Increased numbers highlight AYSO spring season

BELEN — As play started Saturday for the spring season of the American Youth Soccer Organization, AYSO, fans and participants may have noticed several things that were different than last fall.

There were a few more sponsor signs, a beginners division for toddlers and more players — a lot more.

According to Samantha Garza, AYSO regional commissioner, there are about double the number of players than last year, with 461 youngsters on rosters.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled about the growth we’re experiencing,” said Garza. “I hope it’s because of the great program. Parents were happy with us last season.”

Games started Saturday at Eagle Park in Belen and will rotate each weekend with the Los Lunas Sports Complex. Garza noted the continued support of both municipalities.

Last fall marked the return of AYSO in the county after about a five year absence. Garza admits that the beginning of last season “was kind of rough,” with a learning curve for those who were getting the new league started.

One of the changes to help ease the “stress” said Garza, is “We changed a lot of our game times so we have more buffers between games,” allowing fewer overruns and giving kids and families more of a break between games.

AYSO has received “a great response” for the new Kickstart program for 3 year olds, teaching the sport to the very young.

“We hope that those toddler kids continue to grow with AYSO,” she said.

In addition, sponsors have helped provide scholarships for families who may not be able to afford to get their children involved.

“We’re excited to keep growing alongside our community, creating a fun, positive environment for our players,” Garza said.