THE LATEST FROM WYOMING SOCCER | | |
WYOMING SOCCER ATHLETE STARTS FUND TO SUPPORT HIGH-LEVEL
SOCCER OPPORTUNITIES FOR WYOMING PLAYERS
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We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Wyoming Soccer Kickstart Fund – a special initiative created by one of our own talented athletes to ensure that financial barriers never stand in the way of a player’s dreams.
From regional and national Olympic Development Program (ODP) selections to invitation-only camps, these opportunities can change an athlete’s path forever. But for many, the costs of travel, gear, and fees make them out of reach.
This is where you come in.
The Kickstart Fund provides financial assistance to deserving athletes, helping them take that next big step. When you give, you are not just empowering a player—you are opening doors to life-changing experiences and fueling dreams.
You can help in TWO big ways:
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Donate today – Every gift, big or small, fuels an athlete’s journey.
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Spread the word – Share the Kickstart Fund with friends, family, and fellow soccer fans.
Players in need of support can apply HERE.
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WYOMING 307 SELECT
Our Wyoming 307 Select teams are gearing up for events this Falland tryouts for the 2026/2027 season will open up the beginning of 2026.
Our Wyoming 307 Select teams have achieved HUGE SUCCESS so far this season. Our teams have had some great training time and recently participated in a unified training on October 18-19, 2025 in Casper and despite some unexpected weather, our teams had a great time and created innovative ways to create some additional education and bonding opportunities...see below video for highlights. Our teams are now preparing for the annual ODP Championships in Mesa, AZ, which will be held January 2-5, 2026. If your player missed tryouts and you are interested in being part of this exciting program, please reach out to us!
Wyoming Soccer Association is also 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, and complete program information can be found in our Wyoming 307 Select Manual.
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WYOMING SOCCER NEXTGEN COACH PROGRAM
A Play It Forward USSF Innovate to Grow Grant Program
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As part of Wyoming Soccer Association’s Play It Forward Grant (an Innovate to Grow grant received by Wyoming Soccer Association in 2024 from the U.S. Soccer Federation), Wyoming Soccer has created a program to ignite a passion for coaching in our current youth and young adult coaches.
We are offering FREE incentives (all is funded by Wyoming Soccer Association) to coaching, such as educational resources through US Youth Soccer University‘s and Wyoming Soccer Association’s partners, etrainu & MOJO, a coach kit (inclusive of a jacket, duffel bag, t-shirt, clip board, notepad, pen, pin and coach badge) and additional incentives for achieving milestones of the program. U.S. Soccer says that “education is a journey” and Wyoming Soccer wants to start developing our coaches earlier, getting them on a structured path to education with no barriers to start their journey.
This program can also be utilized as an internship for college students.
If your club would like to start a NextGen Coach Program (either with junior aged coaches within your club and/or through a local college internship program), we can brand the program for your club and start the process TODAY.
Please reach out to Lisa Hulshizer at wssa@wyomingsoccer.com or call us at (307) 742-2306 for more information.
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BE PREPARED FOR THE ACT/SAT TESTS
We are here to help through the eKnowledge 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 next available ACT Test of 2025 (December 13, 2025) is November 7, 2025.
The deadline to register for the next available SAT Test of 2025 (December 6, 2025) is November 24, 2025.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE POWERPREP 10... and ensure your student is ready!
| | | WYOMING SOCCER WELCOMES THREE NEW PARTNERS | | Wyoming Soccer is excited to announce that First State Bank and First Bank of Wyoming, both divisions of Glacier Bank, have partnered to provide custom game balls for both our 2026 Wyoming Cup & Championships over Memorial Day Weekend in Casper and the Equality State Championships next October. This has been a special tradition for years for these events, and we are excited about this new relationship. | | |
Wyoming Soccer recently partnered with ProACT, a company that provides baseline concussion testing. We have received a deeply discounted rate to provide this service, which will be an opt-in upon registration in our state programs. This is a brand new partnership, and you will see more information coming out about this in the coming weeks.
| | THE LATEST FROM US YOUTH SOCCER | | | USYS PARTNERS WITH ROUNDGLASS LIVING | | |
Through this partnership, US Youth Soccer and Roundglass will provide unprecedented access to the Roundglass Living App, which delivers personalized wellbeing plans that make lasting change simple, one step at a time. With science-backed guidance tailored to each individual, goals like less stress, stronger performance and better sleep can become the foundation for thriving athletes, engaged families, and championship cultures.
Key components of the partnership include:
- Free access to Roundglass Living for all registered players, coaches, referees, administrators, and their families.
- Programs that empower athletes to improve their performance by optimizing their physical and mental strength.
- Mental health and wellbeing workshops integrated into USYS development programs for players, coaches, and referees across all four geographic regions.
- Community activation events promoting healthy habits, mindfulness, and inclusive belonging at regional and national championships.
- Ongoing content delivered from world-class wellness experts and thought leaders.
