What is the Academy program all about?

Academy soccer is a popular and effective way to train youth soccer players. It's origin is from european soccer clubs and is becoming a staple within the United States youth soccer system.  It is commonly known as "Group Training", "Pool Training", or "Ability-Based Training".  The Academy is meant to be a link between our Micro Soccer (recreational program) and Flagstaff United (competitive program).  We want to provide players with a more organized training setting that focuses on their individual needs.  It provides players with the structure and coaching expertise of Flagstaff United without the increased expense, time, and competition that go with our travel teams.

How is Academy different from Micro Soccer?

Academy is similar to Micro Soccer in that the main focus will be fun and enjoyment of the game.  In Academy, the fields are bigger, there is greater need for cooperation amongst teammates, and the rules mature to a game that looks much closer to standard soccer. Academy is organized with an emphasis on skill acquisition and individual player development. Academy has an eye towards preparing players to phase into our competitive program with the necessary skills to be successful at the next level.

My child was the best player on his Micro Soccer team last season, and we want him to be challenged.  Will Academy provide him that opportunity?

Academy is meant to provide opportunities for young soccer players to excel and learn in a dynamic environment that meets the changing needs of players.  A player that is the star one week may struggle with a new skill the next week, so we adapt our program to help them.  And similarly, a player that struggles in Week 1, may improve so dramatically in a short period of time that his or her development may require more challenges to meet their needs.

I coached Micro Soccer last season and really enjoyed it. Can I be an Academy coach?

For this program to work well, we need the help of parent coaches.  The coaching staff of Academy is made up with volunteer parents and community members. All coaches for Academy will need to complete background checks prior to participating. Click here to read more about coaching opportunities with Academy.

My child has a friend who lives down the street from us, and it would make it really easy on us if they could be on the same team.  Is that possible?

If you have player requests, indicate that in the "Notes" section during registration and email the Academy Director at academymicro@flagstaffsoccerclub.com.  While we cannot guarantee placement requests, we will do our best to accommodate them.

When will practices take place?

Academy players have two practices per week. One session is with their coach and team and the other is a special Skills Training practice led by a USSF licensed coach. The team practices focus on communication, passing, and positioning. The Skills Training practices focus on improving the player's individual abilities. The time and day of the team practice will be consistent throughout the Academy season and is chosen by the coach of that team. The Skills Training practices include all of the Academy players together and is held on a different day of the week from their team practice.

How are soccer games organized?

Each Sunday during the season, there will be Academy games held in a friendly setting.  The games are used to assimilate all the knowledge that the players have learned at team practice and Skills Training.  The focus is still on fun and good sportsmanship with less emphasis on winning.  The Academy players should feel free to experiment, take chances, and express their abilities on the soccer field without the fear of making a mistake, getting yelled at, or losing playing time.

What does Academy cost and what does it cover?

The registration fee per season is $135 ($105 for Early Bird registration). Fees go to cover Arizona Youth Soccer Association registration for your child, injury insurance, and a team jersey.  Fees also offset costs for referees, soccer equipment, coaching supplies, field rental fees, field lining costs, and the cost of running the program.

Are scholarships available for Academy Soccer?

Yes. Scholarships for financial hardship are available to some players. The registration fee for a player with a scholarship is half of the usual registration fee. To apply for an Academy scholarship, e-mail the Academy Soccer Director and provide documentation of one of the following: Nutrition Assistance, WIC, or AHCCCS.

What equipment will players need for Academy?

• Ball: Every player needs to have a size #4 ball.
• Shin guards and soccer socks: Each player must wear shin guards at all practices and games. Shin guards must be covered by soccer socks or sweatpants.
• Cleats or sneakers: Although cleats are not required, players wearing cleats have a definite advantage over players wearing sneakers.
• Team jersey: You will receive this from your coach on Opening Day.
• Sun screen: It is recommended for both practices and games.
• Water bottle: Each player needs to keep themselves well-hydrated.

OK, I am sold.  When does this take place?

Academy has three seasons every year - fall, spring, and summer. You can play any season or, preferably, all seasons. The spring season generally starts in April and ends in June. The fall season runs from August into October.

What is the Flagstaff Soccer Club?

The Flagstaff Soccer Club (FSC) was formed in 1988. It was originally named the “Flagstaff Snow Devils” and began with one team. The Club was established to provide youth in Flagstaff and the surrounding areas an opportunity to participate in organized and competitive soccer.  FSC has developed into the premier soccer development program in northern Arizona. The club has three major programs: Micro Soccer, Academy, and Flagstaff United. FSC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization affiliated with the Arizona Youth Soccer Association (AYSA) and the United States Youth Soccer Association (USYSA).