For youth soccer parents across the country, the 2026–2027 season comes with a looming question mark. As US Soccer rolls out its new age group guidelines — shifting from birth-year to school-year alignment — families are bracing for "roster churn" and the potential loss of long-standing team chemistry. While some clubs are struggling to navigate these mandates, CC United is ready to implement the necessary changes. Director of Coaching Jonathan Tudor is leaning into a philos

Finding a soccer club that offers both high-level athletic development and genuine personal support is a top priority for families navigating the competitive sports landscape. For Annalynn Scheider, a four-year starter and high school senior captain, that supportive environment has been the St. Croix Soccer Club . Over the course of an eight-year journey that began at a summer camp with Coach Joaquin, Annalynn has experienced firsthand how a dedicated coaching staff can shape

Have you ever wondered why soccer — or football, to much of the world — is the most popular sport on the planet? Beyond the nail-biting finishes and incredible displays of individual skill, soccer is a powerhouse of physical and mental development. Playing soccer provides a high-intensity cardiovascular workout that burns calories, builds lower-body strength, and increases bone density. Mentally, it sharpens split-second decision-making, significantly reduces daily stress, an

Starting a fitness journey is an exciting, empowering step toward a healthier lifestyle. However, whether you are stepping into a gym for the first time or training for a marathon, it is crucial to prioritize safety. The most effective way to avoid common exercise injuries — like muscle strains, shin splints, lower back pain, and tendonitis — is by properly warming up, utilizing correct form, cross-training to prevent overuse, staying hydrated, and actively building rest days

There is a massive, lingering misconception that you have to be extraordinarily tall to be successful at volleyball. While height can certainly be an advantage for blockers at the net, volleyball is actually a highly dynamic, full-body sport where agility, quick reflexes, and exceptional ball control are the true markers of a great player. Playing volleyball provides an explosive cardiovascular workout, builds significant upper and lower body strength, drastically improves ha

Significant changes are coming to the pitch for the 2026–2027 season. Following a new mandate from US Soccer, youth age groups are shifting from a calendar-year (January–December) format to a grade-year alignment (August 1–July 31). While any mandate involving team restructuring can bring a sense of uncertainty, Colorado EDGE  is stepping forward with a clear message: Your child’s development remains our north star. In a comprehensive update, Competitive Director Bri Kuester

Change is a natural part of growth, especially in youth sports. As we look ahead to the 2026–2027 season, the Shakopee Soccer Association (SSA)  is preparing for a significant shift: the transition to grade-year registration as mandated by US Soccer. While moving away from traditional birth-year mandates can feel like a hurdle in the short term, Associate Director Jon Poppen views it as a major win for the Shakopee community. By aligning soccer rosters with school grade level

Tiger Woods. Serena Williams. Rory McIlroy. Roger Federer. When comparing the worlds of golf and tennis, it is easy to get caught up in the legendary status of the athletes. But beyond the grand slams and green jackets, what do these professionals actually have in common? Elite, undeniable athleticism. If you are trying to decide which of these lifetime sports is better for your personal fitness journey, the answer lies in your specific goals. While both sports offer distinct

For families looking for a long-term developmental home, finding the right club culture makes all the difference. In this parent spotlight, Andrea Schlidt reflects on her son’s six-year journey with FC Wisconsin , spanning from U13 all the way through U19. Beyond the expected technical growth on the pitch, Andrea highlights the club's unique approach to character building — specifically how older players are encouraged to mentor the next generation through the FC Minis progra