The present invention relates to compositions and methods for providing and using markers of aphid resistant germplasm, particularly for identifying aphid resistance germplasm in soybean plants. Specifically, the inventions related to providing aphid resistant germplasm identified by markers associated with decreased damage from aphid feeding, as well as enhanced tolerance to aphid infestation of soybean plants. More particularly, the invention relates to compositions and methods for using genetic markers in breeding methods for producing plants with increased resistance to aphid damage and tolerance, while retaining and acquiring desired agronomic traits, Furthermore, the invention relates to plants produced by these breeding programs for use in commercial soybean production.