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Dec 2006
I have an almost 3 yr old ball crazed son who wants nothing more than to kick a ball
all day. Are there options, such as soccer, for this age group besides me and his
dad? We live in the Montclair area. Thanks Tired of Kicking
When he's 3.5, he can do the Tot Soccer class at the Montclair Rec Center -
see the Oakland Park & Rec website at
http://www.oaklandnet.com/parks/programs/ or stop by their office in
Montclair Park for more info. Our son (who actually was only 3 when the
class started) just completed the fall session there in both soccer and
t-ball and had a blast. They also periodically do an all-sports class where
the kids try soccer, t-ball and other sports in a single class. Other
options: Piedmont Park & Rec summer programs, Lil' Kickers at Bladium in
Alameda JP
April 2005
I am looking for some sort of weekend Pee Wee soccer progam for
my daughter. She is 3 years and 3 months old. We live in
Kensington, so would want something somewhat local. I have
found some programs though El Cerrito, but most of their games
and practices seem to take place on Monday afternoons and we
really want something on weekends, as my husband wants to
partake in the fun! Anyone that has any info on good programs
in the community would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in
advance.
julie
The City of Oakland Parks and Rec
offers pee wee soccer. http://www.oaklandnet.com/parks/
Helena
March 2009
We are looking for a good soccer club for a 7 year old girl. We live in the Berkeley Hills
near
Codornices Park. Saturday or Sunday is fine, along with after school time (after 4pm). Our
daughter is very athletic, but hasn't recently participated in organized soccer. We're
looking
for something fun but serious- thank you!
david
At age 7, your child is ready for ''rec'' soccer. Almost every
community has a group and usually they are signed up in the
Spring...like about now. They usually have one practice a week, and
one weekend game until the end of the season and then there may be a
couple of games in a day. Just google ''soccer team + your community''.
Spring season is minor and may be very loosey-goosy. It's serious from
September to November.
The make up of these teams and the quality of coaching can vary
widely.Some teams are nice; some are not. Some coaches emphasize one
thing,others another.
At around age 10, should your kid like it, there are tryouts for class
1 teams like the Bay Oaks in Oakland and the Mavericks in Berkeley,
etc. This is much more of a serious commitment on the part of child
and parents as practices are two or three times a week; there are
games most weekends, and away tournaments, depending on the coaches.
Games may be an hour to an hour and half away on weekends, and the
traveling ones can be in So.Cal or anywhere else. It's up to the coach
about that. It's a much higher level of competition and commitment
and can be very thrilling.
But at age 7, it's just about learning the game and seeing if your kid
likes it. Just check it out for your community and do it pretty
quickly so you don't miss the season.
Anonymous
March 2007
Can anyone recommend one? The postings I've seen on the web are pretty old, and I
don't see much for 3 1/2 year olds except in Alameda and Albany. Thanks for your
help, ljz
Check out the offerings from Oakland Park & Rec
(http://www.oaklandnet.com/parks/programs/). They have programs all over the city from
age 3.5 on up. Our son did soccer and tball last summer at age 3.5 and loved both.
They're enrolling now for classes starting in April onwards.
soccer mom
Jan 2006
Does anyone know of a an organized soccer club/team for
preschool age children? My daughter is 3 1/2, will be 4 years
old in June and really wants to play soccer. Our local
recreation department doesn't offer anything on the eves or
weekends for her age group. Looking for something preferably in
East Bay area (Oakland, San Leandro, Castro Valley, or Orinda)
Thanks for your help.
Patti
The Bladium
sports club in Alameda has a great soccer program for preschoolers (and older). It's called
Lil' Kickers. My 5-
year-old and his friends have been doing it for over a year now and they love it. The program costs about
$120 for a 12-week session (but you can try a class for free). They have weekday afternoon and Saturday
classes. For information, call the Bladium at 814-4999 and ask for Lil' Kickers program director John
Kelly.
soccer mom
I've heard good things about the tot soccer classes at
The Bladium in Alameda on the old Navy Base. I don't
have the specifics though.
Kids Love Soccer offers lots of classes all over the Bay Area.
www.kidslovesoccer.com/
Helena
I highly recommend ''The Lil' Kickers'' indoor soccer program
at the Bladium Sports Club
in Alameda. My son has been in the
program for the last two sessions and loves it!
Coach John Kelly, the Children's Soccer Director is very
professional and WONDERFUL with the children. The program has
many different levels starting at 18 months and allows for a
very non-competitive fun experience. However, the children
still learn the basics soccer skills like dribbling and even
scrimmaging through really fun games. Also, Coach John teaches
the kids the fundamentals to being on a team such listening to
instructions, taking turns and encouragement for one another.
