The Long Island Junior Soccer League (LIJSL) is a prominent youth soccer organization based in Long Island, New York.
Founded in 1966, LIJSL has grown to become one of the largest youth soccer leagues in the United States, with over 1,500 travel teams and more than 60,000 registered players. The league is committed to fostering the growth and development of youth soccer by providing a variety of programs and services that cater to different age groups and skill levels.
Structure and Format
LIJSL organizes leagues for various age groups, ranging from U7 to U19, for both boys and girls. The league consists of numerous clubs from across Long Island, with teams competing in different divisions based on their skill level. The league runs two seasons per year: a fall season and a spring season. Each season consists of a regular-season schedule followed by a playoff tournament for the top teams in each division.
Player Development
LIJSL is dedicated to player development and offers various programs and resources to support players and coaches. The league has its own Player Development Program (PDP), which provides supplemental training and development opportunities for players looking to enhance their skills. LIJSL also offers coaching education courses, camps, and clinics to further improve the overall quality of soccer in the region.
In addition to its focus on player development, LIJSL has a strong commitment to safety and sportsmanship. The league enforces a strict code of conduct for players, coaches, and spectators to ensure a safe and positive environment for all participants.
Notable Clubs
Several well-known clubs are part of the Long Island Junior Soccer League, including:
- Massapequa Soccer Club – A highly respected club with a long history of success on the field, Massapequa Soccer Club has won numerous state and regional championships and has produced many collegiate and professional soccer players.
- East Meadow Soccer Club – With a strong focus on player development, East Meadow Soccer Club has consistently produced high-quality players who have gone on to play at collegiate and professional levels.
- SUSA Academy – SUSA Academy has a reputation for developing top talent and has multiple teams competing at the highest levels within LIJSL and other elite leagues.
- Smithtown Kickers – Smithtown Kickers has a rich history in Long Island soccer and is known for its commitment to player development, with many of its players moving on to college soccer programs.
- Northport Cow Harbor United – A highly competitive club, Northport Cow Harbor United has had success at the state and regional levels and has produced numerous college and professional players.
Notable Players
Several notable players have come up through the Long Island Junior Soccer League, including:
- Tim Parker – A professional soccer player who currently plays for the Houston Dynamo in Major League Soccer. Parker began his youth career with the Hicksville Americans, a club within LIJSL.
- Crystal Dunn – A professional soccer player who plays for the Portland Thorns in the National Women’s Soccer League and the United States Women’s National Team. Dunn started her soccer journey with the Rockville Centre Soccer Club in LIJSL.
- Mike Grella – A former professional soccer player who played for the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer. Grella began his youth soccer career with the Glen Cove Soccer Club in LIJSL.
- Maria Sanchez – A professional soccer player who currently plays for the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women’s Soccer League. Sanchez started her soccer career with the Brentwood Soccer Club in LIJSL.
- Joe Scally – A professional soccer player who currently plays for Borussia Mönchengladbach in the German Bundesliga. Scally played his youth soccer with the Lake Grove-Newfield Soccer Club in LIJSL.
The Long Island Junior Soccer League has played a significant role in fostering the growth and development of soccer on Long Island and the broader New York region. Through its commitment to player development, coaching education, and promoting sportsmanship, LIJSL continues to create a positive environment for young players to learn, grow, and succeed in the beautiful game of soccer.
Scholarship Programs
LIJSL also offers scholarship programs for graduating high school seniors who have participated in the league. These scholarships recognize students for their academic achievements, community service, and contributions to their soccer clubs. By providing financial assistance for higher education, LIJSL demonstrates its dedication to supporting the overall development of its players, both on and off the field.
Community Involvement
The league is actively involved in community outreach programs and initiatives, such as TOPSoccer, a program designed for children with special needs. This inclusive program aims to create a supportive and fun environment for children with disabilities to enjoy the game of soccer.
LIJSL also participates in charitable efforts, including food drives and disaster relief initiatives, to support local communities and make a positive impact beyond the soccer field.
Conclusion
The Long Island Junior Soccer League’s long-standing history and commitment to excellence have made it a crucial part of the soccer landscape in the region. As the league continues to grow and develop, it remains focused on its mission to provide the best possible experience for youth soccer players, coaches, and families across Long Island.
