Our Story
Our Journey, Our Community
From backyard soccer games to a thriving cultural movement — discover how HYSA grew from 12 families to a powerful community platform for youth empowerment. We foster leadership, discipline, cultural pride, and unity through soccer, mentorship, and meaningful community engagement.
How It All Began
From Backyard Lessons to a Thriving Community Movement
Over a decade ago, our story began with a simple but powerful idea: raise our children in a culturally rooted, value-driven community.
Twelve Habesha families came together in Aldie, Virginia, intentionally settling within a 2-mile radius. We shared meals, taught our children Amharic, and created a space for belonging. Soccer became our bond — the field, our meeting ground.
A Growing Tradition
The Rise of a Tradition
What began as weekend soccer games grew into something much bigger. Each Saturday, laughter echoed through the field as more children joined.
Year after year, the tradition deepened. We weren’t just playing soccer—we were building identity, community, and connection. HYSA became a way to raise youth with pride in their heritage.
A Vibrant Network
From Vision to Movement
What started with a dozen families has become a network of 100+ children and growing.
Our Saturdays now bring together youth from across the DMV to play, learn, and grow — together. HYSA is no longer just an idea; it’s a living movement powered by community values, shared goals, and future-focused leadership.
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Youth Athletes Trained
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Volunteer Coaches & Mentors
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States Covered in the DMV
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Community-Driven & Nonprofit-Based
The Birth of HYSA
Introducing HYSA
As our children grew, so did our dream. We knew this needed to be more than soccer.
Habesha Youth Soccer Association (HYSA) was born — structured not just to play, but to lead. HYSA is our promise to raise leaders, preserve culture, and support each child with mentorship, academics, and empowerment.
Soccer
Culture
Mental & Social Wellness
Education
Support the Empowerment Hub
Help us grow tomorrow’s leaders. Donate, volunteer, or spread the word. Together, we empower through purpose.