The fee even includes a free uniform that my son is so proud to
wear every week! The next session starts on March 15th and
lasts 12 weeks...(510) 814-4999 ext 122
Stephanie
Nov 2003
Hi! I'm looking for a soccer ''team'' for our 3.5 year old, to begin now or in the new year.
I did hear of something in El Cerrito but it is on Monday afternoons from I think 1:15 to 2:15 -- right during my son's nap time. I was really hoping to find something on Saturdays. Thanks!
Colene
The city of Albany has a tiny tots (3-4) soccer ''team'' starting
11/14. You can sign up online at:
http://www.active.com/search/org_browse.cfm?org=albanyprca
May 2009
My 4 year old daughter is a good runner and I'm thinking about enrolling her in a
soccer program. At what age are kids typically ready for soccer? Does anyone have
recommendations for programs in or near Oakland? Thank you.
Anna
Rockridge Soccer league. They have a U6 league that starts in the
fall but you should sign up now. If you can, try to organize a team
of kids she knows to all do it together - it's more fun for the kids
that way. U6 in Rockridge is co-ed but we did an all-girls team so
we could all stay together when they moved up to U8.
soccer mom
Check out the various clubs that are part of the Jack London
Youth Sports Soccer League (JLYSSL www.JLYSL.org )
Many of them - Montclair, Piedmont, Rockridge - have Under6
programs. The catch is, the kids need to be ENTERING
KINDERGARTEN, and should turn 6 AFTER July 31, 2009.
Each Club manages their U6 program differently. Most have co-ed
U6 teams, which makes the transition to Under 8 easier (most
programs are NOT co-ed for Under 8). Having one of each, I can
safely say that my experience is the energy levels / playing
''levels'' of the different genders, is VERY different. YMMV.
Feel free to contact me directly if you want to chat more.
Leslie
Sept 2004
I have looked at the archives and saw all the different ages, but I don't
see anything for 4 year olds. Where I lived before they had soccor
starting at 3.5. Is there anywhere around berkeley or the surrounding
area that offers soccor for 4 year olds (5/00).
Thanks
kristi
recommended:
Montclair Rec Center
Nov 2003
My 4 year old son would LOVE to play soccer, but I think
I've ''missed the ball'' for this year's sign up or have I? I've
heard there are fun/instructional (non-competitive) leagues out
there. We live in Orinda and are not very savvy to the where,
how and when of the Lamorinda soccer leagues. Could anyone fill
me in?
Maya
My boys have been playing OYA (Orinda Youth Association)
soccer since they were 4 and 5. This season is almost
over, but you might consider it for next year. Fun T-Ball, too,
in the spring. See
http://www.ci.orinda.ca.us/parksandrec/oya.html
Kathy
All the info you need is at www.lamorindasoccer.com
Soccer for 4 1/2 year old
2001
I KNOW I saw this on the recommendation list in the past year, but I can't find it on the web or
on my own archives of this list. Someone mentioned a Saturday morning soccer league for little
guys (mine are 4 1/2) that was fun, not overly
competitive, and run by a great guy. Does this ring any bells with anyone? Any idea how I can
find out more?
Thanks,
Kristin
Recommendations received:
Soccer Basics
Norm Freidman Albany
Albany Berkeley Soccer Club
Mersey Soccer Club
Jan 2009
Does anyone know any that are starting soon? My son has been
wanting to play soccer for 1 1/2 now. Ideally a league that is
between Oakland's Temescal District and Hercules...
Drea
Montclair Soccer Club
(and I think the other Jack London Soccer
leagues -- Rockridge, West Oakland, Piedmont, etc.) offers
low-key Spring Soccer starting in March (registering now),
including for U6 (5yo) players. My 5yo played U6 soccer last
fall and had a great time. There's more info here:
https://montclairsoccer.pbwiki.com/Spring-Soccer, and the main
Jack London site is http://www.jlysl.org/
Soccer Mom
Definitely check out Lil Kickers at the Bladium
in Alameda. It
may be a bit more of a drive, but they have a great kiddo
program. I'm impressed with the focus on fundamentals and the
creative ways they teach them to make them fun for little kids.
Each kid gets a Lil Kickers jersey which is kind of fun too.
There are some coaches that are better than others, so you may
want to ask the registration person for a tip on that front.
Phone number: 510.817.4999, x108. BTW, they have great birthday
parties as well.
