What are the ages for the Recreation Program at Ancient City?

There are teams for boys and girls from 4 to 19 years old. Note – it is an FYSA (Florida Youth Soccer Association-our governing body) rule that players must be 4 years old by July 31 of the fall season to be eligible to play.

When are the Recreational Seasons and how long are they?

Ancient City’s Recreational program takes place over two seasons, one in the fall, and one in the spring.  When registering for the year, players are paying for two seasons (fall and spring).  Both the fall and spring seasons include approximately 12 weeks of practices and 10 weeks of games.  The fall season runs from the end of August through mid-November. The spring season starts towards the end of February and runs till mid-May.  Registration for the following year typically opens in May and covers both the fall and spring season.  We do offer mid-season registration (prior to the spring season starting) at a discounted rate, however players are encouraged to sign up for the entire year.

When are the registration deadlines?

Registration for the fall and spring season closes in early September. Mid-season registration for the spring season closes in early February. The sooner you register the better. Early registration is essential in making sure that teams can be formed in order to allow for time to build training and game schedules. Additionally, we do our best to accommodate training, coach, and teammate requests.  And while we can’t promise to meet all of the special requests, the sooner we have your information we can start putting the puzzle pieces together.

When will my coach contact me?

Your child’s coach will contact you roughly a week or two prior to the season starting. They will be reaching out, introducing themselves, and letting you know where/when practices will be.  We can always use volunteer coaches at all the age groups.  If you or someone you know is interested in learning more or signing up to volunteer, please reach out to our Director at:  recreation@ancientcitysoccer.com

When, where, and how many practices?

U6-U10 recreation teams train once a week at a location/date/time determined by the volunteer coach. Locations include: Treaty Park, Gamble Rodgers, and RB Hunt. U6-U10 practices are roughly an hour in length, once a week. Practices for U12 and older are approximately an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and a half in length, twice a week.

When will I get the game schedule?

The game schedule cannot be created and released until all the teams have been formed, so it usually is sent out after the first week of training. It takes time to ensure we have the correct information regarding the number of teams and coaches. Thank you for your patience! 

Where and when are games played?

Games are played on Friday nights and Saturday mornings. U6-U12 teams are scheduled 1-2 Friday night games a season. Recreation games are played against other ACSC teams at Gamble Rodgers Middle School. 

U13-U19 teams play in the North Florida Youth Soccer League. Games are Saturdays (with the possibility of playing a game or two on a Sunday) – ½ of the games are home (Gamble Rogers Middle School) and ½ are at clubs within the league rotation (various parks or fields throughout St. Johns, Duval, and/or Clay County).

How and when will I get my uniform?

A complete uniform kit (two jerseys, one pair of shorts and one pair of socks) is included in the cost of registration.  Uniforms will be handed out prior to the first game of the season. We wait for registration to close to place one large order for all of our players. Once they are ready, we will pass them off to your coach who will bring them to practice.

What does my registration pay for?

Each registrant will receive two 10-week seasons, a uniform, and soccer ball (handed out at the end of the year). Registration fees also cover mandatory insurance for players, field maintenance and rental, equipment for coaches, referees for games, and all the other miscellaneous items required to make this program possible.

What does my child need for practice?

Your child will need to wear comfortable clothes, shin guards, and soccer cleats to all practices.  He or she will also need to provide their own water.  Game uniforms are provided and will need to be worn along with cleats and shin guards at every game.  Bringing your own soccer ball is optional and at the discretion of each coach.

U5-U8 use size 3 balls

U9-U12 use size 4 balls

U13 and up use size 5 balls

Why are teams and spectators on opposite sides of the field?

Player and parent sidelines help keep everything in order and minimize distractions! Coaches and referees are able to focus on the players and the game more easily, and players are able to focus on playing soccer.  We ask that parents respect our guidelines and remain on the spectator side of the field.

How can I get involved coaching a team?

We are always eager to take in new coaches.  If this interests you, email Scotty King recreation@ancientcity.com There is no prior experience necessary. All recreational coaches are volunteers (most are parents) who dedicate their time to provide our kids the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful game, make new friends, and gain valuable life experiences.

Does Ancient City Soccer offer any Financial Aid?