Genesis Jefferson, Author at Cal South

Cal South Supports the Launch of the National 1 League

Genesis Jefferson — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:44:02 +0000

Cal South News

Cal South Supports the Launch of the National 1 League

A new platform designed to elevate competition, expand opportunities for clubs and players, and strengthen developmental pathways across the soccer landscape.

We are excited to share the launch of the National 1 League, a new platform designed to elevate competition and expand opportunities for clubs and players alike. This initiative represents a collaborative effort between the United States Youth Soccer (USYS) and US Club Soccer, supported by U.S. Soccer, bringing together two leading organizations in a unified vision for the future of the game.

Cal South is proud to support the National 1 League, operated by both Arizona Soccer Association (ASA) and SOCAL Soccer League, and is excited to collaborate in expanding high-level playing opportunities to all Cal South teams and players.

Cal South is committed to creating clear, accessible pathways for clubs and players to compete at higher levels while maintaining strong developmental standards.

Members of Cal South are encouraged to apply. Participation does not require membership in SOCAL Soccer League, but clubs will need to be an approved club (US Club) within GotSport. Cal South will actively support any member, regardless of sanctioning pathway, through the application process.

Through trusted partners, including Coast Soccer League and others, the Cal South ecosystem provides structured pathways that align competition, player development, and long-term club growth—creating a direct pathway into the National 1 League.

Our goal is to ensure a seamless transition for clubs entering new competitive environments while maintaining compliance, clear communication, and strong operational support.

We believe this league represents a meaningful step forward in strengthening the soccer landscape in Southern California and beyond. We encourage all interested clubs to explore this opportunity and connect with us for guidance and support throughout the process.

For more information or assistance with the application, please contact our office.

Need Support?

For more information or assistance with the application, please contact our office.

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Celebrating Myra Cortez – Valvoline & Cal South March 2026 Difference Maker of the Month

Genesis Jefferson — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 01:00:48 +0000

Difference Maker of the Month

Celebrating Myra Cortez — March 2026 Award Winner

Honoring a community leader who goes above and beyond to help make soccer accessible for every player.

Valvoline Instant Oil Change and Cal South are proud to announce this month’s VIOC Difference Maker of the Month award winner, Myra Cortez.

Myra is from North Hollywood FC, where her two boys play. In addition to her role as a dedicated soccer mom, she also serves as Team Manager for North Hollywood FC and consistently goes beyond the call of duty to support players and families across the club.

She helps organize team registration, player registration, and tournament participation alongside her husband, who also coaches the team. Her work behind the scenes helps create opportunities for players to stay involved, compete, and grow through the game.

Myra was the main reason the team was able to travel and participate in President’s Regionals last year. She did everything within her power to make sure players facing financial challenges could still travel with their teammates by organizing food fundraisers, car washes, and other efforts to help cover costs.

She even personally drove the majority of players from California to Boise, Idaho, helping ensure they could be part of an experience that otherwise may have been out of reach.

Congratulations Myra for your selflessness, dedication, and time.

Cal South Member Benefit

Winners receive a special offer from Valvoline Instant Oil Change, and all Cal South members also receive a discount from VIOC for $10 off an oil change.

Get to the pitch with confidence.

Scan the QR code or download the image below to redeem your Cal South member benefit in store.

Scan or download your discount

Save the QR code to your phone or open it in a new tab to scan and redeem your Cal South member benefit in store.

Download QR Code

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Laura Dudoit Named Cal South Referee Program General Referee Manager

Genesis Jefferson — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 02:51:18 +0000

Cal South Referee Program

Laura Dudoit Named Cal South Referee Program General Referee Manager

The Cal South Referee Committee is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Dudoit as General Referee Manager, effective immediately.

In this role, Laura will lead all referee recruitment, retention, and continuing education logistics in support of Southern California’s U.S. Soccer member leagues and organizations. Her leadership will strengthen referee development pathways and enhance service to affiliated leagues across the region.

