SOCCER

Soccer is a sport that builds endurance, coordination, and teamwork while giving kids the joy of being active outdoors. Whether your child is brand new to the game or already loves passing and scoring goals, our program offers a welcoming space to develop skills, make friends, and have fun.

From dribbling and passing to game strategy and teamwork, players will be guided by coaches who are passionate about the sport. No matter their experience level, every participant will have the chance to improve their abilities, demonstrate good sportsmanship, and enjoy the excitement of soccer in a positive and encouraging environment.

Program Details

Soccer is available for boys and girls from Pre-K through 8th grade. It is a fall sport, with practice and game schedules varying slightly between CYC teams (grades 2–8) and Judge Dowd teams (Pre-K–1st grade).

Grades PreK-1 (Judge Dowd)

WHAT TO EXPECT

The Judge Dowd soccer program focuses on teaching the basics—dribbling, passing, shooting, and understanding simple game flow. Players will learn teamwork, follow basic rules, and develop coordination in a supportive, no-pressure setting.

PRACTICES

Practices occur once per week, beginning in mid to late August.

GAMES & SEASON DETAILS

Games typically begin the Saturday after Labor Day and run for nine weeks.

REGISTRATION FEE

EQUIPMENT

$70 or Family Fee

Players need soccer cleats, navy soccer socks, and shin guards. (Some teams may choose socks as a team, but all socks must match).

UNIFORM

Pre-K–2nd grade currently wear St. Gabriel dry-fit shirts.

Grades 2-4 (CYC)

WHAT TO EXPECT

At this level, players continue to develop their technical skills while learning more about game positions, rules, and strategies. They’ll work on accurate passing, ball control, shooting techniques, and playing as part of a team. Good sportsmanship and communication are emphasized.

PRACTICES

Practices are scheduled by the head coach and the program practice coordinator, typically occurring once per week. Practices start in early August.

GAMES & SEASON DETAILS

REGISTRATION FEE

EQUIPMENT

$70 or Family Fee

Players need soccer cleats, navy soccer socks, and shin guards. (Some teams may choose socks as a team, but all socks must match).

UNIFORM

Soccer uniform shirts and shorts are provided for grades 3–8.

Grades 5-8 (CYC)

WHAT TO EXPECT

Older players will refine their technical skills and learn advanced tactics, game strategies, and positional play. Practices and games focus on stronger ball control, precise passing, defensive skills, and teamwork under pressure. Sportsmanship, effort, and team communication remain priorities.

PRACTICES

Practices are scheduled by the head coach and the program practice coordinator, typically occurring once per week. Practices start in early August.

GAMES & SEASON DETAILS

The CYC season generally runs from late August to early or mid-November, depending on whether teams participate in or qualify for a post-season tournament. In 2024, the season ran from August 23 to November 10 (11 weeks). SGAA pays for one tournament per team, and many teams participate in the St. Mike’s preseason tournament in mid-August. There are also various post-season tournaments.

REGISTRATION FEE

EQUIPMENT

$70 or Family Fee

Players need soccer cleats, navy soccer socks, and shin guards. (Some teams may choose socks as a team, but all socks must match).

UNIFORM

Soccer uniform shirts and shorts are provided for grades 3–8.

Misc. Information

Registration for soccer opens mid-April. Each year, coaches, referees, and parent helpers are needed—those interested should indicate this when registering their child. Parents are encouraged to let the players play, the coaches coach, and the referees ref. This ensures a fun, learning-focused environment where kids can develop skills through experience.