Touchline | Summer 2024

2024 STATE CUP FINALS

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Offseason Inspiration

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT OVER THE SUMMER.

I don’t believe skill was, or ever will be, the result of coaches. It is a result of a love affair between the child and the ball.

RON GREENWOOD

The reason I succeed is because I’ve never been afraid to fail.

DAVID BECKHAM

Football is played with your head. Your feet are just the tools.

ANDREA PIRLO

I am building a fire, and every day I train, I add more fuel. At just the right moment, I light the match.

MIA HAMM

Success is not permanent, and failure is not fatal.

SIR ALEX FERGUSON

I’ve never scored a goal in my life without getting a pass from someone else.

ABBY WAMBACH

Soccer isn’t brain surgery, have fun.

AKERS

PUBLISHED BY:

Eastern Pennsylvania

Youth Soccer

4070 Butler Pike, Suite 100

Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462

Phone: 610-238-9966

Fax: 610-238-9933

E-mail: info@EPYSA.org Website: EPYSA.org

EXECUTIVE BOARD

President - Jeff Sommer

First Vice PresidentLennie Brown

Second Vice PresidentBill Fuller

Treasurer- Jim Brown

SecretaryMelissa Weber

At-Large - Jim Christian

At-Large - John Mickle

State Youth Referee

Administrator - Jeff Tener

District 1 CommissionerJeff Tener

District 2 CommissionerRachel Gallegos

District 3 CommissionerBill Ross

District 4 CommissionerEric McKitish

District 5 CommissionerScott Merritt

District 6 CommissionerPhil Frederick

OFFICE STAFF

Chief Executive Officer –Chris Branscome

Chief Operating Officer –Kelly Connor

Technical Director –Gary Stephenson

Director of Operations –Leo Kelly

Director of Marketing & Events –Kelsey Tepel

Registration Specialist –Meghan Petroski

Grassroots Soccer Manager –JT Dorsey

State Cup Manager –David Jones

TOUCHLINE

Editor-in-Chief –Chris Branscome

Editors – Catie Branscome, Kelsey Tepel

Designed and printed by A.E. Engine, Inc. www.ae-engine.com

MICHELLE

A PROVEN PATHWAY FOR ACHIEVEMENT

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER’S ODP IS ONE OF THE most distinguished and successful in the country. Numerous players and coaches have participated in the program and achieved great success in college, professional soccer and representing United States.

ODP identifies and selects players from member clubs to participate in developmental training and to compete in high level matches against other states. ODP facilitates additional exposure to high level coaching and identification opportunities with USYS regional teams, US Soccer scouts and college coaches.

ODP Offers Players:

• A team of highly qualified US Soccer Licensed coaches and staff with experience in youth and collegiate coaching.

• Playing Opportunities: Regional, Interregional, International

• Opportunity for invitation to Regional and National Sections Teams

• Player diversity

• Exposure to US Soccer Scouts

• Exposure to college coaches

• Evaluations by state and regional staff

Eastern Pennsylvania ODP has supported the development of several successful NCAA Student Athletes.

T2024 STATE CUP FINALS

he 2024 State Cup Finals were just as captivating as ever. They went from a wet, soggy weekend in May to a sunny one in June. Both weekends took place at the brand new WSFS Sportsplex-the new home of the Eastern Pennsylvania State Cups for the next three years. The complex was an incredible setting for amazing games where our players could shine.

Familiar faces graced the stage once again to receive the championship trophies. In the National Championship Series, Reading Rage SC celebrated back-to-back victories for both the U14 and U16 girls. Penn FC’s U19 girls recorded their second straight cup. FC Revolution’s U18 Reds Girls secured a three-peat. YMS, who had seven teams in the finals, took home three championship trophies. Keystone FC also sent 7 teams to the finals. Penn Fusion and FC Delco won two championships each. Legendary coach Mike Gorni, the winningest coach in state cup history, led Hex FC’s U19 boys to the Walter Bahr Cup championship. Gorni has a chance to win his third USYS McGuire Cup in 10 years. Many of these teams will compete at the USYS East regional for a shot at the USYS National Championships. Others such as Gorni’s Hex team have qualified for nationals through the USYS National League.

