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Soccer Clubs & Leagues with Reviews

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Soccer for 3 yr old?

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

Soccer for 3 year old

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

Good soccer club for 7 year old girl?

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


Soccer class for 3.5 YOs in Oakland/Berkeley?

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

Soccer for 3 1/2 year old

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

Soccer for 4 year old girl

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


Soccer for 4-year-old

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

    Soccer for 4 year old in Lamorinda

    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

    Soccer for a 5 year old

    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

    Winter soccer leagues in far East Bay

    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

    We live in Berkeley - which soccer league?

    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


    Soccer for 5 year old boy

    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.

    Soccer for 5-year-old in Oakland

    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

    Weekend Soccer club for 5-6 year olds

    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

    Soccer for 6-year-old in Oakland

    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

    Sunday Soccer for 7 year old girl

    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

    Soccer camp for 7-year-old girl

    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


    Gifted 3rd Grade Athlete

    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

    Less competitive soccer team for 9-year-old

    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.

    Soccer for 9-year-old beginner

    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

    Soccer team for 12-year old daughter

    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


    Soccer for beginner 12 yr old?

    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

    Beginning soccer for a 12 yr old?

    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

    Winter soccer league for 13-year-old

    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

    Recreational soccer team for teen

    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

    Oakland Tot Soccer

    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

    Piedmont Soccer

    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 --

    Jack London Soccer League

    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

    Norm Freidman

    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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