Registration for AYSO readies kids for spring

A long line of very anxious children and parents going over paperwork stretched out from Clark Magnet High School’s cafeteria on Saturday. The line was for AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Region 88 registration.

“I like kicking the ball,” said 6-year-old Nicole Prah. She played on the Blue Birds team last year and said she was excited about the new season.

This is the 33rd year as an AYSO region and this year they expect to have more than 3,700 players of kids from under 5 to 18 years old. The teams will be set up and players will be notified in July what team they are on.

Several soccer clinics are offered in throughout the summer. Major League Soccer (MSL), British Soccer and AYSO Soccer Camps offer camps to help those who are new to the sport as well as improve the game of those who years of experience.

“It is great to help kids with the basic skills,” said Rob Hissey, one of the coaches for the camps. Hissey, from England, said he has noticed a growing interest in soccer in America and that kids really want to know about the sport.

At registration parents were given information on AYSO and what was required for their child to play the sport. Opening day in is August but most kids at registration were ready for the season to start immediately.

“This is my fifth year [playing soccer],” said 9-year-old Emily Beeve. “Soccer is my favorite sport. I love running and kicking the ball.”

Her 6-year-old brother Matthew was dressed in his baseball uniform.

“I am playing baseball now,” he said.

But added that he loved soccer. “I love kicking the ball.”