Official MLS Go Partner Recreational League
EMSSC is now an official MLS Go Partner Recreational League!
EMSSC has officially partnered with MLS GO to become an Official MLS GO Partner Recreational League! This collaboration opens up a brand-new pathway for development, fun, and connection to the highest levels of soccer right here in our community. While focused on fun and accessibility, our MLS Go program elevate the traditional recreational league in key ways, designed to foster better development and a deeper love for the game.
Our coaches are the heart of our program, and with MLS Go, we'll be able to equip them with professional-level support to provide the best possible experience. EMSSC coaches will receive direct access to the MLS Go developed training guides and comprehensive playbook. These resources are designed to ensure high quality and fun learning environments focused on fundamental skill development, sportsmanship, and teamwork.
Why MLS Go?
- Built for Fun and Development: MLS Go Emphasizes enjoyment and learning. It’s a low-pressure environment where kids can fall in love with soccer while developing their skills.
- Officially Backed by Major League Soccer: Being part of a program supported by MLS means professional structure, quality, training, and a pathway to future opportunities.
- Inclusive & Accessible: It’s open to all skill levels, making it a great first soccer experience.
- Community-Focused: You’ll meet and play with friends from your own neighborhood, strengthening bonds and building local pride.
- MLS Style Uniforms: Players will receive custom jerseys modeled after real MLS teams, which adds excitement and connection to professional soccer.
- Age-Appropriate Field Sizes: Younger players thrive on smaller fields. This means more opportunities for every child to touch the ball, make decisions, and actively participate in the game. Realigning our field sizes based on MLS Go recommendations means more touches, more fun!
- Learn Soccer the Right Way: Trained coaches teach the game with a focus on sportsmanship, teamwork, and technical development, setting a solid foundation for future success. Coaches are provided with a playbook designed for fun at developmentally appropriate levels.
Registration Dates
Registration for the spring is now open! Registration closes March 15, 2026 for the Spring Season
More Info on MLS Go
What is MLS GO and what does this partnership mean for EMSSC players?
MLS GO is Major League Soccer's official recreational youth soccer program, focused on making soccer fun, affordable, and accessible for all children. As an Official MLS GO Partner, EMSSC will now offer an enhanced recreational league experience, including official MLS team-branded uniforms, access to MLS-crafted training guides for coaches, and a direct connection to the professional soccer pathway. It means a higher quality, more engaging, and inspiring soccer experience for our recreational players!
How does becoming an Official MLS GO Partner Recreational League impact EMSSC's competitive teams?
This exciting change only applies to our recreational leagues. There are no changes to EMSSC's competitive team structure, programs, or operations. Our competitive teams will continue their dedicated pathways as before. MLS GO is specifically designed to elevate the recreational soccer experience.
Who can join? Where are games played?
MLS GO welcomes youth soccer players ages 3-14 to embark on their soccer journey with us. MLS GO games take place at Jacob’s Park in East Moline, Illinois.
What equipment will my child need to participate?
With your registration fee, players in the EMSSC MLS GO Recreational League will receive an official MLS team-branded jersey, shorts, and socks. Players will need to provide their own shin guards (mandatory) and soccer cleats. Coaches will be provided with soccer balls for practices and games.
How do I register my child for the EMSSC MLS GO Recreational League?
Registration is open now through August 31! You can find more information and register at this link .
What support is provided for coaches?
All EMSSC coaches will receive the MLS Go Playbook. The playbook includes guidance for working with kids at each level. Weekly practice plans are mapped out, including visuals and videos. User-friendly resources make coaching a team easier than ever, even with limited soccer knowledge.
How can I sign up to coach a team?
Coaches are the heart of our program! If you'd like to sign up to be a volunteer coach, you can indicate on your player's registration this interest. Also, feel free to email adoc.rec@emssc.org to sign up as a coach!
Is financial aid offered?
Yes, you can apply for the MLS GO PLAY FUND which offers financial assistance for MLS GO participants nationwide. A parent or legal guardian of the participant must complete the application to be considered for the 2025 MLS GO PLAY FUND grant cycle. You can view and submit the application HERE.
Do I need to sign up separately for the Fall and Spring season?
Yes, registration is required for each separate season (Fall and Spring). The MLS GO program is structured seasonally, so players must be signed up before the deadline for both the Fall and Spring sessions if they wish to play year-round.
Please be aware that with each seasonal registration, your child may be placed with a different team or coach to balance rosters and provide varied experiences. If you have a preference for a specific coach or to be placed with friends, you can and should indicate that preference directly on the registration form. We will do our best to accommodate requests, but placement is not guaranteed.
EMSSC Director
Charlie Ochoa
director@emssc.org
Rec Coordinator
Nick Lack
rec.coordinator@emssc.org
DOC Assistant - Recreational Program
Enrique Sandoval
adoc.rec@emssc.org