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Fort Dodge Soccer Association’s Vision in Action

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!

Iowa Soccer Association Partners with Clym

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!

Champions Crowned at Fall Presidents Cup

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 Renews with Wilson Trophy Company

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!

Des Moines SC Celebrates Five Years with Heart of Goals Event

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!

UFA DSM 2011 Elite Girls Crowned National Presidents Cup Champions

History was made at the US Youth Soccer (USYS) National Presidents Cup, as UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite (14U Girls) became the first Iowa Soccer Association team since 2019 to capture a national championship. Joining them with a deep tournament run was UFA DSM 2010 Boys Elite (15U Boys), who advanced all the way to the final round of the National Presidents Cup. UFA DSM 2012 Girls Elite (13U Girls) also competed on the national stage in Tampa, Florida, marking the second straight year that Iowa sent three teams to the prestigious tournament.

“It is great to see the hard work pay off for these kids!” said Dan Cataldi, Chief Executive Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “The teams build all year leading to this capstone event where you have to earn your way in through the State and Regional Championships. I had the opportunity to watch these kids represent Iowa exceptionally well in not only their play, but also in their off the field actions as well. Everyone in the Iowa Soccer community should be proud of all these kids!”

Those sentiments were further echoed by Mike Wilson, Member Services Program Manager of Iowa Soccer Association.

“A wonderful experience to observe each team’s journey through the competition pathway provided through ISA and US Youth Soccer,” said Wilson. “It is an honor to support our membership at this prestigious event and see firsthand the players and coaches competing on the national stage. Uniquely special for us to have three teams advance, two teams reaching the finals and one national champion.”

The success of Iowa Soccer was not limited to the players and coaches who competed in Tampa. The Iowa Referee Committee was proudly represented as well, with referee Beaux Blanchard selected to officiate at the National Presidents Cup following a standout performance at the USYS Midwest Presidents Cup. Additionally, Blanchard and fellow referee Nikki Schuppan were chosen to officiate at the USYS National Championships in Orlando, Florida.

“Beaux Blanchard and Nikki Schuppan are proof that dedication, resilience and passion open doors to incredible opportunities,” said Hidajet Tica, Iowa Soccer Referee & Sportsmanship Director. “Their selection to a Youth National Tournament is more than recognition — it’s a beacon of inspiration for every young referee in Iowa who dares to dream big and work hard.”

UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite arrived in Tampa after lifting the 14U Girls Midwest Presidents Cup in June, and they carried that momentum straight onto the national stage. They opened the tournament with a dominant performance in group play, winning all three matches while posting an 8-1 goal differential. After securing the top seed from their bracket, UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite advanced to the semifinals, where they defeated Club Ohio North 11G Green (Ohio) by a 3-1 margin. That win punched their ticket to the 14U Girls Final against Old Bridge Thunder (New Jersey). When the final whistle blew, UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite stood as National Presidents Cup champions with another 3-1 victory, becoming the third Iowa Soccer Association team in state history to lift the trophy at the national competition.

“We founded our club in 2018 with a dream—to give kids in the Des Moines Metro Area a platform to grow through the game of fútbol,” said Jaime Leiva, head coach of UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite. “Back then, moments like this felt far off. But this group of girls has not only represented our club and our state on a national stage—they’ve inspired something even greater. They’ve shown every future UFA team that they can, too.”  

That special journey was further commemorated by players from the squad.

“It’s feeling like it’s all unreal. Like thinking that all this hard work, everything, all the support from everyone, has all come into one big moment,” said Eva, a center back for UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite. “It’s just kind of unbelievable.”

“It was incredible. It was such a relief just to see that all we’ve worked for this entire season is paying off,” said Tatum, a goalkeeper for UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite. “It honestly still doesn’t even feel real. It’s just so amazing.”

UFA DSM 2010 Boys Elite (15U Boys) also lifted the Midwest Presidents Cup for their age group and carried that momentum into Tampa. They opened the National Presidents Cup by sweeping their group, earning three wins on a 9-3 goal differential. In the semifinals, they faced HVAA Stingers 2010 (Eastern Pennsylvania) and delivered a dominant 4-0 shutout. The 15U Boys Final saw them take on Milan De Miami Premier 2010 (Florida), where UFA DSM 2010 Boys Elite capped off an incredible postseason as national finalists.

