At Arkansas Rising Soccer Club, parents are often faced with the decision of choosing between recreational and club soccer.  Both options offer unique advantages for young players, and understanding the key differences is essential to making the right decision for your child.  Let's go over all the unique factors that play a role in determining what program is right for your child. 

Levels of Play

• Recreational Soccer is open to players of all skill levels while focusing on fun, participation, and community building. The goal is for all children to enjoy playing while staying active.
• Club Competitive Soccer is designed for more driven players seeking a higher level of competition.  It also focuses on skill enhancement and development in a more competitive environment.

According to a survey by the National Alliance for Youth Sports, 70% of children stop playing organized sports by age 13, with “not having fun anymore” cited as the main reason.  Recreational soccer helps combat this trend, with its emphasis on enjoyment and activity.

Time Commitment

• Recreational Soccer typically involves one practice and one game per week, with seasons lasting 2-3 months.  The season normally last from mid-August through late October, and most travel  is minimal since games are local or centralized.
• Club Competitive Soccer demands a higher time commitment with multiple practices a week, tournaments, and year-round travel for their games.

A study by the Aspen Institute found that the average youth athlete spends around 11.5 hours per week on their sport.  Club soccer players often exceed this average, while recreational players tend to fall well below it.

Coaching

• Recreational Soccer is coached by volunteers, including parents and community members while focusing on basic skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
• Club Competitive Soccer provides experienced coaches with advanced training in player development, tactics, and individual skill improvement.

Research from the United Soccer Coaches Association indicates that coaches with formal training can significantly improve player development and enjoyment of the sport.  At Arkansas Rising, even our volunteer coaches in recreational soccer have access to training and coaching resources.

Player Development

• Recreational Soccer's primary focus is on basic skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship, with less pressure on performance.
• Club Competitive Soccer soccer offers intensive individual skill development, tactical training, and higher expectations for performance and growth.

A study in the Journal of Sports Sciences and the National Library of Medicine found that structured environments, such as those in club soccer, can accelerate skill development in young athletes.

Team Structure

• Recreational Soccer teams are formed based on age and location, and players often try to remain with the same group season after each season.  The practices and games are local.
• Club Competitive Soccer teams are formed based on age and skill level, and there are often multiple levels within an age group.  Practices may be local, but games and tournaments can be regional or even sometimes national.

At Arkansas Rising SC, our recreational teams are grouped by location, and you can view available options for boys' and girls' programs on our website or when registering.  Club soccer, on the other hand, requires a yearly tryout process to assess skill and potential.  The player ID process at Arkansas Rising SC helps coaches place players in programs that suit their talents and help them grow.

Parent Involvement

• Recreational Soccer's parents are heavily involved in recreational soccer, often coaching, refereeing, and volunteering.  The commitment is lower when it comes to travel and logistics.
• Club Competitive Soccer is managed by professional coaches and staff, though parents are often required to commit more time for travel and scheduling.

A survey from the National Council of Youth Sports found that 60% of parents believe that their involvement in their child’s sports strengthens family relationships. When parents provide positive support, it enhances the child’s commitment and enjoyment.

Cost

• Recreational Soccer's cost is typically lower, with fees ranging from $175 to $250 per season.
• Club Competitive Soccer involves higher costs due to professional coaching, facilities, and travel, often ranging from $1,000 to $3,000+ per year.

Final Thoughts & Recommendations

Both recreational and club soccer offer valuable experiences for young players. Choosing the right option depends on your child’s interest level, your family’s time and resources, and your long-term goals for soccer involvement.

Consider Recreational Soccer If:

• Your child is new to soccer or sports in general.
• You’re looking for a fun, low-pressure environment.
• Your family has limited time or resources for sports commitments.
• You want to emphasize social skills and community involvement.

Consider Club Competitive Soccer if:

• Your child shows a high level of interest and skill in soccer.
• You’re willing to make a significant time and financial commitment.
• Your child thrives on competition and intensive skill development.
• You’re considering long-term goals like high school, college, or even professional soccer.

Remember, many players start with recreational soccer and transition to club soccer as their skills and interests grow.  The most important factor is that your child enjoys the experience and develops a lifelong love for the sport.

Whatever path you choose for your player, Arkansas Rising SC is here to support your child’s soccer journey.  We encourage you to visit our facilities, talk to our coaches, and attend a few games or practices to get a feel for both programs before making a decision.  Feel free to contact our office with any questions, or visit our website page to sign your child up for the next season of soccer fun!