|
Referee Availability for
League & Tournaments
As our local soccer community expands, the demand for both new and experienced referees is on the rise! Be part of America's Largest Soccer League and help support the game. Check out the Referee Classes page for details on meeting schedules, training, and certification programs. With games hosted at top facilities like SCHEELS Overland Park Soccer Complex, Swope Soccer Village, Compass Minerals Sporting Fields, and GARMIN Olathe Soccer Complex, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Sign up today to become a referee!
| | |
Heartland Soccer Association is now located at The Aspiria Complex
(previously Sprint Campus)
6450 Spring Parkway, Suite A, Overland Park, KS 66211
Phone: 913-888-8768
Heartland Soccer Association is recognized
as one of the largest soccer leagues
and tournament hosts in the country.
We offer recreational to premier divisions, ages U8 through U19.
| |
Indoor and Outdoor Signs, Flags and Window Decals
913-706-7352
levinead@sbcglobal.net
| |
Join the Heartland Soccer Association Newsletter!
At Heartland Soccer Association, we’re always looking for ways to enhance communication and stay innovative. We have an exciting opportunity for you to get involved by contributing to our newsletter! Here’s how you can be a part of it:
- Player/Team Stories and Achievements: Share the success stories of players and teams in our community! We’d love to highlight milestones, accomplishments, and special moments.
- Expert Tips & Insights: Whether it’s soccer-related or not, if you’ve got expertise to share, we want to hear from you! Are you a gardening expert? A culinary enthusiast? A nature lover with great hiking trail recommendations? Send us your knowledge!
- Photos & Videos: If you captured any standout moments this season, we’d love to feature them in our newsletter. Send us your best photos or videos, and we’ll make sure they’re shared with the community!
- Inspiration & Encouragement: Calling all poets, artists, and creatives! If you have words or art that inspire others, we’d love to include them in our newsletter to motivate and uplift our community.
- Community Spotlights: Know someone in our community who is making a real difference? We’d love to shine a spotlight on their efforts and share their story.
At Heartland Soccer Association, our goal is to make the newsletter a space where everyone feels welcome to contribute. Your voice, talents, and insights are what make our community strong, so don’t hesitate to share what you’ve got!
To contribute or for any questions, please reach out to Katie at katie@falcocreativemedia.com. Thank you for your continued support!
| Did you know? March is the only month that commands you to take action! Its name comes from Martius, the first month of the ancient Roman calendar, named after Mars, the god of war. So whether you're marching onto the soccer field or marching toward new goals, this month is all about movement and momentum! | |
Parents' Playbook:
Fun Activities to Kick Off March with Your Kids
1️⃣ Watch MLS Opening Matches – The MLS season kicks off in full swing! Watch a game together and discuss plays, teamwork, and strategies.
2️⃣ Bracket Challenge – With March Madness in full force, create your own "Soccer Madness" bracket by ranking favorite teams, players, or goals from past games.
3️⃣ Spring Training Drills – As the weather warms up, practice passing, dribbling, and shooting in the backyard or at the park.
4️⃣ DIY Soccer Goal Challenge – Set up a fun goal challenge at home using cones, laundry baskets, or even chalk on a wall.
5️⃣ Soccer-Themed Movie Night – Watch classics like Bend It Like Beckham, The Big Green, or Pelé: Birth of a Legend with some game-time snacks.
| |
This Month in History:
24 March 2012 - Ronaldo Rolls To 100
| |
On 24 March 2012, Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 100th La Liga goal, hitting that milestone faster than any other player in club history.
Ronaldo was in his third La Liga season, having joined Real Madrid from Manchester United in a July 2009 deal worth £80 million. He scored 26 league goals that first season, then 40 in the next. Despite that prolific output, however, Real Madrid finished as runners-up to Barcelona both seasons.
He got off to another productive start in 2011-12, with 33 goals in Madrid's first twenty-eight league games to bring his overall tally to 99 while the club secured their spot at the top of the table.
For their next match, Madrid hosted Real Sociedad at the Bernabéu and took the lead with a sixth-minute goal from striker Gonzalo Higuaín. Then in the 32nd minute, Ronaldo received the ball on the left and raced past the defense, squared up against the keeper, and sent a right-footed shot just inside the far post.
