Meet Matt Bambrick, CEO & Founder of SoCal Youth Sports Solutions

Matt Bambrick, CEO and Founder of SoCal Youth Sports Solutions, is on a mission to redefine youth soccer. Based in Los Angeles and surrounding areas like Glendale, Pasadena, and Burbank, Matt’s programs focus on kids between the ages of 4 and 14. His professionally coached leagues, camps, and classes offer a fresh, fun, and engaging approach for kids at all levels—from recreational beginners to competitive players.

What sets SoCal Youth Sports Solutions apart? Their focus on solving a major issue in youth sports: kids dropping out too early.

The Problem: Why Kids Quit Sports

The Aspen Institute reports that:

• By age 12, 72% of kids drop out of youth sports.
• Over 85% quit after three years due to boredom, harsh criticism, or an overly competitive environment.

Matt Bambrick saw these statistics and knew something needed to change. “Too many programs put pressure on competition and winning,” Matt explains. “We want to create an environment where kids have fun, stay engaged, and grow to love the game.”

A Fresh Solution: Nano Soccer and Street Soccer

To combat this issue, Matt introduced his own innovative version of youth soccer.

1. Nano Soccer

• For ages 4-7, traditional formats like 5v5 can be overwhelming.
• Instead, Matt’s program focuses on 1v1 games—simple, small-sided matches where kids learn faster, get more touches on the ball, and enjoy the game.
• “It’s about breaking the ‘beehive’ effect,” Matt says. The ‘beehive’ effect refers to how young kids often cluster around the ball like bees around a hive, resulting in chaotic play. By simplifying the game and fostering understanding, Nano Soccer helps children thrive in a more structured environment.

2. 3v3 Structured Street Soccer

• For ages 8-10, Matt developed 3v3 formats.
• This style is technical, fun, and encourages constant action.
• Kids stay engaged with back-and-forth play, sharpening their skills in a more creative and natural environment.

Programs like these set SoCal Youth Sports Solutions apart by focusing on fun, skill development, and participation rather than just competition.

Making Soccer Accessible to Everyone

SoCal Youth Sports Solutions is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Their mission? To make soccer affordable and accessible to all kids, regardless of background.

• Lower costs compared to competitors
• High-quality coaching focused on player experience
• Programs designed to prevent dropouts and keep kids active

The organization’s growing momentum reflects its success. Recently, Matt partnered with Nike Sports Camps and US Sports Camps, running events like a 3v3 soccer tournament at SoFi Stadium. These partnerships help bring world-class experiences to local families.

 

A Vision Inspired by Experience

Originally from Birmingham, England, Matt moved to the United States in 2020. He brought with him years of experience, working with top clubs like Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion in the UK.

One of Matt’s most significant influences was John Devine—a former Arsenal player and elite academy director. “John shaped how I approach youth soccer,” Matt says. “He showed me how to blend fun and development while always focusing on the player’s journey.”

Matt’s goal is simple: to build a program that reflects this same level of care, quality, and passion for the sport.

Growing a Community Hub

Beyond just soccer, Matt has a long-term vision:

• Build Community Spaces: Accessible hubs where families can gather, kids can play, and soccer thrives.
• Expand Opportunities: Introduce other sports and tackle the lack of safe, local play areas.
• Foster Street Soccer Culture: Reintroduce the fun and creativity of unstructured play—something Matt believes is missing in today’s programs.

About Matt Bambrick: A Passion for People and Soccer

Outside of running SoCal Youth Sports Solutions, Matt enjoys playing golf, cooking fancy meals (a skill he perfected during COVID), and spending time with his wife. Married in 2023, Matt and his wife love the Los Angeles weather and have found a strong, supportive community in the area.

Reflecting on his journey, Matt says, “I’ve been lucky to work with incredible people and bring my passion to Southern California. I want every kid who joins our programs to love soccer as much as I do.”

Why Parents Choose SoCal Youth Sports Solutions

• Innovative Programs: Nano soccer and 3v3 formats keep kids engaged and active.
• Affordable & Accessible: High-quality programs at a lower cost.
• Focused on Fun: A welcoming environment where every child thrives.

SoCal Youth Sports Solutions is growing rapidly and changing the game for youth soccer in Southern California. If you’re looking for a program that prioritizes your child’s enjoyment and development, this is the place to start.

 

Contact

Website: www.socalyouthsports.com

Email: matt@socalyouthsports.com

Phone: +1 323 991 7668