NEA Soccer Academy was started in July of 2022 as a 501c3 not-for-profit training academy for kids of all ages. From its inception the academy trained over 400 kids, which led to the formation of several competitive teams and the strengthening of even more club level age groups. On November 3, 2023. NEA Soccer Academy transitioned into NEA Soccer Club and was approved for certification by the Arkansas Soccer Association on November 13, 2023. Our first action as a club was to start the NEA Soccer Club Scholarship Fund to provide the opportunity for any player who has the skills to make a team through tryouts to play.
NEA Soccer Club is dedicated to building skills, inspiring passion, and training champions. We have two pathways and 4 seasons of play and training that help us achieve that; pre-competitive pathway and competitive pathway. We begin training players at younger ages to prepare them for competitive soccer when they reach U8. Our pre-competitive pathway will be open to all U7 and below age groups and will be available all 12 months of the year. Our competitive pathway runs from U8 to U19.
NEA Soccer Club is a year-round soccer club with Futsal and 3v3 programs offered in what would typically be considered the off-season. We also have a full sided (normal) soccer program offered in Fall and Spring season. Our goal is to provide high-quality, comprehensive training both indoors and outdoors, giving our players the opportunity to stay active and grow their knowledge and love of the game.
Our long-term plan is to compete at the highest levels of state and club soccer, and that includes building a resume for eventual ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) membership, and a path for helping our players recognize their fullest potential. That could mean college scholarships, MLS Next, other future professional soccer opportunities, or maybe just being a starter on their Junior High and High School teams.
We provide player improvement plans at least semi-annually to spotlight areas of individual improvement, use video of training and matches to look for ways to improve as a team, and involve the parents in their player’s soccer journey.
NEA Soccer Club will put a focus on fun, hard work, and respect as we create a culture for our club. Respect for each other, our coaches, parents, and referees will be emphasized. We want to develop great young men and women, not just great players. So, we will focus on the two things every player can control, their attitude and effort. Above all, we have a love for the players and their families, even if it can sometimes be tough love.