What is Competitive Soccer?
2023 Comp Tryout Registration is Now Open!
Competitive soccer is for kids and families that want a more extensive soccer experience than what our recreational program offers. Players must tryout and be selected to play on a competitive team. Many of our competitive teams train and have games almost year round. This training includes a fall season, several tournaments (many require travel and an overnight stay), and some teams play a spring season. Our financial commitment is far less than most programs as teams are mostly coached by volunteers (although most have, or are working on their coaching licenses through US Soccer).
Competitive soccer starts for kids that are 8 years old and continues until they are 18 years old.
Levels of Competitive Soccer
There are several levels of competitive soccer that our teams play in. The first level of competitive soccer is Bronze, then Silver, Gold, and ultimately State Premier. One team may bounce back and forth in these levels from year to year, or play in a tournament at a different level for developmental reasons.
We currently have 2 teams playing State Premier, and 8 playing Gold (with the remaining teams playing Bronze). We anticipate 3-4 State Premier teams and 9-10 Gold in 2023.
The goal of competitive soccer is to develop players and to learn the game at a higher level. At the younger ages, it cannot be just about wins and losses, as this is not always a benchmark for learning. However, as our teams grow, we are very proud of their accomplishments at both tournaments and league, with many teams placing in the top 4 on a regular basis!
Another area that sets us apart is the cost. Where many local clubs charge in the thousands, our Comp Registration fee averages $250, and the average player will pay $600-900 total for the year. We feel money should not be a deterrence to a quality soccer experience. We also recognize that some players and families want and need a different soccer experience. There are many great clubs in our community, and we are not the end all .
If you have questions on if competitive soccer is right for your child or family, please contact our VP of Competitive Soccer, Manny Perez, or our Director of Comp Soccer, Mark Marcarian.
Empire SC Comp Program Philosophy: GOAL
G: Gain community strength with teams coached mainly by parents with soccer knowledge and in pursuit of coaching licenses and education.
O: Opportunities abound within our community for soccer growth ,and we are committed to taking advantage of these resources. Examples of this are the use of the SRJC soccer program for training, and the use of visiting coaches from around the world to share their experience.
A: Allow players to learn the game by committing to 50 percent play time, with a minimum acceptable play time of 1/3 of each game throughout the season.
L: Learn the game properly, with a strong emphasis on individual skills at the youngest ages, to proper build up, possession, and creative attacking at the older ages. We want our players to graduate from our club and have the skills and tactical awareness to play in High School or College.