The San Andreas Youth Soccer Organization (SAYSO) is a state and federal non-profit organization. SAYSO was founded in 1992 and incorporated in 1994 for the purpose of preparing committed youth athletes to play competitive soccer at the highest national and international levels.

SAYSO is a structured training program, not a group of independent, coach-directed teams. SAYSO is a soccer academy fashioned in the likeness of English/European football clubs. Students "enroll" in SAYSO programs as early as age 7 or 8, train regularly, and “graduate” when they leave for college. The concept of SAYSO instruction in soccer is the same as that of year-round instruction in gymnastics, musical instruments, or a foreign language.

SAYSO players may register and play on SAYSO, CYSA, PAL, AYSO, and/or school teams during their respective playing seasons. Most SAYSO players play on SAYSO Professional Development Program (PDP!) Gryphons teams.

Youth players are always free agents. There are no contracts, transfer fees, or restrictions.

How does SAYSO work?

Every Spring, SAYSO offers a competitive 'Hot Shots' Spring Soccer League' and/or an open-registration 'Cricket' Spring Soccer League' to up to 120 local youth (U8) players who are interested in playing soccer with other self-selecting, "always on" players. Spring players are also invited to participate in soccer camps (“Academies”) during the summer.

Every Fall, SAYSO identifies two new soccer “classes” of approximately 20 youth players in each gender: Gryphons! (boys) and Gryphons! (girls). Over a period of years, these players are gradually introduced to advanced soccer skills and concepts. Players learn advanced soccer in a graduated, progressive fashion. For U8-U10 players, a specific coaching curriculum is followed for each practice. Players associate with the same groups of coaches and teammates each year, resulting consistency in presentation.

The first years of SAYSO instruction are ball-intensive and individual skills-oriented, not strategy-intensive. Small group strategies are used to enhance 1v1 and possession skills. SAYSO uses short-sided games and “micro-soccer” concepts for players younger than age 11. Full-team strategies are introduced only after 11 v 11 competition is permitted of 11 year-olds.

Players are grouped into teams for competing with other teams in the same age group and competitive levels.

Who is eligible to participate?

There are no geographical limitations placed on SAYSO participants. The majority of SAYSO players come from Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Carlos, Belmont, Redwood Shores, San Mateo, Foster City, and Burlingame.

How does SAYSO identify promising players?

SAYSO’s 'Hot Shots' and 'Cricket' Spring Soccer Programs are open to the public. Word of mouth is the most-frequently cited reason for interest in SAYSO activities. Many players who affiliate with SAYSO are suggested by SAYSO players and their parents. Many recreational league coaches refer their most promising players to SAYSO. Public tryouts and invitations to practice with existing SAYSO teams are also used.

SAYSO also promotes its programs in a variety of ways, and parents may make the initial contact for their children.

How is SAYSO funded?

SAYSO activities are funded primarily by participants’ registration fees. Donations and sponsorships are also accepted. There are no transfer fees.

How can I get more information?

Call SAYSO at (650) 593-5161 or send an email.