MB
Drea~ ''West Contra Costa Youth Soccer League'' plays soccer in
Hercules. The sign ups are this weekend (Sat Jan 28th) for spring
play. They play every Saturday morning for six weeks for about an
hour. My son is 5 and this is the first year we are playing too.
We already signed up last month at another signup time they
offered. Please see their website for further info.
http://www.wccysl.com/
Hope this helps. Have a great day!
pam
Rockridge soccer offers soccer for kids starting at 4-5 years old
(under 6 or U6). The spring season starts in March I think so
contact them and see if you can sign your son up for a team.
Soccer Basics
runs Sat AM clinics, 1 hour, for 4-5 year olds.
Also has a great summer camp, 5 years on up. My son first fell
in love with soccer working with Coach Bill (and Coach Alex) at
Soccer Basics. Another great summer camp is Footfire with Coach
Carlos Hill, in Berkeley, but may be a little much for a 5 year
old. You may be able to get on a spring soccer team, call the
various clubs and ask, but it might be awkward as the regular
season is in the fall.
anon
I have been so impressed with Kidz Love Soccer
in Alameda. Coach
Chad has his finger on the pulse of the young set. Kids as young
as 3.5 are learning soccer skills through fun games. In the 5
year old group, they do the games and then a little scrimmage at
the end. It's always in the spirit of fun and my kids have loved
it but they are actually learning to play. Sign up through
Alameda Parks & Recreation.
Soccer Mom
Nov 2007
I'm looking for winter soccer oppurtunities for my daughter. Her
recreational season just ended but she still wants to play. We live in
Oakley and are willing to commute, but only 50 miles or so. Any suggestions?
Marilynn
You shouldn't have to drive 50 miles for an indoor soccer league. We are
doing this with the Lamorinda Youth Association (LMYA) in Lafayette and I
bet there is a similar group for Clayton, Concord, Brentwood, etc. Here
is their link (less than 50 miles away but I think you can do better):
http://www.lmyasports.com/index.html
Anon
Sept 2007
We are looking for any advice starting soccer. We missed fall signups so will
sign up for spring. Three kids, 8 year old girl and 7 year old boy at LeConte
elementary, and 4 year old girl, we live in South Berkeley. Are there any big
differences between Rockridge Soccer http://rockridgesoccer.org and Albany
Berkeley Soccer club? www.abscsoccer.com? Is one league more likely to include
our South Berkeley neighbors? carpooling sometimes would be great. thanks!
I'll bet few families have done both and will be unable to
truly compare. Hopefully someone who has done both will
respond.
If i were you I'd ask around at your school and see which
league folks are in. If you know other kids in the South
Berkeley school zone you can ask them, too.
One other deciding factor may being where weekday practices
and Saturday games happen. My girls in the ABSC play on El
Cerrito fields often (good fields). Last year one played all
season in Richmond. This year 2 games are in Pinole. My
friend with kids in the Oakland League says her kids play
from North Oakland down to Alameda or Lake Merritt. I
imagine you can check on line too see what fields are used
(but am not sure).
Soccer Mom
Most people in South Berkeley go with the
Rockridge Soccer
Club (RSC). There are actually four RSC teams at LeConte at
the moment: Boys U8 (Tiburones), Boys U10 (Magnets), Girls
U8 (Mighty Cheetahs), and Girls U8 (Sharks). It is certainly
worth checking with those teams to see if there are any
openings in the Spring.
RSC is a huge club with many teams in the U8 and U10 age
groups. They are part of the Jack London Youth Soccer League
and the U10 and older teams play against teams from
Montclair, Piedmont, Alameda, and Oakland. Practices are
usually at different fields in Oakland and the games can be
in Oakland or as far away as Alameda.
The Albany-Berkeley Soccer Club is much smaller. It is part
of the Alameda-Contra Costa Youth Soccer League. They play
against teams from El Cerrito, Richmond, and San Pablo.
Practices can be in Berkeley and Albany, with games in any of
the participating cities.
So, part of your decision may depend on which direction you
want to drive to get to practices and games.
I have a child in each club and volunteer extensively for
RSC, so feel free to contact me for more information.
Lucy
Sept 2007
We are from Germany and new in Berkeley. We are searching for a soccer
group that our 5 year old son can join or for other boys and girls in
similar ages to play soccer with my son and husband. Please let us know if
you can recommend something or are interested to meet for playing ''fun
soccer'' in a park.
We also need toodler sports or water playing for our 2 year old daughter,
can you recommend something?
