McLean Youth Soccer BuildingSkills, Confidence, and Community

By: Charlie Gallegos

For thousands of young athletes in our area, McLean Youth
Soccer (MYS) is more than just a sports program—it’s
a place where passion for soccer and personal growth
come together. Under the leadership of Program Director
Michael Newhall and Executive Director Louise Waxler,
MYS has become a cornerstone of our community, fostering development
on and off the field.
Catering to children from ages 2 through college (WPSL/CCL Pro), MYS offers
a range of programs, including travel, recreational, and the newly introduced
Mclean Development Program, along with camps and skills training.

Each program is carefully designed to meet the needs of its participants. The level
of commitment increases with competitive tiers: recreational players train
once a week with weekend games, while travel players train up to three
times weekly and compete in 1-2 matches each weekend.
“There’s something for everyone at MYS,” says Michael
Newhall. “Whether they’re new to soccer or striving for
professional aspirations, we ensure that every child is
supported and challenged appropriately.”
MYS places a strong emphasis on maintaining a healthy balance
between competitive play and enjoyment. “We’re working with kids, not
professionals,” explains Newhall. “Winning is important, but not at the
expense of development and fun. Each player should leave practice having
learned something, exercised, and, most importantly, looked forward to
coming back.”

MYS isn’t just about developing soccer players; it’s about shaping well rounded individuals. Newhall, Waxler, and their team of coaches prioritize
teaching life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience, which players
carry with them long after their soccer days are over. Positive reinforcement
and fostering self-belief are cornerstones of the program’s philosophy.
Over the years, MYS has celebrated numerous success stories. Hundreds
of players have advanced to collegiate-level soccer, competing at D1, D2,
and D3 schools. Others have gone on to win national championships, play
professionally, and even represent the U.S. on the international stage. Most
recently, an MYS alumna played for the U.S. Women’s National Team in the
World Cup—a testament to the program’s ability to nurture talent at the
highest level.

The success of MYS wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support
of parents and the local community. Parents play an integral role, from
cheering on the sidelines to assisting with logistics. MYS also takes pride in
hosting four tournaments annually, drawing teams from across the country
to compete in McLean.
The future of MYS is bright, with ambitious plans to grow its programs and
enhance the experience for all participants. The program strives to become
a hub for top-tier player development while fostering a love for the game.
“We aim to develop the whole player, focusing on the entire age group rather
than just the top teams,” shares Newhall. “We want kids to push each other
on the field and become lifelong friends off it.”

Interested in getting your child started with
McLean Youth Soccer? It’s as easy as reaching
out to their dedicated staff, who are ready to
assist parents every step of the way.
At McLean Youth Soccer, it’s not just about the
game—it’s about building confidence, friendships,
and a foundation for success both on and off the field.