About

Historical Photos Courtesy PYSA

Founded in 1973, Plymouth Youth Soccer Association (PYSA) has been a cornerstone of youth sports in our community for more than fifty years.

What began as a single team organized by Peter Gallagher has grown into one of the largest and longest-running youth soccer programs in Massachusetts.

When Gallagher moved away in 1974, Rich Tocci stepped in as president, joined by Tom Hanlon as vice president and Russ Govoni as treasurer. Under their leadership, the league quickly expanded—from just four teams that first year to more than one hundred within a few seasons. Families like the Toccis, Govonis, Foleys, Fords, and Jewells helped build the foundation of what PYSA still represents today: community, volunteerism, and a love for the game.

Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, PYSA became a fixture in town life. Tocci led the organization for two decades, emphasizing inclusion and neighborhood pride by forming teams around local elementary schools so kids could play alongside their classmates. After twenty years as president, he stepped down in 1994 and was honored as Massachusetts Youth Soccer’s Coach of the Year. Even after leaving the presidency, Rich continued coaching within PYSA until his retirement in 2019, marking over 40 years of service to Plymouth soccer.

Following Tocci’s tenure, Dave Coutts took over as president and guided the league through a new era of structure and growth. Under his leadership, PYSA strengthened its organization, expanded programming, and deepened its connection to the Coastal Youth Soccer League (CYSL) and Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association (MYSA). In recognition of his decades of leadership and dedication to the sport, Dave Coutts was inducted into the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Hall of Honor in 1998.

After Coutts, Phil Krueger became president and continued to modernize the program—expanding participation, improving communication, and helping transition PYSA into a digitally connected, community-centered organization. His efforts laid the groundwork for the current generation of leadership and volunteers.

In 2000, PYSA found its permanent home at Forges Field, providing players and families a true soccer hub. The association officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2015, ensuring long-term stability and transparency as a volunteer-run organization.

Today, PYSA serves hundreds of players each season through both in-town and travel programs. Beyond the game, we remain deeply connected to the community—hosting family events, youth clinics, volunteer initiatives, and partnerships with local schools and organizations that keep the spirit of teamwork alive throughout Plymouth.

After more than 50 years, PYSA continues to build on its proud tradition of teamwork, volunteerism, and community pride. Our mission remains the same as the day it started: to provide a fun, inclusive, and community-focused soccer experience for every child who wants to play.

PYSA Mission

Plymouth Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to growing the love of soccer in our community. We provide every child the chance to play, learn, and thrive—promoting teamwork, respect, and inclusion on and off the field.

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