One of the most popular sports for children to try out first is soccer, and with good reason! Many people consider soccer “the most beautiful game in the world,” and it truly is a universal sport. People can enjoy it at all levels and almost anywhere. The rules are easy, the goal is simple, and it’s just FUN. The energy of a soccer match is palpable, even for the youngest of players. If you’re looking to find the right program for your children, you’ve come to the right place. Here is a complete list of soccer programs for kids in the DMV area to get your little one(s) started!
What is the difference between a soccer team, league, club, and travel team? Teams are a part of a club that compete with a league. A soccer club is an organization that manages several recreational teams with different age groups and skill levels. A soccer league helps organize matches between certain teams. A travel team is a more competitive and they travel to play games or tournaments in different cities or states. These are also more selective and are typically more expensive.
The PPA Development Soccer League offers a fresh approach to youth soccer, built on a brand-new curriculum designed specifically for kids who are just learning the game. Our league makes it easy to get involved – form your own team or sign up as a free agent and we’ll place your child on a team.
Parents who form teams get to choose if they want a PPA professional coach or a parent from the team to coach – ensuring flexibility while also creating the best environment for the team. For our youngest players, we offer KiddoBall (3-5 year olds) played inside walled fields with multiple goals to ensure continuity in the game and a more engaging experience. Kindergarten aged players move up to our 4v4 format with a walled-in field to keep the ball in play and ensure more touches for all players. Practices are held in multiple locations throughout NW DC, Chevy Chase and Bethesda, MD. Games take place at a convenient location in upper Northwest, DC.
PPA is where young players discover the joy of soccer, develop a love for teamwork, and take their first steps on the field with a program that grows with them.
Montgomery Soccer Inc. (MSI) is a nonprofit youth soccer organization committed to providing “A Level of Play for Everyone.” Serving children ages 4–18 across Montgomery County, MSI offers accessible programming through its Mini Greens (age 4), Kindergarten, Recreation, Classic, and Travel programs.
The Fall 2025 season runs from September 7 through November 10, with additional year-round opportunities through winter, spring, and summer. With a strong commitment to accessibility, MSI provides financial aid so that every child can participate.
With over 15,000 players annually and fields located throughout the county, MSI delivers high-quality, inclusive soccer experiences that build teamwork, character, and joy in the game.
Here are soccer programs categorized by location in, DC, Maryland, Virginia, and locations throughout the DMV. Create even more community by reaching out to friends, neighbors, and classmates and signing up together. Don’t wait though! A lot of programs fill up quickly and several offer early bird pricing!
D.C. Soccer Programs for Kids:
DC Way Soccer
Based in Capitol Hill, DC Way has been in the area for over ten years. What started as an after-school program, has since expanded to variety of soccer programs for ages 3-14 that include weekly skill clinics, goalkeeping school, art and soccer camps, after school programs, a competitive soccer league, and even multi-sport sessions and birthday parties. The program prides itself on providing passionate, qualified coaches who not only teach the fundamentals of soccer, but strive to do so in a pressure-free environment that helps children develop as a whole.
DC Soccer Club
DC Soccer, a registered non-profit, commits to keeping soccer accessible for all youth. The organization provides significant financial assistance to players in need every year. Their philosophy emphasizes whole-person development by teaching players not only the technical skills of soccer, but also the importance of respect, dedication, and good sportsmanship.
Takoma Soccer
Takoma Soccer is a volunteer-based organization that values fun, teamwork, practice, sportsmanship, and safety. It is available for players as young as three, through high school. Participation according to these values are more important than winning or the final score, and all players have the opportunity to play over half of each game.
District Elite FC
(Formally known as DC Youth Futbol Club) District Elite FC is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in DC that fosters youth soccer in the area through two core programs: the Premier Select Team Program (for competitive players), and the Development Program (focused on enhancing fundamental soccer skills). District Elite also prides itself on being the first and only National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) team in the city. They provide ambitious players with a complete pathway from skill development to top collegiate and professional soccer potential, including platforms to showcase their abilities.
