U.S. Youth Soccer: State Association Grants

U.S. Youth Soccer started in 1974. The organization was created to bring together all of the different youth soccer clubs and leagues across the United States. Its mission is to strengthen the "physical, mental and emotional growth and development" of boys and girls through soccer, according to its website. It offers three state association grants each year.

  1. Recreation Grants Program

    • This grant is for a recreation program connected to a U.S. Youth Soccer program that has been in operation for at least three years. Programs not connected to U.S. Youth soccer or programs less than three years old are ineligible. Grants are given to support recreation programs that help soccer players 12 years old and younger. This grant is given once a year and is need-based. The applicants must also send a letter of intent to an employee of their state's U.S. Youth Soccer's offices.

    Soccer Across America

    • Soccer Across America's grants foster and develop soccer in areas without clubs and programs. The aim is to provide low-income youths with the opportunity to learn about and play soccer. Soccer Across America grants provide administrative and organizational support for new clubs. They also help new clubs find additional funding for equipment. The grant is based on financial hardship. Along with a completed application, a letter of intent should be sent to the applicant's respective U.S. Youth Soccer state office. This grant is awarded annually.

    TOP Soccer Grants

    • TOP soccer grants are for disabled athletes. The TOP grants provide soccer instruction and programs for physically or mentally challenged players. A demonstration of need is the main requirement to receive this grant. In addition to the application, the TOP grant also requires a letter of intent to the applicant's U.S. Youth Soccer state offices. The grant is issued annually.