How to Build Soccer Clubs
Soccer is considered the world's most popular sport. If you're building a soccer club in the United States, there's no shortage of players. More than 24 million people, or 8 percent of the population, play soccer in America, according to the U.S. Soccer Federation. Much more, however, goes into building a club then just fielding a team. You need to have a strong infrastructure that looks at the club's long-term future. There must also be the proper promotion and financial support to make a club a fixture in the community.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Find players. It's great to have the concept of a soccer club, but you need actual players to make it a reality. Advertise in your area and talk to high school and college coaches. If you have a youth team, meet with parents.
-
2
Form a board of directors. You can't have every decision made by a group vote from the entire club. You need a small group to objectively see the big picture.
-
-
3
Promote the club. Let people know about it by advertising games and selling clothing with the team's name on it.
-
4
Gain financial backing. No matter the level, clubs need money to survive. Contact local businesses to see if they would sponsor your club.
-
5
Assess the competition and offer something another club can't. Maybe hire a successful coach or rent an indoor gym while everyone else practices outside.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Get connected with another soccer club. If you're an adult league, call the local youth leagues and see if any kids want to be ball boys. It will help to build interest and get people to your games.
Offer offseason training or games. A high school or college player would probably be too busy to play in the fall, but might be looking for games in the summer.
Don't neglect the non-soccer things. For example, a club might need to provide medical insurance for its players and file a tax return.