Alexandra
If you are not too far away Montclair recreation center (Montclair Park,
Oakland) might be the thing for you. They have once-a-week, low-key
soccer classes, and other sorts of programs as well. Pretty inexpensive,
too.
Jan 2004
I have a 5 year-old and I'm interested in getting him into
soccer. Does anyone have experience with good places
in Oakland. I looked on the website and I don't see anything for
soccer in Oakland. Thanks
Royah
For soccer ''lessons,'' keep an eye open for the various summer
camps, although I'm not sure how many of the ''only soccer'' camps
go down to that age level. As far as playing soccer is
concerned, you want to hook up with one of the clubs (e.g.,
Montclair, Oakland or Rockridge, depending on where you live/go
to school) in the Jack London Youth Soccer League. Their
website is www.jlysl.org with links to the different club
pages. I don't think any of the clubs register new players for
the spring season, but registration will take place some time in
the spring for the fall 2004 (and spring 2005) season. Any
questions, feel free to email me.
norm.vance
April 2004
My son LOVES sports and wants to play soccer. It seems like this
should be easy, but I'm having a hard time finding the right
program. The Montclair Soccer Club looks perfect so I've been
watching their web site but I just discovered he misses the
cut-off for their youngest group by two days for this fall's
registration (kids have to be 6 years old on July 31st).
I've seen a few clubs outside Oakland and summer camp programs on
the BPN, but I'm looking for a Saturday or Sunday game with
possibly weekday evening practices. I can't seem to find one in
Oakland, the rec dept has their programs during weekday working
hours. Does anyone know of a soccer program for 5-6 year olds
with practices and games after 5pm and/or on weekends? Oakland
preferred, but if there really is nothing else, we'll drive
somewhere. Thanks!
Recommended:
Jack London Soccer League
Sept 2003
Hi all - My nearly 6 year old son is ready for soccer, so I need
to key in to what the happenings may be in the Oakland area...
We are in Montclair and it would be great to find a local team.
Does anyone have suggestions for Fall sign-ups (or, am I too
late?) -- Thanks so much! Laurie
Laurie
responding to almost 6-yo soccer. i too have an almost 6 yo who
is expressing interest in soccer. dimond rec center has tues
3:45-4:45 pm class beg. sept 23 that we signed up for. seems a
good intro and fun. sign-ups began wed sept 3, but can go there
or call to see if there's still room
michele
May 2007
My strong 7-year-old daughter would love to play soccer or softball on a Sunday league. She is committed and
willing to practice. There seem to be lots of choices for Saturday (during the same time she is in German
School), and yet I'm not able to find anything for Sunday.
Anyone have suggestions?
Thanks in Advance.
Deb
Check out Piedmont soccer.
I believe the program is coed below the age of
8. I understand that they will be offering a Sunday game schedule in the
fall, to accommodate Jewish children that cannot participate in games on
Saturday mornings and others like you for whom Saturday morning games do
not work.
Susan
April 2003
Can anyone give me feedback on the Cal Strawberry Canyon Girls
Soccer Camps? Can you recommend a girls soccer team/club in
the El Cerrito, Albany, Berkeley areas for a 7 year old girl?
Mary
Your best bet for a team is probably the Albany-Berkeley Soccer
Club. Their website is http://www.abscsoccer.com/
Spring registration is closed. Registration for the fall is
scheduled for May.
Depending on where you live and where your daughter goes to
school, you might also consider the Rockridge Soccer Club, which
has a lot of Berkeley players as well. Their website is
http://rockridgesoccer.org/ and registration for new players for
the fall is on 4/29, 5/6 and 5/8 at Chabot School in north
Oakland. Details on the web page.
Have fun!
Norm
March 2003
HELP
I am trying to map out school for my daughter currently a
student at Kaiser Elementary School, who is a gifted athlete.
She is an average student academically and shows promise in the
areas of math and science. We have ltd. funds as I am a single
parent. I am trying to figure out how to give her as much
exposure to athletics. She is currently on a soccer team, will
do the swim team at Dimond pool. I am looking for a track Team
that will not be to costly and am wondering if anyone has any
experience with junior high schools and high schools which might
help her cultivate her talents.
Is there any parent who was in a similiar situation a few years
ago and wishes someone had told them to do something they didn't.
any input appreciated
anon
Advice regarding spring soccer for 7 year old girl. Try this
soccer link. They are currently doing spring soccer. They have
girls and boys team. http://www.cysanorth.org/ find your area.