Top Tier Lessons
Top Tier Lessons is an organization that provides unique opportunities for families to connect with student athletes at the college level (in various sports) for personal lessons. There are currently coach athletes available in D.C.! This approach aims to not only provided quality coaching, but connect your children with accessible mentors and role models that help younger athletes feel safe, inspired and valued by their community as they pursue their sports goals.
DC Eleven Football Club
DC Eleven Football Club (or DCXI) is an elite soccer academy that offers a variety of programs focuses on meeting youth where they are at, while simultaneously preparing them for a global stage by cultivating technical ability, tactical intelligence, physical fitness, and character in an inclusive, professional environment.
The Tots Program (ages 2-4), Scorpion League (ages 5-10), and Elite Academy (ages 6-15) all involve pathways to increasing competitive play, including opportunities to experience ESE (European Soccer Experience) camps. Additionally, DC Eleven holds small-group clinics to hone specific soccer skills such as finishing, defending, and goalkeeping, as well as seasonal day camps throughout the year.
Maryland Soccer Programs for Kids:
MSI Soccer
MSI Soccer has been serving Montgomery County, Maryland for 50 years. Their core values are family first, inclusivity, integrity, fun, and community. With a focus on teamwork, respect, and love for the game, players of all abilities can thrive while honing their skills both on and off the field.
Soccer Association of Columbia
Also known as SAC, the Soccer Association of Columbia is a non profit organization that offers instructive and competitive programs for players ages 3 – 19. Junior, travel, technical training, and summer camps are all offered here, and it is also home to the Baltimore Armour Academy, which competes in the highest level of club soccer in the U.S.. With options for all ages and skillsets, the overall goal of SAC is to promote self-esteem and confidence, teamwork, and respect while enjoying all the benefits of playing soccer.
Potomac Soccer Association
Potomac Soccer Association (PSA) is another organization that has been around for a long time. Founded in 1980, kids ages 5-18 can participate in their recreational, travel, and/or elite programs. Coaches and staff give the same level of attention to all their teams, no matter which program they are in. PSA is also a proud recipient of the “Best of Bethesda” award by Bethesda Magazine and remain focused on developing each individual player’s abilities as a player in an enjoyable, challenging, and rewarding environment.
Bethesda Soccer Club
Bethesda SC offers various teams in a true club environment that provides specialized training programs built around developing players in team-building methods similar to European soccer clubs. The technical training and player style stresses perception, decision-making, and an “attacking” style. They also showcase an impressive lineup of college level and professional level alumni.
Kensington Soccer Club
Kensington Soccer Club (KSC) serves the Kensington area with the mission of making soccer accessible to all. Their values are diversity, development, inclusion, justice and equity. Recreational soccer and travel programs are available for school-age children, and are known to be safe, affordable, and fun. Additionally, they have school and community partnerships and even adult leagues, for any parents out there who might want to get in on the fun!
Maryland State Youth Soccer Academy
MSYSA serves as the primary advocate for youth soccer in Maryland and DC. It is affiliated with US Youth Soccer and is a member of the U.S. Soccer Federation. It’s mission is to deliver the high quality soccer education, player development, and foster sportsmanship, fitness and teamwork. Numerous programs are available under Maryland State Youth Soccer Academy, including recreational, competitive cups and tournaments, soccer labs, camps, and clinics for a wide range of ages.
Virginia Soccer Programs for Kids:
Virginia Youth Soccer Association (VYSA)
VYSA, a non-profit organization, grows the game of soccer by organizing teams of amateur players under age 19 and offering both recreational and travel opportunities. They are also members of US Youth Soccer and stress safety through Safe Soccer training and compliance, while developing technical skills for players of all levels. Whether for fun, or through programs geared toward Olympic competition, cup participation, and sanctioned tournaments, the association has soccer options for everyone.
Arlington Soccer Association (ASA)
ASA has been around for 55 years and is all about helping players reach for the full potential while learning soccer in a fun way. Quality soccer programs are available for kids of all ages, abilities and backgrounds through a number of offerings throughout the year: recreational, developmental, community-based and travel programs, as well as camps and clinics such as their Elite Goalkeeper Academy, and after-school programs.