The Cal South Referee Program remains responsible for referee licensing, proper registration in accordance with U.S. Soccer requirements, and servicing all member leagues affiliated with U.S. Soccer. Currently, Cal South leads the nation in Professional Referees, National Referees, and Regional Referees, and is recognized as one of the top referee programs in the country for developing top-tier referees for competitive matches under current State Referee Administrator Juan Guzman Jr.

Leadership and Program Impact

Laura will report directly to Juan Guzman Jr., former FIFA and MLS Referee, ensuring alignment with Cal South Referee Program’s strategic vision for referee excellence.

She previously served as the program’s registrar and brings extensive experience in member service management, operational coordination, and female development initiatives that support the growth and advancement of referees within U.S. Soccer pathways.

“This is an incredible time for the growth of soccer in the United States, and referee recruitment and retention is a key factor. Laura has demonstrated her passion for supporting referees for over a decade, and we are fortunate to have her help lead the operations of the program.”

Juan Guzman Jr., State Referee Administrator

“I am truly honored by the opportunity to serve the soccer community in this leadership capacity and to contribute to the continued growth and development of our referees.”

Laura Dudoit, Cal South Referee Program - General Referee Manager

Looking Ahead

We are confident that Laura’s leadership will help expand opportunities, improve support systems, and continue elevating referee standards across Southern California.

Cal South Referee Program

Supporting referee excellence through recruitment, education, development, and service to affiliated U.S. Soccer member leagues across Southern California.

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Cal South Announces Partnership with Valvoline Instant Oil Change: Get to the Pitch with Confidence

Genesis Jefferson — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 17:47:14 +0000

Partnership News

Cal South Announces Partnership with Valvoline Instant Oil Change

Get to the Pitch with Confidence — New partnership delivers added value and support for the Southern California soccer community.

Anaheim, Calif. — April 2026 — Cal South, the official youth and adult state soccer association for Southern California, is proud to announce a new partnership with Valvoline Instant Oil Change (VIOC) as the Official Oil Change of Cal South. Built around the shared goal of helping families get to the pitch with confidence, this partnership reinforces Cal South’s commitment to providing impactful benefits that support our members both on the field and in everyday life.

Through this collaboration, Cal South and Valvoline Instant Oil Change will support the youth soccer community through recognition programs, educational initiatives, and added value for members.

As part of the partnership, Valvoline Instant Oil Change will serve as the title sponsor of the “VIOC Difference Maker of the Month”, recognizing coaches, referees, and parents who go above and beyond to create a positive and impactful experience for players and families.

“At Valvoline Instant Oil Change, performance, reliability, and trust are at the core of everything we do—and those same values are what drive success on the field. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to teamwork, discipline, and continuous improvement, whether it’s under the hood or on the field. We look forward to this partnership with Cal South and are excited to see what’s ahead.” Carlos Montoya, Marketing Manager
Valvoline Instant Oil Change

“We’re excited to welcome Valvoline Instant Oil Change as a valued partner of Cal South. Together, we’re creating meaningful opportunities to recognize the individuals who make our game better every day—our coaches, referees, and families—while also delivering added benefits to our members. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have both on and off the field.” Jeff Dyrek, CEO
California State Soccer Association – South (Cal South)

About Valvoline Instant Oil Change

Valvoline Instant Oil Change is a leader in preventive vehicle maintenance, offering quick, convenient, and reliable service to help drivers stay safe and confident on the road. With a focus on quality and efficiency, VIOC provides expert care designed to keep vehicles performing at their best.

About Cal South

The California State Soccer Association – South (Cal South) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the official youth and adult state soccer association for Southern California under the United States Soccer Federation, US Youth Soccer, and the United States Adult Soccer Association.

Serving a region from San Luis Obispo to San Diego, Cal South supports players of all ages and skill levels while advancing coaching, refereeing, and the growth of the game across the region.

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Eric Wynalda’s new book gives back to the community and a chance to relive the shot that changed American soccer

Genesis Jefferson — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 21:54:15 +0000

Cal South News

Eric Wynalda’s New Book Relives a Defining World Cup Moment and Gives Back to the Game

The upcoming release gives readers a front-row seat to one of the most iconic moments in American soccer — while connecting a Cal South alumnus’s story to the continued growth of the game in Southern California.

