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Each season brings new challenges, new ideas, and new opportunities to raise the standard of the game. For the soccer community across Iowa, one weekend has quickly become a place where all of that momentum comes together.

The 2026 Iowa Soccer Symposium, hosted by the Iowa Soccer Association, returns this month as a dedicated weekend of education, collaboration, and professional development for players, coaches, referees, and club leaders across the region. Taking place at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex in West Des Moines from February 20-22, the annual event continues to grow into one of the area’s most meaningful learning opportunities for those involved within the game of soccer.

More than a schedule of sessions, the Iowa Soccer Symposium serves as a shared space for the entire soccer ecosystem, a place where ideas are exchanged, connections are built, and the future of the game is shaped together.

“The Iowa Soccer Symposium represents more than continuing education; it is a learning community,” said Gareth Smith, Chief Technical Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “By bringing together coaches, referees, administrators, and technical leaders in a shared learning environment, the Symposium challenges us to think deeper, collaborate more intentionally, and apply modern, evidence-informed approaches that ultimately raise the standard of player, coach, and game development across Iowa.”

A Weekend That Supports Every Role in the Game

Rather than focusing on a single audience, the Iowa Soccer Symposium is intentionally structured to serve the full soccer pathway, from identifying and developing players to supporting coaches, clubs, and referees.

Friday, February 20: Player Development Day

The weekend begins with an emphasis on talent identification and long-term player growth, highlighted by programming connected to US Youth Soccer ODP and U.S. Soccer Talent Identification initiatives. Sessions focus on practical strategies clubs can use to better recognize potential and create environments where players can thrive.

Saturday, February 21: Coach and Club Development Day

The core day of the Symposium weekend runs on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and is designed for club, high school, and college coaches, along with referees, administrators, and technical leaders. Through interactive workshops and classroom sessions, attendees gain tools and ideas they can immediately apply within their teams and organizations.

Sunday, February 22: Referee Development Day

The final day of the Symposium turns the focus to officiating, with two dedicated training opportunities:

• Grassroots Referee Course for First-Time Referees (9:00 AM to 1:00 PM)
• Development Course for Referees with One to Three Years of Experience (11:00 AM to 1:00 PM)

Both sessions emphasize mentorship, on-field learning, and real-time feedback while reinforcing Iowa Soccer Association’s commitment to strengthening the referee pathway across the state. Together, the three days reinforce a simple idea that when every role improves, the entire game improves.

Learning From Leaders Across the Sport

This year’s presenters bring vast experience from youth, collegiate, and professional environments, offering insights shaped by work at the highest levels of the game.

Attendees will hear from:

• Liam O’Connell – Technical Director, Men’s Pathway, United Soccer League
• Ryan Thompson – Former U.S. Men’s National Team Goalkeepr Coach, Founder of RTG Academy & Keepers of the Americas, Former Jamaica National Team Goalkeeper
• Ian Mulliner – Head of the Educational Network, U.S. Soccer
• Dave Simeone – Director of Education and Programs, United Soccer Coaches
• Roni Andrew – Coach Educator (Midwest), USYS TOPSoccer
• Tom Turner – Educator Developer, U.S. Soccer
• Tim Bradbury – Director of Coaching Instruction at Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association, Coach Educator Developer at U.S. Soccer
• Colleen Corbin – Head Coach, Kansas State Women’s Soccer Program
• Morgan Bron – Winning Edge Coach
• Gabe Rummell, M.S. – Founder of The Athletes Health

Each session is designed to be practical and actionable, delivering tools and insights that participants can apply immediately to their teams, athletes, and playing environments.

“While the weekend is built around education and development for our players, coaches, and referees, what excites me most is seeing our players/teams step onto the field to train with exceptional coaches and presenters from a variety of backgrounds,” said Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “Those moments spark inspiration and create experiences our players carry with them long after the weekend ends.”

Strengthening the Iowa Soccer Community

While education is at the center of the weekend, the Symposium also offers something else just as valuable, and that is connection. This annual event is one of the few times each year when coaches, referees, administrators, and volunteers from across Iowa share the same space, offering an environment for trading experiences, discussing challenges, and learning from one another. Those conversations often continue long after the final session ends, creating relationships that help strengthen clubs and programs statewide.