If you have any problems you can contact me via email. Good
Luck. Soccer Mom
DEc 2005
We are a South Berkeley family interested in recommendations for
the Rockridge Soccer Club from parents of kids with recent
experiences. Our 9 year old son recently completed the Fall
season with ABSC and we are looking for a less competitive team
atmosphere. I have heard that Rockridge keeps the ''fun'' spirit
alive and that practices are limited to once a week, but would
like additional feedback regarding coaches' attitudes, etc.
Also, is it possible to sign up for Spring 2006 if he did not
play in the Fall?
Suprised to hear you found ABSC too competitive/driven. May have been the team/coach rather than club philosophy. That said, I do think Rockridge works very hard to keep things fun (but, again, it can depend on the coach). The club has select (class I and class III) teams at each age level, but most are at the class IV (aka ''house teams'') level, and, yes, practice only once a week. What you really want to consider/find out is where a given team is flighted in its age level. Gold will be very competitive, probably on a par with class III select teams. Silver less so and so forth, down through bronze, red, white, and as many colors as they need. In general, the lower the flight, the less pressure there is, but (have I said this too many times?), it depends on the coach. As far as spring registration is concerned, it was allowed last year, but I believe that was the first time in years. You can contact the age group registrar at U10coordinator AT rockridgesoccer.org to find out whether it will be possible.
Oct. 2003
My 9-year-old son (4th grade) is interested in playing soccer
but has never played before. Many of his friends are already on
teams and have been for several years. Can anyone recommend
where he might get started but with kids his own age and not
toddlers?! There are lots of soccer venues out there, but most
9-year-olds already have lots of experience, and the ''beginners''
I've checked out are all 4- and 5-year olds. I need to add that
my son is Not real sporty and is also embarrassed by this. Is
there anywhere to learn the very basics of the game and have fun
playing it too? Thanks.
Laurel
well, besides parents practicing in the back yard or on some
local field, i've found that the eurosoccer camps are the
best. they are a bunch of young men and women who come during
the summer and fall, mostly from scotland. not only do they
know their soccer, but are simply great with kids. they are
very active in moraga (and other areas), and hopefully close to
your location. in addition to basic and advanced camps, they
offer specialized camps and clinics - for example, my 8 year
old will be in a soccer goalie camp sunday at noon at rheem
school.
the eurosoccer folks have a web site which i've always had
problems with, but it's: http://www.eurosoccercamps.com/
soccer is a great game for kids, and i hope it works out for
you and your son,
ferenc
As a parent who has coached ages 7-10, your son will be fine.
Soccer, as compared to other organized sports, is pretty easy to
pick up at the grade school levels. On our own school team, we
had three kids start playing soccer at 4th grade, and while it
was pretty obvious the first season, they blended in by the
second year.
Here's a concrete suggestion. Most leagues (including Rockridge
and Montclair soccer leagues) have sign-ups for fall soccer that
occur in the spring. You son can sign-up and ask to be matched
with a particular coach or kid he knows, and it will probably
happen. Then have your son go to Albany Sports Camp or some
summer camp that includes non-competitive soccer. (I would stay
away from all-day summer soccer camps, they're pretty intense.)
He can get some practice and fun with the game before fall even
rolls around.
You could also talk to the parent-coach of a team that includes
your son's friends -- coaches are volunteers who do it for the
kids, and he/she might provide some good advice too.
Have fun!
Funloving Sports Parent
Hi,
You didn't say what area you were interested in looking. My son
is also 9 and his first time playing, he's having a great time
and it's with kids his age. Your a little late in signing him up
but you can try this website which gives you alot of
information. This league practices in Kennedy Grove on the Damn
Road and also in Hercules,Hannah Ranch Park.
'' West Contra Costa Youth Soccer League''
Yolanda
Think about starting soccer in the spring season, because spring tends
to be more informal and relaxed. Many of the established teams only
play in the fall, so spring teams usually have a new mix of players from
different fall teams along with players who are new to the sport or
moving into the club. Last spring my son's under-12 team welcomed a
couple of players who were playing soccer for their first season, and
they seemed to have a good experience. Signups are in Feburary for
Albany-Berkeley. All the local leagues have web sites with sign-up
information. It's not necessary, but one way to work on skills is in a
spring-break soccer camp. My son's favorite camp as a beginner was
the one that Cal runs under the direction of the men's soccer program.
There is a half-day camp in the summer specifically for beginners (ages
5-10) that he found age-appropriate and fun; it emphasized a few basic
skills. We're not familiar with their spring program, but they offer one as
do some other organizations.
Ricki
March 2008
My 12-year old daughter is interested in playing soccer and we were
wondering what people thought of the various possibilities in and
around Berkeley. There does not seem to have been much recent
discussion on the board and we were hoping to hear some up-to-date
opinions on the soccer scene for kids.
