Lexington, Kentucky – 06.12.26 – Capelli Sport and Kentucky Youth Soccer Association are proud to announce a new multi-year partnership starting in the 2026 season. This agreement will make Capelli Sport the official and exclusive uniform, apparel, and equipment provider for the Kentucky-based organization. The deal will run for four years, throughout the 2030 season.
Based in Lexington, Kentucky, the Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the heart of soccer in the Commonwealth. Founded in 1979 by John Gompper of Burlington, KY, KYSA was established to unite and empower youth soccer programs across the state. Today, KYSA represents over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and thousands of volunteers through a network of over 83 local member associations. Serving players of all ages and skill levels, KYSA provides a clear pathway from grassroots development to elite competition. Through programs like the Olympic Development Program (ODP), KYSA identifies and develops top players to represent their state, region, and country. With nearly five decades of experience, KYSA remains committed to making sure every child who wants to play soccer has the opportunity to do so in a safe and positive environment.
Executive Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer Association, Kris Zander said:
“KYSA is extremely excited to partner with Capelli as our new Apparel partner. Capelli has shown a big interest in Kentucky and wanting to continue to grow youth soccer in the Commonwealth alongside KYSA. Their uniforms and clothing are top of the line, and we look forward to seeing our players represent their teams in superior kits. We’re thrilled to have our ODP Program sport apparel that will not only be comfortable for the athletes but also bring an elevated look to their training and games.”
Sales Executive Dan Boillon said:
“We are thrilled to welcome Kentucky Youth Soccer Association to the Capelli Sport family. With nearly five decades of developing players and growing the game across the Commonwealth, KYSA is exactly the kind of organization we are proud to partner with.”
About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association Kentucky Youth Soccer Association is the governing body for youth soccer in the Bluegrass State, dedicated to growing and promoting the game at every level. With programs spanning grassroots development, elite competition, coaching education, and player identification, KYSA provides opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. Learn more at Kysoccer.net and find KYSA on Instagram (@kyyouthsoccer).
About Capelli Sport Capelli Sport is a global sports brand based in New York City. The company is a leader in sports, lifestyle apparel and equipment. Capelli Sport enables athletes and teams to maximize their potential through a unique global sports ecosystem. Learn more at capellisport.com and find Capelli Sport on Instagram (@CapelliSport).
Kentucky
World Cup Excitement for International Coaches Now Living in Kentucky
As the 2026 World Cup begins this week, several international coaches and directors in Kentucky are gearing up to watch their home teams far from their roots. Though they live in the Bluegrass now, they’ll still be cheering on their native countries and continents with pride and feeling the excitement and energy of the tournament.
Woodford Youth Soccer Association Assistant League Commissioner Clive Weller from Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, England, is hoping the Three Lions will advance to the quarterfinals but says, “England have had excellent individuals in the past and failed to win these tournaments.” He added that England’s head coach has been using a different approach when it comes to this year’s tournament. “Thomas Tuchel has made quite a few unpopular decisions with the team selection, but he has opted for team bonding and performance over individual ability.”
Skillability Soccer Training’s Executive Director Thuto Nhlekisana hails from Botswana, and although his home country didn’t make it into the tournament, he will still be supporting the qualifying African nations. “The dream is to see one of them win it! South Africa is always a fun team to watch. They will surprise a lot of people,” said Nhlekisana.
As a Scottish native living in Owensboro, Coaching Director Andrew Livingston said he will try to attend one of Scotland’s games as the Scots haven’t qualified for the World Cup in decades. “The Scottish National team has been making some fantastic progression over the last few years. It’s also been 28 years since Scotland last qualified so safe to say I’ll enjoy this one a little more than usual!” Livingston exclaimed.
In Botswana, when the tournament is underway, Nhlekisana says the nation is laser-focused on it. “In Botswana when the World Cup is on, it is all that people talk about. World Cup fever is everywhere nonstop. When games are on, everybody is watching. It’s like the country comes to a standstill.”
Coach Weller said England has that same energy around the tournament. “In England, the country will watch the games in the pub, which will be packed and will be passionate. Every game is watched and discussed. When the World cup was in Japan in 2002, I worked in London and games were at 6 am, so fans piled into pubs and bars at 6 am to watch the games before going to work.”