UFA DSM 2012 Girls Elite (13U Girls) also competed in Tampa, battling through each match with grit and determination. While their run came to an end after group play, their presence on the national stage reflected the continued growth and strength of Iowa Soccer.

“It’s been great to see our teams progress from state play in Iowa, to regionals, and ultimately to the National Championships in Florida,” said Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “Reaching that level is a significant accomplishment, and having a new national champion is a proud moment for our state and soccer community. Thank you, UFA, for your outstanding representation of Iowa soccer on the big stage!”

Hosted by US Youth Soccer, the Presidents Cup provides a progressive, competitive environment for teams seeking a series of unique challenges highlighting competition, camaraderie and community.

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 Referee Academy at Grinnell College

A Story of Growth, Connection, and Rising Success

Four years ago, a bold vision came to life on the campus of Grinnell College, one that would reshape the future of referee development in Iowa. That summer marked the launch of the Iowa Soccer Referee Academy, strategically aligned with the player development camp held each July. The mission was clear: to create an immersive, supportive environment where young officials could be trained, mentored, and equipped for the challenges of competitive match officiating. Without a doubt, it plays a critical role in the training of young officials, who are essential to the game. 

Since that inaugural year, the Academy has evolved far beyond being just a training ground. It has grown into a catalyst for leadership, a hub for mentorship, and a tight-knit community where aspiring referees are molded into confident professionals. The success stories emerging from this initiative speak volumes. Not just about the curriculum, but about the power of connection, support, and opportunity.

Among those success stories, four individuals stand out. Not only for their on-field excellence, but for their journeys that began, or were shaped, at Grinnell.

Beaux Blanchard arrived at the Academy with quiet determination and deep focus. Over the years, he has become one of Iowa’s standout young officials. This summer, he has represented the state at the national level, officiating at the US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup and the NCSA Youth Nationals. His rise exemplifies the Academy’s influence and his unwavering work ethic.

Aaron Blanchard took his first steps into refereeing on the fields at Grinnell College. This year, in his debut appearance at the Midwest Regional Presidents Cup, he earned the rare honor of officiating a final match, an impressive achievement for a first-time attendee. His journey is marked by rapid growth and a strong foundation built right where it all began.

Anna Turri’s journey shows the power of perseverance. Initially selected as a standby for a final match at this year’s Midwest Regional Presidents Cup, she stayed engaged, resilient, and eager to improve. Now, she returned to the Referee Academy as an instructor for the second consecutive year, completing her journey and serving as a powerful role model for the next generation of young referees.

Nikki Schuppan embodies poise and leadership. After attending the Academy as an instructor last year, she was selected to the NCSA Youth Nationals for the third time as an official. Her ongoing involvement highlights not only her technical skills but also her dedication to giving back to the program that helped shape her career. Her presence reminds us that leadership is developed through both experience and service.

These individuals embody the mission of the Referee Academy at Grinnell College: transformation, excellence, and the strong bonds that grow when young officials are equipped with tools and support to succeed. Led by experienced coaches, mentors, and instructors, the Academy fosters a supportive learning environment where young referees draw inspiration from those who have come before them.

As each July approaches, the fields and classrooms at Grinnell ring with the sound of whistles, the exchange of ideas, and the energy of a new generation of referees discovering their footing. The Academy is no longer just a summer event, it is a launchpad for future leaders in Iowa and beyond. With each new class stepping onto the pitch, they carry lessons, values, and vision instilled by Iowa Soccer and the Iowa Referee Committee, ensuring the continued growth of Iowa Soccer for years to come. 

Three Iowa Teams Book Tickets to National Presidents Cup

Iowa Referee Beaux Blanchard Also Selected to Officiate at National Presidents Cup

Three Iowa Soccer Association teams punched their tickets to the US Youth Soccer (USYS) National Presidents Cup after reaching the final round of the USYS Midwest Presidents Cup last week in St. Louis, Missouri. UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite (14U Girls) and UFA DSM 2010 Boys Elite (15U Boys) raised the trophy as champions of their respective age groups, while UFA DSM 2012 Girls Elite (13U Girls) also secured a wildcard spot for the National Presidents Cup next month in Tampa, Florida.

