In 1967, the Y of Metro Atlanta organized the very first YMCA youth soccer league in the United States at the Decatur Family Y. Within just a few years, over 10,000 youth were learning and playing soccer at Y locations across metro Atlanta and eventually hundreds of thousands more at Ys across the country.
As Atlanta’s leading provider of youth soccer, our programs emphasize youth development, a focus on teamwork and sportsmanship, and an appreciation for the game.
Y soccer encourages and promotes healthy kids, families, and communities by placing a priority on family involvement. We teach kids about healthy competition, the value of participation over winning, team-building as well as individual development, all culminating in a positive self-image and a sense of fair play and mutual respect for others. Families are encouraged to be more than mere spectators, by contributing their time as volunteer coaches—as well as being their kid’s greatest fan.
With spring and fall programs available, Y Soccer offers something for all skill levels.
Rooted in History
Did you know organized youth soccer in America began right here in Atlanta at the YMCA? More than 50 years ago, a handful of local kids, Atlanta Chiefs players, and the Decatur Family YMCA helped launch one of the nation’s first organized youth soccer leagues. Discover how a field at a local seminary became the birthplace of youth soccer in America.
Recreational Soccer at the Y
Rec level soccer at the Y is a developmental program that provides a fun environment for children to learn and grow in the game of soccer. Y recreational soccer focuses on how to play the game, basic movement, increasing skills, and learning teamwork.
Academy & Select Soccer
Academy & Select soccer programs at the Y are designed to enhance the development of players through advanced coaching. Our mission is to provide a strong foundation for the soccer stars of tomorrow while providing a fun and healthy soccer environment.
Learn more about Academy & Select programs at the Decatur Family Y & Northwest Family Y.
Soccer at the Y helps your child...
Build Self-confidence
When kids are active in sports their self-esteem grows as they learn how strong their bodies are and develop physical skills and self-reliance.
Practice Sportsmanship
Being a good sport shows respect for others and helps keep the game in perspective. Understanding sportsmanship fosters positive habits.
Gain New Skills
Kids learn the basics of the game and refine existing skills under the supervision of caring, skilled, and supportive coaches and instructors.
Learn Discipline
Practicing youth sports regularly helps kids learn the importance of discipline, organization, showing self-control, and staying focused.
Financial Assistance
At the Y, no one is ever turned away from programs or memberships due to an inability to pay. Community giving helps to support financial assistance to those in need.
Virtual Y
YMCA members can access youth sports videos, skills drills, and more anywhere, anytime with YMCA360. Your training can continue even between practices!
Become A Coach
In Y youth sports, parents are encouraged to be more than mere spectators, by contributing their time as volunteer coaches. Share your love of the game with the kids!
I believe playing sports at the Y is a great opportunity for kids to go out and have fun. Learning how to be a valuable team member, and competition, sportsmanship is so important - and that's what kids get at the Y.