Eric Wynalda — a Cal South alum — shares the unfiltered story behind one of the most iconic moments in U.S. Soccer history. A portion of proceeds from the book will go back to Cal South, supporting the next generation of players. Go inside the mind behind the legendary 1994 World Cup free kick — the “whiteboard in the mind” that defined a career. From late-night battles with the Federation to locker room moments the cameras never captured, this is a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the grit, pressure, and pursuit of “soccer nirvana” at the highest level.

Readers will go inside the mind behind the strike, understand the preparation and instinct that made it possible, and get the raw truth about the moments the cameras missed — from locker room tension to the behind-the-scenes battles that came with helping grow the American game on the world stage.

A World Cup Story with Cal South Roots

The release carries special meaning for the Southern California soccer community. Eric Wynalda is a Cal South alumnus and was part of the 1994 FIFA World Cup when the tournament was last played in the United States.

As the World Cup returns to the U.S., the book offers fans a chance to revisit a defining chapter in American soccer through the perspective of someone who lived it — and whose journey remains connected to the game’s growth here at home.

What’s Inside the Book

From the “whiteboard in the mind” behind the famous goal to the late-night battles with the Federation and the unforgettable locker room stories from that era, the book dives into the pressure, politics, personality, and pure exhilaration of doing the business when it mattered most.

Eric Wynalda, a Cal South alumnus, will donate a portion of the proceeds from the book to Cal South to support the continued growth of the game in Southern California.

Supporting the next generation of the game

More Than a Memoir

This is more than a sports memoir. It is a firsthand account of holding your nerve with the world watching, navigating the highs and lows of elite competition, and helping push American soccer forward during a pivotal moment in its history.

For Cal South families, alumni, and fans of the game, the release is both a look back at a historic World Cup moment and a reminder of the powerful connections between the sport’s past, present, and future in Southern California.

Preorder the Book

Reserve your copy and relive one of the defining moments in American soccer through the eyes of a Cal South alumnus who helped shape it.

Learn More | Preorder

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Cal South Announces New Board Leadership, Including Patrick Avilés

Genesis Jefferson — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 18:08:49 +0000

Annoucement

Cal South Announces 2026 Board of Directors Leadership

Anaheim, CA (March 23, 2026) — Cal South is proud to announce its Board of Directors leadership, bringing together experienced voices from across the soccer community to guide the organization’s next chapter of growth, innovation, and service.

View Full Board of Directors

The Cal South board includes Alex Lee, President; Michael Orozco, Vice President; Patrick Avilés, Secretary; Eric Wynalda, Treasurer; Nick Webster; Juan Guzman; and Tamara Cantrell.

This dynamic leadership group reflects Cal South’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the game at every level and expanding opportunities for players, coaches, referees, clubs, and communities throughout Southern California.

“Each of these leaders brings a unique perspective and a deep passion for the game, including US National Team experience.”

“That shared commitment strengthens our ability to serve our communities for the future growth of the game.”

Jeff Dyrek, Chief Executive Officer of Cal South

Spotlight on Patrick Avilés

Patrick Avilés joins the board as Secretary, bringing extensive experience as a creative marketing and brand leader. He currently serves as Vice President of Brand for Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), where he has played a key role in shaping the club’s identity since its inception.

Throughout his career, Avilés has led innovative collaborations with culturally influential brands and artists, helping position LAFC at the intersection of sport, culture, and community. His work has elevated the Black & Gold into a globally recognized lifestyle brand through impactful marketing strategies, storytelling-driven campaigns, and initiatives that reflect the diversity and spirit of Los Angeles.

Driven by a passion for the game beyond the pitch, Avilés is committed to growing soccer through increased access, creative expression, and meaningful pathways that inspire the next generation of players and fans.

His addition to the Cal South Board underscores the organization’s commitment to forward-thinking leadership, community impact, and the continued growth of soccer across Southern California.

