February 7, 2024 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) – San Diego Wave FC News Release
San Diego Wave Fútbol Club and the American Youth Soccer Organization’ (AYSO) are proud to announce a new partnership to help #GrowTheGame in San Diego through the AYSO PLAY! program.
In a co-branded effort, AYSO PLAY! will widen access to safe, quality, grassroots soccer across the San Diego area, providing resources and coaches to lead soccer programming efforts for schools, community groups and youth services, year-round.
To kick off its partnership, AYSO PLAY! and the Wave will host two complimentary soccer clinics for girls in San Diego, in honor of National Girls & Women in Sports Day. These clinics mark the beginning of a partnership between AYSO PLAY! and Wave FC, dedicated to maintaining youth’s familiarity with soccer and the 2023 NWSL Shield winners while actively contributing to the betterment of San Diego’s community.
The celebration of NGWSD is particularly relevant to AYSO, as the organization was the youth soccer innovator in girls’ participation. The first AYSO girls teams took the field in 1971, a full year before Title IX was passed.
“We are thrilled to kick off this exciting partnership with the San Diego Wave. The events will not only celebrate girls in sports but also foster a broader collaboration to provide more youth with the opportunity to learn and enjoy the sport,” stated Chris Solomons, Director of Business Development and Community Engagement at AYSO.
The clinics will include an appearance by a member of the Wave FC team. In addition, Wave FC community efforts are led by two-time Olympic medalist, US Women’s National Team ’99 FIFA World Cup champion, and former US Soccer Athlete of the Year, Shannon Mac Millan. Mac Millan currently serves as the Vice President of Community Engagement for the Wave.
Mac Millan shared her enthusiasm, stating, “We are proud to join forces with AYSO, recognizing the vital role that sports can have on shaping a child’s growth,” she said. “We’re dedicated to weaving important life skills into our soccer programs, and this partnership solidifies our commitment to this cause by providing access to the game. By working together with AYSO, we look forward to expanding our positive impact on growing the game in San Diego.”
“There are a lot of terrific youth soccer programs throughout the area, including our own AYSO Regions and our AYSO United program,” added Solomons. “Still, we know that there are many more…