It his 100th La Liga goal in just his 92nd game, beating the previous club record of Ferenc Puskás, who needed 105 games to get to that mark. But it fell just short of the overall record, set by Real Oviedo's Isidro Lángara, who did it in 90 games.
Ronaldo went on to score a second as Madrid won 5-1, then proceeded to take the league title.
This article was taken from - https://tdifh.blogspot.com/2018/03/24-march-2012-ronaldo-rolls-to-100.html
| |
2024/2025
Tournament Team Numbers
| |
Border Battle '25 - 172
Midwest College Showcase '25 - 65
Heartland Spring Cup '25 - 171
KC Champions Cup '24 - 410
Mother's Day Classic '24 - 371
Kansas City Invitational '24 - 334
KC 3v3 '24 - 65
Heartland Open Cup '24 - 61
Fall Kick Off Challenge '24- 170
Heartland Midwest Classic '24 - 129
Midwest All Boys '24 - 230
Midwest All Girls '24 - 301
Heartland Invitational Girls '24 - 377
Heartland Invitational Boys '24 - 480
*In the last 12 months Heartland welcomed teams from a total of 17 states and Canada.
| |
Heartland Soccer's Tournament Reach:
A National and International Stage
In the past 12 months alone, Heartland has welcomed teams from 17 states and Canada, demonstrating the league’s reach and influence across North America. These numbers reflect the growth, diversity, and prestige of Heartland’s tournaments, making them key fixtures in the youth soccer landscape.
With each tournament, Heartland continues to provide players with incredible opportunities to showcase their skills while bringing together teams from near and far. We’re proud to be a part of such a dynamic and thriving soccer community!
| |
Come ESCAPE with us!
Exercise your MIND
at one of KC’s most exciting
escape room adventures.
Lots of fun!
Soccer weekends sell out quickly
| |
2024-25
Heartland Numbers
Spring league teams '25- 1,400
Fall league teams '24- 1,388
League players - 48,000
Tournament teams - 3,500
Tournament players - 56,000
Referees - 2,000+
Coaches - 4,000
| |
Why These Numbers Matter
The numbers behind Heartland Soccer Association are impressive not just for their size but for the way they reflect the league’s commitment to quality, inclusivity, and community. With nearly 50,000 players, thousands of coaches and referees, and a robust tournament structure, Heartland is setting the stage for future soccer stars while providing a place for everyone to enjoy the beautiful game.
These incredible figures also show just how deeply rooted soccer is in the Kansas City area. Heartland Soccer Association is more than just a league; it’s a cornerstone of youth sports, bringing together families, communities, and passionate individuals who all share a love for soccer.
As Heartland continues to grow, one thing is clear: this league is not just the largest in America—it's a leader in shaping the future of youth soccer, one game at a time.
| For more information on VIDSPORT email: Lisa.Lindsey@Heartlandsoccer.net | |
MYSA NEWS
Under MYSA's sanctioning agreement and guidelines, ALL Missouri based teams (all ages and divisions) registering for the Heartland Soccer Spring 2025 League season must be registered through MYSA.
Heartland Soccer is a qualifying league for Missouri State Cup.
| |  | Spring into our 2025 Soccer Season! | |
As the days get longer and the fields turn green again, it can only mean one thing—Spring Soccer is here! Welcome back to another record-breaking season with Heartland Soccer Association, where the love of the game. is on full display.
Spring soccer brings fresh opportunities for growth, teamwork, and friendship that last a lifetime. Whether it’s a player scoring their first goal, a team learning about communication, or families cheering from the sidelines, every match is a chance to build lifelong memories.
This season, we’re excited to see new talent, celebrate hard-fought victories, and watch players develop their skills with passion and dedication. As always, we encourage good sportsmanship, appreciation for teammates and opponents, respect of referees, and most of all—having fun!
Keep an eye out for updates, highlights, and important league news throughout the season. Let’s lace up our cleats, hit the field, and make this spring one to remember.
Welcome to the Heartland Soccer Spring Season—let’s take the field!
|
Why Choose a Heartland Soccer Tournament?
Heartland tournaments consistently draw hundreds of teams from multiple states, creating a unique and competitive atmosphere for every level of play. With up to six competitive divisions, each team is matched against opponents of similar skill, ensuring a great experience for all.