The World Cup brings enthusiasm and passion to the biggest stage in sports while also connecting many different cultures and people. Livingston, originally from Hamilton, Scotland, said, “I think the World Cup is a cool reminder about how big this world is. It’s brilliant we have a global sport loved and played by so many.”
Nhlekisana plans to go to the South Africa versus Czechia match in Atlanta to support the Bafana Bafana and will be taking it all in. “The World Cup means everything to me. One of the reasons why I fell in love with is sport when I was a kid. Brings people together like nothing else.”
World Cup matches start Thursday, June 11, and games will run through the month into July, with the Final set for July 19. The U.S. will host matches in Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, and Seattle. Games will be broadcast on FOX, FS1, Telemundo and Universo.
And although Weller won’t be attending any World Cup matches, he will still be rooting on his home team knowing that this tournament is special. As many soccer fans do, he lives by and is proud to proclaim, “Football is LIFE!”
World’s Finest Chocolate and KYSA Partner to Provide Teams with Tasty Fundraising Options
Lexington, KY – Kentucky Youth Soccer Association proudly welcomes World’s Finest Chocolate as its Official Fundraising Partner to provide teams with a new option to fundraise through chocolate sales.
“We’re incredibly excited to partner with Kentucky Youth Soccer, an organization that shares our belief in the power of youth sports to build confidence, character, and community. Together, we’re creating more opportunities for kids to get in the game,” said Amber Suba, SVP of Fundraising.
Teaming up with KYSA, World’s Finest Chocolate brings a well recognized brand, high-quality products, and a program that is easy to sell.
“The long-term success of WFC shows the effectiveness of their programs,” said KYSA Executive Director Kris Zander. “We’re excited to collaborate with them to support teams in covering expenses associated with the soccer season.”
World’s Finest Chocolate was established in 1922 and is an employee-owned, Chicago- based manufacturer. Its programs have helped groups raise over $4.7 billion since 1949 for playgrounds, student experiences, uniforms, sports equipment, field trips, and more.
“We know that cost can sometimes be a barrier to participation in youth sports. That’s why this partnership is so meaningful. By making fundraising simple and effective, we’re helping more families say ‘yes’ to giving their kids the chance to step onto the field,” added Suba.
On the partner website, players can easily navigate how to start and continue fundraising as well as learn how much money they can raise. World’s Finest Chocolate makes the process easy, designed with kids in mind for selling game-changing chocolate fast.
“This partnership is about what’s possible. When you combine a trusted fundraising program with an organization like Kentucky Youth Soccer, you create a powerful platform to help teams raise what they need, grow the game, and give more kids the chance to play,” said Suba.
Check out how your team can start fundraising today: Kentucky Youth Soccer & World’s Finest Chocolate.
A Pink Party: EYSA’s PlayHER Night Celebrates the Girls
Elizabethtown, KY – Elizabethtown Youth Soccer Association hosted an event celebrating and encouraging girls in recreational youth soccer on April 28th. The night featured games with over 30 teams from multiple leagues participating and having fun on the pitch.
“Our goal at PlayHER Night is to increase girls soccer at the rec level, all the way from U6 to high school,” said EYSA’s Vice President Dan Vance. “We came up with the idea of Pink Night, and it’s helped a lot. It’s increased awareness.”
EYSA has gained additional girls rec teams in the last year with the success of their first “Pink Night” in October, and they hope to grow more with these continued events recognizing the ladies of the league.
“We started it because it seemed to be dropping off a little bit in rec, but there were dads and coaches that have their own girls that wanted the teams to continue and we needed teams to play,” said EYSA President Jess Blount. She added, “It was nice to invite outside leagues that had girls and keep those girls signing up.”
The event was held at Michael Carroll Soccer Complex, with all fields filled with games starting at 5:30 pm. Players worked on their soccer skills and were cheered on by a large crowd of spectators. There was fun off the pitch as well with the event including food trucks, vendors, face-painting, music and lots of pink.
EYSA plans to have these events twice a year and will host their next “Pink Night” in the fall.
KYSA ANNOUNCES TRACE AS NEW OFFICIAL VIDEO PARTNER
LEXINGTON, KY – Kentucky Youth Soccer Association is thrilled to welcome Trace as its new Official Sideline Video partner.