Wyoming Soccer is also partnering with Roundglass Living and more information on how you and your player can access this free personalized resource is coming soon.
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USYS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS CHANGES FORMAT
State Champions Qualify for Nationals
The US Youth Soccer National Championships, presented by New York Life, cap a yearlong series of competitions for boys and girls teams in multiple age brackets as teams earn their way from the top teams in their state to the national championships.
The champions in the 13U through 18U/19U age brackets from each state cup event will converge in July for the US Youth Soccer National Championships presented by New York Life. Annually the US Youth Soccer National Championships, presented by New York Life, provides the nation’s top collegiate coaches with the premier stage to identify and scout the most coveted players in the country.
Currently, two Wyoming teams have qualified, those being the Casper Blades 19U Red Girls and the Casper Blades 19U Red Boys through the Equality State Championships.
To learn more about the new format, read more...
| | | | THE LATEST FROM US SOCCER | | | THE EASIEST WAY TO FOLLOW THE USMNT AND USWNT! | | | |
Immediate notification of match announcements. Easy access to tv information. Rosters and lineups at your fingertips. The Official U.S. Soccer App is the easiest way to follow the USWNT and USMNT.
In addition to schedule notifications, roster announcements, and player information, version 2.0 now brings U.S. Soccer content into one, easy-to-access hub so that you never miss match highlights, interviews, or behind-the-scenes content. We're also giving all U.S. Soccer fans the ability to vote for the Insiders' Player of the Match, exclusively in the app on matchdays! Find app download links HERE.
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US SOCCER FEDERATION PARTICIPATES IN JOINT BID TO HOST FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP 2031
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Earlier this month, The U.S. Soccer Federation, Mexican Football Federation, Costa Rican Football Federation, and Jamaica Football Federation today launched their joint bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2031™, pledging to deliver the most impactful tournament in history. One designed to inspire future generations, empower women and girls through sport, and leave a lasting legacy for global football development. Read more HERE.
| | | OVERCOMING THE REFEREE SHORTAGE | | |
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 earn some extra money, familiarize yourself with the rules and see things from a new perspective!
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 2025, please click HERE.
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RESPECT THE CALL
Protecting Our Referees
With referee abuse on the rise for youth and amateur matches, it’s time to take a stand. Referees are essential to soccer, but far too often risk their emotional and physical well-being in service to the game.
Win, lose, or draw, we’re in this together. When you take your anger out on the referee, everybody loses, and the call on the field still stands. Referee abuse is damaging for everyone involved – and for the future of soccer.
Thank you for doing your part.
Click HERE for an In-Depth overview of USSF Policy 531-9 on Referee Abuse Prevention.
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SEPTEMBER - ZANE EMANOFF (CHEYENNE TOPSOCCER PROGRAM)
OCTOBER - SOPHIA MOORE (YELLOWSTONE FIRE SOCCER)
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For the month of September, we are proud to recognize Zane Emanoff from the Cheyenne Soccer TOPSoccer Program as our Player Spotlight!
Wyoming Soccer is proud to shine the spotlight on Zane, an eight-year-old athlete whose courage, energy, and love for the game inspire everyone around him.
Zane has been playing soccer for five years and competes as a forward. A right-sided hemiplegic stroke survivor, he lives every day with cerebral palsy — and every day, he proves that nothing can slow him down. His determination, resilience, and joy serve as an incredible example for athletes of all ages and abilities across Wyoming.
A passionate sports fan, Zane loves all sports, with football holding a special place in his heart. His admiration for Patrick Mahomes fuels his competitive spirit, and when he’s not on the soccer field, he enjoys making memories and sharing laughs with his brother. Zane’s smile is contagious, and his ability to uplift teammates, buddies, and coaches is truly remarkable.
For the past five years, Zane has been a dedicated player in the Cheyenne Soccer Club TOPSoccer Program, where his enthusiasm and character have made a lasting impact. His coach, Carey Lam, shares:
“To describe Zane as an amazing athlete doesn’t do him justice. He is a superstar! He has a love for all sports and we are fortunate that he chose soccer to be one of them.”
His TOPSoccer Buddy, Caden Smith, adds:
“Zane has been such a joy to work with. His competitiveness and eagerness to play soccer have always stood out to me. He has such an infectious personality and always gets in on the jokes with me and the other TOPSoccer Buddies. He has inspired me and everyone else in the program. We all wish we were more like Zane.”
Whether on the field, cracking jokes with teammates, or flashing his unmistakable smile, Zane reminds us what sports are truly about — heart, courage, and joy. We are proud to celebrate him and grateful for the light he brings to Wyoming Soccer.
Keep shining, Zane — the game is better because you’re in it!
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For the month of October, we are shining the spotlight on Sophia Moore from Yellowstone Fire Soccer Association.
Wyoming Soccer is thrilled to celebrate Sophia. She is a dynamic talent on and off the field and embodies leadership, dedication, and a genuine love for the game — and we are proud to recognize her achievements as she continues her soccer journey throughout Wyoming and beyond.
