Registration for the 2015 Vicksburg Soccer Organization has begun. VSO is running an “early bird” special, which a person gets $5 off if they register by July 31.

Open registration ends Aug. 23.

VSO was founded in 1974 by people who really loved the game. Several of VSO original founders had a helping hand in organizing the Mississippi Youth Soccer Association including Don Rathburn.

“Last year we had 50 recreation teams from ages 3 to 18 and we have competitive teams also,” said Anne Mullins, registrar for VSO.

The recreational program is designed to introduce soccer to players 5-years-old and younger. The focus, according the VSO, is the develop skills to help them play the best they can.

Rec games are held in the soccer complex in Bovina, passed clear creek complex.

In addition to recreational and competitive teams, there is also a developmental program option for children in the Under-8 and Under-10 age bracket.

The Cannon Cadets Developmental Program is designed to give more advanced players enhanced training during an additional session each week. The session is ran by a professional Coerver Coach, which – according the Coerver Coaching’s official website- is a soccer skills teaching method for all ages focusing on individual development and small group play.

VSO regards the Cannon Cadets as a springboard to high level of soccer training, exposing players to the requirements of playing competitive soccer.

The Cannon Soccer Club is the competitive team under VSO.

Cannon Soccer Club plays in tournaments from Jackson to Monroe. It is for boys and girls ages 10-18, who prefer more intense practices, competitive games and a regular game schedule. The commitment is nine months and teams are form after official tryouts have been held.

Tryouts are generally held in June. A professional, nationally licensed coaching staff, according to VSO, coaches the soccer club.

After the success of the Women’s World Cup win and the Men’s National Team, soccer is beginning its dominance in America.

Mullens said applications slightly increase every year, but might see a bigger increase of the Women’s World Cup.

“Whenever there is a world cup match, it always increases interest in soccer.”