2011 is the 40
th anniversary of girls playing soccer in AYSO with its first official team in 1971. It’s also the 20
th anniversary of the Very Important Player (VIP) program, for players with special needs. Together, they help us celebrate the inclusiveness and diversity of AYSO soccer, making 2011 “The Year of Everyone Plays
®.” AYSO is an opportunity for every boy and girl to learn and play soccer, gain important life lessons and have a fun in a family environment based on AYSO’s six philosophies of Everyone Plays
®, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship and Player Development.
Girls Make Their Mark 
About four decades ago, a few girls in Southern California asked a question that set off a revolution for American children:
“Why can’t we play soccer?” | | 47 Seasons and Counting... 
AYSO’s earliest volunteers and players are now seeing their children and grandchildren playing soccer in AYSO. | | 20 Years with VIP Soccer 
20 years ago, AYSO started a soccer program for children and adults with physical and mental disabilities, called VIP (Very Important Player) program. | | AYSO Alums 
AYSO has several professional soccer players in its ranks. Landon Donovan, Julie Foudy and Carlos Bocanegra all go their starts in AYSO. |
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