Vestavia Hills Soccer Club Announces 2025 Community Non-Profit Partner: STRIVE Birmingham

By Jason Woodall • January 15, 2025
Vestavia Hills Soccer Club partners with STRIVE Birmingham as the 2025 Community Non-Profit Partner. STRIVE, a national leader in workforce development, empowers individuals 18+ with free career training and support, bridging the skills and opportunity gaps for life-changing success. Discover how VHSC and STRIVE work together to empower graduating seniors and strengthen our community.

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Welcome to Our Youth Soccer Programs!

At our soccer club, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to learn, grow, and have fun through the beautiful game of soccer. Our programs are designed to foster skill development, teamwork, and a love for the sport, catering to kids of all ages and abilities. Join us for an exciting journey where every kick counts!

Our Programs

Recreational Soccer

Ages 3-19


Our Recreational Soccer program is the ideal starting point for players new to the game or looking to enjoy soccer in a fun, low-pressure environment. Designed for boys and girls ages 3–19, this program focuses on teaching the fundamentals of soccer, building teamwork, and fostering a love for the game. With volunteer coaches, regular practices, and exciting games, it’s perfect for players of all skill levels.

Academy Soccer

Ages U8-U11


The Academy Program serves as a bridge between recreational and competitive soccer, providing a competitive environment for players ages U8–U11. Focused on skill development, game understanding, and teamwork, this program introduces players to a higher level of soccer while maintaining an inclusive and developmental approach. Academy Soccer prepares players for the next step in their soccer journey with dedicated coaching and competitive matches.

Competitive Soccer

Ages U12-U19


Our Competitive Soccer program offers players ages U12–U19 the opportunity to train and compete at the highest levels in the state. With a focus on advanced skill development, tactical awareness, and challenging competition, this program is designed for athletes ready to elevate their game. Teams participate in top-tier leagues, tournaments, and events, providing exposure to collegiate soccer pathways and beyond.

TopSoccer

Ages U4-U19


The TOPSoccer Program at Vestavia Hills Soccer Club is a soccer initiative designed for children with special needs, offering a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment. Open to players aged U4–U19 with any physical or mental disability, the program focuses on fostering physical, mental, and emotional growth through soccer. Each player is paired with a dedicated Sidekick Volunteer to ensure individualized support and encouragement. TOPSoccer is a rewarding experience for players and volunteers, providing a unique opportunity to give back to the community and make a positive impact. Join us to help bring the joy of soccer to every child!

Program Age Group Comparison

Feature Recreational (Ages 3-19) U8-U10 Academy U11 Academy U12-U19 Competitive
Overview Introduces players to soccer, focusing on fun, fitness, and teamwork. Designed to provide foundational skills and foster a love for the game. Focuses on bridging foundational skills with advanced tactical and competitive play. Provides high-level competition with pathways to collegiate and professional soccer.
Program Focus Introduction to soccer; focus on fun, learning, and physical activity Introduction to competitive soccer; skill development; fun and positive environment Advanced skill and tactical development; preparation for higher competitive levels High-level competition; advanced technical and tactical growth; preparation for collegiate opportunities
Age Groups Ages 3-19 U8-U10 U11 U13 and older
Training Frequency 1-2 sessions per week (certain age groups with optional skills training) 2 sessions per week 3 sessions per week (75-minute sessions) 3+ sessions per week (75–90 minutes each)
Training Locations Liberty Park, SHAC, Dolly Ridge, Central Field, VHEE Liberty Park/SHAC or Dolly Ridge (primary); occasional sessions at Central Field Liberty Park/SHAC only Designated club facilities based on team assignment
Game Format 4v4 to 11v11 7v7 9v9 11v11
Roster Size Varies by age group Preferred: 10 players per team Preferred: 12 players per team Preferred: 16–18 players per team
Ball Size U8 - Size 3, U9-U12 - Size 4, U13-U19 - Size 5 Size 4 Size 4 Size 5
League Participation In-house and Alabama Futures league Alabama D League (6 games per season) Alabama D League (6 games per season) State and Regional Leagues
Tournaments Varies; U9 and older recreational teams may participate in optional tournaments 1-2 per season 2-3 per season 2-3 per season
Tournament Games Varies by age group and teams U9 and older 2 games on Saturday; 1 game Sunday morning; potential Sunday final 2 games on Saturday; 1 game Sunday morning; potential Sunday final 2 games on Saturday; 1 game Sunday morning; potential Sunday final
Team Formation Inclusive, grassroots teams formed based on location, numbers, and age Based on tryouts, age groups, and facilities; teams tiered for development Based on tryouts, age groups, and facilities; teams tiered for development Based on tryouts; age groups; teams tiered for development
Key Attributes for Players Positive, inclusive, eager to play and learn Coachable, positive, respectful, team-oriented, and eager to learn Coachable, positive, respectful, team-oriented, and eager to learn Coachable, positive, respectful, team-oriented, and eager to learn

Soccer Pathways at VHSC


At Vestavia Hills Soccer Club, we offer a clear and exciting pathway for youth soccer players to grow and succeed, no matter their starting point or goals. Our programs are designed to guide players through each stage of their soccer journey:


1. Recreational Soccer (Ages 3–19)


The perfect introduction to soccer, focusing on fun, skill development, and building a love for the game. Recreational soccer provides a low-pressure environment for players of all levels to learn the basics and enjoy team play.


2. Academy Soccer (U8–U11)


A bridge program for players aspiring to take the next step. Academy soccer introduces competitive elements with a focus on advanced skills, teamwork, and game understanding, preparing players for higher levels of play.


3. Competitive Soccer (U12–U19)


For players ready to compete at the highest level. Teams compete in leagues and tournaments, offering a challenging environment with dedicated coaching to maximize player potential and opportunities for college recruitment.