“The Symposium has grown into one of Iowa Soccer’s premier events and one of the best soccer education experiences in the country,” said Dan Cataldi, Chief Executive Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “The entire Iowa soccer community comes together to grow and learn and move the sport forward. We are excited to welcome hundreds of coaches, referees, and players to learn from top instructors, engage with each other, grow their connections and cohorts, and improve the soccer community in general. It will be an exciting three days in West Des Moines!”

Attend the 2026 Iowa Soccer Symposium

The 2026 Iowa Soccer Symposium will take place from February 20–22 at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex in West Des Moines. Registration information and fee options are available through the official event link.

For anyone invested in the future of soccer in our region, the Iowa Soccer Symposium offers more than a weekend of learning. This event is an opportunity to sharpen skills, share ideas, and return to your organization with tools to make an even stronger impact.

To contact the Iowa Soccer Association, please call (515) 252-6363 or email admin@iowasoccer.org. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

Building Momentum in the Heart of Winter

For two days this winter, the TBK Bank Sports Complex once again became the center of youth soccer in Iowa. The 2026 Iowa Soccer Copa Clásico brought together 124 teams from 26 clubs, totaling 248 games across 21 divisions while welcoming nearly 1,500 players and more than 200 coaches. What began several years ago as a way to provide quality winter competition has steadily evolved into one of the most popular events on the Iowa Soccer calendar.

With programs representing US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, American Youth Soccer Organization, and United States Specialty Sports Association, the tournament continues to serve a broad cross-section of the soccer landscape. That mix of affiliations gives teams the opportunity to compete against new opponents while reinforcing the shared goal of developing players across the state.

“We are absolutely thrilled to host an event that radiates such incredible energy for our players, coaches, referees, and spectators,” said Mike Wilson, Member Services Program Director at Iowa Soccer Association. “We take immense pride in creating a space where sportsmanship thrives for everyone involved.  Seeing the entire soccer community—at every skill level—come together from across the state is truly the highlight of our year.”

Meaningful Winter Competition

Access to structured, high-quality games during the winter months can be limited. Copa Clásico addresses that need directly. The small-sided format keeps matches active and competitive, increasing touches on the ball and encouraging faster decision-making. For younger players, it is a chance to build confidence and game awareness. For older teams, it provides a valuable tune-up ahead of the spring season.

Across all age groups, the priority remains focused on competitive environments that support development. The result is a weekend where every game has purpose, and every team leaves sharper than when they arrived.

“We’re excited about this event and where it’s going because it reflects what soccer should be! Challenging competition, meaningful connections, and a community that continues to grow and evolve,” said Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “With such a wide variety of clubs and over 200 coaches and leaders all in one place, the event goes well beyond the games, creating a unique space to connect, build relationships, and strengthen the connections among those driving the future of soccer in our state and beyond.”

A Gathering Point for the Soccer Community

Beyond the schedule, Copa Clásico has also become an important touchpoint for Iowa’s broader soccer community. With such a high number of coaches and team leaders onsite, the event naturally creates opportunities to connect, share ideas, and strengthen relationships between clubs.

Parents and families fill the stands throughout the day, adding to an atmosphere that feels organized, welcoming, and community driven. That balance of competitive matches alongside genuine connection is part of what has helped this event grow year after year.

Supporting the Game at Every Level

Tournaments of this scale rely on more than players alone. Coaches, referees, administrators, and volunteers all play a role in delivering a smooth and positive experience. Bringing those groups together under one roof creates efficiencies and encourages collaboration that extends well beyond a single weekend. This approach is a practical way to strengthen the infrastructure of the game while continuing to serve the athletes on the field.

“A successful tournament like Copa Clásico 26 doesn’t happen without quality officiating,” said Hidajet Tica, Iowa Soccer Referee & Sportsmanship Director of Iowa Soccer Association. “Our referees rose to the challenge, supported one another, and handled every match with professionalism. I’m grateful for their hard work and proud of the referee community we continue to build.”

The continued success of Copa Clásico is also tied to the partners who help make it possible. TBK Bank Sports Complex, Forest Grove Sports Complex, and Fine Designs all played prominent roles in delivering a professional, well-run event for teams and families throughout the weekend.

