History

BRIEF HISTORY

The Yakima Reds Soccer Club was established in 1995 to provide local players the opportunity to play at a higher level. The Reds played their first two seasons in the United Soccer Leagues 2^nd division (USL-2). The Reds have played in the USL’s Premier Development League (PDL) since the 1997 season. The PDL has grown from 30 teams in 1997 to 68 in 2009. The Reds are one of the longest standing teams as they are one of only 14 current PDL teams that existed in 1997. The Reds continue to be the highest level men’s soccer team in all of Central Washington.

PHILOSOPHY

The Reds commit to being positive role models who value honesty, integrity and fair play. Our team partners the ideals of sportsmanship, competition and teamwork. We strive to provide a fun and safe environment to foster a passion for the game. We plan on being a competitive team through commitment and focus as a result of assisting team members and participants in their various forms of involvement. We further commit to developing player character, self confidence, discipline, dedication and respect of teammates and opponents through quality coaching. We are devoted to continue assisting our players in achieving their goals of playing at the highest levels.

PROGRAM

The mission of the Reds is to promote and to grow the beautiful game of soccer in the Yakima area. The club has provided professional coaching to athletes for 15 years and several players have advanced to professional and national ranks. While the Reds provide exciting entertainment for families and people of all ages with our semi-professional men’s team, we are also very involved with the Valley’s youth. We provide numerous activities for the Valley’s youth including free and economical soccer programs and clinics. We also partner with businesses to donate children’s tickets to various local organizations.

EXPOSURE

The Reds are committed to grassroots work in the community, local schools, local soccer organizations, partnerships with business and media, charity work and effective marketing. We are constantly collaborating with local organizations, coaches, players and fans with the goal of working together to advance soccer at all levels within the Valley. The Reds are also building relationships with international professional soccer clubs to provide exposure for their players and likewise for the Yakima Reds as the players progress through the professional ranks.

SUCCESS

The Reds most successful year as a team so far was the 2000 season. The Reds finished first in the Northwest Division (12-5-1) and then won the Western Conference Championship, eventually finishing 4^th in the entire PDL. The Reds were also chosen from among the 54 team league as “PDL Organization of the Year” by the United Soccer Leagues for the 2000 season. In 1998 the Reds were Northwest Division champions.

The Reds have had numerous players receive recognition from the League such as League MVP, Scoring Champion, Goal Scoring champion, Defender of the Year, All League team & All Western Conference team. The Reds have had even more players achieve individual success by moving on to play with higher level teams such as the Seattle Sounders and the New York Metrostars.