Our tournaments take place at world-class facilities, including:
🏟️ SCHEELS Overland Park Soccer Complex – a $36 million state-of-the-art venue
📍 GARMIN Olathe Soccer Complex – featuring pristine turf fields and top-tier amenities
Upcoming Tournaments –
Don’t Miss Out!
🌹Midwest Mother’s Day Classic
One of the largest and most family-friendly tournaments in the Midwest! This event welcomes nearly 400 teams annually from 7+ states for an exciting weekend of soccer while celebrating the incredible moms in our soccer community.
⚽ Kansas City Invitational
The largest soccer tournament in Kansas City, the KC Invitational consistently sells out year after year. With teams traveling from 14 different states, this event provides a high-energy, competitive environment across four different levels of play: Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Recreational.
🎉 The Perfect Way to End Your Season
Our tournaments are the final stop of the season for many teams, making them the ultimate opportunity to close out strong and make lasting memories.
💻 Register Today!
Don’t wait—secure your team’s spot before registration closes. More tourney info for the fall, videos and link to register is here.
|
Midwest Mother’s Day Classic
May 9 - 11, 2025
Registration Deadline:
April 7, 2025
| |
The Midwest Mother’s Day Classic consistently attracts over 400+ teams including competition from 7 states every year. The Midwest Mother’s Day Classic offers competitive levels of play ensuring that every team finds itself matched against similar competition. In addition to providing excellent competition, this tournament is formatted to be particularly family friendly.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
|
KANSAS CITY INVITATIONAL
Sponsored by CH Roofing & Exteriors
May 23 - 25, 2025
Registration Deadline:
April 21, 2025
| |
Kansas City Invitational is the single largest soccer tournament in Kansas City and consistently sells out. This tournament offers four different levels of competition: Gold, Silver, Bronze and Recreational. Teams have traveled from 14 different states to play in the Kansas City Invitational. Appropriate seeding of teams ensures that everyone can compete against opponents of their own ability level.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
| |
NO BS!
Don’t feel like cooking on tournament or practice days? ½ off appetizers at the Burger Shed with the purchase of an entrée. Just mention this ad along with Heartland Soccer.
We offer a full bar and restaurant right across the street from the GARMIN Olathe Soccer Complex. The Burger Shed is located inside the Embassy Suites.
Take a look at our menu: https://eatatburgershed.com/olathe/
Please call ahead for parties of 6 or more: 913-353-9335
| |
4v4 & 5v5 Games
Set Up:-
Two fields 40x30
One field teams play 4v4, other field teams play 5v5
Coaching Points:
Focus on body shape to receive and play forward
Look for quick combinations to advance up the field
Movement with and without the ball
| |
What is an Emergency Fund?
As much as we would like to pretend otherwise, we all have our spells of bad luck—an unexpected illness, a car accident, a leaky pipe. If you want to get through the inevitable rough patches without breaking the bank, it’s vital to have a robust emergency fund.
Reframe Your Thinking
Your emergency fund is not your general savings account. And it isn’t just telling yourself, “Well, if something happens, I’ll be fine because I can pull from here and move some money over there and not buy this…”. An emergency fund needs to be money that will only be used in an emergency.
This money needs to be a set amount kept in a separate account than the rest of your money so that it doesn’t get accidentally spent. It’ll also need to be somewhere you can access quickly when needed. A dedicated savings account is probably the easiest place, but you can also explore other options like multiple Share Certificates or a money market account if those would better suit your preferences.
The Bigger the Better
Experts recommend that your emergency fund be large enough to support your essential needs for at least 3-6 months. That would include rent or mortgage payments, other bills, food, and debt payments. But it’s never a bad thing to have even more saved. Just think how much more security a full year of funding would give you as opposed to just 3 months. How much will be right for you?
You can find more tips, tools and valuable banking options at Azura Credit Union. Visit us in person at one of our convenient locations or online at AzuraCU.com.
Source: Emergency Fund
Azura Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.
| | | |
Referee Corner: Exploring the Referee Abuse Program being implemented by U.S. Soccer in March 2025…
The Referee article for this month introduces the new Referee Abuse Policy (Policy 531-9) being implemented by U.S. Soccer. There are steps each of us can take to make sure we are ready. Understanding what is in the policy is a first step to assure compliance and to drive the behavior needed to grow our officials and our game.