About Cal South

Cal South is dedicated to fostering the development of soccer in Southern California by providing programs, resources, and leadership that support players of all ages and skill levels. Through its commitment to excellence, inclusion, and community engagement, Cal South continues to shape the future of the game.

Cal South Contact

Genesis Jefferson
Marketing Manager
gjefferson@calsouth.com

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Longtime Sonoma State Soccer Coach Marcus Ziemer Remembered for Lasting Impact on Northern California Soccer

Genesis Jefferson — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:57:26 +0000

In Memoriam

Longtime Sonoma State Soccer Coach Marcus Ziemer Remembered for Lasting Impact on Northern California Soccer

Marcus Ziemer, longtime Sonoma State men’s soccer head coach and a widely respected leader in the Bay Area soccer community, passed away in Germany at age 63.

Marcus Ziemer, the eldest of the well-known Ziemer brothers coaching family, died following an accident in Germany. He was 63. His passing was announced by his family and prompted an outpouring of support from across the Northern California soccer community.

Alongside his brothers Benjamin, Andrew, and Christopher, Ziemer helped shape a lasting soccer legacy throughout the Bay Area and North Bay. Their work through coaching, camps, youth development, and club programming made the Ziemer name deeply connected to the growth of the game in the region.

Legacy at Sonoma State

Ziemer served as the head coach of the Sonoma State University men’s soccer team for 35 years. During that time, he built one of the most successful programs in school history, earning multiple conference and regional coaching honors while leading the Seawolves to conference titles, NCAA Tournament appearances, and a 2002 NCAA Division II national championship.

Remembered Across the Soccer Community

Tributes following his passing described Ziemer as a beloved coach, mentor, and leader whose influence extended far beyond the field. Sonoma State, the San Jose Earthquakes, NorCal Premier Soccer, and fellow coaches all recognized the lasting impact he had on players, families, colleagues, and the broader soccer community.

He is survived by his wife, Trish, and children Thomas, Taylor, and Tera.

Source

Adapted from: CBS News Bay Area article by Carlos E. Castañeda

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Chobani Feed the Dream – Open to Clubs/Leagues

Genesis Jefferson — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:22:47 +0000

Memo to Clubs & Leagues

Chobani, the Official Nutrition Partner of U.S. Soccer, is launching its upcoming “Feed the Dream” consumer promotion to help support youth soccer clubs across the country.

What Clubs Can Win

Beginning April 1, 2026, clubs will have the opportunity to compete for a $5,000 sponsorship package, with winners determined through community voting on a microsite. A total of 500 winners will be selected to receive support that can help cover player fees, uniforms, team travel, equipment, and more, along with a Chobani merchandise kit.

How the Promotion Works

Chobani is working to make it easier for local communities to find and support their favorite clubs. The promotion is designed to create more visibility for youth soccer organizations while opening the door for meaningful funding and support.

This is an opportunity for clubs and leagues to gain exposure, rally their communities, and potentially secure added resources that help players continue to grow and thrive.

Interested in Entering?

Contact socialmarketing@calsouth.com for more details on how to enter your club or league.

Contact Social Marketing

Source

Information in this memo was provided directly by Chobani for the Feed the Dream National Promotion.

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Activate in Your Community with Soccer Forward Fests

Genesis Jefferson — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:11:59 +0000

Community Activation

Activate in Your Community with Soccer Forward Fests

Soccer Forward Fests are community-driven events designed to celebrate the game, grow participation, and bring the excitement of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup to communities across the country.

Soccer Forward Fests are an opportunity to activate Keeping Score of What Matters in your community. Together, communities across the country can help drive participation and access to soccer nationwide.

What Are Soccer Forward Fests?

Soccer Forward Fests provide a way to celebrate soccer through community-driven events. Fests will begin 100 days out from the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026 and continue through the tournament’s final whistle.

Schools, community organizations, U.S. Soccer Member Organizations, partners, and local leaders are all invited to register an existing event or host a new one. From Maine to Hawaii, from major cities to local neighborhoods, Soccer Forward Fests can happen anywhere people want to rally around the connecting power of soccer.