John
My 12-year-old daughter plays with the Mersey Soccer Club,
http://merseysoccer.com . They hold practices at King Middle School Field on
Hopkins in Berkeley. It's very convenient to always practice in the same place
(she used to be in another club and every season they had to switch practice
fields). Mersey's focus is on teaching good soccer skills to kids of all ages.
There are teams for boys and girls from under-6 to under-14. The club hires
soccer coaches instead of relying on parent volunteers. Typically the coaches
are young and enthusiastic, and most have many years of experience playing on
league, high school and college teams.
Practices start on Monday the 17th, with the first spring season games the
weekend of March 29th, so this is a good time to register. You can do it
directly from the website above. I know there are still spots open on many
Mersey teams for the spring. You do not have to have any experience to join.
A new girl just joined my daughter's team, and she has never played soccer
before.
Soccer is a great game, especially for middle school girls! :) Mersey soccer
mom
Your daughter would likely be eligible to play on an Under 14
team (U14) in the fall, depending on her birthday. Not sure
what age group she would be in if she were playing this
spring.
In Berkeley, many kids play on a team on the
Albany-Berkeley
Soccer Club (ABSC). http://www.abscsoccer.com/ The ABSC is
part of the Alameda-Contra Costa League and plays games with
teams from El Cerrito, Richmond and San Pablo. Another
Berkley team called Mersey also is in the league and plays
with these teams. I think Mersey costs a bit more to join, as
they have no parent coaches - the hire all the coaches. They
are online, too. Some kids also play for a team in the
Rockridge club to the south. That club is in a different
league (to the south)
There are currently 3 levels of play in the ABSC for the Under
12 and up girls (I think). Division 4 is the recreational
level. Division 3 is the first competitive level, and
Division 1 is the most competitive level. The league division
1 teams here are called the Mavericks (in case you hear folks
mentioning that name, you'll know what they are talking
about).
Div 4 sign ups are passed and those teams are beginning
practice this week. Call or email the ABSC or another club if
you'd like to see if she can still get on a spring team.
Div 3 tryouts for the fall season for girls just happened this
past weekend (3/15 & 16). Not sure how it works to get on
teams after the tryouts. Call and ask the clubs' registrars.
Sometimes kids change their minds between now and the fall and
space may open up.
Tryouts for the fall for Div 1 Mavericks happend two weekends
ago.
Some middle schools have teams. Cal has soccer summer camp
offered by the women's team, and has some short clinics from
time to time, too.
Soccer Mom
April 2005
My daughter has been shy about commpetitive sports in the past
and has finnally agreed to try a soccer team. We were told
that the spring would be a good time to try to find a team but
upon reading past posting, and some of the clubs schedules, I
am starting to worry that I waited to long since the try-outs
passed already.(not that she would have agreed to a try-out.)
I am wondering if there are any teams that would take a
begginer this late in the game, maybe without making her try-
out. I have been told by her P.E. teacher that she is a gifted
athlete, though she is not very confident in her skills.
If anybody has any leads on a low key team in the
oakland/berkeley area I would greatly appreciate it.
Wants to be a soccer mom
You're a bit late for the spring but this is a prime time to
register for the fall. Jack London league registration (which
covers Rockridge/Montclair & sounds like what you want) can be
found at www.jlysl.org -- go there NOW!. There are no ''tryouts''
for class IV (what we call ''house'' or ''recreational'') teams and
that is where your daughter should start. There is plenty of
time for class III (e.g., Rockridge String) or class I (JLYSL
Bay Oaks) soccer if she proves to have the talent. Have fun the
first year.
You need to look for a club with ''Recreational'' level of soccer
(also known as Class IV). The recreational level accepts beginners
at all age levels, no try-outs! Although sign-ups for spring
already occurred in February, you can try Albany-Berkeley Soccer
Club (part of the Alameda-Contra Costa Youth Soccer League
(www.abscsoccer.com)(510-526-3912) to see if you can find a team.
The Jack London Youth Soccer League in Oakland also has
recreational teams. If it doesn't work for the spring, don't give
up; registration for fall recreational teams takes place in May.
Jody
Also recommended:
The Bladium in Alameda
March 2003
My 12 year old has been looking longingly at soccer teams, but
feeling that
she has completely missed the boat. She feels (and I am concerned
this
might be true) if she didn't start learning soccer as a 6 year
old, then
it's too late for her. She's really never played any soccer in
her
life. Are there any BEGINNING soccer classes for older kids?
