The American Youth Soccer Organization began in 1964 right here in Los Angeles with nine teams looking to play a sport that hadn't caught on in the states but was enormous worldwide. Today soccer is still a worldwide phenomena, but thanks to groups like the AYSO, popularity has skyrocketed in the U.S. It opened on six basic principles, all centered on good sportsmanship, fair play and equal opportunity for children of all backgrounds. This office that covers Region 254, which includes Burbank and surrounding areas, organizes games and teams and hires coaches and referees. Parents are asked to volunteer occasionally for games and parties.