Let us take a look at Level 1, Non-Physical abuse – Verbal Taunting - in this month’s Referee Corner:
| |
We know that there are multiple ways to say something, and not all comments directed at the Referee will meet the level of Verbal Taunting. We have all been on the sidelines and have heard the comments made at the Referee team in the heat of the passion of the game. U.S. Soccer is challenging us to use common sense when we have a question about a decision by a Referee or Assistant Referee. The recommended approach is to share your perspective calmly, avoiding yelling or insults. In other words, apply the golden rule (treat others as you would want them to treat you).
According to the policy “Referee” includes the following:
-
All currently registered USSF Referees, Assistant Referees, 4th officials, or others duly appointed to help in officiating in a sanctioned match. A Referee who is not certified or registered with U.S. Soccer or member organizations may not be covered by this policy.
- There are emergency situations that are covered:
- Any non-licensed, non-registered person serving in an emergency capacity as a Referee or any club AR under USSF policies.
- Any person serving in a Referee support function, such as Referee Mentors and other Referee support staff at the venue.
We are not saying that Referees only make correct decisions. We will continue to provide Continuing Education during the season and match-time mentoring to increase the effectiveness of your Referee decisions. Remember, the game is the best teacher of how to become an effective player and how to become an even more effective official.
We know that you will help us manage the few people who will try and tarnish the game for all of us. Thank you in advance for your support during the Spring season. And, if you are interested in becoming a certified Referee (part of the solution) you can register for clinics at the Kansas Referee website.
| | | |
U.S. Soccer introduces/mandates new
Referee Abuse Program, effective March 2025…
There continues to be a severe shortage of officials supporting youth sports, including youth soccer. The Kansas Referee Development Corporation has been certifying around 600 new Referees each year. The primary problem is not recruitment. Instead, it is retention.
U.S. Soccer shared the following facts:
- 90% of Referees report that abuse has increased over the last 5 years.
- 60% of Referees choose not to recertify due to harassment and threats.
- Youth soccer needs Referees to grow. Without them games cannot happen.
The Kansas Referee Development Corporation is experiencing similar concerns in Kansas. We know that 100% Referee retention is not a realistic goal. Referees, like players, may decide that there are other ways that they want to invest their time and efforts during weekends, and that is acceptable. During our Entry Level Clinics we ask the Referee Candidates their concerns about becoming a Referee. In every class the concerns are the same. They don’t want to make mistakes (which we all do) and they don’t want to get yelled at. This is a challenge that must be addressed to grow the number of recertifying Referees in Kansas (remember, the game is the bst teacher and experience is the way we learn). Referee Abuse is an issue that is on the rise. U.S. Soccer believes it is time to bring awareness to this systemic problem and to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all of the members of the soccer community. This is the reason for the new Referee Abuse Program being implemented by U.S. Soccer for Youth and Amateur matches
To review the specifics of the new U.S. Soccer policy which goes into effect in March 2025 click on the following: new U.S. Soccer Policy on Referee Abuse.
The updated policy includes stronger sanctions for any form of physical or non-physical abuse towards Referees. Every coach, player and spectator is being encouraged to learn what behaviors are defined as crossing the line, so they can avoid penalties and help create a better culture for the future of soccer in Kansas and at Heartland.
Coaches should lead by example, setting the tone for good sportmanship with their players. Players should respect their Referees, whether they agree with their calls or not. Parents and spectators should cheer for their team, not against the Referee. This wil help create a positive environment. Referees should understand the policy and report legitimate abuse to help keep the game safe. Field Marshals and Administrators need to understand the definitions of abuse and ensure that the few people that abuse the game are reported and dealt with according to the new policies.
Let’s look at some of the details around the new policy:
The first category is NON-PHYSICAL ABUSE. Contact does not have to be made for damage to occur. Hurtful language and aggressive behavior has no place in our game. It disrupts matches, interferes with the Referee’s ability to do their job and it hurts the game for everyone. Left unchecked it takes an emotional toll that has the potential to escalate into
physically dangerous situations. There are multiple levels defined in the policy:
Level 1: Verbal Taunting
Level 2: Harassment/Intimidation
Level 3: Threats/derogatory language
Level 4: Offensive or discriminatory acts
The next category is PHYSICAL ABUSE. This makes the game unsafe for everyone. Outside of friendly handshakes, there is never a reason to tourch the Referee. Any unwanted contact is considered physical abuse. Physical violence can also result in criminal charges, lawsuits or medical liability. Again there are multiple levels defined in the new policy:
Level 1: Minor or slight touching
Level 2: Intentional confrontation
Level 3: Violent contact
- Offenses against minors (remember that most of your Referees are under the age of 18 so offenses against them are considered offenses against minors) are automatically subject to a “minor multiplier” resulting in triple punishment.