Alexandria Soccer Association (ASA)
Alexandria Soccer Association serves residents within the city limits of Alexandria, offering a wide array of programs for all ages. Their soccer programs aim to develop good character, mental and physical fitness, and interpersonal skills through the game of soccer. Coaches—both volunteer and professional—promote the importance of sportsmanship, social skills, and self-esteem as kids play and learn. Alexandria Soccer Association offers tots, recreational, ball mastery training, a junior academy, advanced programs, and hard-to-find futsal leagues.
Fairfax County Youth Soccer League (FCYSL)
The above link lists private soccer organizations that serve Fairfax County in particular (they do not run these organizations through Fairfax County). The summaries below highlight several of these organizations as well.
JST Athletics
JST Athletics is a great way to introduce the youngest of players in Northern Virginia to soccer. The preschool soccer program for ages 2–5 is available through many community and recreational centers in the area, which they list on their site. The coaches introduce the concepts of basic skills of soccer through fun games and drills that keep little children engaged.
McLean Youth Soccer (MYS)
Like most organizations on this list, MYS is a 501c non-profit that serves the town of McLean by offering a recreational program for ages 4–19 and a travel program that focuses on “Travel, Premier, and Elite” levels of play, which increase in soccer skill competency, competition, and commitment. The values of MYS are maintaining a culture of inclusion (they offer a TopSoccer program for youth with disabilities), innovation, excellence, and positive impact on the community. Mclean Youth Soccer is strives to help players reach their potential not only in the sport, but in life.
Vienna Youth Soccer (VYS)
VYS is one of the largest soccer clubs in Fairfax County. It offers a U4 program for the youngest of players as well as options for older children, and league-based programs for ages 5-19 that are volunteer-based and focused on fun, friendship, sportsmanship and teamwork. Their “Frosty Fields” league enables practice through the winter months, summer futsal leagues, and TopSoccer programs for children with alternate abilities. Vienna Youth Soccer’s spring, summer and out-of-school camps are also incredibly popular with the community.
Golden Boot Soccer
Golden Boot Soccer provides quality training for young players ages 3-18. There is a real focus on combining the technical, tactical, physical and cognitive pillars of soccer to inspire passion for the game. Through this method, players may reach their full potential while having fun doing so. Fair play and sportsmanship is important, as is giving back to the community: Golden Boot Soccer offers scholarships, partners with non-profits, and flexibility for families of federal employees who may be experiencing financial challenges at this time.
Aside from weekly programs based on age, customized classes through their Lil Boots Playgroups, and Soccer on Demand programs are available as well. Summer camps for all ages, an Italian Soccer Academy (summer) for ages 7-16, and various specialized training classes are also available.
Loudoun Youth Soccer Association
Loudon Youth Soccer Assocation (LYSA) is Virginia’s largest soccer program: over 16,000 annual registrations, nearly 2,000 coaches, and offering more than 30 soccer-related programs for ages 2-19. Their mission is to develop players, coaches and teams of strong character while cultivating a sense of achievement in the game, and in the community through outreach programs.
Herndon Youth Soccer (HYS)
Herndon Youth Soccer offers recreational, pre-travel, and travel soccer programs. The travel soccer program features over 30 competitive teams for ages 7-19, while the recreational program includes more than 120 teams for ages 4-19. Travel teams compete in leagues such as ECNL-R, NCSL, and EDP. In 2021, the club introduced the TOPSoccer program for players with disabilities. HYS’s teams have achieved success in major tournaments, including the VYSA State Cup and USYS Region 1 Championships. Many players advance to college and professional levels. Their mission is in three parts based on levels, but focuses on safe, fun learning environments, accessibility, and producing high-caliber players for competition.
Elite Kickers Soccer Club (Ashburn)
Elite Kickers touts a unique training program modeled after European methods. They aim to introduce new techniques while cultivating a rich soccer culture from the ground up. Children from a young age learn advanced soccer strategies and skills, in a progressive program that sticks to small group training. The program is available for ages 7 and up.
