AYSO is built on 5 tenets, and everything that we do is an outgrowth of these tenets. They are:

• Everyone Plays It's a lot more fun for kids to be playing out on the field rather than standing on the sidelines watching. Since we're here to have fun, every AYSO player will play at least one half of the game.
• Balanced Teams It's naturally a lot more fun when you're playing a team of about the same ability as yours. We try to make sure that all players can have fun in an equal field.
• Open Registration Everyone, regardless of their ability to pay fees or their physical challenges, should have the opportunity to have fun. We have a scholarship program for kids from families with limited finances, and a VIP program for kids that are physically challenged.
• Positive Coaching A child's ego and self-esteem are developed in large part by what he or she hears from adults. AYSO believes in building kids by encouraging them, and it also makes for games that are a lot more fun.
• Good Sportsmanship The ultimate goal of AYSO is for the kids to have fun. Good sportsmanship (by parents and children) is absolutely essential in assuring that all players have the most fun possible.