Parents, you are a key player in your players soccer experience. Not only are you your son or daughter’s primary means of transportation, their scheduler and their uniform washer, but you also play an enduring role in encouraging their love of the game, and all of the benefits they gain from it.

To that end, we’ve provided the following valuable and timely resources for your review. We are also happy to address any specific questions or concerns you have. You can reach us at info@mlsa.org. We’re here to support you as you support your MLSA player. We’re all one soccer-loving community!
 

• 20 Bad Sports Parenting Habits that Will Give Your Child a Miserable Season
• Changing the Game
• Early and Late Bloomers in Youth Sports: Lessons for Parents
• FIFA Laws of the Game
• Parent's Soccer Guide
• Simple Laws of the Game
• US Youth Soccer Parent Guide
• US Youth Soccer Parent Section

Club Soccer Overview

Club Soccer is a separate soccer experience outside of MLSA. However, we want to give a brief introduction to shed light on what’s available. Please note that this posting does not support any one club.

Club Soccer offers a higher level of training and competition than typically found in an In-House or Travel program. It also involves a higher level of commitment on the part of players and families.

Club Soccer is still age appropriate and fun, but it does involve trying out for a team, more practices and a financial commitment. Players should be interested in improving technically, tactically, and in terms of fitness/speed. 

Many coaches are licensed and have played the game at a higher level than one finds in In-House or Travel Programs.

Most clubs will practice twice per week in-season (spring and fall) while also offering off-season (winter and summer) workouts. Games are typically held on Saturdays so that they will not conflict with Travel team schedules. Most clubs begin to form teams at the U9 age group but many offer training and programs as early as U6 or younger.

PA West Soccer has a page with more information about club soccer here.

Here are a majority of the club teams in the Pittsburgh area.

Pittsburgh Area Club Teams

Games to Watch
Live Soccer TV covers just about every game out there. Check them out:  Live SoccerTV