Granite Country Youth Soccer Association

The Granite Country Youth Soccer Association (GCYSA) is a not-for-profit 501c(3) Tax Exempt Corporation and educational organization whose mission is to develop the mental, physical and emotional growth of youth players within the Highland Lakes area.  GCYSA is a member association of the Capital Area Youth Soccer Association (CAYSA) in Austin, which is the second largest association in the country.  The CAYSA hierarchy passes through the South Texas Youth Soccer Association (STYSA), United States Youth Soccer Association (USYSA), United States Soccer Federation (USSF) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).  GCYSA is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, elected annually.

GCYSA at a Glance

• 530 youth participants ages 4 - 17, Spring 2007; US Youth Soccer 3.5 million participants
• One of the largest youth sports organizations in the region, serving over 1000 players per year
• 16% increase in participation over Spring 2006
• More than 100 volunteers assisting 55 teams
• Players:  60% male, 40% female, median age 9.3 years old
• KidSafe:  provides education and screening to protect the players and Association via background checks for volunteers
• Seasons:  Spring- February through May; Fall- September through December
• Summer Camp:  60 - 100 youth players are instructed for a week by professional trainers
• Scholarships:  15 - 20 players are provided opportunities to play through donations
• Facilities:  The "Greens"- 5th & Ave K (8 Fields) / Rotary Park - Behind Colt Elementary (1 Field)
• Training:  Coaches and Referees attend continuing education hosted by GCYSA
• Adult Play Cooperation-approximately 6 teams/90 players (organized 5 v 5 tournament-10 teams)

Success

• Spring 2007:  GCYSA sent three select teams to the Western District Playoffs in May, all three advanced to the State Tournament, U14 boys placed 2nd, U12 Boys placed 3rd and the U11 Boys placed 4th.  We also had five teams qualify for the CAYSA Cup in Austin.
• GCYSA provides recreational as well as competitive opportunities.  GCYSA will have four to five select teams Fall of 2007.

Partners

• City of Marble Falls:  Field Maintenance and Funding
• Huber Corporation:  Field Supplies

Sponsors

Funding

• Player Registration:  fees range between $60 - $75 per season.  Fees cover uniform costs, equipment, insurance, supplies, referee fees and other miscellaneous expenses.
• Fundraisers:  GCYSA raises monies through the sale of cookie dough twice per year
• Concession Income:  Convenience more than money maker
• Soccer Camp:  GCYSA does not receive income for hosting this activity