SoCal Youth Sports: Soccer Highlights 2023 To all our families (and donuts): As we bid farewell to 2023, we take a moment to celebrate our soccer collective achievements and the joyous moments we’ve shared. Our journey in redefining youth sports in our communities has been nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to your unwavering support and enthusiasm. Please enjoy our soccer highlights for 2023. As a reminder, there will be no soccer classes during the winter break from December 20th to January 5th. We will be running our Winter Soccer Camp at Glendale Sports Complex on December 27, 28 & ..read more

Is Winning Everything? The Importance of Long Term Athletic Development in Youth Sports Introduction Youth sports have become more than just a game; they’re an integral part of a child’s holistic development. From soccer to basketball, children now have myriad options to learn not just sporting skills, but also valuable social and emotional traits. However, the age-old focus on simply “winning” could hinder this. Parents who are contemplating how to choose a youth sports program for their child should be aware that a win-at-all-costs attitude can limit long-term growth. Long Term Athletic D ..read more

SoCal Youth Sports Summer Break Announcement & Exciting News About Burbank Classes! Hello SoCal Youth Sports Families, We hope this message finds you soaking up the sun and enjoying the start of the summer season. We have some important updates to share with you about our upcoming schedule and some exciting news about the expansion of our program. Summer Break for Public Group Classes Firstly, we would like to inform you that our public group classes will be taking a short summer break from June 26 to July 12. This pause is a great opportunity for our young athletes to rest, recharge, and ..read more

Introducing the Soccer Coaching Spectrum I’ve been involved in kids professional soccer coaching for more than 15 years now. I have been able to make some fantastic friends, found mentors (who became close friends). The journey has been incredible. I’ve met some wonderful people (including my wife) and remain as passionate as I was on day 1.  A few months ago, I sat down for coffee with my good friend and fellow coach, Joe Smith. Joe isn’t just any coach; he’s someone who has developed programs that have produced U.S. national team players across numerous age levels. He was also the head ..read more

  A Parent’s Guide to Choosing the Best Youth Soccer Program in Southern California Introduction As a parent, you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to extracurricular activities like soccer. But how can you tell if a youth soccer program offers more than just the chance to win games? This guide breaks down what you should look for to ensure a fulfilling and educational experience for your child.   Table of Contents Why Kids Quit Sports: The Fun Factor What Matters Most: Kids’ Priorities Skill Development: The Long-Term Goal Player Retention: A Reliable Indic ..read more

SoCal Youth Sports Summer Break Announcement & Exciting News About Burbank Classes! Hello SoCal Youth Sports Families, We hope this message finds you soaking up the sun and enjoying the start of the summer season. We have some important updates to share with you about our upcoming schedule and some exciting news about the expansion of our program. Summer Break for Public Group Classes Firstly, we would like to inform you that our public group classes will be taking a short summer break from June 26 to July 12. This pause is a great opportunity for our young athletes to rest, recharge, and ..read more

  Kids’ Soccer Guide: Parental Involvement – What You Need to Know for a Rewarding Experience Introduction: If you’re searching for the ideal kids’ soccer program, your role as a parent is invaluable. Learn how your active involvement can substantially improve your child’s soccer experience. The Critical Role of Parents in Kids’ Soccer Your engagement as a parent can be a game-changer for your child. According to the National Alliance for Youth Sports, kids who feel parentally supported are 70% more likely to have an “excellent” experience in soccer. Balancing Support and Pressure Bein ..read more

Soccer Parents Guide: Watch A Game Like A Coach As a Soccer Parent in our vibrant youth soccer scene, understanding the game from a coach’s perspective can significantly enhance the soccer journey for both you and your child. This guide seeks to bridge that understanding by introducing a method named S.C.a.N. Spacing, Connections, and Nuance. By embracing this method, you’ll learn to view soccer games through a tactical lens. The aim is to produce a more supportive environment for young players. Less telling on the ball. More understanding around the ball. Introduction to S.C.a.N – An “Eyes Of ..read more

Elevating Your Soccer Coaching: Integrating the Goalkeeper In modern soccer dynamics, goalkeepers transition from being the last line of defense to the first wave of attack. Their evolved role is pivotal in not just guarding the goal but initiating offensive actions, making the goalkeeper a game-changing asset on the field. Embedding your goalkeeper in regular coaching sessions is paramount to foster a holistic, dynamic team approach. Rondos and Keepers During keep-ball sessions, it’s crucial to instill standard goalkeeping techniques among your goalkeepers. For instance, in a rondo, allow th ..read more

Brand New Burbank Classes! Exciting News: Burbank Classes We are thrilled to announce that SoCal Youth Sports is expanding! We are launching new classes in Burbank, and we can’t wait to bring our unique blend of fun, fitness, and sportsmanship to more children in our community. Signing up for our Burbank classes is easy. Simply book below or visit our website at socalyouthsports.com/burbank and follow the instructions to register. We’re excited to welcome new families to our community and look forward to seeing some familiar faces too! Find out what makes SoCal Youth Sports Different below So ..read more