Looking Ahead

By the end of play on Sunday, the impact of the weekend was clear. Copa Clásico has become more than a winter tournament. It has transitioned into a reliable opportunity for players to compete, for coaches to collaborate, and for the soccer community to stay connected in between seasons. As Iowa Soccer Association continues its mission of providing accessible, high-quality playing opportunities statewide, events like Copa Clásico remain an important part of that commitment.

With steadily increasing participation and strong community support, Copa Clásico continues to move forward with purpose, and 2026 marked another huge step in that progression.

To contact the Iowa Soccer Association, please call (515) 252-6363 or email admin@iowasoccer.org. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

As part of Iowa Soccer’s partnership with Trace Cameras, automated video technology is now available to clubs and coaches at every level of the game.

• Coaches, parents, or team managers can request a free camera for their team with an annual subscription.
• Subscriptions are available to anyone who wants access to recorded team videos.
• Teams can livestream matches, and live viewing is free with no subscription required.
• Join the waiting list for a Trace Camera!

The Trace team will be onsite at the Iowa Soccer Symposium on February 21st, where they will:

• Present on how Trace can support coaches and teams.
• Answer questions and provide hands-on insight.
• Offer a discount on a Pro Subscription for all Symposium attendees.

More information on this exciting new partnership will be announced soon!

Building Community Through Soccer: Fort Dodge Soccer Association’s Vision in Action

The Fort Dodge Soccer Association (FDSA) continues to make remarkable progress in creating an inclusive, thriving soccer community where every child has the opportunity to play, grow, and succeed. Behind the scenes, dedicated volunteers and leaders work tirelessly to connect with local companies, finding natural synergy between the club’s mission and the like-minded goals of Fort Dodge’s business community.

“It’s no secret that youth sports can sometimes become financially inaccessible, with rising costs, fees, and club memberships creating barriers for many families,” said Derek Haugland, President of Fort Dodge Soccer Association. “The support of our community businesses and partners helps keep our program open and affordable for all players, which is one of our core goals!”

Partnerships that Power Progress

For more than a decade, CJ Bio America has been a cornerstone partner for FDSA, helping provide player and facility equipment, including even a zero-turn mower to maintain the club’s fields. Their continued investment reflects a shared belief that supporting youth sports strengthens families, builds character, and enhances the community as a whole.

That spirit of partnership continues to grow. KOCH Nitrogen recently joined the effort, sponsoring new equipment bags for FDSA coaches, an example of how local businesses are stepping up to support those who dedicate their time to mentoring young athletes.

“Community partnerships like these raise awareness of soccer at the local level and provide necessary equipment that allow us to keep costs down,” said Mandie Jordison, Secretary of Fort Dodge Soccer Association.

Expanding Opportunities for Every Player

Their commitment to collaboration has already paid off. The launch of Fort Dodge Girls U11 Chaos, the first all-girls U11 team in the community, marks an exciting milestone in expanding access and opportunity for local players. With the support of community sponsors, the club is covering critical start-up costs such as uniforms, training gear, and tournament entry fees. This ensures that every player has a chance to participate, regardless of financial background.

Continuing the Mission

The work does not stop here. FDSA continues to build and nurture relationships across the region, engaging with businesses that share its passion for empowering young athletes and giving back to the community. Each new partnership strengthens the club’s ability to create programs that develop skills, teamwork, confidence, and a lifelong love for soccer.

Together, with the ongoing support of organizations like CJ Bio America, KOCH Nitrogen, and other community partners, FDSA is shaping not just better soccer players, but also stronger young leaders for Fort Dodge’s future.

Help us share/celebrate a story or event within your community/organization! Please send and share your stories and photos with Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. We will use a variety of methods to highlight and communicate our members’ efforts to inspire others across Iowa. Together, we can shine a spotlight on the people and programs that keep soccer thriving in our state.

To contact the Iowa Soccer Association, please call (515) 252-6363 or email admin@iowasoccer.org. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

Partnership Focused on Enhancing Digital Accessibility and Compliance

Iowa Soccer Association is pleased to announce a partnership with Clym, a global leader in digital compliance solutions. This collaboration empowers Iowa Soccer membership with tools to facilitate website accessibility, data privacy and legal compliance, ensuring an inclusive online experience for all visitors.

“At Iowa Soccer, our mission is ‘to provide soccer opportunities,’ and our website is critical in achieving that,” said Dan Cataldi, CEO of Iowa Soccer Association. “We work hard to remove barriers of all kinds, and partnering with Clym helps ensure that our website, and the information on it, is available to as many people as possible and helps eliminate an often invisible barrier to those seeking access.”

