No Cost Spokane Sounders U6, U7, U8 Youth Development Program Launches

Spokane Sounders is ecstatic and proud to announce the launching of a no cost Youth Development Program (YDP) for the U6, U7 and U8 age groups.

The opportunity for Spokane Sounders to provide an impactful program - for not only soccer development, but character development - at no cost is beyond exciting for the next steps for the youngest soccer players in our community.

The anticipation only builds as we are lucky enough to have former Everton FC Academy Coach Marc Mason leading and directing the YDP.

Originating from Liverpool, England, Mason was a part of Everton FC's U6-U8 system as a phase coach for six years; working under professional managers David Moyes (West Ham UTD) and Roberto Martinez (Belgium National Team Manager). He was also responsible for the education of grassroots coaches in his area; leading professional development opportunities, developing a key scouting system and talent identification program for the club.

Along with years of experience within an academy system, Mason is a UEFA B Licensed coach, holds an advanced FA Youth Award and has completed his Masters of Education toward health, fitness and sport psychology.

Since joining the Spokane Sounders family Mason has developed many ages across the club and has had multiple success stories such as team success with a State Cup Championship in 2017, to RCL Division Champions, to massively developing individual players for both soccer and character development. He has also worked with elite players in the development program for Washington Youth Soccer from 2017-2019.

“I have been so proud to be a part of the Spokane Sounders system and their direction to bring players of all backgrounds and ages through to help them reach their full potential," said YDP Director Marc Mason. "I have been able to see a genuine pathway for soccer players that is developmental, supportive and competitive; all toward a philosophy of respect, grit and determination to be the best they can be.”

With the launching of the YDP we are asking the community and reaching out to those that are interested in being a part of the No Cost Program. We are looking for enthusiastic and engaging members of our community to join us and help our players grow. Coaching Development is a core belief of the Program, with Mason providing the support, guidance and mentoring of the coaches throughout.

YDP will have Area Leaders who are committed, engaged and motivated for the love to coach, learn, collaborate and bring others into the beautiful game.

We are also seeking Volunteer Coaches consisting of parents, students and anyone looking to further their relationship with the game - those who wish to develop their knowledge and those who are willing to give some of their valuable time to help our players grow. Giving back to our community is an integral pillar of the program. With the support of Mason and the Spokane Sounders, coach education will be provided along with curriculum at no cost for an individual to achieve their grassroots coaching license if so desired.