Program

UAU TOTS U5-U6

UAU TOTS U5–U6 is an introductory soccer program for children ages 4 to 6 who are beginning to explore the game in a structured but age-appropriate setting. Families in Upper Arlington, Ohio, often choose this program when their child is ready for an organized activity that encourages movement, listening skills, and early teamwork while learning basic soccer fundamentals.

How It Works:

• Co-ed sessions designed for players ages 4–6.
• A 30-minute practice introduces basic skills such as dribbling, passing, ball control, and movement through simple activities.
• A 30-minute game immediately follows practice, allowing players to apply what they learned in a game setting.
• Weekend-only scheduling provides a consistent routine for families while supporting regular participation.
• Coaches encourage age-appropriate learning through repetition, positive instruction, and active involvement from every player.

What to Expect

Parents can register their child and receive program details before the season begins, including practice and game schedules. Each weekend session follows the same general format so young players become familiar with the routine and gradually build confidence throughout the season. As children gain experience, families can determine when they are ready to move into the next stage of UAU's player development pathway.

UAU Little Strikers | U7-U8

UAU Little Strikers is designed for players ages 7 to 8 who are ready to build on their early soccer experience through more structured skill development and game play. Some participants are continuing from an introductory program, while others are joining organized soccer for the first time in Upper Arlington, Ohio, and want an environment that matches their stage of development.

How It Works:

• Co-ed sessions welcome players ages 7–8 with varying levels of soccer experience.
• A 30-minute practice focuses on improving technical skills, movement, decision-making, and teamwork through age-appropriate activities.
• A 30-minute game immediately follows practice, giving players opportunities to use newly learned skills during play.
• Weekend-only sessions provide regular opportunities to practice and compete without a weekday commitment.
• Coaches guide players through increasingly game-like situations while encouraging participation, communication, and good sportsmanship.

What to Expect

Families receive season information before participation begins, and players attend a consistent weekly practice-and-game format throughout the program. Coaches adjust instruction to match the group's developmental level while helping players become more comfortable making decisions during play. As players continue to develop, they may progress into UAU's next age-group program when appropriate.

UAU Development Academy | U9-U12

UAU Development Academy is designed for players ages 9 to 12 who are ready for advanced training and a more structured approach to competitive growth. Families in Upper Arlington, Ohio, often choose this program when their child has developed foundational soccer skills and is looking for regular coaching, increased game understanding, and a pathway that supports continued player development.

How It Works:

Players participate in weekly activities that encourage steady development through practice and game play:

• One 45-minute weekday practice focused on technical skills, tactical awareness, and individual player improvement.
• One weekend game where players apply what they have learned in a team environment.
• Instruction guided by a professional coaching curriculum that introduces progressively more advanced concepts.
• Age-appropriate player development that matches training activities to the physical, technical, and decision-making abilities of players ages 9–12.
• Coaching that encourages teamwork, communication, and responsible play while building confidence on the field.

What to Expect

After joining the program, players attend consistent weekly training sessions and games throughout the season. Coaches provide instruction that progresses as players become more comfortable with new skills and game situations, while keeping activities appropriate for their age group. Families can expect regular opportunities for players to continue developing as they prepare for higher levels of youth soccer.

UAA Recreational Academy

UAU Recreational Academy provides a soccer experience centered on fun, affordable participation, and development-focused learning for players who want to enjoy the game in a structured environment. Families in Upper Arlington, Ohio, often choose this program for children who are new to soccer, prefer a recreational level of play, or want to continue developing their skills without the added demands of competitive programs.

How It Works:

Players participate in activities designed to support learning and enjoyment through soccer:

• Age-appropriate practices that introduce and reinforce core soccer skills through engaging activities.
• Game opportunities that allow players to apply skills in a supportive recreational setting.
• Instruction that emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, and confidence alongside individual skill development.
• Activities designed to encourage participation from players with a wide range of experience levels.
• Coaching that focuses on steady improvement while maintaining an enjoyable learning environment.

What to Expect

Families can expect a consistent program structure throughout the season, with players participating in regular practices and games appropriate for their age group. Coaches adjust instruction based on the developmental needs of the players while encouraging continued participation and skill progression. As players gain experience, families can decide whether to continue recreational play or explore other development pathways offered by UAU.

Games and Practices

Games and practices provide players with regular opportunities to develop soccer skills, apply what they learn in training, and participate in organized team play. Families in Upper Arlington, Ohio, often look for a consistent practice and game schedule that helps children build experience while balancing school and other activities. Practice sessions are typically held at Thompson Park, while home games are currently played at Spindler and various Upper Arlington fields.

How It Works:

Players participate in scheduled activities that support both individual and team development:

• Practice sessions are held at Thompson Park, with specific dates, times, and field assignments shared before the season or as schedules become available.
• Each player is expected to wear their practice jersey and black shorts during every practice.
• Training sessions focus on developing soccer fundamentals, teamwork, and game awareness through age-appropriate activities.
• Home games are currently played at Spindler and other designated fields throughout Upper Arlington.
• Players have regular opportunities to apply practice skills during organized games while learning the responsibilities of team play.

What to Expect

Families receive practice and game schedules once they have been finalized for the season. Players are expected to arrive prepared with the appropriate practice attire and participate throughout each scheduled session. Practice locations or game fields may be updated during the season, and families are informed as changes become available.