LA GALAXY YOUTH PROGRAMS

Owned by Major League Soccer team the LA Galaxy, LA Galaxy Youth Programs have been running locally for 10 years. The programs offer a professional, fun, fast-paced soccer experience for players ages 18 months to 16 years and all levels of ability. The camps, trainings, classes and leagues help kids grow as an individual and as an athlete.

WHAT DO LA GALAXY YOUTH PROGRAMS TEACH KIDS AND PARENTS?

We offer specialized training sessions focused on age-appropriate technical and tactical development. The activities encourage creativity and solidify basic skill sets that are critical to development in all areas of soccer. Several past LA Galaxy Youth participants have gone on to sign with the LA Galaxy Academy.

For our program staff and coaches, it is not only the player on the field but also the person we are helping build off the field. Our programs teach life skills that are crucial to youth development: friendliness, teamwork, inclusivity, cooperation, sportsmanship, hard work, communication, problem-solving, decision-making and more.

We also strive to support parents in their own soccer journey and guide them to become strong stewards of the game. Our staff is eager to answer questions, provide feedback and encourage further soccer education. Our program for the youngest ages (Galaxy Juniors, presented by Dignity Health) even invites parents to join their players on the field, granting them the opportunity to deepen their relationship with their kids and to connect with other parents— ultimately expanding their soccer community.

HOW DO HEALTH AND WELLNESS PLAY A ROLE IN WHAT YOU OFFER KIDS?

Health and wellness are at the core of LA Galaxy Youth. Using soccer as the medium, our programs are built to improve kids’ cardiovascular health, coordination, strength and flexibility, along with their mental, emotional and social health. We recognize that some aspects of youth sports have become less about the child’s development and more about winning. We guarantee that our soccer programs bring back the fun and reset the focus on youth development.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR 2023?

Our 2023 goals are to welcome new community members to our programs and facilities, service our existing participants, solidify our commitment to the South Bay and grow the LA Galaxy family. With three successful South Bay locations, the LA Galaxy and Dignity Health Sports Park are excited to open Galaxy Park, a newly imagined complex on the campus of Dignity Health Sports Park! Galaxy Park will include five 5v5 soccer fields, two futsal courts, eight pickleball courts and four padel courts. It will also be home to various other recreational activities. LA Galaxy Youth Programs will run at this location, providing more chances for community members to enjoy the beautiful game. Opening for some activities in mid-March, the official June launch of Galaxy Park will coincide with Dignity Health Sports Park’s 20 th anniversary celebration.

WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS?

It’s simple: We are successful when our program participants, kids and parents are genuinely happy. We create an environment and experience that bring joy and growth. When we see the joy in the smiles, the positive feedback and return participants, we have succeeded.

HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT LA GALAXY YOUTH PROGRAMS STAND OUT?

We are the LA Galaxy, deeply rooted in the South Bay community and Major League Soccer history. LA Galaxy Youth Programs integrate the “Galaxy Way” throughout our program curriculum, and our coaches truly understand not only soccer development but also youth development in a way that elevates our program. By taking part in the LA Galaxy Youth Programs, you will gain a unique experience on the field and additional perks off the field: access to tickets, community events, visits from Cozmo (our awesome mascot!) and the opportunity to rep the LA Galaxy crest in your own way.

TELL US ABOUT THE LA GALAXY.

The LA Galaxy are the most successful club in the United States’ top flight, Major League Soccer. From early success with outstanding players like Cobi Jones of the late ’90s to the league-changing David Beckham era, with the fluidity of Landon Donovan and our current stars Riqui Puig, Javier “Chicharito” Hernández and Efraín Álvarez, the LA Galaxy have a reputation for playing stylish, attractive and flowing soccer.

We are the benchmark of progress for U.S. soccer—dedicated to winning championships, furthering the sport of soccer, providing fans with world-class experiences and enriching our community. By offering a piece of our history, heritage and tradition, LA Galaxy Youth Programs have cultivated and elevated youth players, establishing our name in the local soccer community.

WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST INTERESTING ABOUT KIDS’ PERSPECTIVES?

Their openness, honesty, innocence and a heightened view of grandness. During our programs you will see players adjusting to their surroundings, being open and honest with our coaches, celebrating when they flip a cone over, screaming at the top of their lungs for a goal and becoming friends with a kid they just met. Our coaches are trained to field different perspectives and ensure each player feels welcomed and celebrated— aspects of soccer that only enhance a kid’s experience at LA Galaxy Youth Programs.