As our U10 families prepare for the upcoming fall season at Plymouth Soccer Club, many parents ask the same question: “Should my player be in Recreational or Academy soccer?” This overview is designed to help you understand the key differences so you can make the best choice for your child. Recreational Soccer (Rec) Our Recreational program is designed for players who want to learn the fundamentals of soccer in a fun, laid-back setting with friends and similarly aged teammates. It is a great entry point for new players and for those who simply enjoy playing the game without a big time or travel commitment. Key features of Recreational soccer: Focus on basic skills, teamwork, and a love of the game Primarily local games, with away games played as part of the East West Soccer League (EWSL) Travel for away games typically up to about 35–40 minutes Volunteer parent coaches Balanced teams, with all players welcome regardless of experience If your player is still learning the game or prefers a more relaxed environment, Rec is likely the best option. Academy Soccer (U10) Our Academy program is a developmental step between Recreational and full competitive/Select soccer, specifically aimed at motivated U10 players. Academy soccer places a stronger emphasis on developing core technical skills, focused training around the principles of play, and understanding the tactical side of the game. Key features of Academy soccer: Intended for U10 players who are ready for more challenge and structure Training two to three times per week with a strong focus on skill development and game understanding USSF-licensed coaches who follow a structured curriculum Participation in WYSA’s Southeast Classic League (SECL) Travel for away games typically up to about 1 to 1.25 hours Higher level of commitment expected from players and families, including training, games, and tournament play While the commitment level in Academy is higher, we encourage our coaches to work with players and families whenever possible to accommodate team needs, multi-sport athletes, and busy family schedules. Select Soccer (U11-19) Our Select program is full competitive soccer, designed for motivated players ages U11 through U19. All players find themselves ready for this challenge at different points in their developmental journey, and Select soccer is the natural next step for those who have progressed through Academy or demonstrated readiness for higher-level competition. Select soccer continues the emphasis on developing core technical skills, focused training around the principles of play, and understanding the tactical side of the game at an advanced level. Key features of Select soccer: Intended for U11–U19 players who are ready for the demands of competitive soccer Training two to three times per week with an emphasis on advanced skill development, tactical awareness, and game preparation USSF-licensed coaches who follow a structured curriculum tailored to competitive play Participation in WYSA's Southeast Classic League (SECL) and other competitive leagues as appropriate for age and level Travel for away games typically up to about 1 to 1.25 hours Higher level of commitment expected from players and families, including consistent training attendance, league games, and tournament play While the commitment level in Select is higher, we encourage our coaches to work with players and families whenever possible to accommodate team needs, multi-sport athletes, and busy family schedules. League Play and Travel Both programs provide opportunities for players to grow through league play, but the structure and travel demands differ. Recreational (EWSL): Rec teams participate in the EWSL, playing both home and away games. Away games are generally within a 35–40 minute drive. Academy (SECL): Academy teams play in WYSA’s SECL, typically facing a wider range of opponents that differ depending on the level (Levels State, A, B, or C) at which the team is registered. Away games can be up to 1 to 1.25 hours away, offering exposure to different playing styles and levels of competition. On average, the travel time is 40 minutes to 1 hour for away games. Tournaments Tournament play also looks different between the two programs. Recreational tournaments: Rec teams participate in tournaments or festival-style events offered locally through the EWSL when those events are available. Some examples would be our Sartori Cup U10 Tournament and Kiel's U12 Tournament. Academy tournaments: Academy teams typically attend a wider range of tournaments. These events are selected by the coaching staff, often with input from parents during team meetings, to match the team’s developmental needs and schedule. Key Differences at a Glance

Differences in Recreational, Academy, and Select Soccer at Plymouth Soccer Club

Get ready for a season of fun, friendship, and soccer! Plymouth Soccer Club is excited to announce the opening of registration for our Fall/Spring recreational soccer program for the 2026/27 season. We welcome kids from 4K through 8th grade to join us for an unforgettable soccer experience. Registration Details: Registration for our Fall/Spring session starts May 1st and ends July 15th. Team formation is determined by grade. Divisions: U6 - 4K - K Grades U8 - 1st - 2nd Grades U10 - 3rd - 4th Grades U12 - 5th - 6th Grades U14 - 7th - 8th Grades * Coed teams are offered at all levels. Girls teams are offered for U6-U12 levels Players are placed on a team by mid-August and remain on the same team for the fall (September-November) and spring (April-June) seasons. League Participation: While our U6 program is offered completely in-house, our U8 - U14 teams participate in the Eastern Wisconsin Soccer League (EWSL). Teams play half of their games at home at the Quit Qui Oc fields, while the other half is played on the opposing team’s field. The EWSL clubs/teams are from Plymouth, New Holstein, Kiel, Random Lake, Waubedonia, Chilton, Sheboygan Falls, Port Washington, Brillion, Valders, Manitowoc Lutheran, Eden, and Manitowoc Lutheran. You may be scheduled to play these teams during your Fall/Spring season. How to Register: To register for our Fall/Spring recreational soccer program, simply visit our website and navigate to the "Registion" tab. There, you'll find detailed information about each level, including age breakdowns and descriptions. Registration is quick and easy, but if you have any questions or need assistance, our dedicated team is here to help. Join Us for an Unforgettable Season! We are excited to have you and your child join us for the upcoming soccer season. Whether they're just starting their soccer journey or looking to continue their love for the game, our recreational soccer program offers a supportive and inclusive environment for all players. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be a part of the Plymouth Soccer Club family. Register today and let's kick off an amazing season together!