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FIFA World Cup 26™ Ticket Sales Open Today 

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The wait is over. Starting today, fans can take their first step toward experiencing the biggest FIFA World Cup™ yet, as the Visa Presale Draw Officially opens on Wednesday, September 10 at 11:00 A.M.  

How to Apply 
Fans must register with FIFA ID at FIFA.com/tickets to enter the draw. Once registered, qualifying Visa cardholders can log in and submit their entry during the presale period. The draw is open from Wednesday, September 10 at 11:00 A.M. E.T. until Friday, September 19 at 11:00 A.M. E.T. 

Thanks to FIFA’s Official Payment Technology Partner, Visa, fans will enjoy a secure and seamless checkout process. The Visa Presale Draw is subject to official rules on FIFA.com, and entrants must be 18 or older. No purchase is necessary to enter.  

Ticket Details 

  • Group-stage tickets start at just $60 
  • Tickets for all 104 will be made available in this phase, along with team-specific and venue-specific packages 

After the draw closes, succesful applicants will be randomly selected and notified by email beginning September 29. Each winner will receive a purchase window starting October 1. Please note: a successful entry does not guarantee ticket availability during the assigned time slot.  

Upcoming Phases 
Additional opportunities to purchase tickets are coming: 

  • Phase 2 (October 2025): Early Ticket Draw 
  • Phase 3 (After Final Draw): Random Selection Draw 
  • Closer to the Tournament: First-come, first-serve sales on any remaining inventory 

FIFA will also launch an official resale platform later this year to protect fans form invalid or unauthorized resales.  

Join Us for the Special Olympics PA Inclusion Cup Tournament! 

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The Special Olympics Pennsylvania Greater Lehigh Valley Pocono Region is excited to host the Inclusion Cup Soccer Tournament on Sunday, September 7th, at St. Luke’s Sports Center.  

This community event celebrates the power of sports, inclusion, and teamwork — and we need YOUR help to make it a success! 

The Special Olympics Pennsylvania is looking for volunteers of all ages to come out and support this event!  

  • Community Service Hours: Students can earn volunteer hours for school. 
  • Age Requirement: Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 
  • Ways to Help: Assist with event setup, cheer on athletes, run skills activities, or referee games. 

Special Olympics Community Soccer Tournament Volunteers 

Below is the link to sign up to referee at this event. 

2025 Greater Lehigh Valley Pocono Region – Soccer Officials Interest Form 

Event Details 

  • Opening Ceremony: 8:30 AM 
  • Competition Format: 
  • 5v5 games in the upper rink 
  • 7v7 games in the Fieldhouse 
  • Individual skills challenges outdoors (weather permitting) 

This is a day filled with energy, inclusion, and community spirit — and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of volunteers like you. 

For questions, please contact: lcsopa.soccer1@gmail.com  

Let’s make this year’s Inclusion Cup Tournament an unforgettable celebration of community, competition, and inclusion! 

20 Players from Eastern Pennsylvania Named to ODP East Regional Teams 

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Twenty players from Eastern Pennsylvania have been named to the Olympic Development Program East Regional Teams. 

ODP, established by US Youth Soccer, identifies and nurtures high-potential athletes through accelerated development pathways. Through rigorous training and competition, ODP provides exposure to higher levels of play, including regional and national identification.  

Players selected to the East Regional Teams will represent Eastern Pennsylvania and compete against teams from the Midwest, South, and West regions at the ODP Interregional Tournament in Orlando, Florida in January 2026. Girls will compete January 16-19 while the boys will compete January 22-26. At this event, they will be evaluated for potential inclusion on the ODP National Select Teams.  

ODP Boys East Region Selections from Eastern Pennsylvania:  
– 2009 Boys: Oscar Gasga 
– 2010 Boys: Zayan Yasir 
– 2012 Older: Rockford Martin 
– 2012 Younger: Iker Lucas-Avila 
– 2013 Older: Hunter Kruk 

ODP Girls East Region Selections from Eastern Pennsylvania: 
– 2008 Girls: Sophia Arvelo  
– 2009 Girls: Sydney Miller and Vivian Salerno 
– 2011 Girls: Francesca Fiore and Samantha Boyer and Brookelynn Bundy 
– 2012 Older: Brynn Slade 
– 2012 Younger: Juliana Bastidas and Brooke Evans 
– 2013 Older: Hadley Riggs and Piper Mascio 
– 2013 Younger: Alena Ritacco, Clara Knauss, Charlotte Hawkins, Emmi Boran 

To view the full boy’s roster, click here. To view the full girl’s roster, click here. 

Congratulations to all the players and their clubs on this outstanding achievement! 

For more information about Eastern Pennsylvania’s ODP programs, click here.  

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Unveils New 2026 Logo

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is proud to unveil a new logo for the 2026 season, celebrating a historic moment for soccer and the region. The special edition mark commemorates the United States’ 250th anniversary, the global spotlight of the FIFA World Cup coming to Philadelphia, and the continued growth of youth soccer in our region. 

