What is LAFC? We began in June 2008 as a Select Soccer Club that promotes competitive youth soccer player development with parent involvement. We formed through the merger of Lubbock Soccer Club (LSC) ‘97s, Cruz Azul ’94’s and ‘96’s, and new ‘98 boys and girls players. Currently, we have ’94G, ‘96G, ’97B, ‘98G, and ’98B teams. We have plans for at least one and possibly two ‘99B and ’99G teams. We welcome additional teams and coaches to join the LAFC family.

Why play club soccer? Club soccer deepens the players appreciation of the technical and tactical elements of what Pele termed, ”the beautiful game”. It stimulates individual development by emersing players in challenging training and playing environments. As Susan Moynihan, a coach at Purdue once said, “The more challenging the environment they compete in the more they will be forced to step up their level of play. They will face some failure along the way as well as some success. Healthy competition can prepare a child not only for the challenges they will face in sport, but also in many other facets of their lives.”

What are the strengths of LAFC? Positive, fun, and physically engaging atmosphere that focuses on the development of youth soccer in Lubbock, Texas. The goal is to foster the learning environment at an appropriate skill level to help each player achieve their potential. USSF Nationally licensed coaches with over 50 years of combined coaching experience and with diverse playing and coaching histories in the US and abroad. LAFC is family-run and promotes family participation at all levels of the soccer experience. In addition, our coaches actively pursue additional credentials and licensing in their attempt to better their coaching.

How is LAFC organized? We are governed by a Board of Directors composed of parents and coaches who are elected every December. The Board consists of a President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Club Manager. A Director of Coaching facilitates coaching organization and coaching development. Each team has a Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Team Manager, Team Treasurer, Team Representative, and Fundraising Chair. All team and club administrators maintain open lines of communication with parents. Active parent participation is critical to the mission of LAFC and we are extremely proud of the parents who are involved and facilitate our players’ and coaches’ development.

How much does it cost? Costs are ultimately team-decided. Average monthly dues range between $50-80, for either 11 or 12 months. The higher expenses are incurred by teams that play in a Dallas-area league. For example, the ‘98B team played in West Texas and paid $50/month for 11 months, beginning 1 July and an annual registration fee of approximately $65. Total ‘08-’09 expenses for the ’98B team were ~$12,000. Dues do not cover all expenses, therefore fundraising is necessary. Uniforms, warm-ups, player bags and training gear are an additional expense. Some teams received sponsorship for these items. Fundraising is key!!!

Where does your money go? Referee fees, tournament expenses, coaches travel & accommodations, coaches salaries, equipment, and club support. Registration fees go to the league (e.g., West TX Premier League (WTPL) or Lake Highlands Classic), Lubbock Soccer Association, & NTSSA fees.

How long is the season, how many games, how much practice? League play is usually from September-November and March-May, with anywhere from 7-16 matches in the fall season, and half as many in the spring season. Total number of matches per year may approach 40, including tournaments. For the WTPL, away games are played in Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, and Amarillo and may include approximately one-third of the matches/season. The remaining approximately 2/3’s of the games are played in Lubbock. Practice sessions may be run 2-4 times per week depending on tournament play, individual sessions, and other circumstances. Generally, 2 per week should be anticipated once the season begins.

What about tournaments? Tournament play is an important part of developing local soccer players to face diverse playing and coaching styles. LAFC encourages tournament participation in both small-sided and full-sided, ranked tourneys. Typically, LAFC teams will participate in 2-6 tourney’s per year, depending on the team and families involved. Tournament participation and selection is based on the mutual agreement between parents and coaches. 11v11 Tournament registration fees range from $400-800 and coach accommodations and travel expenses can add ~$500.  This is why fundraising is key to making tournaments a worthwhile consideration. 

For More Information go to: www.lubbockarsenalfc.com where you can download and read ”Club Soccer: Are you committed? by Gary Williamson, North Texas State Soccer Coach,  or call LAFC at 806-780-0644.