Why play COMPETITIVE/SELECT SOCCER
The whys are easy but playing select is not for everyone. Select soccer players need to be committed players seeking to improve their playing skills and knowledge. The main benefits of select or competitive soccer are:
* Provides a structured, well-managed place for kids to play and achieve their goals (i.e. playing middle school, high school or college soccer).
* Player and skill development
* High level of play and competition
* Experienced, licensed coaches and trainers
Playing in a club environment creates a spirited and supportive network of players, coaches, and parents. Clarksville Impact Futbol Club is a Family!
How is it different from recreational?
Select will have more training opportunities: 2 regular practices per week with seasonal finishing and keeper clinics. Training by more qualified coaches with a group of peers with the same interests and desire. Your child will play more games. In REC Soccer your child plays approximately 10 games a season. In travel your child can expect to play approximately 35-50 games in a year.
How about the Coaches?
Clarksville Impact FC is very proud of its coaching staff. Our licensed coaches are supervised by a full time Director of Coaching. We boast coaches with college and professional playing experience, numerous State and Showcase titles and a NCAA Division One College Coach.
Practice location?
Many teams train at our own facility at McAdoo Creek in Sango, with others using APSU, Pettus Park.
Isn’t playing select soccer expensive?
Compared to recreational soccer, select can cost more. However, we feel that the select soccer program offers more value to the player. Many teams do team fundraisers to help with the costs and parents also have the opportunity to work at the Clarksville Impact FC tournament as “paid volunteers” to offset monthly fees as well as to raise money for the team through sponsorship. Each team also collects the fee payments in installments to help ease the burden of a lump sum payment.
Commitment:
· $ 105 Registration Fee (covers player cards and club registration)
Monthly Fees: $60 per month training fees, plus additional expenses for tournament and coach travel expenses
Playing format?
Ages U9 and U10 – 6 versus 6
Ages U11 and U12 – 8 versus 8
Ages 13 and up – 11 versus 11
When is the select season?
There are two distinct seasons in the Fall and Spring – soccer is now becoming a more year round sport though, so many teams also choose to participate in a winter program that consists of training indoors and indoor tournaments through the winter months
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What about travel?
Select teams do travel. Most of the travel is within Tennessee and surrounding states. Several of the tournaments are localized and do not require overnight stays. Teams make every effort to find discounted and affordable motel accommodations when overnight stays are required. Players and family members alike will tell you that traveling with the team is fun and lasting friendships are made. For age divisions U-9 and U- 10 travel is very limited, as nearly 100% of the games are played in middle TN. At U-12, teams begin to travel more to find better competition and more exposure as they prepare for the Tennessee State Championships (U12 & up) and Regionals (U14 & up).
What are tournaments like?
Tournaments are hosted by other soccer clubs or civic organizations. They provide a great opportunity to play teams from states across the mid-south. Typically, you are guaranteed a minimum of three games depending on the size of the tournament or number of teams in your age division. Normally, trophies, plaques or similar awards are given to the first and second place teams. Most tournaments provide a host of offerings such as vendor booths, t-shirts, pictures and exhibition games. Older teams may plan to go to college showcase tournaments. These types of tournaments provide players an excellent opportunity to be scouted and seen by college coaches and recruiters.
Do you play on Sundays?
Some league and friendly games may be scheduled for Sunday afternoons. During a tournament, Sunday play can be expected. Many tournaments provide a list of area churches and worship times. Some tournaments host non-denominational services at the fields as well.
What is the time commitment?
Practice: Typically select teams practice 2 times a week, 90 minutes per session. Tournaments: Typically one or two per month.
Friendlies/League games: Typically two per month.
Playing time, is it equal?
Select soccer is competitive. Coaches try to provide ample game time for all players; however it is not always equal depending upon the game situation. However, training is focused on each and every player and their development. Our coaches are experienced and while they may want to win, they are sensitive to the needs of the players.
Must I play in my age group?
While there are limited exceptions, players usually play within their appropriate age divisions. “Playing Up” is a decision made by the coach and/or director of coaching with various factors weighing in the decision.
If there is more than one tryout for my age group, must I attend both?
You are encouraged to attend all try-out sessions. The coaching staff will have a better opportunity to evaluate your skills.