Rooted in history and purpose, the new design blends iconic elements of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia’s legacy with modern symbols of the global game. Each detail in the logo carries meaning: 

  • The Liberty Bell anchors the design as a nod to Philadelphia and the city’s role in the nation’s founding.  
  • The Keystone shape honors Pennsylvania’s identity as the Keystone State and Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer’s legacy since 1972.  
  • The bold lightning bolt crack represents both Ben Franklin’s famous kite and key experiment and the electric energy surrounding Philadelphia’s World Cup host city status.  
  • The number 26, styled in homage to the official 2026 FIFA World Cup logo, sits prominently at the center, marking the year the world’s game comes to our backyard.  
  • The red, white and blue stripes reflect the spirit of the National Semiquincentennial celebrations.  
  • A classic soccer ball and our traditional wordmark ground the design in our organization’s roots while looking ahead to the future.  

This commemorative logo will be featured throughout the 2026 season across Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer programming, events, and gear, as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future.  

Camp 2025: Thank You!

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A Summer to Remember: 2025 Resident Soccer Camp with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer

As the final whistle blows and the last pair of cleats are packed away, we reflect on an unforgettable week at our EPYS 2025 Summer Resident Soccer Camp. From sun-up drills, yoga classes to sun-down scrimmages, the energy, enthusiasm, and camaraderie that filled the fields left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Our dedicated staff coaches and counselors poured their hearts into every session, bringing not just skill and instruction, but also mentorship, laughter, and support to the campers. Their passion for the game and commitment to youth development made this week an inspiring journey for players of all levels.

Campers not only improved their technical abilities and tactical awareness, but they also forged friendships, built confidence, and embraced the spirit of teamwork that defines soccer at its best. Whether it was intense morning practices, evening games under the lights, or bonding over meals, every moment contributed to an incredible experience.

To all the players, families, coaches, and supporters—THANK YOU for making the 2025 camp such a success. Your enthusiasm and love for the game are what keep us coming back year after year.

We’re already counting down the days to 2026 summer camp, and we can’t wait to welcome both returning players and new faces to next summer’s adventure. Be sure to keep an eye out for early registrationopening in late November/December—spots fill fast, and we want to see YOU on the field again!

Until then, keep training, keep growing, and keep the passion alive.

Thank you,

Fernando Carrizo
Camp Director

Chris Branscome Elected Commissioner on U.S. Soccer Youth Council 

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We are proud to share that our CEO, Chris Branscome, has been elected to serve as Commissioner of the U.S. Soccer Youth Council. This national leadership role represents a significant opportunity to help guide the vision and priorities for youth soccer across the country.  

As Commissioner, Chris will work closely with U.S. Soccer and member organizations to strengthen programs, support player development, and advocate for the needs of the youth soccer community at every level.  

We congratulate Chris on this achievement and look forward to the positive impact he will make in shaping the future of youth soccer in the United States.  

USWNT Returns to Subaru Park this Fall

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The U.S. Women’s National Team is heading back to Chester! On October 23, Subaru Park will once again host one of the most decorated teams in the world as the USWNT returns for an exciting fall matchup.

Presale access begins Thursday, July 31 at 10 A.M. and runs through Friday, August 1 at 8 A.M. with code P2LOCA.

Tickets go on sale to the public at 10 A.M. on August 1.

Get the Presale Tickets Here.

Get Tickets Here (August 1 at 10 A.M.)

Don’t miss your chance to see the stars of the U.S. Women’s National Team live in action this October at Subaru Park.

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Announces Multi-Year Partnership with Rothman Orthopaedics 

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Official Orthopedic Partner to Provide Expert Care, Support Statewide Programs, and Promote Athlete Wellness 

July 29, 2025 – Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is proud to announce a new multi-year partnership with Rothman Orthopaedics, naming the renowned practice as the Official Orthopedic Partner of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer.

As part of the agreement, Rothman Orthopaedics will offer its Fast Scheduler Program to the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer community — including athletes, staff, families, and friends — ensuring priority access to world-class orthopedic care. The partnership is designed to support the health, safety, and performance of youth athletes across their shared regions. 

In addition to being the official orthopedic provider, Rothman Orthopaedics will also be an official partner of the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer State Cups and the Olympic Development Program (ODP), two of the organization’s most prestigious initiatives. Rothman’s involvement will help ensure young athletes at every level receive the support they need to train and compete safely. 

“This partnership brings together two leaders, one in youth soccer and one in sports medicine,” said Chris Branscome, Chief Executive Officer at Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer. “Rothman Orthopaedics’ commitment to player wellness aligns perfectly with our mission to grow and support our players both on and off the field.” 

Through this partnership, Rothman Orthopaedics will also provide valuable educational resources, sharing expert tips on injury prevention, recovery strategies, and sports nutrition to help players, parents, and coaches keep athletes healthy and performing at their best. 