This marks the first time in state history that two Iowa Soccer Association teams were crowned champions at the Midwest Presidents Cup, as well as the second consecutive year that three Iowa teams received bids to the National Presidents Cup. In addition to the team success in St. Louis, Iowa referee Beaux Blanchard was rewarded for his great work at the regional competition by receiving an invitation to officiate at the National Presidents Cup in Tampa.

“It is a privilege to serve on the regional committee and support the players, coaches and families at this fantastic event,” said Mike Wilson, Member Services Program Director at Iowa Soccer Association. “Our teams did not disappoint, and I was impressed with the level of competitiveness and determination exhibited on the pitch. Excited to see our teams on the national stage in a few weeks.” 

UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite opened the Midwest Presidents Cup with a pair of wins in group play, earning the top seed from their bracket to secure a bid into the semifinal round. Opposite them in that next pairing was ISC G11 United Elite (Kentucky), with UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite recording a clean sheet en route to a 2-0 result in their favor. Next up was a meeting with Club Ohio North 11G Green (Ohio) in the championship match. After a highly competitive game, it was UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite who found themselves lifting the 14U Girls Midwest Presidents Cup as champions.

UFA DSM 2010 Boys Elite allowed a single goal in group play, earning two victories against one defeat to win their bracket. Their exceptional play continued into the semifinal round, where they blanked Gitchi Gummi 2010 Prem (Minnesota) by a tally of 2-0. That victory set up a championship appearance against Capital East 15U Maroon 2010 (Wisconsin). Once again, UFA DSM 2010 Boys Elite was strong on both ends of the field and topped the Wisconsin side by a final scoreline of 3-1. With the 15U Boys Midwest Presidents Cup in hand, UFA DSM 2010 Boys Elite traveled back to Iowa where the team now prepares for a trip to Tampa in July for the National Presidents Cup.

Three Iowa Teams Book Tickets to National Presidents Cup

UFA DSM 2012 Girls Elite enjoyed a dominant run in group play at the Midwest Presidents Cup, registering three consecutive shutouts and earning three straight wins by a cumulative tally of 7-0. That stellar showing in the opening round earned the team a spot in the semifinals, where they met eventual champion Topeka Mambas (Kansas). In an incredibly competitive battle, UFA DSM 2012 Girls Elite fell by a razor-thin 1-0 decision. However, their impressive overall run at the Midwest Presidents Cup was rewarded by US Youth Soccer with a wildcard bid to the National Presidents Cup in Tampa.

Iowa was also well represented at the Midwest Presidents Cup by members of the Iowa Referee Committee, with four officials being selected for championship matches and one receiving a prestigious bid to referee at the National Presidents Cup in Tampa. Officiating in the finals at the Midwest Presidents Cup were Aaron Blanchard, Beaux Blanchard, Jeff Blanchard, Brandon Joly and Nikki Schuppan, with Beaux Blanchard being invited to referee at the National Presidents Cup. Also serving as National Referee Coach at the Midwest Presidents Cup was Hidajet Tica, who is Iowa Soccer Association’s Director of Referees and Sportsmanship.

“It was an honor to serve as a National Referee Coach at the Midwest Presidents Cup in St. Louis, where I had the opportunity to support the growth of emerging officials, share insights from the national level, and contribute to the continued elevation of referee development in our region as well as in our state,” said Tica.

The National Presidents Cup will take place from July 11-15 in Tampa, Florida. Hosted by US Youth Soccer, the Presidents Cup provides a progressive, competitive environment for teams seeking a series of unique challenges highlighting competition, camaraderie and community.