The Presidents Cup action was equally exciting. The U14 Girls team from Central Susquehanna won their second consecutive Presidents Cup state championship. Springfield SC U15 girls won their club’s first ever P Cup title. In a rare happening, the U12 boys President’s Cup was a Lower Merion derby with Rovers Navy topping Rovers Red. A variety of clubs were represented in the rest of the match ups; Hulmeville, Western Lehigh, Warrington, Lionville were also among the winners. These teams move on to the USYS East regional in mid-June.

The Challenge Cup provides competition for our younger players to shine alongside the older age groups. Three flights of championships were held in the U9- U11 age groups with some outstanding games. The morning games were treated to a special guest on the awards stage as former US Women’s National Team player and MLS/NWSL Broadcaster, Lori Lindsey, greeted players and presented medals. An additional highlight was the crowning of some first-time champions. Allentown Youth Soccer Club’s U19 Boys team had a momentous 3-2 victory, marking a significant milestone for the club. AC Inspire’s U15 Girls also won the club’s first ever State Cup title.

U11 Girls, Lehigh Valley United vs Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals, Challenge Cup

NCS State Champions, U15 Boys Quaker Elite SC

Former USWNT player, Lori Lindsey, awarding medals to the U18 NCS State Champions, Hunter SC 62 Blues

First-time Challenge Cup winners, AC Inspire U15 Girls

U14 Girls NCS State Champions, 1776 United

U15 Boys, YMS vs Quaker Elite

U16 Girls, Penn Fusion vs Warrington SC, Presidents Cup

West-Mont team in front of Subaru Park after Challenge Cup

CELEBRATING THE BEAUTIFUL GAME: A Philadelphia Legacy in the Making

IN THE HEART OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA, where the passion for soccer runs deep, Philadelphia stands ready to make history. As the host city for six electrifying matches of FIFA World Cup 26™, we are not just preparing for a tournament; we are laying the groundwork for a legacy that will echo for generations.

Mark your calendars for June 11, 2026 – when the journey officially begins, and Philadelphia will come alive with the world’s most beloved sport. Our official hosting duties culminate with a knock-out round match on July 4th, a momentous occasion coinciding with the 250th Anniversary of the United States. But our role won’t end there: Positioned as a nearby locale for the final match in New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia’s proximity throughout the tournament offers a unique chance to extend our influence and contribute to the ongoing celebration of unity and sporting excellence.

At the heart of this celebration lies the FIFA Fan Festival™, a

40-day celebration that transcends borders and brings together fans, visitors, and residents alike. With free entry to the public, this event is more than just a gathering – it’s a testament to the universal appeal of the “Beautiful Game,” where cultures converge, friendships are forged, and memories are made that will last a lifetime.

Philadelphia Soccer 2026 is the host committee responsible for planning and executing FIFA World Cup 26™ matches in Philadelphia, but our mission extends far beyond the confines of the tournament. We believe in the transformative power of soccer to inspire, unite, and uplift communities. That’s why we’re committed to growing the game right here in Eastern Pennsylvania and across the Commonwealth. But to achieve this vision, we need your support.

We ask you to consider making a contribution to our efforts. Every dollar raised will help to ensure that we deliver a world-class tournament through innovative programs, inclusive initiatives, and collaborative partnerships that elevate our region’s strong soccer culture.

As we prepare to welcome the world to our city, we embrace the responsibility to leave a legacy that extends far beyond the final whistle. Our vision is one of empowerment, where soccer serves as a catalyst for positive change. Together, we can create opportunities for all individuals to participate in and benefit from the sport they love.

Join us in celebrating what’s to come for FIFA World Cup 26™! Together, we can write the next chapter in the history of our region and our Commonwealth through the sport we hold dear.

World Cup Referee KATHRYN NESBITT

If you’ve followed soccer, whether domestically or internationally, there’s one name you should know—Kathryn Nesbitt. No, she’s not a pro player, but you’ve seen her on TV and on the fields everywhere, from Subaru Park in Philadelphia to the Women’s World Cup in Australia. Nesbitt is a role model for women in refereeing, thanks to her hard work, determination and a bit of risk-taking.

Nesbitt was born in Rochester, New York, a hotbed for soccer in the United States. She grew up loving soccer, but she also loved other sports. She decided to commit to figure skating and eventually played volleyball in college; she stayed involved in soccer by officiating at her little brothers games.

