Oregon Youth Soccer State Cup

Top competitive tier

• Purpose: Identify the best teams in the state
• Level: Highest—elite, top 1–2 teams in each age group
• Pathway: State → Regionals → Nationals (via US Youth Soccer)
• Environment: Highly competitive, results-driven, intense

 This is where your strongest teams go if they are chasing championships at the highest level.

Oregon Youth Soccer Presidents Cup

Strong competitive tier

• Purpose: Provide a meaningful postseason for high-level teams not in State Cup
• Level: Competitive, but a step below State Cup
• Pathway: State → Regionals → Nationals (separate Presidents Cup track)
• Environment: Balanced competition, still serious but more parity

This is often the best fit for solid, competitive teams that may not be at the very top but still want a legitimate championship experience.

Oregon Youth Soccer Founders Cup

Participation & development tier

• Purpose: Keep teams playing, developing, and engaged in a postseason format
• Level: Lower and more flexible
• Pathway: Primarily state-level event (no national track)
• Environment: More relaxed, development-focused, less emphasis on results

 This is not really about high-level competition. It’s more about:

• Giving teams extra games
• Extending the season
• Providing a positive, low-pressure tournament experience

Breakdown

State Cup
Level: Highest
Focus: Winning / Elite Competition
Pressure: Very High
Pathway: Regional + National

Presidents Cup
Level: High
Focus: Competitive Balance
Pressure: Moderate–High
Pathway: Regional + National

Founders Cup
Level: Lower
Focus: Development & Participation
Pressure: Low
Pathway: State Only

How clubs typically view it

• State Cup → “Are we one of the best teams in Oregon?”
• Presidents Cup → “We’re competitive—let’s play meaningful games and chase a title at the right level.”
• Founders Cup → “Let’s keep playing, developing, and enjoying the game without heavy pressure.”