Too late?
It is never too late to start soccer and I know of a wonderful
socer camp that handles beginners beautifully and really makes
them feel as if they are not at a loss compared to the more
experienced players (the ones who have been playing since they
were four)! Super Soccer does camps all over Northern
California. I know they are having one right now in Mountain
View, every Friday after school. He constantly has camps
running in various places, hopefully one is close to you. This
would be a great way for her to get involved. Phil Scicluna is
the coach. His number is 650-799-5854 and his email address is
supersoccerrocksATyahooDOTcom . Our whole family has trained with
him and we really enjoy it! I highly recommed it for all ages!
Good Luck!
Tamina
It is not too late for your daughter to start soccer and Spring
is an excellent time to start. The ''official'' soccer season is
fall, Spring soccer is more fun, less competitive and the
coaches work on skill building, team building and fun. You
didn't say where you live, but most of the area clubs do sponsor
Spring soccer. Last year my daughter's team had several new
players and by fall they were experienced confident players. I
would recommend calling your local club (The Alameda-Contra
Costa Soccer website has links to all the area clubs:
http://www.accysl.org) and call to find out how to register for
spring. It would be helpful if she has friends who already play
and see if she can play with them. There are usually spaces in
Spring as some of the girls who play during the fall play
softball in Spring. Good luck.
Hallie
I don't know about girls , but my son's soccer team (10-12 years
old this year) in the last 3 years has taken on at least one
player/year who had no previous experience. All have quickly
mastered the game and are among the team's most valuable
players.There are several things that could give your daughter a
head start for the fall. 1) See if the league plays spring
soccer and if a team is willing to add her for the season.
Spring soccer is much less competitive than fall, and would give
her a chance to try it out. 2) Sign her up for a spring or
summer soccer camp. There is a wide range of skills and ages at
most of those camps, and lots of basic skills are taught. (UC
rec department has camps, and your community's soccer league
could give you some leads as well.) 3) Just get her a ball and
let her try out the moves she sees when she watches the sport.
(of course my son destroyed our back-yard watering system
kicking goals...)
Cynthia
Nov 2007
My daughter's recreational soccer season just ended, but
she still wants to play! I've been searching desperately
for opportunities, but the only one I've found is an hour
and a half commute! Does any one know of opportunities
close to where we live? We live in Oakley, which is
between Brentwood and Antioch. We're east of Oakland.
Thank you!
My Daughter's team is currently playing at
The Bladium in
Alameda. It is fast-paced and a lot of fun. You can get
more information at www.bladium.com or just Google
''Bladium''. The fall season just started and will end at the
end of Jan. The winter season will start right after that.
Usually whole teams sign up together but your daughter might
be able to join a team that is already registered and needs
more players. You can contact Luis at Bladium for more info.
He is the person in charge of the soccer there. Please feel
free to contact me for more info.
Good luck,
Shawn
Nov 2007
My daughter did not make the cut for the soccer team at
BHS. She used to play (Albany-Berkeley and El Cerrito) but
at this point it has been years since she played. I do not
know why she suddenly wanted to play again, but my question
is: is there a team/league/etc. for kids who are not highly
skilled but want to play with others? Gone are the days of
intramural sports through the school, apparently. I see
adults getting together for fun every weekend in the parks.
Any suggestions?
what's a teen to do
My daughter was in the same boat yours is when she was a
freshman at BHS, and as you've found, there was no more
class IV (recreational) soccer through the Albany-Berkeley
club at that age. We switched to the Jack London league
(jlysl.org) and she joined a Rockridge team. She's now a
senior and has been on the same team the whole four years
and loves it. The level of playing varies, since there are
no tryouts, but it's fun and low-key. I've sometimes
wondered if BHS is big enough to support a few intramural
soccer teams, the way colleges do. That would make the
games and practices closer to home, but short of that, this
has been a good alternative and has kept her playing.
soccer mom
My condolences. You are right that high school teams and
the few older club teams tend to be competitive and
exclusionary-- partly because those still playing are self-
selected. Here are some other recreational soccer
possibilities to look into:
1. Spring Under-16 girls soccer team (Class 4) with Albany-
Berkeley Soccer Club (register in January).
2. City of Berkeley adult coed soccer league (may have
minimum age of 18 for women)
3. City College PE classes
4. Recreational pick-up games listed at
www.abscsoccer.com. There used to be an all-ages game
Sunday mornings at Catalfo, and another all-men game
Saturday and Sunday afternoons at San Pablo Park. My
husband travels an hour on weekends to an all-ages
friendly game he's played in for over 20 years. Perhaps
when the Gilman fields are finished, there can be a local
one.