By working with Clym, Iowa Soccer Association reinforces its commitment to equal access, both on and off the field of play. With Clym’s member-specific pricing, clubs and organizations can qualify for a complimentary solution to seamlessly improve their websites for individuals with disabilities while also meeting evolving consumer data regulations.

“Partnering with Iowa Soccer Association to create opportunities for those with invisible disabilities is a golazo,” said Johnathan Brabson, Referral Partner Manager at Clym. “Soccer is a great connector, and everyone should have the opportunity to experience the game regardless of their needs. Our mission is to assist Iowa Soccer to create a more transparent and accessible digital experience for fans, parents, grandparents and clubs.”

Partnering with Clym aligns directly with Iowa Soccer Association’s objective to create a welcoming environment for all while providing members with the resources needed to enhance digital transparency and inclusivity. To learn more about how Clym can support your organization, visit them online today at clym.io.

To contact the Iowa Soccer Association, please call (515) 252-6363 or email admin@iowasoccer.org. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

Iowa Soccer Association officially crowned its fall champions in the Iowa Presidents Cup, with the final round of the competition being hosted at the Gregg Young Sports Campus in Norwalk. Winners were decided in the 15U through 18-19U age groups.

Iowa Presidents Cup – Fall 2025 Champions

15U Girls: FK EnVISION
15U Boys: UFA DSM

16U Girls: APEX SA
16U Boys: UFA DSM

17U Girls: UFA DSM
17U Boys: DMSC

18–19U Girls: AYSO United
18–19U Boys: UFA DSM

Iowa Presidents Cup champions are now eligible to compete at the US Youth Soccer (USYS) North Central Presidents Cup National Qualifier against other State Champions, which will be hosted next summer by Iowa Soccer Association at the Hy-Vee Multiplex in Grimes. States in the qualifying region include Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. The USYS Presidents Cup provides a progressive and competitive environment to teams that might not otherwise get the opportunity to participate in a series of unique experiences highlighting competition, camaraderie and community.

“Our clubs and coaches deserve immense credit for the time and effort they invest in preparing their teams for this moment,” said Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer at Iowa Soccer Association. “Leading up to Presidents Cup, they push their players to train with purpose and perform at their peak — driven to earn their place in the upcoming National Qualifier, held right here in Central Iowa next June. With the event on home soil and Iowa teams proving they can compete nationally, there’s a real sense of pride and motivation to rise to the occasion.”

Due to the spring high school season in Iowa, 15U to 19U age groups compete in the Fall Presidents Cup. Each spring, Iowa Soccer Association hosts its Presidents Cup for 13U and 14U teams in both the boys and girls divisions.

“Presidents Cup is an exciting event as we witness the top teams in the state fight for the chance to advance,” said Dan Cataldi, Chief Executive Officer of the Iowa Soccer Association. “It was great to see the players, coaches, and spectators create an atmosphere filled with passion, intensity, and respect.  Now we look forward to seeing the champion teams and the top referees represent Iowa when we host the National Qualifier next Summer!”

Iowa Soccer Association would like to thank Spring Creek Sports Complex in Altoona (Weekend 1) and Gregg Young Sports Campus in Norwalk (Weekend 2) for providing first-class facilities and hospitality for this year’s Presidents Cup. The State Association also wants to recognize and thank the referees, referee assignors, referee mentors and dedicated volunteers from the Iowa Referee Committee who consistently make time to support these events. Their mentorship, guidance and commitment to developing the next generation of referees are vital to the continued growth and success of the game in our state.

Additionally, Iowa Soccer Association extends its gratitude to Wilson Trophy Company, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Fine Designs, The Athletic Training Room, Kick It Forward, PRIME, Spond, FairWhistle, Kwik Star, Veo and Soccer Parenting Association for their support of the Iowa Presidents Cup.

To contact the Iowa Soccer Association, please call (515) 252-6363 or email admin@iowasoccer.org. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

Iowa Soccer Association announced today that it has officially renewed its partnership with Wilson Trophy Company, continuing a relationship that engages Wilson Trophy Company as the Official Awards Supplier of the Iowa Soccer Association.

