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Select Soccer FAQ

 What is the difference between recreational and select soccer?
The main differences are what the players are trying to achieve through soccer and the ability of the players. Recreational soccer is mainly for the players to have fun while playing the game. Ability level isn't weighed and equal playing time and de-emphasizing the winning/losing is a large part of rec. The time commitment for rec soccer is less than for select soccer. For select, ability level is weighed and the focus is on player/team development where equal playing time for all players isn't stressed and the overall success of the player/team is taken into account. The commitment level of both time/resources is greater for select.

What is select club soccer?

It is competitive soccer for the U11-U18 age groups where players must tryout and be selected to participate. Select is for those players who have a passion/commitment for the game and demonstrate advanced skills, athleticism, attitude & ability in recreational/youth soccer. A professional coaching staff (full & part time) selects, trains and coaches the teams/players on a year round basis. Select soccer is for the serious soccer player who has aspirations to play soccer at a higher level as they get older and is willing to devote the necessary time/resources.

What is select club soccer's role?
This may vary from club to club, but is generally to prepare/develop players to participate at the highest possible level of High School, College and ODP (Olympic Development Program). With middle school and high school soccer only lasting a few months of the year and limited to those players that attend the school, club soccer is the primary means of development for the serious soccer player in the U.S. Generally select club soccer (along with colleges/universities) attracts the best youth soccer players/coaches in the country.

How do I know if my son/daughter can play select soccer?
If they have excelled or demonstrated strong skills/athleticism while playing recreational/youth soccer and enjoy competing/playing soccer. A player must also have a positive attitude, the commitment to play as well as the skills. Having a passion for the game can help overcome many obstacles.

How much does it cost to play select soccer?
Roughly $300.00 per season

What does the money go towards?
Coaching fees, VSLI  fees and uniform fees.

Is the payment due in one lump some or is it monthly dues?
It can be paid either way. Otherwise it will be half 45 days prior to start of season and the other half 30 days later.

How long is the season and how much time commitment is there during the season and off season?
The Spring season, which runs from March to May, and the Fall season, which runs from August to  October, would have two training sessions per week and at least one game on the weekend. There would most likely be two tournaments (one at beginning of season and one at end). Training sessions are roughly an hour and half.

If selected to a team, does the season constitute the Fall and the Spring or just one or the other?
The teams are formed for an entire year, with tryouts in May and the team starting in August and going through the following May. A player's commitment is for the entire year, not just the Fall or Spring season. This encompasses both time and financial commitment.

How much travel is involved and where would we travel?
Depending on which division a particular team is in (Division I, Super II Division & Division II), the regular season games would generally be within the Hampton Roads area. A team most likely would have 2-3 league games of about an hour drive (Williamsburg or VA Beach). Parents are responsible for travel and there is not a bus or other means of transportation that the club provides.

How is the coaching different from recreational to select?
Many of the recreational coaches will be volunteer parents with limited coaching/playing experience. Select coaches will have years of coaching/playing experience at the highest level (youth, college & professional). VIP UNITED select coaches either hold national coaching licenses or have played collegiate or professionally, Many coach some our high school teams. The coaches will focus on developing the players technical and tactical ability over a period of years, working with the players virtually year round.

What type of soccer gear (other than uniforms) needs to be purchased for select?
Players are responsible to purchase their own soccer shoes, shin guards, water jug and soccer ball. Players at practice must wear practice shirt/shorts.

What is the tryout process for select?
Players in each age group will be evaluated based on one day of playing against other players in their age group at tryouts. Coaches will evaluate predominantly through the use of small sided (4 against 4) and larger games. Players may also be asked to perform some technical/physical tasks to demonstrate their abilities. After tryouts are complete each player will be notified (via a phone call) if they have been selected for a team.

How do I get ready for select tryouts?
Show up to tryouts!

Is there a cost to tryout and who can attend?
No, there is not a cost for tryouts and anyone within the age groups may attend tryouts.