Academy Soccer Program

How is Academy Different From Pride?

Academy soccer is about developing essential soccer skills and a love for the game of soccer.  The goal is not to win games, but to prepare players for competitive play when the reach our Pride division.  Academy follows a training curriculum specifically designed to improve individual soccer skills.

What are the Academy Age Groups?

Our Academy program is available for age groups ranging from 8 years of age to 11 (U9-U12).   See age matrix.

Do Players Have to Try Out?

Yes.  Annual try-outs are typically held in June and are for the Fall and Spring seasonal year.  In some cases players my be invited to join Academy and/or train with the group.  See Club Calendar for official try-out dates.

CSC Pride Academy team tryouts will be held June 14 - 16, 2013.
U9 & U10 Boys & Girls:
     Friday June 14th 5:30 - 6:45 PM
     Saturday June 15th 9:00 - 10:15 AM
U11 & U12 Boys & Girls:
     Friday June 14th 7:00 - 8:15 PM
     Saturday June 15th 10:30 - 11:45 AM
*Players are encouraged to attend both tryout sessions to ensure coaches have ample opportunity to evaluate.

Tryouts will be held at Pride Park, 5023 Roger Wilson Memorial Dr.

What Does The Academy Cost?

Academy player fees are set each May for the next seasonal year starting in the Fall. Fees vary depending on anticipated overhead, league, and tournament costs. Player fees include practice jerseys & shorts; players are responsible for uniform purchase. Fees include both Fall & Spring seasons. Teams who exceed their budget for tournaments and leagues may be expected to pay additional fees.
     2013 / 2014 Fees:
          U9 -   $535
          U10 - $535
          U11 - $535
          U12 - $555
Please see Player Payment Policy for payment details.

Is Financial Assistance Available?

The Club does offer financial assistance to families who qualify.  For more information please visit or our Financial Assistance page. Applications are due July 1st.

What is the Commitment?

Games are generally scheduled during the weekends and may include some local and/or out-of-town tournaments depending on age and team readiness.  Practices are held two times a week on Mondays and Wednesdays.

When are Practices?

Practices for all Academy teams are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:00PM - 7:30PM.

Where are Practices?

Practices are held at Pride Park.  Fields may vary depending on schedules. During times of wet field conditions coaches and managers may plan for an alternate location.

Will Teams Play in Tournaments?

Yes.  The Columbia Soccer Club hosts two tournaments per year and our teams typically participate.  Tournaments help boost our local economy and provide revenue for the Club.  Additional tournaments are at the discretion of the teams, coaches, and Academy Director(s).  Tournaments generally increase as players move to older divisions.

Volunteer Obligations

Our mission is to build the best soccer Club possible and leave it stronger for the next generation of players and parents.  Volunteers play an important part in our mission.  Parents are generally asked to contribute 20 - 30 hours of time to the Club each year. 

The Club's primary fundraising efforts include managing Saturday night Bingo at the Cosmopolitan Club.  All parents in our Academy and Pride programs have obligations for Bingo.  Learn more about Bingo.  Learn about other volunteer opportunities.

More Academy FAQ's

Additional Questions?

If you still have questions about Academy soccer please contact Walt Capell president (@) columbiasoccerclub.net