FAQ

General Club FAQ

  • What is Competitive Soccer?

    Competitive (or “club”) soccer is designed for players who have advanced skills, a strong passion for the game, and a desire to compete at a higher level than recreational soccer offers.

    Key features of competitive soccer at Atletico Santa Rosa include:

    • Year-Round Commitment: Players train and compete throughout the year with short seasonal breaks.
    • Higher Level of Play: Teams participate in competitive leagues like NorCal Premier and MLS NEXT, which feature stronger opponents and more structured development.
    • Tournaments: Teams regularly attend local and out-of-town tournaments to challenge themselves and gain exposure.
    • Focused Development: Coaches work closely with players to improve tactical understanding, technical skills, and physical performance.

    Competitive soccer is ideal for players who are serious about the sport and want to take their game to the next level.

  • I’ve never played soccer before. Can I still join?

    Absolutely! Atletico Santa Rosa welcomes players of all skill levels, including complete beginners. Our coaches focus on developing basic skills, teamwork, and a love for the game. Players will be placed on teams that match their age and experience level.

  • What ages can join?

    We offer programs for kids starting at age 4 through high school.

    Teams are organized by age brackets (e.g., U8 = Under 8 years old), ensuring players are grouped with peers at a similar developmental level.

  • Are there breaks during the year?

    Yes, we typically break during major holidays and sometimes between seasons. Federal holidays are handled on a case-by-case basis.

    Winter Break: Late December through Early January.

  • What leagues are Atletico a part of? Which will my child play?
    • MLS NEXT Tier 1:
      – Boys U12–U19
      – Highest competition level
      – Exclusive to MLS NEXT teams (no guest playing or high school soccer)
    • MLS NEXT Tier 2:
      – Boys U12–U19
      – Highly competitive
      – Players may also participate in high school and guest play within the club
    • NorCal Premier:
      – Girls and Boys U8–U19
      – Our main year-round competitive league
  • How much time should we expect to commit?

    We are a competitive, year-round club. Time commitment varies slightly by team, but typically includes:

    • 2–3 practices per week
    • 1–2 games on weekends, including potential travel
    • 1 or more tournaments per season, depending on the team
  • Can we pause and resume our membership?

    Atletico Santa Rosa operates year-round and does not allow membership pauses.

    If a player leaves the club, their roster spot is not held. To return, they must re-register as a new player, pay new player fees, and go through any necessary evaluation or placement process.

    We strongly encourage families to contact us before stepping away, so we can help explore any available options.

  • What equipment is needed?

    Players will need the following gear:

    • Soccer cleats (no baseball or football cleats)
    • Shin guards
    • Water bottle
    • Uniforms (jersey and shorts)

    Practice uniforms are provided at registration.

    Game uniforms can be purchased on our store: atleticosr.org/shop/