12
Sep, 2025
In our community, we all know how much soccer can build confidence, teamwork, and resilience. But what about mental and emotional health? At AYSO, that’s just as important.
That’s why the AYSO Volunteer Resources page provides a Mental Health & Well-Being area—packed with tools and information to support everyone: players, coaches, referees, and parents. The idea is simple: create a positive, fair, and fun environment, one that emphasizes enjoyment and personal growth over a win-at-all-costs mindset.
What you’ll find there:
- Tips for coaches: how to recognize stress, support players, and foster healthy habits.
- Referee guidance and resources, including emotional and social-skills training across the board.
- Help with more serious challenges such as depression, anxiety, or situations like COVID-19 that affect mental wellness.
- Learning materials focused on life skills, social and emotional learning, and techniques to reduce stress and perform better under pressure.
All of this is made possible through an innovative partnership with US Center for Mental Health in Sport and Mind Fit Performance.
If you care about promoting a healthier environment for players—on and off the pitch—this is a great resource. For more information, visit AYSO’s Mental Health & Well-Being page.