Kickstart Program

This is the beginning of your child’s soccer journey — and you get to be part of every step along the way.

AYSO Kickstart is AYSO’s entry-level soccer experience, ages 3-5, designed to reimagine early play environments, spark joy, boost development, and help kids fall in love with the game from day one.

Grounded in years of sport and early-childhood research, Kickstart transforms traditional practice into child-centered play. Sessions feature fun, fast-moving activities and modified small-sided games that create a lively, sandlot-style jamboree experience.

Kickstart is typically offered for the youngest and first-time players and serves as the first step in the AYSO player pathway.

Questions?

How long is the program?
This program is a 6 week program!

When Are practices?
Practices will be once a week for one hour!

When will this start?
Fall 2026

Questions about registering or about the Kickstart program, email: [email protected]

Parents choose Kickstart because it:

Feels welcoming and low-pressure
Fits into modern family schedules
Focuses on fun, development, and child ownership
Builds confidence instead of stress
Is run by an organization they trust
Encourages parent participation and support
For many children, Kickstart is their first organized activity, and the program is designed to make that experience positive and memorable.

What does a Kickstart session include?

Each Kickstart session is simple, fast-moving, and designed to keep players active.
Every session includes:

1. A Fundamental Motor Skill activity (such as skipping or balancing)
2. A game-like soccer activity to build skill and understanding
3. The Big Match – a modified small-sided game (2v2 or 3v3)

Each session also includes a social and emotional learning theme, such as helping others, sharing, or teamwork.

Kickstart Program Preview

Program Leader Program
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Parents Guide to Preview
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Kickstart creates a strong foundation for future soccer participation by:

Introducing basic ball familiarity and movement
Building comfort in a group play environment
Encouraging listening, sharing, and simple directions
Helping players transition confidently into team-based soccer
The goal is not to rush development, but to set players up for long-term success and enjoyment.