“We’re thrilled to extend our partnership with Wilson Trophy Company for all of our awards needs, from Cups, Festivals and other events to our annual Membership Awards,” said Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “Their team has consistently delivered quality, creativity and reliability, always meeting our deadlines and bringing great ideas to the table. We’re equally excited to pass along cost savings to our members through this continued partnership with a company that truly gets it done.”

With the extension of this partnership, Wilson Trophy Company is proud to offer a special 15% off discount for all first-time customers on pins, medals, coins, patches, cups, trophies, plaques and other available items. For more information, contact Zack Moro, National Sales Director at Wilson Trophy Company, via email at zmoro@wilsontrophy.com.

“As a proud partner of Iowa Soccer Association since 2017, our passion continues to be supporting players, coaches and clubs across the state,” said Moro. “In today’s world of rising costs, now is the perfect time to take advantage of sponsored savings. Let us help your organization recognize success while staying on budget.”

Founded by Charles Wilson in 1955, Wilson Trophy Company has offered its customers some of the finest awards in the industry for the past 70 years. The company is heavily involved in the soccer community and is also the Official Awards, Pins and Medals Supplier of US Youth Soccer on a national level. For more information on Wilson Trophy, visit their official website.

To contact the Iowa Soccer Association, please call (515) 252-6363 or email admin@iowasoccer.org. Also make sure to follow us on social media!

For five years, Des Moines Soccer Club (DMSC) has represented a soccer community built on kindness, generosity and a love for the game. The club recently brought those values center stage at Aliber Fields, hosting its Heart of Goals Anniversary Celebration. The milestone event united families, players, coaches and volunteers for a day that blended fun, competition and purpose.

A Name with Meaning

The name Heart of Goals carries a dual message. It celebrates soccer’s spirit while also honoring the compassion that defines the DMSC community. From parents who carpool to practices, to coaches who put in extra hours and donors who help fund financial assistance, these acts of generosity are the foundation of the club’s success.

“Heart of Goals was more than an anniversary celebration. It was a joyful gathering of families, players and volunteers, all united by our shared love for soccer and community,” said Matt Ream, DMSC Executive Director. “Events like this remind us that soccer is more than just a game; it’s a way to build connections, create memories and support families both on and off the field.”

Fun on the Field, Purpose Behind It

The celebration was designed with all ages in mind. Kids lined up for bounce houses, inflatable soccer dartboards and yard games, while families enjoyed grab-and-go lunches, Kona Ice and a chance to win raffle prizes from local partners.

On the field, the Battle of the Boots Skills Challenge gave participants (from young athletes to soccer parents) the chance to showcase their dribbling, passing and shooting skills. The afternoon was capped off with the Sideline Showdown, a spirited match between coaches and parents that drew cheers and bragging rights for the year ahead.

But beyond the fun, the event carried a mission. Proceeds and donations supported the club’s financial assistance program, ensuring that more kids across Greater Des Moines can access the game. Attendees also partnered with Des Moines Refugee Support, donating gently used soccer gear and exploring ways to volunteer.

Five Years of Growth, A Statewide Impact

While Heart of Goals celebrated the DMSC community, its influence stretches far beyond Des Moines. In just five years, the club has grown into a model of how local sports organizations can lower barriers, expand access and welcome players from every background. By keeping generosity at its core, DMSC continues to contribute to the larger mission of the Iowa Soccer Association, which is to grow the game for all across the state.

“While Iowa Soccer strives to provide soccer opportunities, it is our clubs that truly make it happen,” said Dan Cataldi, Chief Executive Officer of the Iowa Soccer Association. “Programs like Heart of Goals are critical to delivering on our mission by creating a fun and inclusive environment. Thank you to DMSC and all our member clubs that work daily to grow the game and bring joy to the kids and the community.”

The Heart of Goals Celebration was about more than just looking back at five years of progress for DMSC. It was a reminder that soccer’s greatest victories happen off the scoreboard when families come together, players find belonging and communities rally around the game they love.

Help us share/celebrate a story or event within your community/organization! Please send and share your stories and photos with Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. We will use a variety of methods to highlight and communicate our members’ efforts to inspire others across Iowa. Together, we can shine a spotlight on the people and programs that keep soccer thriving in our state.

To contact the Iowa Soccer Association, please call (515) 252-6363 or email admin@iowasoccer.org. Also make sure to follow us on social media!