TRAVEL PROGRAM INFORMATION
DC Soccer Club’s Travel Program is designed for players and families ready to make a stronger commitment to soccer and player development. With greater commitment comes greater reward: players who dedicate themselves to regular training and competition see the most growth in their skills, confidence, and connection with their teammates. Our program offers three levels — Select, Travel, and Academy — so each player can develop at the pace and intensity best suited for them.
Commitment to the Travel Program is driven by competitive player development through the tryout process, not placement by friend request or practice location. Practice schedules and field locations are determined by the permits the club secures each season. Families are expected to support and adapt to the team schedule, understanding that many factors are considered to ensure all players and teams have the opportunity to train and compete successfully. While the level of competition and time commitment may vary across Select, Travel, and Academy, all teams share the same expectation: consistent attendance at practices and games with a focus on player growth and development.
At DC Soccer Club, we recognize that the financial commitment of Travel soccer can be significant, and we encourage families to apply for financial aid to understand what support may be available before accepting a team invitation.
We also encourage families to follow DC Soccer Club on our social media so they share a greater connection to our club, and receive the latest news and events--including tryouts--about our travel program.
Select Level (Entry Point)
Overview:
The Select Program is the entry level of DC Soccer Club’s Travel pathway, designed for players ready for a greater challenge than rec but with a more manageable commitment than the travel and academy levels within the travel program. Select acts as a bridge between the rec/pre-travel and travel/academy levels with professional coaching, travel program curriculum and player tracking that focuses on player development at a level appropriate for the player.
Age Groups: U8–U14
Commitment & Expectations:
- Practices: 2 sessions per week in fall/spring and 1 session per week in winter with licensed coaches
- Practice Location: Schedule varies each season due to DC permits; commitment is based on the program, not on location
- Games: League competition in Fall and Spring on Saturday or Sunday
- Season Length: 10-month commitment September-June
- Travel: Away games localized to Montgomery County, MD
Player Profile:
- Players eager to advance beyond recreational soccer
- Development-oriented, building technical foundation and tactical understanding
- Mix of new and returning travel players still solidifying skills
League and Competition:
- MDSL (Maryland Developmental Soccer League) - local/regional league appropriate for development stage
- Emphasis on skill-building and competitive experience without heavy travel demands
Cost Range:
- $1600 - $1650 + processing fees — covers professional coaching, league fees, tournament, field costs, and club operations
- Uniforms purchased separately
- Financial aid available for qualifying families - apply before accepting a team invite
Tryouts:
- Held in late spring to form teams for the following seasonal year
- May contact Travel Director if interested in attending practice for evaluation at other points during the year if roster allows
Contact:
- Travel Director
Amin Hass
Travel Level (Core of Travel Program)
Overview:
The Travel level in our Travel Program represents the broadest tier of DC Soccer Club’s competitive pathway. With multiple teams at each age group, players are placed at the level best suited for their growth. This ensures opportunities for advancement while keeping training and competition challenging and engaging.
Age Groups: U8–U19
Commitment & Expectations:
- Practices: 2 team sessions per week plus 1 optional club training in fall/spring and 2 team sessions in winter with licensed coach (accommodations made for high school players)
- Games: Competitive league play across the DMV
- Season Length: 10.5 month commitment August-June
- Tournaments: 2-3 depending on age/level
- Travel: Away games are across DMV plus travel to tournaments
Player Profile:
- Wider range of team levels in each age group to place players accordingly
- Seeking structured development and regular competition
- Families prepared for consistent training and weekend matches
League and Competition:
- Local/regional leagues depending on level in age group:
- CPSL (Chesapeake Premier Soccer League)
- NCSL (National Capital Soccer League)
- EDP (Elite Development Program)
- Tournaments for added competition and exposure
Cost Range:
- $2100 - $3195 + processing fees — covers professional coaching, league fees, tournaments, field costs, and club operations. Varies due to different league costs and added tournaments
- Uniforms purchased separately
- Financial aid available for qualifying families - apply before accepting a team invite
Tryouts:
- Held in spring to form teams for the following seasonal year
- Contact Technical Director if interested in attending practice for evaluation in age group at other points of the year
Contact:
- Technical Director Edu de Souza
Academy Level (Elite)
Overview:
The Academy Program is the highest level within DC Soccer Club’s Travel pathway, designed for the club’s most advanced players. Academy teams compete at the national level and represent the highest commitment to player development, training, and competitive play.
Age Groups: U11–U19
Commitment & Expectations:
- Practices: 3 team sessions per week in fall/spring and 2 team sessions per week in winter with highly licensed coaches (accommodations made for high school players in fall)
- Games: Top-tier league play, showcases, and tournaments across the region
- Season Length: 10.5 month commitment August-June
- Travel: Away games are across Virginia plus travel to competitive tournaments
Player Profile:
- Most elite players in the club committed to pursuing advanced soccer opportunities
- Strong technical skills, tactical understanding, and competitive drive
- Families prepared for the highest commitment of time and travel
Competition & Leagues:
- Competes in ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) Regional League
- High school age groups
- Potential exposure for college recruiting
- Regular participation in high-level showcases and tournaments
Cost Range:
- $3295 - $3395 + processing fees — covers professional coaching, league fees, tournaments, state cup (if applicable), field costs, and club operations.
- Uniforms purchased separately
- Financial aid available for qualifying families - apply before accepting a team invite
Tryouts:
- ID sessions held at various times throughout the year; tryouts held in early spring for the following seasonal year
- Contact ECNL Manager if interested in an ID session
Contact:
- ECNL Manager Neill Ouska