Trace, established in 2011, is revolutionizing the use of video by leveraging AI technology to seamlessly identify, follow, and spotlight each player on the field, automatically delivering a personalized playlist of individual highlights for every player after each game. Additionally, Trace cameras are specifically designed to provide an enhanced viewing experience, allowing parents, coaches, and scouts to zoom in and follow a player throughout the match. Account users can also rewatch their plays, use video to develop their skills, and share highlight playlists with friends, family, and recruiters.
In a landmark move, KYSA and Trace have joined forces to offer every team competing in a KYSA-sanctioned league, grassroots and competitive alike, with a complimentary sideline camera and PlayerFocus™ Pro subscription. Proof of membership will be required for each team via submission of an official league roster at checkout. Instructions are provided as teams complete the process.
“Kentucky Youth Soccer has always believed that access to great tools should not be limited to a select few. Partnering with Trace gives our teams, whether they are just starting out or competing at the highest level, the ability to use the same technology that was once out of reach for most. We are excited to see what our players and coaches do with it.” said Kris Zander, Executive Director, Kentucky Youth Soccer Association.
“Kentucky has a passionate soccer community, and KYSA has done a tremendous job building something that serves everyone from the youngest grassroots players all the way up to ODP athletes. We wanted to find a way to add real value to that, and giving every eligible team access to automated video felt like the right fit. We are thrilled to be part of what they are building.” stated Gentry Contreras, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Trace.
Teams interested in requesting their free Trace camera and PlayerFocus™ Pro subscription should click here to begin. Use code KYSAFREE at checkout. Must be redeemed at checkout with a new camera.
About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association
Kentucky Youth Soccer Association is the governing body for youth soccer in the Bluegrass State, dedicated to growing and promoting the game at every level. With programs spanning grassroots development, elite competition, coaching education, and player identification, KYSA provides opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment.
About Trace
Trace is the leader in automated sports video, using AI technology to film, edit, and deliver personalized highlight playlists to every player after every game. Designed for teams at all levels, Trace cameras require no operator and no manual editing, giving players, coaches, and parents instant access to game footage from any device. Learn more at https://traceup.com/partner/kysa
ODP Overseas: Kentucky Players Elevate Their Game in Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal – Members of Kentucky’s ODP program traveled to Portugal in April for an exciting training and cultural experience. 26 boys and girls players from the Commonwealth had scheduled training sessions and games as well as sight-seeing tours. They also were able to attend several professional matches, taking in the electric Portuguese soccer atmosphere amongst the locals.
Both the boys’ and girls’ teams enjoyed daily training, which consisted of small-sided games and technical sessions, and also got professional training experiences with Benefica Academy and CF Belenesenses. Each team had three games against local Lisbon teams with the boys finishing 1-1-1, and the girls going undefeated 3-0.
Aside from playing, the group visited numerous historical sites including Lisbon Center, Castle of Sao Jorge, the National Palace in Sintra and Belem. They also toured Cascais and the Estádio da Luz (Benefica’s Stadium). The group was also able to attend SL Benefica vs SCU Torrense ladies’ match (Benefica won 1-0) and Estrela da Amadora vs Sporting Lisbon CP with Sporting coming out on top 1-0.
“Watching the players grow together over the course of the week was fun to see,” said Assistant Technical Director Jeremy Anderson. “These ODP trips are not only great for training but allow the players to have fun while experiencing new cultures.”
The 2027 international trip will take the ODP players to Manchester, England, with the possibility of adding Edinburgh, Scotland, as an additional destination on the trip. More details on that trip will be announced later this year.
Kentucky Youth Soccer Association & Publix Team Up Again with Renewed Partnership
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LEXINGTON, KY – Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is excited to continue its partnership with Publix, reaffirming the regional grocery chain as the Official Supermarket of KYSA.
Publix now has seven locations across the Commonwealth, making it more accessible and convenient for local communities. This ongoing collaboration emphasizes a common goal of supporting Kentucky’s youth athletes and families both on the field and in their communities.
With most of the KY stores open for about a year now, Publix has established itself as a major grocery competitor in the Bluegrass. KYSA Executive Director Kris Zander is excited about the continued partnership saying, “Our members will notice a greater presence at events with Publix’s commitment to community and wellness. And we’re excited to see the positive impact our teamwork will continue have across the state.”
