What kind of commitment is “travel soccer”?
Travel soccer (classic) is not as big of a commitment as other travel sports may be. Expect eight games each season, four home, four away. LKSC teams compete within the Greater Akron Amateur Soccer Association (GAASA), so the “away” games are usually within a 30 to 40 minute drive. Games will be held primarily on Sunday afternoon, although two to three weeknight games could be scheduled as well. The fall playing season begins in early September (practice starts early August) and goes through October. Spring season starts in April and ends in early June. A tournament may also be scheduled which would involved three to four games in one weekend.

What about practices?

Practices are usually twice a week. Practice days will be determined by the coaches.

What about tournaments?

Tournaments are great opportunities to play against teams from outside of the league and to measure the progress of player development. Participation is determined by team consensus and player availability. Tournaments will typically cost $30 - $40 per player and are usually limited to one per season.

What’s the cost of the program?

LKSC tries to offer an affordable program so as not to exclude anyone. Cost are currently $85 for each season. This covers referee fees for eight games, player and coach passes, league fees, and some field maintenance costs. Fall fees will be due in late June, spring fees in April. Coaches are strictly volunteers, so your fees go directly to the benefit of players. Trainers and guest coaches, brought in at the coaches discretion, will be compensated. Some additional costs (usually less than $10) may be incurred for a team T-shirt, league playoffs, or special training. The uniform will cost about $85, which includes shirt, shorts, socks and alternate t-shirt. If cost is a concern, please discuss this confidentially with a coach and arrangements can be made.

What about indoor soccer?

Indoor soccer provides a great opportunity to continue to develop skill and maintain fitness throughout the winter months. Players have the option of competing indoors (7 to 10 games) at a cost of $50 to $70. Time, dates and locations vary. Participation in at least one indoor soccer session is strongly encouraged. Currently all LKSC teams play at Springside Soccer in Montrose.

What kind of players are you looking for?

At the younger ages, we try to find players that show good athleticism and have a good work ethic. Playing experience at U11 and below is not as critical as the older ages. At U12 and above we prefer players that have played classic (travel) or premier, although some exceptions have been made for very good athletes.

How do you select players?

We typically do not approach players with other clubs unless some level of interest is expressed, so it is important to let us know if you would like to join. Ideally coaches will have an opportunity to watch a player in a game. In some cases it may be necessary to base our evaluation in a practice environment. We try in most cases to have a player observed by at least two coaches. The staff will select players that they feel will contribute to their team not only through athletic ability but also personality.   

How can I increase my chances of making the club?

Attending a practice, or several practices, will allow you to demonstrate your work ethic and enthusiasm for the sport. Please contact our club for practice schedules. Even if you are not selected to join the club, the practices will provide preparation for other try outs. We usually have opportunities to play indoors as well, sometimes just a game or two, other times an entire 10-game session.

Do you double-card players?

"Double-carding" means playing for two clubs. LKSC does not want to place any restrictions on a players activities outside of our club activities. However, double carded players, as well as players participating in other activities, sometimes cannot make the proper commitment to the team. It is at the coaches discretion as to whether the conflicts, or potential conflicts, interfere with the team. It would be best to discuss your situation with a coach and make him or her aware of potential conflicts. Typically premier soccer is not an issue, however other classic level teams present possible major conflicts since we would have the same primary "game day".  Be advised that OYSAN, the governing body of most youth soccer programs in Ohio, is considering a single card restriction on players for the fall of 2008. 

In summary, what makes the LKSC program unique?

• A philosophy to move players to different positions during the season so they learn the entire game.
• Coaches work very hard to establish a fun, "clique free" environment where every player can recognize their contribution to the team.
• Players feel a sense of security by not being required to try out every year.
• LKSC players participate in plyometric exercises and athletic assessments to assist them in being better athletes.
At-home programs give the player some responsibility for their own development and help the dedicated athlete achieve her objective to become a solid player.
• Coaches are experienced, licensed, and have many years of success coaching female athletes.

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