Capital Soccer Club Team: FAQs for New Families
Q: How do I know if club soccer is a good fit for my child?
A: Club soccer is ideal for children passionate about soccer, who enjoy competition, and are committed to improving their skills. It's important for families to be ready for the time commitment involved in practices, games, and travel.
Q: What is the difference between Capital Soccer Club Team and Capital Soccer Programs?
A: The Capital Soccer Club Team refers to the competitive teams that participate in leagues and tournaments, requiring a November to June commitment. Tryouts typically happen in July. The Capital Soccer Programs include Development Academies, clinics, and camps focused on individual skill development, offering more flexibility in terms of commitment.
Q: When does the season start?
A: U14 and younger teams start with the Bailey Jamboree which is typically held in middle of September, with practices the week before. High school teams have outdoor sessions after the fall high school season, leading up to an optional fall college showcase tournament. Indoor winter training for all Capital Soccer Club teams begins the first week of November.
Q: How are players assigned to specific age groups?
A: Capital Soccer Club follows the U.S. Soccer birth year registration system, assigning players to teams based on the year they were born.
Q: Who are the coaches?
A: You can meet our coaching staff and learn more about their backgrounds and expertise on our Coaching Staff page.
Q: What are the typical training schedules during different seasons?
A: The club season runs from November to June, with practices 2-3 times per week. Fall offerings include the Capital La Liga, Bailey Jamboree, and a college showcase tournament. Specific schedules can be found on the “Club Teams” page on our website.
Q: Does the schedule allow players to participate in other sports?
A: Yes, many players successfully balance soccer with other sports. The club encourages open communication with coaches to accommodate multi-sport participation, though spring schedules may be more challenging.
Q: Where does Capital Soccer Club conduct its training and home games?
A: Outdoor training and home games are held at various fields in Waterbury, including The Ice Center, Dac Rowe Park, and Crossett Brook Middle School. Indoor training takes place at the Green Mountain Community Fitness and Central Vermont Memorial Civic Center. Specific locations are communicated at the start of the season.
Q: What additional costs should families anticipate beyond tuition?
A: Additional costs include uniforms, tournament travel/lodging expenses, and optional additional programs like La Liga, Strength & Conditioning, and extra indoor leagues or outdoor tournaments.
Q: How often do teams participate in tournaments and leagues?
A: Teams participate in the Capital Indoor Soccer League (March – April), the Vermont Soccer League (May through June), and several tournaments throughout the season. The number of tournaments can vary by team and age group. Visit “Club Teams” and click on your player’s age group to learn more.
Q: While tournaments can vary by age, are there important dates we should block off, knowing it could be a tournament weekend?
A: Yes, there are some weekends you should reserve for potential tournaments:
- Second weekend in March (typically out of state)
- Memorial Day weekend (typically out of state)
- Father’s Day weekend (Tree Farm in Essex, VT)
- Third weekend in June (Tree Farm in Essex, VT)
Q: How does the club manage travel arrangements for tournaments and out-of-state events?
A: Families are generally responsible for arranging and covering their own lodging and expenses. We strive to have a Team Parent for each club team to help coordinate group rates and team dinners during tournaments. Team bonding off the field is an important part of the club experience, and these coordinated efforts help enhance camaraderie among players and families.
Q: What is the Bailey Jamboree and who plays in it?
A: The Bailey Jamboree is an annual event hosted by Capital Soccer Club every fall, designed to honor the spirit of Solon & Liam Bailey. It’s a non-results-oriented event focused on fun, learning, and growth for young players in a family-friendly environment in Stowe, VT. The event is scheduled for a weekend in middle of September, with all U14 and younger teams playing on Sunday of the event. Coaches will provide more details as the event approaches, including practice sessions the week before. This tournament is included in your player’s tuition. Learn more at Bailey Jamboree.
Q: What is the Capital La Liga program?
A: The La Liga program is a new initiative for U12 and U14 players, focused on developing advanced soccer skills through a structured league environment. Players are divided into teams within the club, fostering competition and growth. This program is designed to mirror the intensity and structure of a professional league, providing a unique opportunity for players to experience high-level soccer in a supportive setting. This program requires an additional registration fee of $180 and offers six weeks of training and match play at the Ice Center in Waterbury.
Q: I heard there is a trip to Barcelona?
A: Yes, Capital Soccer Club offers a special trip to Barcelona, where players have the opportunity to train with professional coaches, participate in friendly matches, and experience the rich soccer culture of Spain. This trip is an incredible chance for young players to develop their skills and immerse themselves in an international soccer environment. Learn more here.
Q: What is the Strength and Conditioning Program?
A: The Strength and Conditioning (S&C) Program, in partnership with Green Mountain Community Fitness (GMCF), is offered to U16 and U19 teams. This 12-week program meets twice a week before team training sessions and costs vary per season. We require a minimum number of committed players to finalize the program with GMCF.
Q: Are there additional opportunities for gameplay during November - March?
A: Yes, we offer optional extra events, including indoor leagues in Essex at the fairgrounds. These futsal leagues run for six weeks, with multiple sessions throughout the winter, typically starting in November. Participation is completely optional, and players will hear from their coaches when registration opens.
Q: Are there guidelines for wearing uniforms and equipment during practices and games?
A: Yes, players are expected to wear the official club uniform for games and appropriate training gear for practices, which includes black game shorts, red training socks, and a black training shirt.
Q: How do I order the uniform kit for the 2024-25 club season?
A: Visit WeGotSoccer, select "Uniforms," then choose the "Capital SC Required Kit." Enter your assigned uniform number and sizes. Double-check the uniform number, as errors will require you to purchase a new kit.
Q: What items are included in the full uniform kit?
A: The kit includes:
- Red Game Jersey
- White Game Jersey
- Black Game Shorts
- Black Game Socks
- Red Training Socks
- Black Training Shirt
Q: What additional items can I purchase?
A: You can also buy a warm-up kit, backpack, and other club-sponsored equipment under the "fanwear" section on the WeGotSoccer page.
Q: When do I need to have the uniform kit by?
A: U10-U14 players need their uniform kits by the Bailey Memorial Jamboree in September. High school players will need them immediately following the fall scholastic season.
Q: What is the best way to stay updated with club news and announcements?
A: The best way to stay informed is by regularly checking the club’s official website at capitalsoccer.net, subscribing to email updates, and following the club on social media: Instagram @capitalsoccerclub and Facebook Capital Soccer Club. Additionally, there is a club calendar available on the website at Club Calendarfor important dates and events.