CCSL travel teams compete in U.S. Youth Soccer’s Virginia Premier Soccer League (VPSL) program, National Premier League (NPL) Western Division.
CCSL is committed to the continued development of soccer in our community. For many years, Clarke County Soccer League has sponsored teams in various leagues including the Skyline Soccer Club League (SCSL), Suburban Friendship League (SFL), ODSL and NCSL, competitive soccer leagues that serves a large area throughout Northern Virginia.
Currently, there are Clarke County teams representing boys and girls in a variety of age groups that travel to play games in travel leagues. In past years, these teams have represented Clarke County very well, winning their divisions, as well as forming great teams that have grown into State Championship high school teams. The experience and competitive environment that is provided by these programs is ideal for a player who wants to improve their skills and play soccer at a high level.
What's the difference between traditional rec team play and travel teams?
- Team Building - Players and coaches often stay together as one team with consistency in the coaching role. This allows players to develop in their position, learning to know & trust their teammates.
- Greater Challenge - With nearly hundreds of clubs across Northern Virginia, teams participating in travel soccer normally offer a higher caliber of competition than traditional Rec Programs. Players who participate are often more dedicated and willing and eager to compete against other teams from outside the area.
What are the Additional Considerations?
- Greater commitment. Joining a travel team for games requires a bigger commitment from parents. First, these teams are part of the CCSL. CCSL sponsors these teams, providing experienced and certified coaches, as well as registration, oversight, field space, and referees for home games. Teams typically play half home games and half away games each season. The away games are not held in Clarke County and will require drive time (usually within 2 hours). Also, travel soccer rules are more strict than recreational soccer and players/parents need to make themselves aware and adhere to these. Players must earn their time on the field, through commitment and hard work.
- Increased costs. The cost of joining a travel team is usually greater and does equipment costs, like a team bag, individual practice balls, etc., tournament fees and and can vary depending on the team. Different from other leagues, CCSL travel teams do include uniforms as part of registration. Some teams enter into tournaments which also require additional money from players/parents. Compared to travel soccer costs in surrounding areas, CCSL is much more affordable since the coaches for CCSL are not paid from your fees.
- Practice and game times vary. Teams practice 3 times per week for about 90 minutes each practice, and games are typically on Saturdays and occasionally Sundays. Practices are often held in the off season as well, as determined by the team.
About CCSL's Travel Prep Program
CCSL Travel Prep is the "introduction to travel" that provides a gradual growth into the world of travel soccer without all of the commitment up front. Tucked between the U8 and U10 league, Clarke County now gives even younger players the option dipping their toe into the world of competitive soccer without the commitment and investment.
How long is the program?
2 seasons
What children is this designed for?
For the 2022-2023 season, this will be for boys for birth years 2014 and 2015
Is there ACTUAL travel involved?
At the beginning, very little. When there is travel, it’s no further than a 30 minute drive. Most games will be at CCSL fields.
What are practices like?
Unlike rec (who are only required to hold a minimum of 2 practices a week), CCSL PT will have longer (90 minute vs. 60 minute) practices 3 times a week.
Is this for everyone?
No, there is a limit to the amount that will be let into the program and each year alternates the gender of the teams (last year was 2013/2014 girls, this year is 2014/2015 boys, next year will be 2015/2016 girls, etc).
Where can I get more information?
Email your questions to [email protected]