endurance. Nia’s time out on her family’s ranch shows by being one of toughest kids I’ve ever met. All of her positive attributes have been acknowledged on a larger level and she competes with her Wyoming 307 Select team and recently with her ODP team in Arizona. Nia’s boisterous demeanor and quick willingness to crack her unique smile make her a team favorite wherever she plays. Kudos to Nia and we look forward to your soccer career!"
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Ryan Hernandez Ayala from the Jackson Hole TOPSoccer Program is in the spotlight for the month of February. Ryan has been interested in the sport of soccer since he was only 5 years old. About three years ago, once he was able to navigate using his walker, he started playing and then officially joined Jackson Hole's TOPSoccer program.
Ryan really loves playing goalkeeper, and his favorite soccer team is Chivas (a Mexican professional football club based in Guadalajara). One of his coaches, Trent Hultman, says this about him, "Ryan is an absolute joy to coach. Each session, he brings a level of determination and passion for the game that is unmatched. His smile and energy are contagious amongst his peers. He consistently inspires his teammates through hard work, perseverance, and a never-give-up attitude. I have no doubt Ryan will continue to achieve great things in his soccer career and beyond.”
Besides soccer, Ryan keeps very busy. He loves to ski, bake, paint, and he is great at putting together puzzles. He also likes video games and plays on his Nintendo Switch. His favorite movie is, "We Can be Heroes", and he loves tacos and cheeseburgers. He enjoys playing and spending time with his friends and his two brothers, Angel & Jason.
Ryan attends church every Sunday at The Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church and loves to hang out with his provider, Elaina, who takes him on outings to the library and to the store. The two of them also enjoy nature walks and going to the Wildlife Refuge, where he enjoys watching the deer, elk and moose.
Ryan is a very patient kid and never gives up. His hard work and determination are inspiring to everyone around him and those who work with him.
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We are honored to recognize both Nia & Ryan as our spotlighted players for the months of January & February. Remember, the Player Spotlight can highlight achievement in any area, whether it's soccer, academics, community, or attitude. All spotlighted players will be recognized at our annual Awards Celebration in March 2025 and will be eligible to win our coveted 2025 Player of the Year Award! Please share your kids with us. To find out more about Wyoming's TOPSoccer Program, please visit us online HERE.
To nominate a player from your club for the Player Spotlight, please download the nomination form by clicking HERE. Once completed, please email to wssa@wyomingsoccer.com.
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Our neighbors to the south are offering a great and affordable opportunity for some great coach development!
Join the Colorado Soccer Coaching Symposium, an event designed to elevate your coaching and prepare your players for the next level!
When: Saturday, February 24th, 2024, from 9am to 5pm
Where: Future Legends Sports Complex - Dome, Windsor, CO
Registration Fee: $100 (Includes comprehensive field sessions and lunch)
Deadline: Registration closes Thursday, February 22nd! REGISTER BELOW!
Featuring Clinicians:
Kelly Brown – Current Pro Head Coach with the Northern CO Rain. Former Women’s Head Coach Regis University. During her time at Regis University, she had a record of 18-8-1 with the Rangers, guiding them to the 2021 RMAC Championship game — their first appearance in over ten years.
Chris Cartlidge – Colorado Rapids Academy Technical Director. Cartlidge served as the Assistant Coach for the University of New Mexico's Men’s Soccer Program, a tenure marked by winning conference championships in 2006 and 2007, as well as making NCAA Tournament appearances in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, and 2010.
Jamie Franks – DU Men’s Head Soccer Coach. The four-time Summit League Coach of the Year has led his team to seven NCAA Tournament qualifications, securing byes as one of the top-16 seeds in three of those instances over eight seasons.
Mike Freitag – Colorado Soccer Association current Director of Coaching, long-time college coach at Indiana University where he was part of 5 National Championships as an assistant and head coach. Served as an Assistant Coach for the US Soccer U17 National Team at the 1991 World Championships.
Michael Haas – Current Technical Director for Colorado Rush, Former Coach with the US Soccer Paralympic Team, former US Soccer National Team Staff member, and US Soccer Coach Educator.
Bill Stara – Director of Education at Broomfield Soccer Club. Bill has won 14 Maryland HS State Championships. He has also taken four club teams to National Championship games, winning two USYSA Championships – U16 Columbia Kick (1982) and U19 Columbia Jays (1985 McGuire Cup).
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COACH EDUCATION
Formal, Informal, US Soccer, United Soccer Coaches...
If you are interested in having your club host ANY type of coach education/training, whether a formal licensing course (grassroots or higher) through US Soccer, a certification course through United Soccer Coaches, or simply an informal training to help your local coaches grow, please reach out to Dave Eldred at td@wyomingsoccer.com.
Dave would be happy to hear from you and help guide you regarding the best way to help your club's coach development initiatives - wherever you may be along the way.
And, as mentioned in our opening article - we have a brand new coach focused grant that will go through 2026! It's going to be exciting, and we will once again be able to offer some reimbursement for coach education courses!
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WYOMING SOCCER SPRING EVENTS
WYOMING ODP SUB-REGIONAL - LARAMIE, WY
February 24-25, 2024 - Registration Closes 2/19/24
CASPER SPRING JAM - CASPER WY
April 13-14, 2024
RAMPAGE RUMBLE - RIVERTON, WY
January 13-14, 2024
CODY SHOOTOUT - CODY, WY
May 4-5, 2024
FIRST INTERSTATE BANK BIG HORN MOUNTAIN CUP - SHERIDAN, WY
May 11-12, 2024
JACKSON HOLE UNITED CUP - JACKSON HOLE, WY
May 18-19, 2024
WYOMING CUP & CHAMPIONSHIPS/UNITED CUP - CASPER, WY
May 25-27, 2024
TEAMS 10U - 15U WISHING TO PARTICIPATE IN THE 2024 WYOMING CUP & CHAMPIONSHIPS
MUST BE REGISTERED IN THE WYOMING STATE LEAGUE (WSL)
Read More on the WSL Format
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CODE OF CONDUCT HIGHLIGHT | | | |
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Please remember all registrants must agree to the Wyoming Soccer Association's (WSA's) Code of Conduct.
Integrity: Conduct yourself with uncompromised honesty, honor, ethics, and integrity in all situations.
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GET TO KNOW OUR GROWING LIST OF PARTNERS | | |
WYOMING SOCCER ASSOCIATION| www.wyomingsoccer.com
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