“I picked up refereeing soccer when I was 14, mostly because I had to go sit at my brother’s soccer games. He’s younger than me, and I used to get bored at them,” Nesbitt said, “One of the local referees invited me to help him out one day, and I kind of got hooked from that moment on.”

Nesbitt has been a referee ever since, but she first had to balance that with another career path. She graduated from

later obtained a PhD. from the University of Pittsburgh in 2015, an impressive feat given her on-field accomplishments at the same time.

While Nesbitt loved working in both fields, she wanted to see what she could do if she committed to refereeing full-time. By the late 2010s, she had officiated in the MLS and NWSL and earned a spot on the FIFA panel in 2016. She decided it was time to bet on herself, so she moved to Philadelphia and started refereeing full-time in the summer of 2019.

It started well, as she refereed the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and began to learn what type of referee she wanted to be. Then, in early 2020, COVID hit, leaving her and everyone else in the world quarantined. While she called this time “Scary,” Nesbitt used this as an opportunity to improve.

“That was the time for me to check in with myself and go, ‘Okay, what can I do here during this time to continue to make myself the best referee possible,’” Nesbitt said, “I dedicated myself to training to watch as many old tapes of soccer as I could to kind of still stay in it so that when soccer came back that

2020, Nesbitt became the first woman to referee the MLS Cup Final. She later worked the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar as an Assistant Referee and the World Cup Final as an Assistant Video Assistant Referee. Nesbitt was an Assistant Referee in the Women’s World Cup Final the following year and part of the historic all-United States referee crew for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final in Australia.

Here is where Nesbitt’s story’s last and arguably most critical piece comes in: being a role model. In a male-dominated industry, Nesbitt loves being a role model to women who aspire to do big things, even if it comes with some pressure.

“Being a role model is an absolutely wonderful part of what I get to do every day, and I’m happy if I get to touch other people’s lives because I’m getting to do my passion. If that inspires others, that’s wonderful,” Nesbitt said, “There have been moments in my career where I’ve stepped foot on the field and felt the pressure of being the first woman to do something and [feeling] the pressure of ‘You can’t get this wrong’ because there’s a lot of people watching you, and seeing if this could continue.”

HARD WORKER RISK TAKER

ROLE MODEL

For Nesbitt, it’s about “Creating more success for more people.” When asked what advice she would give young girls who want to achieve something like this, she gave a simple directive: Be yourself.

“The best advice I could give you is to do it your way,” Nesbitt said, “You might have a goal. You might have a dream that inspires you or something you want to work towards. At the end of the day, you’re going to know yourself best, and the only way to achieve what you want is by being yourself and doing it your way.”

Nesbitt heads into an eventful summer officiating the 2024 Copa América, featuring World Cup champion Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and the United States, as well as the Paris Olympics in July.

For info on becoming a referee go to www.EPSARC.org

SCORE EXTRA SAVINGS

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER

Coaching Education

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer provides coaching resources for Grassroots coaches and continues the education pathway for all coaches to connect within the community member associations to help increase play participation and retain players and coaches.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and U.S. Soccer Coaching Education provides Grassroot courses for the following: 4v4, 7v7, 9v9, 11v11.

Each course is 4 hours, with a 2-hour in-classroom session followed by 2 hours on the field. This provides all clubs with qualified coaches for players from U6 to U13 and above and allows parents to have confidence in the coach training their children.

Each license assists the coach in developing the following:

COACHING QUALITIES:

• A realistic, fun and game-like approach to instruction

• An understanding for the game

• A holistic approach to coaching

• A self-reflective and active learner

• A role model for players and parents

• A real, sincere interest in every player

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

• Share member benefits for host organization

• Provide expertise in Grassroot Coach Education

• Share best practices for players’ development including coaching games and practices

These courses are designed to meet the changing needs of today’s game, the coaching program creates an environment that immerses coaches in the culture of the game.

UPCOMING COURSE SCHEDULE

GRASSROOTS

July 13 11v11 | Malvern

July 13 7v7 | Aston

July 20 9v9 | Boothwyn

July 20 11v11 | Kinzers

July 28 9v9 | Phoenixville

Aug. 10 11v11 | Phoenixville

Aug. 17 7v7 | Mechanicsburg

REFEREE ENTRY LEVEL FIELD SESSIONS

July 13 Palumbo Rec Center Philadelphia

Aug. 4 Hershey Tech. Center Hershey

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH SOCCER’S SEE IT, BE IT INITIATIVE INSPIRES YOUTH

The path to athletic dreams can feel challenging for many young athletes, especially those in underresourced communities. But Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s See It, Be It Initiative is changing the game. This innovative program breaks down barriers and ignites a passion for soccer in young people.