Sophia plays primarily as a central midfielder and winger, where her vision, drive, and creativity make her a standout contributor. Now in her second year with the Wyoming 307 Select Program, she continues to push her game to new heights and is set to participate in ODP this January. With five years of soccer experience, her passion and commitment shine every time she steps onto the pitch. Sophia also brings her skill and sportsmanship to other communities, having guest played for both Casper and Green River during Turf Wars.
Beyond the soccer field, Sophia leads with heart in everything she does. She is active at school and in her community — participating in the quilting club for veterans, excelling in cross country, and volunteering as a teacher’s helper in children's church when she’s not traveling for soccer. A multi-sport athlete, she also enjoys swimming and track, showcasing both endurance and competitive spirit.
Sophia’s adventurous side shines through her love for backpacking, camping, and fishing in the Big Horn Mountains. Whether she’s exploring Wyoming’s outdoors or creating magic in the kitchen — cooking and baking are among her hobbies — Sophia brings focus and joy to every pursuit. Her favorite author is Jennifer Nielsen, and her go-to movies range from playful classics like The Lorax to high-energy action like Top Gun: Maverick — fitting choices for someone who balances kindness with competitive fire.
Sophia’s well-rounded nature and drive are clear to everyone who knows her. She is a leader and competitor who constantly strives to elevate herself and her teammates — whether on the pitch, in the pool, or in the classroom. Her curiosity and love for learning even led to her being featured on the Kids Ask Why podcast in 2021, where she shared her voice and perspective with listeners statewide.
With her dedication, sportsmanship, and passion for improvement, Sophia is a role model for young athletes across Wyoming. We are proud to cheer her on as she continues to grow, compete, and lead with excellence.
Keep shining, Sophia — your future is bright, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you!
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We are honored to recognize both Zane and Sophia as our spotlighted players for the months of September and October. 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 2026 and will be eligible to win our coveted 2026 Player of the Year Award! Please share your kids with us.
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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TEAM DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Adjourning
While our Fall season may be over, we know we have many teams active in the winter and our Technical Director, Dave Eldred, has provided the following process for coaches to follow:
- The FORMING stage consists of group behaviors of confusion and unclarity on team goals. Players feel varying degrees of commitment and trust. Players are cautious, don’t initiate and avoid responsibility. Communication is low, a few players often dominate and players can be dependent on directive leadership. As their coach, you need to build a common purpose and clarify roles and set expectation. Build relationships and understand personal expectations and interests. Clarify accountability, recognition and rewards. Assess your resources and who can contribute.
- The STORMING stage consists of group behaviors in confusion over roles and goals. Struggles erupt over approaches, direction and control. Players who are reactive toward leadership can be counterproductive as the team wrestles with handling new conflicts. As their coach, you need to involve players in discussion and inquire into their differences, ideas and opinions. Defining norms and being able to coach the team through struggles is commonplace in this stage.
- The NORMING becomes apparent as the team gains confidence and feels a sense of momentum. What, how, who and when become clarified as the team develops agreements on goals and roles on the pitch. Relationships are building and players begin to raise issues and provide feedback. As their coach, help them to develop processes for information sharing and feedback. Use a facilitative approach to create opportunities for others to lead.
- The PERFORMING stage consists of players who take responsibility for tasks and relationships. The team is achieving effective and satisfying results on the pitch while regulating their behavior and conflicts. The players understand their individual role/positions for the benefit of the team. As their coach you need to assess and evaluate the results related to team purpose and celebrate successes for both the team and individual players. Continually seek better methods for training/game day prep and focus on interdependent relationships by delegating more in this stage.
- The final team development stage of ADJOURNING asks the question, how many objectives have been accomplished as individual players reflect and prepare for the next season. As their coach you need to document the results and reflect on the process and preparation for the next season. Acknowledge and praise the team and individuals for their success and provide next steps to continue team togetherness. Invite the team and players to reflect and share ideas for the future team as players will differ next season and the stages of team development will start all over again.
If you want to take a much deeper dive into team development, please reach out to Dave at td@wyomingsoccer.com, as these are only the highlights for your consideration.
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The Annual United Soccer Coaches Convention is coming to Philadelphia January 14-17, 2026!
We encourage coaches from around the state to attend this amazing convention where you are guaranteed to learn and grow as a coach! There are hundreds of sessions and many opportunities for coach education courses.
Registration is open! Click HERE.
You can get more information HERE, including a link to a justification letter for your club to encourage them to send local coaches!
| | | CODE OF CONDUCT HIGHLIGHT | | | | | |
Please remember all registrants must agree to the Wyoming Soccer Association's (WSA's) Code of Conduct.
- Conduct yourselves as representatives and ambassadors of Wyoming Soccer Association.
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GET TO KNOW OUR GROWING LIST OF PARTNERS
DO YOU WANT TO BE OUR NEXT PARTNER? - PLEASE CLICK HERE!
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WYOMING SOCCER ASSOCIATION| www.wyomingsoccer.com
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