Choosing a soccer program can feel overwhelming—especially when program names change, your child is growing, and you’re trying to figure out what’s next. Whether your child is kicking a ball for the first time or eyeing the elite level, this guide will help you understand the options available at Sol Sports Club and how to choose what’s right for your family.

We’ve built our club around one promise: every player deserves a pathway. And that starts by helping you find the right place to begin—or grow.

The Four Program Levels at Sol SC

We’ve organized our programming into a clear development pathway that makes it easier to understand where your child fits now—and where they might go next.

1. Recreational Programs (Ages 3–13)

Perfect for kids who are new to the game or just want to play for fun. Includes:

• Mighty Mites (Ages 3–4): Parent/child intro to soccer.
• Developmental Soccer Leagues (Ages 5–13): Weekly practices and games played at same location in a fun and safe environment.
• TOPSoccer: A welcoming program for children with disabilities.

2. Sol Futures (Ages 8–14)

Futures is a skill-building program that bridges recreational and competitive soccer. This is for players who want more focused training, but aren’t ready to commit to a full competitive team yet. 

• Two training sessions per week.
• No game schedule or league commitment.
• Ideal for building confidence, footwork, and decision-making.

3. Competitive Teams (Ages 9–19)

Players ready to compete in local or state-level leagues will find structure, challenge, and community here.

• Lake County Sol: Local competition with 2–3 practices/week with volunteer coaches.
• Florida Sol Academy: Local and regional competition with 2–3 practices/week with professional coaches.
• Teams play in local and regional Leagues and other tournaments.
• A great fit for players with experience who want to push their development.

4. Academy & Elite Pathways

Our highest-level programs are built for serious, committed athletes pursuing collegiate or professional pathways.

• Florida Sol SC Academy: State and Regional leagues, tournaments, professional coaching, travel, year-round training and college exposure.
• Florida Sol SC MLS NEXT / MLS NEXT II / DPL / FAL: National elite-level platforms with professional coaching, showcase tournaments, year-round training and college exposure.

 How to Know When It’s Time to Move Up

Every child develops at a different pace, but here are a few signs they might be ready for the next level:

• They’re asking for more challenge or more soccer time.
• They show consistent focus and enjoyment in practices.
• They want to compete—and they’re asking about what’s next.
• Their current coach recommends a higher-level environment.

And sometimes, it’s not about “moving up”—it’s about finding the right fit for your child’s personality, schedule, and goals.

What to Consider as a Parent

Before choosing a program, think about:

• Age: Are they developmentally ready for what the next program requires?
• Interest level: Are they asking for more—or would they rather keep it fun?
• Family schedule: Can you commit to practices, travel, and games?
• Readiness for structure: Some kids thrive with more coaching; others need time to adjust

There’s no wrong path—only what’s right for your child right now.