5. San Francisco women's league.
good luck
Advice about kids playing soccer
Nov 1999
I'd love to hear from parents who's kids have participated in
this sports. The pros, the cons. Did it take up all of your free
time. Was it very competitive. What benefits did your children receive
from it. How do we find out which league our kids we be in. What ages
are appropriate, when do kids begin and for how long do they play? Do
kids from other/private schools compete locally with kids from local
public schools. Clearly, I need lots of advice.
While my kids are still far to young to tell you anything from a parents
point of view, I can tell you that I played AYSO soccer from age 6 to
age 16 and really enjoyed it. I was never a great player or a great
athlete in general, but this was a fun way to go out and get some good
exercise a few times a week, to make new friends, learn about teamwork
and sportsmanship, and of course learn some new skills. While it didn't
have a major impact on my life now, it was a really positive experience
and it really showed me how much fun sports can be without being super
competitive. I plan to have my daughters at least try soccer when they
are older, and hopefully some sport will catch each one's fancy!
Michael
May 2008
I am thinking of signing my 2.5 year old up for the Tot Soccer offered
thru the Oakland parks & recs. We didn't have much luck at the little
kickers program in Alameda. My son is really focused on the ball and
wasn't too interested in the other games they play (not many games with
the balls). What was your experience with the class? I'm not sure if
he's too young, he doesn't follow directions well yet.
Soccer Mom
My kids had the best time doing tot soccer and tumbling at Dimond. Birrel
Nicholson is a wonderful teacher. His focus is on having fun and following
directions. The kids get lots of fun outdoor time, incidentally learn some
skills and make a lifelong friend in Birrel.
Jan L
Re: Sunday Soccer for 7 year old girl (May 2007)
Check out Piedmont soccer. I believe the program is coed below the age of
8. I understand that they will be offering a Sunday game schedule in the
fall, to accommodate Jewish children that cannot participate in games on
Saturday mornings and others like you for whom Saturday morning games do
not work.
Susan
City of Albany
March 1999
To the person that was interested in Soccer for their 5 yr. old. The city
of Albany runs a soccer program on Sundays for this age group. There are 2
sessions that run for 6 weeks each. You can pick up a signup sheet at the
Albany Community Center on Marin at Masonic in Albany. Our daughter will
try it for the first time in the May session so I can't say how it is yet.
California Youth Soccer Association
From: Glenn (12/98)
There's a California Youth Soccer Association, Inc., that I know of. Mr.
Lynn Holland is 2nd Vice Chairman, Coach & Player Development, he could
steer you in the right direction depending upon where you live etc... His
telephone in Pleasant Hill, CA is (925) 372-9464, he gave me permisison to
give this #.
Good luck!
El Cerrito Soccer Club
Christina (11/99)
Another league is the El Cerrito Soccer Club, listed in the business
section of the white pages. I would second all the recommendations made by
other parents -- good exercise, good for girls to do something that makes
them feel tough and part of a team, good to have friends from outside
school. My daughter is not a star player, but she has learned a
lot (she's been playing two years) and it has given her a lot of physical
confidence I don't think she would have gotten anywhere else. It's great
to pick her up from practice all muddy, and with a red face from running
around. It does eat up a lot of your life, but if you can carpool, it's
not so bad --
Re: Weekend Soccer club for 5-6 year olds (April 2004)
The Jack London Soccer League might work for you; as Alameda
residents, we sometimes competed with them, and they definitely
had weekend games. Sorry I don't have more info, but try their
website:
http://www.jlysl.org/index.asp
Good luck!
Nils
June 2001
Re: Soccer for little kids
Soccer League - Norm Friedman has a wkd soccer program in Albany, you can track him down
through the Albany Library or Community Center. Heather
I think you are referring to a soccer league run by Norm Freidman. They meet every Sunday at
noon. You could call him on (510) 5598208 for a brochure or show up twenty minutes earlier and
sign up.
Tikva
University Village in Albany
July 2001
There are still spaces available for teens ages 13-17 in the Pacific Soccer
Training Camp coached by Teale Matteson, August 20-24 from 1-4 pm.
The cost for this camp is $125 for the week. For more information
call University Village Recreation at 510-524-4926 or email:
uvrec at mail.housing.berkeley.edu.
From: Eric (12/98)
Try the University Village in Albany Recreation Program. It runs soccer
classes for young children at very reasonable prices. The classes are kid
friendly and fun.
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