Iowa was also represented at the USYS Midwest Presidents Cup by a variety of additional teams. In the boys divisions, participants included Des Moines SC (DMSC) 2012 Boys Red (13U Boys), DMSC 2011 Boys Red (14U Boys), United Futbol Academy (UFA) DSM 2010 Boys Elite (15U Boys), DMSC 2009 Boys Red (16U Boys), DMSC 2008 Boys Red (17U Boys), Spring Creek FC (SCFC) 2007 Boys (18U Boys), and DMSC 2006 Boys Red (19U Boys). In the girls divisions, Iowa teams included FC America Fire (13U Girls), UFA DSM 2011 Girls Elite (14U Girls), Western Iowa Surf 2010G (15U Girls), UFA DSM 2009 Girls Elite (16U Girls), FC America 2007 Girls (18U Girls), and AYSO United 2006 Girls Red (19U Girls).

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 Hosts 2025 League America Festival in Altoona

The Spring Creek Sports Complex in Altoona recently hosted 140 teams representing 34 clubs for the 2025 Iowa League America Festival, an event that has long stood as a cornerstone of the recreational soccer landscape across the state. Organized by Iowa Soccer Association and hosted by Spring Creek Football Club, the festival marked another successful year of highlighting the importance of grassroots soccer.

Iowa League America Festival – Boys Championship Matches

  • 9U Boys Recreation: J-Hawk SC 9UB (Champion), Newton Lightning (Finalist)
  • 9U Boys Academy Blue: Apex 9UB Storm (Champion), IST Academy B9 (Finalist)
  • 9U Boys Academy Green: DMSC 2016 Boys Red (Champion), Apex 9UB Palmas (Finalist)
  • 10U Boys Recreation Blue: MCSC U10B Red (Champion), NISC 10U Boys (Finalist)
  • 10U Boys Recreation Green: Winterset Huskies (Champion), FC United 10UB (Finalist)
  • 10U Boys Academy Blue: Iowa United FC 10UB Red (Champion), Bondurant U10 Boys (Finalist)
  • 10U Boys Academy Green: Gilbert U10 Black (Champion), Ames Orlando City (Finalist)
  • 11U Boys Blue: Ames 11U Boys Yellow (Champion), SCFC Lightning Bolts (Finalist)
  • 11U Boys Green: NISC 11U Boys (Champion), Dowling Soccer Club 11U White (Finalist)
  • 12U Boys Blue: 12U Ballard (Champion), Gilbert U12 (Finalist)
  • 12U Boys Green: NISC 12U Boys (Champion), Newton Blazing Warriors (Finalist)
  • 13U Boys: Gilbert U13BA (Champion), Ames 13/14U Boys Yellow (Finalist)
  • 14U Boys: North Central Strykers U13/U14 Boys (Champion), ADM Tigers (Finalist)

Iowa League America Festival – Girls Championship Matches

  • 9U Girls Recreation: North Polk United GPS (Champion), FC United 9UG (Finalist)
  • 9U Girls Academy: DMSC 2016 Girls Red (Champion), Apex 9UG Reign (Finalist)
  • 10U Girls Recreation Blue: Stormin Strikers (Champion), NISC 10U Girls (Finalist)
  • 10U Girls Recreation Green: ADM Tigers (Champion), Gilbert U10GC (Finalist)
  • 10U Girls Academy Blue: Iowa United FC 10UG (Champion), DCG Academy U9/U10 Girls Black (Finalist)
  • 10U Girls Academy Green: UFA 2015/16 Girls (Champion), FC United 10UG (Finalist)
  • 11U Girls: Ames 11U Girls (Champion), Nevada FC (Finalist)
  • 12U Girls Blue: Ames 12U Girls Yellow (Champion), Bondurant Soccer Club G12 Blue (Finalist)
  • 12U Girls Green: Nevada 12U Girls (Champion), Winterset (Finalist)
  • 14U Girls: ADM Tigers (Champion), Mahaska County Soccer Club Bolts (Finalist)

A Tradition of Purposeful Play

Since 1992, the Iowa League America Festival has offered a competitive yet accessible environment for players aged 8U to 14/15U. In addition to the exciting play on the field, a heavy emphasis is placed on creating a positive experience that reinforces teamwork, learning and an overall enjoyment of the sport. Games were structured by age group, with formats ranging from 4v4 to full-sided 11v11, ensuring an age-appropriate and developmentally supportive atmosphere throughout the weekend.

