93,000

Kids and teens
are a part of
Washington
Youth Soccer

OUR HISTORY

Washington Youth Soccer’s origin dates back to 1961. Explore our history and the crucial events that shaped youth soccer into what it is, today.

1961

Jack Goldingay starts a four team program at the Bellevue Boys Club

1966

The first steps are taken to form the Washington State Junior Soccer Association

1972

Girls soccer is officially recognized at the State Annual General Meeting in June 1972

1975

The United States Youth Soccer Association (USYSA) is born

1977

A new centralized Washington State Junior Soccer Association Office opens in Tukwila

1983

Washington State Youth Soccer reaches 33 Member Associations

1987

There is a 27% increase in Washington State Youth Soccer Association licensed coaches

1990

Alum Michelle Akers-Stahl wins first Women’s Hermann Award for outstanding college soccer

1992

Four Washington State Youth Soccer alumni are on the 1st Women’s World Championship Winner

1996

A 3rd level of Premier play is added encouraging players to stay in the program

2000

Over 650 Washington State Youth Soccer Association teams enter State Cups

2002

Two doubleheader matches of the Women’s 2002 Gold Cup are played at Safeco Field

2003

Washington State Youth Soccer Association is awarded the TOPSoccer grant

2005

WSYSA sends five teams to the U.S. Youth Soccer Region IV ODP Championships

2008

Washington State Youth Soccer Association becomes Washington Youth Soccer

2009

Seattle is granted an MLS franchise and Washington Youth Soccer becomes a valued partner

2010

A new division is created to develop the small-sided game programs and initiatives

2011

Eastside FC 94 place third at US Youth Soccer National Championships

2012

Washington Youth Soccer wins a grant to for 'Soccer for Success' in South Seattle schools

2016

Washington Youth Soccer Celebrates its 50th anniversary

Discover the many individuals whose contributions have enriched youth soccer in the state of Washington.These individuals serve as inspiration, mentors, referees, coaches, administrators and demonstrate the value of volunteerism and building community.

Where We Sit

Washington Youth Soccer is affiliated with US Youth Soccer, US Soccer, and FIFA the international governing body of soccer through the Regional Club League. These partnerships have helped enrich our member and make Washington Youth Soccer the best choice for youth athletes. 

GLOBAL

FIFA

FEDERATION

USA FEDERATION

NATIONAL

US YOUTH SOCCER

STATE

STATE ASSOCIATION

Associations

There are nearly 200 member clubs in Washington Youth Soccer, and most of them operate within one of our many associations. These governing bodies provide a key link between us and our clubs, and their tireless work keeps the engine of soccer in our state running smoothly. If you want more info on the clubs closest to you, the local association is a great place to start.