Info on the 2014/2015/2016 soccer evaluations session

For those of you registered and attending our 2014/15/16 evaluation sessions – some additional information below.

If you have not yet registered, please READ HERE

Info on the 2014/2015/2016 soccer evaluations session for registered players:

Soccer Families,

We’re excited to host you for our upcoming 2014/2015/2016 soccer evaluations on May 5 and May 12 from 6:15–7:45 PM at the Stillwater Medical Soccer Complex. Please come early and check in at the Concession Stand when you arrive. 

We wanted to get some information in your hands before the event for you to read through. We will have a parent meeting at 6:15 to cover this material and answer questions. Please have a read, and we look forward to seeing you.

 Why This Evaluation Camp Exists

This Evaluation Camp helps us assess players born in 2014, 2015, and 2016 for placement in either recreational or competitive programs for the upcoming season.  Competitive teams require early registration in May, while recreational programs typically don’t begin sign-up until after the next school year starts. Because of that, we need to understand player interest, player potential, and roster inventory now so we have a clear picture of how team formations may look.

Many of these younger players are new to our coaching staff, and this Evaluation Camp helps bridge that gap. It gives coaches time to observe players in a low-pressure environment and gives families an opportunity to better understand the available options.

This is an evaluation camp, not a tryout. Players interested in competitive soccer (APEX or full-time Academy) will still need to attend formal tryouts. This process allows us to begin identifying potential fits early and gives parents time to ask questions before making decisions.

Our intent today is to help you clearly understand the different program options that may be available to your player. We’ll have a parent meeting to answer questions during the session and after. If you’re unsure about anything—format, travel, expectations, or timing—please ask.

Program Options

For 2016 Players:

• U10 Rec:
  Volunteer-coached. One practice and one local game per week, typically on Tuesdays and Thursdays. A lighter option for kids still developing or preferring a local, low-pressure environment.
  Cost: $95 per season — one season in Fall, a separate season in Spring
  Recreation does not require a tryout.
• U10 Academy:
  Paid coach. Two practices per week.  There is no formal league — we aim to schedule friendly matches with other Academy teams and participate in two tournaments per season, both within ~2 hours of Stillwater.  Academy is focused on preparing players for future competitive play in a more structured environment.
  Cost: $400 for the full school year (Fall and Spring combined). Tournament costs are separate. There will be a few payment options to choose from.
  Uniform: Club shirt is required (~$30). The rest of the kit (shorts, socks, etc.) is optional.This Evaluation Camp is not the tryout, but it allows coaches to begin evaluating players early, especially those new to our club.

For 2015 and 2014 Players

• U12 Rec:
  A new offering this year. Team format will depend on registration numbers. Options (depending on our numbers) may include:
  • Standard local teams with weekly games
  • Dutch Style play (small-sided games with rotating matchups)
  • A hybrid of local and nearby club games (e.g., Ponca City, Enid)
  • Cost: as low as $100 per season but may be up to $245 depending on league structure.  We will discuss these options with parents once we better understand our player numbers.
    U12 Rec does not require a tryout.

• APEX:
  Paid coach. Two to three practices per week. Tryout-based and travel expected. APEX is for players ready for advanced training and higher competition.
  Cost: $750 for a 10-month commitment.  League play in Fall and Spring included.  Uniform and Tournament fees not included.This Evaluation Camp is not the tryout, but it helps coaches begin identifying potential players while helping families understand what APEX entails.

What to Bring:

• Properly inflated Size 4 Soccer Ball
• Shin guards and cleats
• What to wear:  light-colored t-shirt (white, gray, etc.). It’s okay if it has a logo or design.
• Water bottle

Goalkeepers: Please let us know at check-in if your player is interested in playing goalkeeper so we can relay that to the coaches