Here is a table that outlines the Penalty matrix:
| | We are confident that the Heartland community will embrace these behaviors and continue to grow our soccer experiences. We look forward to seeing you on the pitch this Spring, | | |
Monthly Referee Meetings
Are you wanting to improve as a referee? How about get less grief? What about being considered for higher level games and state cup? Attending monthly Kansas Referee Program meetings is a great step to help all of that happen! Don't miss opportunities to hone your craft, win some fun prizes, make new friends and elevate your game as an elite Kansas soccer referee! Referees of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to attend!
| | |
If you are interested in becoming a Referee, please check out the Entry Level Clinics are posted at www.kansasreferee.org. There are many ways to create successful young adults in our game. You can build up players. You can support the coaches. You can congratulate Referees on their efforts. You can thank the assignors on site for their contributions. All of us can enjoy the opportunity that we have to enjoy the beautiful game in the Heartland Soccer Association. Remember, this foundation was not created by accident. A lot of committed people spent a lot of their time making this happen. Thank them.
| | |
Referee Spotlight: Aiden
At Heartland Soccer, our referees play a crucial role in keeping the game fair, fun, and competitive. This month, we’re shining the Referee Spotlight on Aiden, a dedicated official who has been blowing the whistle and making calls since June 2019.
Aiden first got certified as a referee to earn some extra money, but what started as a side gig quickly became something he truly enjoys. "I like soccer, so being able to make money while doing something I like is awesome," he says.
Aiden’s passion for the game led him to officiate not only outdoor soccer but also Futsal, starting in 2020. "It’s fast-paced and fun to watch," he shares. The quick decision-making required in futsal has helped him sharpen his skills—something that has translated into life lessons as well.
One of the biggest takeaways from his refereeing experience? Quick decision-making. As a referee, he has learned how to stay composed under pressure and make split-second calls—an ability that benefits him both on and off the field.
Aiden aspires to continue climbing the referee ranks, with his sights set on officiating at the college level in the future. His dedication to the game is evident not only in his officiating but also in his playing career. He currently plays for Toca FC 2007 and was a varsity player for Olathe East High School.
When he's not on the field, Aiden enjoys spending time with his church youth group, listening to music, and hanging out with friends. He’s also a fan of action-packed movies like The Dark Knight and enjoys reading futuristic thrillers like Scythe, a book that kept him on the edge of his seat.
Aiden proudly supports the Tottenham Hotspurs, proving that his love for soccer extends beyond playing and refereeing—it’s truly a part of who he is.
We appreciate Aiden’s dedication to the game and his commitment to ensuring a great experience for players, coaches, and fans alike. Thanks for all you do, Aiden—see you on the field!
| | |
| |  |
Heartland Soccer Association is seeking action photo shots of kids of all ages and abilities playing soccer in Heartland League Games or Tournaments. Submitted photos may be included in Heartland Tournament, League and other promotional materials as well as social media posts.
Instructions for submitting photos:
All submitted photo files must be .jpg format, must be a minimum of 1,200 x 1,600 pixels, and no larger than 2 MB in size. Submitting a photo doesn't guarantee that it will be used.
By submitting a photo for consideration for use in Heartland Soccer Association promotional materials, you agree that:
1. You are the sole author of the photograph and control all rights for its use. The photograph is original. You have the rights to grant usage of the photograph as stated below. There has been no prior sale, publication or transfer of rights to the photograph. The photograph shall not contain any libelous or scandalous matter. To the best of your knowledge, the photograph's creation, publication and use shall not infringe any copyright, right of privacy or right of publicity, or infringe or violate any right of any third party.
2. You grant to Heartland Soccer Association all rights to use the photograph in any and all forms of media, including but not limited to electronic, digital media and print.
3. You allow Heartland Soccer Association the right to edit, revise, adapt and crop the photo as necessary.
| | | | | |
