Is the Academy the same as Classic/Select Soccer?
No, the Academy Program is specifically designed to support players, ages 8 (U9) to 11 (U12), as they transition from recreation-level programs to competitive soccer.The Select Program is for players 12 (13U) and older (19U). However, like the Select program, the Academy Program does offer and provide professional coaching, a competitive training environment, and a higher level of competative play. Also note, Academy teams are based a player's birth year and the teams are NOT co-ed.
How does a player join the Academy program?
Players are evaluated for an Academy team in their respective age groups during Academy Evaluations in May or at any time during the year. Once the evaluations are complete the player is placed on a team.
How long is the Academy season?
The Acadamy fall season starts in August and goes until late November. The Academy spring season starts late January and runs until late April. There is at minimum one team tournament in the fall and one team tournament in the spring.
Can a player join the Academy program if he or she has never been a part of any ESC Program?
Yes, players can be evaluated for a team in their respective age groups during Academy Evaluations in May or at any time during the year. Prior participation with ESC is not required.
What is a 'pool'?
Some of our Academy teams are pools. A pool is a team or age group with 16 or more players and they train together. For games, the pool of players is split into two groups. Throughout the season, pool players will be separated in a number of different ways so that we can provide a challenging environment and so that pool players have the opportunity to play with all their teammates.
Where do the Academy Teams train?
Academy teams train at the JB "Red" Owen soccer fields and Pope Field.
How many times a week do Academy teams train?
Academy teams train twice a week for an hour and a half. Technical sessions are also offered during the week. Additional Goal Keeper training is offered once a week for players wishing to train as a goalie.
Where do the Academy teams play games?
Academy teams play in a competitive developmental league in Greenville versus other club's academy teams from the upstate, NC, and Georgia. The Academy teams will travel at minimum to one tournament per season. These tournament will be in the Southeast region. Click here to see some of our past tournaments: Trophy Room
Are Summer camps mandatory?
ESC encourages all players to participate in the Summer camps. The camps provide players with an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season and for players to get to know new players on their team and their coaches.
Is financial assistance available?
Yes, financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Please contact Jeff Young @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to start the process.