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What is Academy Soccer?

Academy Soccer is designed for players ages U9–U12 who are ready for more challenge while continuing to develop their skills and understanding of the game.

The program focuses on individual player development within a supportive and engaging environment, helping players build confidence, make decisions, and grow their love for the game.

Academy teams train regularly and compete against other academy programs, primarily in Birmingham and across the state.

Participation in Academy Soccer is by invitation through evaluation.

 

Who Should Consider Academy?

Academy Soccer is a good fit for players who:

  • ● Are motivated to improve and take on new challenges
  • ● Enjoy practicing and playing regularly
  • ● Are ready for a more structured training environment
  • ● Want to continue developing their skills and understanding of the game

Academy Soccer is not required for player development. Players may choose to remain in Recreational Soccer and continue to grow and enjoy the game at that level.

 

Commitment & Expectations

Academy Soccer requires a higher level of commitment than Recreational Soccer.

  • ● Players typically train twice per week
  • ● Games are played on weekends, with most competition in Birmingham and surrounding areas
  • ● Attendance at training and games is important for player development and team progress

Families should be prepared for a greater time commitment than Recreational Soccer.

Families balancing multiple sports should consider the time commitment when choosing Academy Soccer.

 

 

Fees

Academy Soccer fees are paid in both the Fall and Spring seasons.

Club FeeTBA

  • ● Paid each Fall and Spring season
  • ● Covers coaching staff pay, team training, goalkeeper training, pre-season, major equipment, facility use, and administrative costs

Team FeeVaries by team

  • ● Managed separately by the Team Manager
  • ● May cover tournament entry fees, referee costs, coach travel, team bonding events, and minor equipment

Uniforms

  • ● Ordered separately through Soccer.com
  • ● Families will receive a link to purchase the required uniform kit

Club Fees and registration must be completed before a player can participate.

 

👉 View Full Academy Details

 

 

Evaluations

Academy Soccer is by invitation only and requires participation in evaluations.

  • ● Evaluations are held each spring to form teams for the upcoming Fall and Spring seasons
  • ● Specific dates and registration information are posted on the Academy Evaluations page
  • ● We encourage all interested players to attend evaluations to be considered for placement.

● Supplemental evaluations may be offered to fill open roster spots, but availability is limited.

If a player is unable to attend due to special circumstances, a supplemental evaluation may be requested.

 

👉 View Academy Evaluations

Barry Spitzer

Executive Director of Soccer
Tuscaloosa United Soccer Club