The Supermarket also partners with seven other state youth organizations across the southeastern U.S., providing parents with the foods their young athletes need to help them reach their full potential. With 1,433 stores across 8 states, the grocery chain focuses on customer service, employee ownership, operational pillars and community & sustainability with a mission to be the premier quality food retailer in the world.
With its continued commitment to community service, Publix is also a Feeding America Visionary Partner, which uses in-store donation programs to fight food insecurity. Since 2020, Publix has donated over 150 pounds of fresh produce to local food banks. Along with food donations, Publix has contributed over $78 million to charities since 2015 to reduce homelessness, end hunger, improve communities, support education and encourage youth.
To learn more about Publix’s community programs or to find a location near you, visit Publix.com.
About Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA)
Kentucky Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) is the premier organization dedicated to promoting and developing soccer across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With a mission to grow and promote soccer in Kentucky, KYSA provides a wide range of programs and initiatives to inspire excellence, sportsmanship, and character in youth athletes. From grassroots to elite levels, Kentucky Youth Soccer offers opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. With over 40,000 youth players, 6,000 active coaches, and a network of more than 83 local member associations, Kentucky Youth Soccer is committed to nurturing the growth of soccer and fostering the personal development of youth athletes on and off the field. Learn more about KYSA’s impactful programs, partnerships, and events at www.kysoccer.net.
Two Kentucky Players Make ODP National Teams
Lexington, KY – Two players from Kentucky have both made ODP National Teams for their respective age groups, making it the first time the state has had multiple players on the National Team rosters. For each age group, only 18 players (boys and girls) are selected from all over the United States. Eli Bennett, from Georgetown, was selected for the U15 Boys team, and Emma Buhr, from Lexington, has been selected for the U14 Girls team.
This is Bennett’s second time making the national team, following his first appearance last year. Bennett plays for GFC Black and Scott Co High School, where he started all 16 games for the Varsity squad in the Fall 2025 season as the center back. He was one of only two players last year who played every minute for the national team in the Copa Rayados Tournament in Orlando, FL. Bennett will be playing in Portugal in end of March through the first week of April in the IBERCUP for the U.S.
For Buhr, this is her first appearance for the National Team and at the youngest age bracket to qualify for. Playing an age group up for Lexington Sporting Club ECNL U14, Buhr plays center attacking mid and forward. She played every game at regionals last July, and at inter-regionals in January, she had four goals and one assist in only three games. Buhr will be representing the U.S. at the Copa Rayados Easter International Tournament in Orlando the first week of April.
Congratulations & good luck to Eli and Emma!
To stay up-to-date on the National Team, visit https://www.usyouthsoccer.org/news/.
Mockingbird Valley Premier SC Boys U14 & U16 Teams Qualify for Nationals this Summer
Louisville, KY – Two teams from Mockingbird Valley Premier Soccer Club out of Louisville, Ky, have already qualified for the USYS National Tournament this coming summer in Utah. They are the first teams from Kentucky to enter the national competition in five years.
The national qualification process changed recently allowing automatic qualification for champions of National League winter events held in Mesa, AZ. Both the U14 and U16 boys teams went undefeated in each of their three games, with the U14 team competing last November while the U16 team played this past January.
Club Director Corey Johnson said allowing every player to be able to travel was their focus. “It’s a collaborative effort being committed to this; it’s not just the players but the coaches and parents. It’s costly and time consuming. We made sure every kid could go.”
U14 Coach Andrew Oyler, from Louisville, was happy and relieved with the results. “We struggled in the fall, so this was a good way to finish the season,” noting that the team hadn’t played their best during the regular season. He added, “We’ve already put ourselves in a good position, and now we can focus on the spring and Utah.”
For the U16s, Coach Tyler Joy-Brandon said, “It’s kind of weird that it’s in the middle of the season, but it’s interesting and exciting.” Now that the team has already qualified, he wants the team to pretend like it’s a normal season. “The most important is not being satisfied with what we have.”
Training and keeping up the excitement for a tournament months away is now the focus for each team. Coach Oyler said he plans to give his players structured training schedules as well as organize friendlies after the State Cup Tournament as nationals aren’t until mid-July. “We need to make sure we maintain fitness levels.”