The See It, Be It Initiative leverages the power of mentorship to connect youth with college soccer players. Funded by U.S. Soccer’s Innovate to Grow Grant, the program aims to spark excitement about higher education by offering unique college campus experiences. The initiative helps bridge the gap between dreams and reality through targeted tours and interactions with student-athletes.

“It’s one thing to talk to student-athletes about going to college, but it’s another to get them on a college campus,” said JT Dorsey, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Grassroots Soccer Manager.

“To be something, you need to see something, and this program does that. Most importantly, it does it for studentathletes who may not have the resources to get onto a college campus easily. We want to create equity to help better the future for more kids.”

Breaking Down Barriers College Tours Light the Way

IMAGINE THE THRILL OF STEPPING ONTO A COLLEGE campus, not just as a visitor, but as a potential future studentathlete. This is the reality for players in the See It, Be It Initiative. Students tour local colleges on designated dates with a twist – personalized interactions with the soccer teams.

The recent trips to Elizabethtown College, Millersville University, Manor College, and Thomas Jefferson University perfectly exemplify the program’s impact.

Students from Philadelphia and Harrisburg explored each school’s scenic campus and enjoyed dedicated sessions with its respective soccer teams. They even got a taste of college food in each school’s cafe.

These aspiring young players had the opportunity to ask questions about college life, training routines, and the path to becoming a collegiate athlete.

The See It, Be It Intitiative at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital The

Going Beyond the Field Building Confidence & Life Skills

THE SEE IT, BE IT INITIATIVE GOES BEYOND THE soccer pitch. By interacting with successful college athletes, young players gain valuable life skills. Witnessing firsthand the dedication, work ethic, and academic commitment required to excel at the collegiate level sets a powerful example. The program fosters confidence, encourages perseverance, and demonstrates the incredible opportunities that education unlocks.

These interactions also create a sense of belonging. Young players see themselves reflected in the college athletes, realizing that regardless of their background, they too, have the potential to achieve greatness. This newfound belief empowers them to dream big and strive for a brighter future.

Investing in Futures

The Power of Mentorship

THE SEE IT, BE IT INITIATIVE RECOGNIZES THE profound impact of mentorship. College athletes serve as inspiring role models, demonstrating that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. Their guidance and encouragement foster a passion for soccer while sparking an interest in higher education.

This program is about more than just scoring goals; it’s about scoring opportunities in life. By bridging the gap between high school and college, the See It, Be It Initiative enables young athletes to envision themselves as future scholars and soccer stars.

Ready to Be Inspired?

IF YOUR CHILD DREAMS OF SOCCER GLORY AND academic success, look no further than the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s See It, Be It Initiative. This innovative program provides a unique platform for young athletes to connect with inspiring role models, explore college campuses, and unlock their full potential. The future is bright for young players who dream big, and the See It, Be It Initiative is here to help them reach for the stars.

For more information about the See It, Be It, contact Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Grassroots Soccer Manager JT Dorsey at jtdorsey@epysa.org

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JULY

QUARTERLY CALENDAR

July 13 USWNT vs Mexico @ Red Bull Arena

July 26 Paris 2024 / Summer Olympics

July 21 NWSL X LA LIGA MX FEMINEL: Washington Spirit vs Chivas de Guadalajara @ Subaru Park

July 2 NWSL: NJ/NY Gotham FC vs Washington Spirit @ Subaru Park

July 31 Liverpool vs. Arsenal @ Lincoln Financial Field

COACHING EDUCATION COURSES REFEREE ENTRY LEVEL FIELD SESSIONS

July 13 11v11 | Malvern

July 13 7v7 | Aston

July 20 9v9 | Boothwyn

July 20 11v11 | Kinzers

July 28 9v9 | Phoenixville

Aug. 10 11v11 | Phoenixville

Aug. 17 7v7 | Mechanicsburg

July 13 Palumbo Rec Center | Philadelphia Aug. 4 Hershey Technical Center | Hershey

Check our website for exact locations and times.