06/08/2026
Dear TAYS Families, Coaches, Players, and Supporters,
As we embark on the 2026 season, our mission at Troy Area Youth Soccer remains clear, “Enhance the overall experience for every player, coach, and parent in our program.” We are committed to fostering an environment of growth, structure, unity, and excellence both on and off the field.
This year, we are proud to highlight several important accomplishments that reflect our ongoing dedication to our athletes and community:
1. We introduced official TAYS “One Team” shirts at registration, reinforcing that every athlete is part of something greater than themselves. A unified program built on shared values and collective pride.
2. We are launching our new Tiny Tykes program for children ages 3–5, providing our youngest players with a positive, age appropriate introduction to the game and the joy of soccer.
3. We reduced the fundraising burden on families by eliminating the Little Caesars fundraiser for the 2026 season.
While we celebrate these achievements, our work is far from complete. We are advancing several key initiatives designed to elevate the quality and consistency of our program:
1. We are streamlining our coaching development with a more structured, consistent program, tailored to each age group. These programs will ensure players develop fundamental skills while preparing them for the next level. Our Coaching Coordinator is expanding accessibility and support, offering guidance on drills, best practices, and individualized coaching questions to help all our coaches thrive.
2. We are pleased to offer qualified athletes the opportunity to play up into older age groups when appropriate. For the first time, on June 25th @ a time TBD at Mud Creek Fellowship Bible Church, we will conduct skill assessments for any player interested in competing at the next level. Those who meet the established criteria will be eligible to move up, ensuring each athlete is appropriately challenged and supported. More information on that will be coming shortly. Please see the google form linked below to sign your child up!
3. Additionally, we are strengthening communication across our organization. A comprehensive website overhaul is underway to provide parents and athletes with easier access to schedules, resources, policies, and important updates. We are also refreshing our social media presence, particularly on Facebook, to better highlight key dates, generous sponsors, team achievements, and individual player accomplishments.
4. Finally, we are actively seeking dedicated referees for the upcoming season. If you or any Junior High/High school athletes are interested in officiating, we encourage you to sign up. We are committed to providing our referees with enhanced training, resources, and support so they can perform with confidence and professionalism.
Thank you for your continued trust, involvement, and enthusiasm for Troy Area Youth Soccer. Together, we will build on this strong foundation and deliver an outstanding 2026 season focused on development, sportsmanship, and community.
Onward and upward!
Duke Opdyke
President
Troy Area Youth Soccer (TAYS)
GOOGLE FORM FOR SKILLS ASSESSMENT SIGN UP:
Please fill out the following form for your child if you plan to attend the skills assessment on June 25th time TBD at Mud Creek Fellowship Bible Church. Deadline to submit June 19th.