Coach Joy-Brandon added, “It’s been tough the last month because of the snow, and we’ve been training indoors.” The former Transylvania University player will also keep a schedule for his team post spring and State Cup play by having the best few weeks of training and focusing on energy leading up to the national stage.
As one of the captains of the U16 team, Dylan Ortiz said, “The mindset going into the rest of the season isn’t going to change. We know there are so many key things to work on and improve on. Continue to work hard, build confidence with the team, and win games to soon reach our high potential in July.”
Both native Kentuckians, Oyler and Joy-Brandon are excited to represent their home state on the national stage. “Showing we can compete on a national level is cool. I don’t think most states think we’ll be as competitive” said Oyler. He explained that with their qualification, they get to play in the top division in the tournament adding that, “it shows we have talented kids here.”
Johnson is proud of both teams, noting that many players have been there their entire youth career. 25 of the 36 players going to nationals have only played for Mockingbird Valley Premier SC. “It’s a testament when kids stay together and that our club develops players. We’ve attracted players because of the coaches and environment.”
Qualifying for the most elite tournament is already an incredible accomplishment for Mockingbird Valley Premier SC, but both teams want to show the nation they can go further. “It’s a great achievement, and I hope we can do more,” said Joy-Brandon. “It would prove a big point, and it would help the state.”
The Boys’ Nationals are held July 13-23, 2026, in Salt Lake City & Provo, UT.
Mockingbird Valley Premier Boys U14 National Qualifiers
Mockingbird Valley Premier Boys U16 National Qualifiers
*All photos credit – Mockingbird Valley Premier Soccer Club*
Age Group Change for 2026-2027 Registration Season
KYSA, along with US Youth Soccer, AYSO and US Club Soccer, will return to an age group formation based on Aug. 1-July 31 (School Year), rather than Jan. 1-Dec. 31 (Birth Year), beginning with the 2026-27 registration season. Please refer to the table and document link below for player age divisions as well as birth year and season matrix. More information can be found here.
| 2025-26 SEASON | 2026-27 SEASON | |
| U-6 | Born between Jan 1, 2020 – Dec 31, 2020 | Born between Aug 1, 2020 – July 31, 2021 |
| U-7 | Born between Jan 1, 2019 – Dec 31, 2019 | Born between Aug 1, 2019 – July 31, 2020 |
| U-8 | Born between Jan 1, 2018 – Dec 31, 2018 | Born between Aug 1, 2018 – July 31, 2019 |
| U-9 | Born between Jan 1, 2017 – Dec 31, 2017 | Born between Aug 1, 2017 – July 31, 2018 |
| U-10 | Born between Jan 1, 2016 – Dec 31, 2016 | Born between Aug 1, 2016 – July 31, 2017 |
| U-11 | Born between Jan 1, 2015 – Dec 31, 2015 | Born between Aug 1, 2015 – July 31, 2016 |
| U-12 | Born between Jan 1, 2014 – Dec 31, 2014 | Born between Aug 1, 2014 – July 31, 2015 |
| U-13 | Born between Jan 1, 2013 – Dec 31, 2013 | Born between Aug 1, 2013 – July 31, 2014 |
| U-14 | Born between Jan 1, 2012 – Dec 31, 2012 | Born between Aug 1, 2012 – July 31, 2013 |
| U-15 | Born between Jan 1, 2011 – Dec 31, 2011 | Born between Aug 1, 2011 – July 31, 2012 |
| U-16 | Born between Jan 1, 2010 – Dec 31, 2010 | Born between Aug 1, 2010 – July 31, 2011 |
| U-17 | Born between Jan 1, 2009 – Dec 31, 2009 | Born between Aug 1, 2009 – July 31, 2010 |
| U-18 | Born between Jan 1, 2008 – Dec 31, 2008 | Born between Aug 1, 2008 – July 31, 2009 |
| U-19 | Born between Jan 1, 2007 – Dec 31, 2007 | Born between Aug 1, 2007 – July 31, 2008 |
| U-20 | Born between Jan 1, 2006 – Dec 31, 2006 | Born between Aug 1, 2006 – July 31, 2007 |