SCY Soccer (Springfield/South County Youth Club)
The SYC Soccer Program is open to all ages, divided in separate teams for boys and girls. Games are played between teams of the same age and are not co-ed. This soccer program is designed to provide everyone with a positive experience, teach soccer skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. It is available in the spring and fall (there are no summer camps or programs available at this time). The club’s travel program is the largest in the surrounding area, with multiple teams per age group. SYC Soccer boasts over 100 college-bound players in the past few years and is focused on both player and team development. Players can join the travel soccer program through try-outs.
Leesburg Football Club (Leesburg FC)
Leesburg FC is an all-girls competitive travel football (soccer) club, and the only member-owned club in Loudon County. The club’s mission is to provide a competitive and affordable travel soccer programs. They focus on building community through lifelong friendships and passion for the game.
Northern Piedmont Sports Club (Formerly Fauquier County Soccer Club)
The NPSC’s recreational soccer program is available for children ages 2 through 18, and is led by volunteer coaches. The club aims to promote physical fitness through a love for soccer in a positive environment. The club’s travel soccer club is available for ages 9 through 18. It provides opportunity for players with the motivation and potential to play more competitively. The travel program of course focuses on continuous improvement in technical and tactical soccer skills.
Soccer Programs for Kids in the DMV with Multiple Locations:
Quick Feet Soccer for Kids
Quick Feet Soccer starts developing a love for the game as early as 2 years old. Their mission is to uplift the confidence of players for life, regardless of whether they continue with soccer or another sport later. The coaches at Quick Feet Soccer for Kids are United States Soccer Federation (USSF) licensed and/or have United Soccer Coaches diplomas. All of them have played soccer at either the collegiate or professional levels, with the majority coaching full time. Programs are available in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. These include Mini-Mighty Kicks (for 2-year-olds), Mighty Kicks (3-year-olds), Super Mighty Kicks (6–7-year-olds) and Super-Super Mighty Kicks (6–7-year-olds).
PPA Soccer
PPA has programs in both D.C. and Maryland, and concentrates on character development through play, encouraging passion for the game, life values, leadership and camaraderie. PPA’s developmental soccer programs start at age 3 with “KiddoBall” and progress to kindergarten, 4v4, 5v5, 7v7 and 9v9 leagues (up to 8th grade). They also offer a premier league with various programs and teams that can be joined through try-outs. These provide more competitive year-round opportunities, high level coaching and is part of the DC United Academy’s “Pathway-to-Pro” program. Camps and private classes can also be booked at PPA.
Soccer Stars
Soccer Stars programs are available in D.C. and areas of Virginia and can be requested by teachers and parents for schools as well. It is easy to find a class near you, of which there are numerous, through their site’s zip code or city search bar. Their philosophy is to have fun while building fundamentals. Programs are crafted to improve soccer abilities, build self-confidence, and develop socialization skills. One of the more unique offers that Super Soccer Stars offers is a “parent and me” class that enables kids to start in a soccer group setting as early as 1 year old!
Soccer Shots
Soccer Shots has various programs in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia that are easily found through their site search as well. Their three core programs (“Mini” for toddlers, “Classic” for preschoolers, and “Premier” for school age) are designed for players ages 18 months to 8 years old. A non-competitive environment, Soccer Shots focuses on the fundamentals of soccer, along with teamwork, respect and confidence for life both on and off the field.
What Does My Child Need to Play?
- Soccer cleats (for younger children, this is not always necessary or allowed – check your particular program’s requirement) or athletic shoes
- Shin guards
- Soccer socks
- Comfortable athletic wear
- Soccer ball (find the sizing guide here)
- Water bottle – we like the cooling spray feature on this one for soccer!
We love soccer! It’s never too early or late to pick up this sport. Both my husband and I grew up playing and have an absolute blast witnessing our son’s joy in the game now. However, one of the best things about soccer is that even if you’re completely new to it, it’s an incredibly inclusive sport, and great fun and exercise for all levels. Whether your player has hopes to land on a competitive team or simply wants to feel comfortable in any pick-up game at the park, add this to your family’s activity rotation this season and enjoy!