“The League America Festival is more than a competition, it’s a celebration of community and connection,” said Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer at Iowa Soccer Association. “With over 30 communities from across Iowa coming together, LAF provides one of the best backdrops for our members to engage with like-minded soccer enthusiasts, build relationships and create memories that last far beyond the final whistle. These connections are what move the game—and all of us—forward, year after year.”

Expanding Horizons, One Match at a Time

One of the festival’s unique values is the opportunity it provides for players and teams to meet new competition outside their regular league schedules. This year’s matchups brought together a diverse mix of teams from across the state, promoting not just friendly competition but broader connections among Iowa’s recreational soccer community.

“We took an all hands on deck approach to the League America Festival, and the entire Iowa Soccer Association staff served in a variety of capacities to facilitate a positive atmosphere,” said Mike Wilson, Member Services Program Director at Iowa Soccer Association. “We thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to serve our membership and take pride in MAKING SOCCER HAPPEN in Iowa.”

A Festival That Reflects the Game’s Spirit

The League America Festival captures the essence of youth sports, including the gathering of families, coaches and volunteers who champion the game for all the right reasons. The venue buzzed with activity, from the sidelines filled with cheering supporters to vendor booths and interactive areas that added to the community atmosphere. Importantly, all participating coaches also adhered to Iowa Soccer’s Risk Management Standards, reinforcing a commitment to safety and quality.

“The League America Festival is soccer at its best where a festive, yet safe, environment is created that puts the focus on the kids playing soccer for the smiles it creates,” said Dan Cataldi, Chief Executive Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “Every game had referee coverage, parents were supportive and cheered loudly, and coaches let the kids have fun with positive reinforcement. It is a weekend we all look forward to because it is just so much fun to see the joy that the sport brings to so many!

A Weekend to Remember

As the League America Festival came to a close, it was clear that its impact extends far beyond the final whistle. For some players and families, it marked their introduction to competitive play in a structured setting. For others, it was a reminder of why soccer continues to be such a powerful connector. In every match, every sideline moment and every celebration, the festival reinforced its core purpose of championing recreational soccer and creating an environment where players of all backgrounds feel welcomed, encouraged and eager to return to the field.

“I can’t tell you enough how impactful it is for kids and parents alike to be around the event and experience soccer in that environment,” said Kirk Beaubien of North Central Strykers SC.

Official event apparel is currently available for the League America Festival, courtesy of Fine Designs. To learn more about the League America Festival, check out its official page on our 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!

Champions Crowned at Iowa Spring Presidents Cup

Spring champions were officially crowned this past weekend in the Iowa Presidents Cup. The final round of the competition was hosted at Spring Creek Soccer Complex in Altoona, with winners being decided in the 13U and 14U age groups.

Iowa Presidents Cup – Spring 2025 Champions

  • 13U Boys: Des Moines Soccer Club
  • 13U Girls: FC America
  • 14U Boys: Des Moines Soccer Club
  • 14U Girls: United Futbol Academy

Iowa Presidents Cup champions are now eligible for regional play at the US Youth Soccer (USYS) Midwest Regional Presidents Cup this summer in St. Louis, with regional winners then moving onto the USYS National Presidents Cup in Tampa, Florida. 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.

“It was great to see Iowa’s top clubs and teams come together and meet up in Altoona!” said Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer at Iowa Soccer Association. “We’re looking forward to following those advancing to regionals as they take on top Midwest competition and push for a spot at Nationals.”

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

“The Presidents Cup competition shows how widespread great soccer is in Iowa,” said Dan Cataldi, Chief Executive Officer of the Iowa Soccer Association. “With teams advancing to the Regional competition from the East, West and Central areas of Iowa, we are excited to see teams from all over the state descend on St. Louis with the goal of making it to Tampa in July! Also, a huge thank you to our partners including Spring Creek FC for being great hosts, as well as the referees, the volunteers and the families who make this level of competition possible for all the kids.”

Following up on that gratuitous note, Iowa Soccer Association would like to thank Wilson Trophy Company, Fine Designs, The Athletic Training Room, Kick It Forward, PRIME, Spond, FairWhistle, Kwik Star, SCORE, NCSA College Recruiting, Veo, Soccer Parenting Association, Spring Creek Soccer Complex, Spring Creek Football Club and the Iowa Referee Committee 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!