Fests can come to life in many ways, including:

Field Day
Cultural Festival
Youth Tournament
Block Party
Local Community Fair

Why Host a Fest?

Designed as part of a unifying storytelling platform, Soccer Forward Fests are meant to equip anyone, no matter where they live, to host an event that tells the story of soccer in their community and helps them feel part of the world’s biggest soccer tournament.

Hosting a Fest is also an opportunity to use soccer as a catalyst for lasting community impact while celebrating and growing the sport locally. At the same time, Soccer Forward and Common Goal help amplify these efforts on a national stage during a period of rapid growth for the sport in the United States.

The Fest Toolkit

Soccer Forward and Common Goal have assembled helpful tools to empower organizers to host soccer-centric, community-driven, and safe Fests that bring the energy of the biggest soccer event in history to life across the country.

Register Your Fest

If you’re interested in joining this nationwide, community-driven celebration, register your event and be part of the movement bringing soccer to life in communities across the country.

Fest Spotlight: Oakland Roots & Soul SC | Oakland, CA

FansFest is a homegrown, fan-organized event that celebrates Oakland’s rich sports legacy and current sports teams. As Oakland Roots and Soul, Oakland Ballers, and more gather, the event brings together kids, recreational and semi-professional teams, and the wider Oakland sports community in a shared celebration.

The event draws more than 2,000 people and creates a space for the community to support one another through the power of soccer and local sports culture.

Source

Article adapted from U.S. Soccer – Soccer Forward Fests.

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Cal South Partners with Toro Tents as its Official Tent & Event Structures Provider

Genesis Jefferson — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 05:07:51 +0000

Partnership News

Cal South Announces Partnership with Toro Tents

Members receive exclusive savings — learn more below.

Anaheim, Calif. — April, 2026 — Cal South, the official youth and adult state soccer association for Southern California, is proud to announce a new partnership with Toro Tents as its Official Tent & Event Structures Provider.

The agreement grants Toro Tents category exclusivity for tents, canopies, and related event structures across Cal South programming and events.

Through the partnership, Toro Tents will support Cal South tournaments, camps, tryouts, and special events with high-quality tent and event structure solutions that help power the behind-the-scenes logistics required to deliver first-class soccer experiences for players, families, and fans.

As part of the collaboration, Toro Tents will receive year-round visibility through Cal South’s digital communication channels and on-site presence at major events and tournaments, connecting the brand directly with Southern California’s youth soccer community.

“We’re excited to partner with Toro Tents. Their reliability and professionalism help ensure our clubs, teams, and events run smoothly. Together, we’re creating an environment where players, families, and the broader youth soccer community can focus on what matters most — enjoying the game.”

Jeff Dyrek, CEO, Cal South

About Toro Tents

“Power Your Brand, with the strength of a Bull”
Toro Tents & Displays is a leading manufacturer of high-quality promotional tents, printed flags, custom furniture, and trade show displays designed to help businesses, teams, and organizations stand out at events.

Specializing in state-of-the-art digital and dye-sublimation printing, Toro produces premium custom tents, banners, signage, table covers, advertising flags, and display products that elevate brand presence and event experiences.

With a commitment to quality, fast turnaround times, and customer satisfaction, most Toro orders are produced within 48–72 hours and delivered within one week. By combining wholesale pricing with exceptional craftsmanship, Toro Tents & Displays has established itself as a trusted leader in the promotional display industry.

About Cal South

The California State Soccer Association – South (Cal South) is a 501(c)(3) California public benefit corporation and the official youth and adult state soccer association for Southern California under the United States Soccer Federation, US Youth Soccer, and the United States Adult Soccer Association.

Serving a region that stretches from San Luis Obispo to San Diego, Cal South supports recreational and competitive soccer opportunities for players of all ages, genders, and skill levels while also advancing the development of coaching, refereeing, and the overall growth of the game across the region.

Learn More

Visit Toro Tents for more information about Cal South member savings, custom tents, branded event displays, and promotional products.

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