Here’s Why Parents and Kids Love Soccer Stars

Soccer has captured the world’s imagination. According to the Library of Congress, more than 240 million people play soccer, and fan participation numbers in the billions. Most players start the beautiful game as children; experts say that’s good. Soccer helps build friendships, develop confidence, promote exercise and healthy living, advance gender equality and give kids a sense of joy.

Local parents who wish to introduce their kids to soccer should know about Soccer Stars.

The Area’s Leading Soccer Teaching Program Is 23 and Growing Strong

It’s hard to believe that Soccer Stars, New York City’s premier skill-building program, is already 23 years old. From its origins as a three-class program in New York City’s Upper West Side, Soccer Stars has become the area’s leading youth educational program, teaching kids and building confidence at more than 80 locations across the city, Long Island, Westchester, and the Hamptons.

Why has Soccer Stars caught fire? A few elements stand out. First and foremost, their coaches use positive reinforcement so learning is fun. Soccer Stars classes are structured with the lowest kid-to-coach ratio in the area and classes are grouped by age (so 3-year-olds learn with other 3-year-olds), ensuring that every child gets the attention they need.

What do Soccer Stars classes offer?

Every class starts with a fun, warm-up activity to get loose. Stretches are next to make sure kids avoid injuries. Then they work individually on skill building, with attention paid to footwork and ball skills. For younger age groups, this is done through imaginative themes that bring soccer to life without feeling like drills. After that, players will do partner and group activities that help with building teamwork. Practices culminate in a scrimmage where kids apply the skills they’re learning. (The program also offers a scrimmage program to augment Soccer Stars classes.)

Soccer Stars programs include Parent & Me classes that use puppets and music to get toddlers aged 12-24 months (and their parents) moving and grooving. From ages 2 to 10 years, FUNdamentals classes help all skill levels learn the sport in a playful, non-competitive, and supportive environment. There are also Shining Stars classes available for children with learning or intellectual disabilities.

When players ages 4.5 – 12+ are ready to take their game to the next level, Soccer Stars United is a development program where technical skills, tactical game elements, problem-solving, and teamwork are integral to every child’s experience. For kids who develop a passion for the sport, there are also competitive travel league teams that offer kids the chance to participate in league and even state championships, with Soccer Stars claiming more than its share of those prizes.

Right now, Soccer Stars is offering $35 off on any fall soccer program for parents who go to soccerstars.com and register using the promo code NYFALL23. It’s a great way to introduce your child to a passion that could last a lifetime.