2026 Rivera Classic
Celebrating Year 50!
Under the leadership of Sandi and Ray Rivera, youth soccer began in Gainesville in 1976. This year, GNV-YSI honors these roots and carries on the tradition that was started 50 years ago. Sandi, the Recreational Director, continues to lend her expertise and valued experience to the program that celebrates kids playing soccer. With the vision to provide a safe and fun environment for players of all abilities, the league continues with her at the helm.
FALL 2026 RECREATIONAL PROGRAM
Run by program founder Sandi Rivera since 1976, GNV-YSI is the largest and fastest-growing youth co-ed recreational soccer program in the area!
The Sporting GNV Soccer Academy Recreational Program is a fun-filled soccer program for ALL players, Boys and Girls from 4-19 years of age. The Sporting GNV Soccer Academy Recreational Program is primarily devoted to the enjoyment and development of youth soccer players. The purpose of recreational soccer is to provide an opportunity for the participants to have fun, learn the sport, develop life skills and discover a love for the game. Prior soccer experience is not required and there is no tryout. We encourage players that are NEW to the game to come on out and have some fun.
The FALL Recreational Program typically runs 10-12 weeks for all ages. Practices take place twice a week. Every team will have between 7-8 games per season and games are primarily on Saturday mornings and afternoons, but may occasionally take place on other days due to weather rescheduling and field availability. All teams are coached by a volunteer coach.
FALL UNIFORM POLICY COMING SOON....
Program Costs:
$165 = All players
Click Here for the current Program Refund Policies
Upcoming Important Dates for Fall 2026 Recreational Season:
Early Registration
During early registration, returning players who wish to play on the same team as their SPRING 2026 team are guaranteed placement on that team. Early registration ends June 1, 2026 and at that point returning players are not guaranteed placement on their previous team.
Regular Registration
From June 2nd through August 15th players are placed on teams on a first come, first served basis. Requests are considered but not guaranteed.
Late Registration FEE Increase
During the late registration period, prices will increase by $25. The Late Registration period begins August 16, 2026.
Upcoming dates and next steps for the season
- First Day of Practices: August 24, 2026
- First Day of Games: September 12, 2026
- September 12, 13
- September 19
- September 26
- October 3
- October 17
- October 24
- October 31
Games are played at Jonesville Soccer Complex and Legacy Park (Alachua)
For more information contact:
Director: Sandi Rivera: 352-538-1842
Assistant Director: Dustin Baker: dustin.baker@sportinggainesville.com
WHERE
Sporting Gainesville Sport Academy
Jonesville Soccer Complex
14100 NW 32nd Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32606
2021 Administrator of the Year, Sandi Rivera
In recognition of a decade of service to the Gainesville soccer community, Sandi was nominated and chosen as the 2021 Administrator of the Year by the Florida Youth Soccer Association.
Testimonials
With over 45 years of kids playing soccer with YSI, there are an abundance of happy memories. There are now grandparents visiting the same root organization to watch their grandkids play the same game they did growing up.