“We’re excited to partner with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and support the next generation of athletes,” said Dr. Alexander Vaccaro, Spine Surgeon and President at Rothman Orthopaedics. “Together, we’ll ensure that players have access not only to outstanding care, but also to the knowledge they need to stay in the game.” 

For more information on Rothman Orthopaedics visit RothmanOrtho.com or visit RothmanOrtho.com/FS to access their Fast Scheduler services! 

Penn FC Claims U19 Girls National Championship as Seven Eastern Pennsylvania Teams Shine at US Youth Soccer National Championships 

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Seven teams from Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer took the field at the 2025 US Youth Soccer National Championships in Orlando, Florida, capping off remarkable seasons by earning a spot on the biggest stage in youth soccer.  

Among the standout performances was Penn FC Youth 2007 F Black (U19 Girls) who made history by capturing the Evelyn Gill/Kathy Zolad Cup.  

The team’s title run was nothing short of thrilling. In the semifinal, both Penn FC and Wisconsin’s Madison 56ers Elite remained scoreless after two overtime periods, but Penn FC came out on top, winning 5-4 in penalty kicks. In the final, they completed a thrilling comeback, erasing a 2-0 deficit to defeat the defending champions MI Rangers FC Elite 3-2 and secure the U19 Girls title.  

Eastern Pennsylvania teams showed determination throughout the week, with YMS 10B Premier United (U15 Boys) making a run to the semifinals for the second straight year before falling in penalty kicks. Eastern Pennsylvania fought hard in challenging group-play matches and competed fiercely against top teams from across the country.  

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer congratulates all seven teams on an incredible season. Reaching the National Championships is a major achievement, and each team represented the region with determination and pride.  

Below are the full results from the 2025 US Youth Soccer Nationals.  

  • U14 Girls: Hex FC Dominion 11G 2 – 3 The Football Academy 11G Silver (NJ) (NJ) 
  • U15 Boys: YMS 10B Premier United 2 – 0 Indy Premier Elite 64 10B (IN) 
  • U16 Girls: NJ Nationals 09G Elite (NJ) 2 – 0 HEX FC Dominion 09G  
  • U17 Girls: Michigan Tigers Elite 64 08G (MI) 1 – 0  Penn FC Youth 2008 F Black 
  • U18/19 Boys: Raiders FC 2007 (IL) 2 – 2 FC DELCO NAL ’06 
  • U18/19 Boys: HEX FC Dominion 06/07B 2-0 CFYSC 06B Premier (IL) (IL)  
  • 18U/19U Girls: Solar South 06/07G Adames FDL (TX-N) 0 – 1 Penn FC Youth 2007 F Black 
  • U14 Girls: Hex FC Dominion 11G 2-0 St. Croix 11G Academy NL  
  • U15 Boys: YMS 10B Premier United 1-1 Team Challenger FC B10 Black  
  • U16 Girls: HEX FC Dominion 09G 0-5 Rebel Elite 09 Black  
  • U17 Girls: WIUFC Elite 64 08G 4-1 Penn FC Youth 2008 F Black 
  • U18/19 Boys: Azzurri Storm Elite 64 07B 0-3 FC DELCO NAL ’06  
  • U18/19 Boys: HEX FC Dominion 06/07B 1-2 Ohio Galaxies FC Elite 64 06/07B 
  • U18/19 Girls: Cook Inlet SC Elite 64 06G 2-0 Penn FC Youth 2007 F Black 
  • U14 Girls: NWI Lions United 2011G Yellow (IN SC) (IN) 1 – 1 Hex FC Dominion 11G 
  • U15 Boys: 10 (15U) CVFC Wolfsburg (NC) (NC) 0 – 1 YMS 10B Premier United 
  • U16 Girls: Solar South 09G Naizer FDL (TX-N) (TXN) 3 – 2 HEX FC Dominion 09G  
  • U17 Girls: Penn FC Youth 2008 F Black 3 – 1 CDA Slammers Elite 64 08G (CA-S) (CAS) 
  • U18/19 Boys: FC DELCO NAL ’06 1 – 3 Alliance Fire 06/07B (IN) (IN) 
  • U18/19 Boys: KCL Academy 06/07 (KS) (KS) 0 – 1 HEX FC Dominion 06/07B 
  • U18/19 Girls: Penn FC Youth 2007 F Black 4 – 0 FW United Elite 64 06/07G (IN) (IN) 
  • U15 Boys: Tuzos Tucson Academy 10B E64 (AZ) (AZ) 3-3 PKs: 3-1 YMS 10B Premier United 
  • U18/19 Girls: Madison 56ers Elite 64 06/07G (WI) 0 – 0 PKs: 4 – 5 Penn FC Youth 2007 F Black 
  • U18/19 Girls: MI Rangers FC Elite 64 06/07G (MI) 2 – 3 Penn FC Youth 2007 F Black