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Rothman Orthopaedics’ Injury Prevention Tips for Youth Soccer Athletes 

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Authors: Dr. Benjamin Rogers, MD and Dr. Stephen Stache, MD 

Introduction 

Rothman Orthopedics is proud to serve as the Official Orthopedic Partner for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer. With soccer season quickly approaching, we are here to offer guidance for both injury prevention and treatment. Soccer is a high intensity, contact sport that carries a risk of acute and chronic injury. Commonly occurring soccer injuries range from simple muscle strains and contusions to complex ligament or tendon tears and ruptures, as well as to concussions. Given the nature of the sport, injuries of the lower extremity including the Hip, Knee, Foot and Ankle tend to be more frequently reported. Staying active, healthy, and on the field are important components of long-term athletic development, psychosocial wellbeing, and love of the game. Our Sports Medicine team at Rothman Orthopedics is determined to help make that possible.  

Common Causes of Injury 

For the adolescent athlete, there are several risk factors unique to this athletic population that are worth considering for injury prevention. Some common causes of injury to consider in youth soccer include: 

  • Inadequate warm-up or cool-down routines 
  • Poor flexibility and lack of strength/conditioning  
  • Overuse and lack of rest  
  • Improper technique and ill-fitting equipment 
  • Playing through pain or fatigue 

Injury Prevention 

It is the primary goal of our Sports Medicine team at Rothman Orthopedics to assist in injury prevention and to keep our athletes on the field. There are a multitude of standardized injury prevention programs that are validated for elite youth soccer athletes. Here are some general tips to consider for injury prevention, which also may in turn optimize performance: 

  • Prioritize proper warm-up and cool-down by utilizing dynamic stretching programming before and after training sessions and competitive play  
  • Focus on strength and conditioning with a special emphasis on progressive core stabilization, plyometrics, and neuromuscular training  
  • Promote sound technique and form with aid from teammates, coaches, and parents  
  • Use the right equipment and ensure appropriate fitting attire/footwear  
  • Don’t skip rest and recovery, or train beyond your limits 
  • Prioritize proper hydration and nutrition  

When to See a Professional 

At Rothman Orthopedics, we specialize in the treatment of both acute and chronic injuries. Although we recognize the desire of our athletes to stay on the pitch, it is important to communicate with coaches and parents if you are dealing with an injury that is compromising performance. We encourage seeking evaluation at one of our practice locations for any new injuries that limit your ability to play, or any lingering injuries that seem to be getting worse. Identifying injuries quickly helps our team coordinate individualized rehabilitation plans to get our athletes back on the field as soon as possible. For traumatic head or bone injuries, we always recommend seeking care at your nearest emergency department.  

Conclusion  

In summary, it is important to be mindful of the factors that contribute to injury risk, the techniques of injury prevention, and to recognize when it is time to seek professional evaluation. Players should speak up to parents and/or coaches if they are dealing with an injury that is affecting their play. For members of the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer community who wish to make an appointment with a member of our Sports Medicine team, you can use our Fast Scheduler Program to get quick access to expert care. Or, for situations where you need answers to orthopedic questions use RothmanNow to get free, 24/7/365 virtual after-hours access to orthopedic specialists. 

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! 

Philadelphia Soccer 2026 Invests $2 Million in Youth Soccer Across Pennsylvania, with Long-Term Support for Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Through World Cup 2026™ Legacy Program 

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Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the Host Committee for FIFA World Cup 26™ in Philadelphia, has announced a $2 million investment in youth soccer across the City of Philadelphia as part of a new partnership with the U.S. Soccer Foundation. This partnership will launch 26 soccer-related legacy projects leading up to and following the 2026 tournament, focused on creating more equitable access to the sport. 

As part of this legacy initiative, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer will receive long-term support through a dedicated endowment. This 10-year fund will help expand local programming and continue using the game as a tool for social impact on and off the field. 

“Hosting the World Cup is a tremendous opportunity, but the true impact will come from what’s left behind,” said Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer CEO Chris Branscome. “This partnership allows us to expand programming, improve access, and support the game at the local level. We’re proud to be part of a broader effort that will benefit communities across the state long after the final match.” 

These projects will include building new mini-pitches in underserved communities, expanding the Foundation’s Soccer for Success and Coach-Mentor Training programs, and providing more kids with safe spaces and quality coaching. 

This announcement highlights the shared commitment between Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, and organizations like Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer to use the excitement of the World Cup as an opportunity for long-term growth. 

Organizations interested in becoming part of this legacy work can complete a Legacy Inquiry Form through Philadelphia Soccer 2026. 

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Announces Partnership with Sport Lines

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Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is excited to announce its official partnership with Sport Lines, a leading provider of athletic field lining services. This collaboration makes it easier for coaches and program directors to access professional field lining services, simplifying field maintenance and ensuring game-ready fields for players throughout Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer.

As a leader in athletic field lining services, Sport Lines has built a reputation for delivering exceptional service to programs of all levels with cutting-edge precision. Committed to enhancing athletic experiences, Sport Lines is the top choice for sports programs, schools, townships and tournaments, ensuring every field is crisp, accurate, and ready for play. Utilizing state-of-the-art GPS technology, the company ensures swift, accurate and visually stunning field markings across various sports.

“Our expertise comes from years of experience in youth and collegiate athletics,” said Sport Lines Directors Dennis Mann and Alex Sinkovich. “Every field we line is treated as if it were for our own team. Our goal is to take the hassle of field lining off the shoulders of coaches and directors so they can focus on their players’ success.”

Sport Lines sets itself apart through its precision and understanding of the unique needs of each program, offering services ranging from initial field linings to seasonal maintenance, tailored to the diverse requirements of schools, sports clubs and tournament organizers. With this partnership, Sport Lines looks forward to continuing to provide high-quality field lining to the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer community.

To see how Sport Lines can transform your program, and the exclusive discount Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer members will receive, call (732) 400-4845 or visit sportlinesllc.com.