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Opelika Crush Soccer Club – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General Information

What is the mission of the soccer club?
Opelika Crush is a city-run club dedicated to developing area players to excel at the high school level through strong individual development at a reasonable cost. While our primary focus is on soccer skills, we also emphasize life skills through soccer with a focus on effort, commitment, and family.

Where is the club located?
We are based in Opelika, Alabama.
Our home fields include:

What age groups does the club support?
We offer programs for the following:

  • Academy Program: U8 to U12
  • Competitive Program: U12 to U19

How do I contact the club for more information?
Please contact Club Director Missy Martin at 334-444-2923.

Do you offer programs for both boys and girls?
Yes, we offer a full range of teams for both boys and girls.

Registration & Fees

How do I register my child for the club?
All registrations are completed online. When registration opens, links will be available on our website.

What are the registration fees and what do they include?

  • Tryout Fee: $50 (non-refundable unless the player is not accepted)
  • Fall Season Fee: $450 (includes coaching, uniforms, and 2 tournaments; payable in 3 installments)
  • Spring Season Fee: $250 (returning players)
  • New Players in Spring: $400 total

Is financial assistance or a payment plan available?
Yes. While the $50 tryout fee is required from all players, scholarships are available based on financial need.

Can I get a refund if my child withdraws?
No refunds are issued once a player accepts a team invitation. However, an optional insurance policy is available at registration to cover partial refunds in case of season-ending injuries.

Teams & Training

How are teams formed?
Teams are formed through a tryout evaluation process. Players are grouped with others of similar skill levels to foster development and success.

When and where are practices held?
Teams practice 2–3 times per week, typically at either 5:30 PM or 7:00 PM, at the club's designated fields.

Who are the coaches and what are their qualifications?
All coaches participate in the US Soccer Grassroots Licensing Program.

  • Most hold a D License
  • Some hold C, B, or A National Licenses

How much playing time can my child expect?
This is a competitive program. Playing time is not guaranteed, but we prioritize giving committed players opportunities to participate and grow through game experience.

Can players move between teams during the season?
Roster changes are rare once teams are set. However, players are encouraged to train with other teams, and club-pass opportunities may be available to support development.

Games & Tournaments

When does the season start and end?

  • Fall Season: Preseason begins in late July and ends in early December with our Rumble on the Rails tournament.
  • Spring Season: Runs from early February to early May.

Where are games played?

  • Academy (U8–U12): Mostly within 60 minutes of Opelika, often playing two games in one day.
  • Competitive (U13–U19): Participate in the Alabama State League, traveling to locations such as Auburn, Mobile, Huntsville, with typically 4 home games, 4 away games, and State Cup in Foley, AL.

Do teams participate in tournaments?
Yes. All teams participate in:

  • State Cup
  • Rumble on the Rails
    Additional tournaments may be scheduled by coaches and team managers, with a     $50 per player fee for each additional tournament.

What should players bring on game day?

  • Full uniform kit
  • Shin guards
  • Soccer ball
  • Plenty of water

How are weather cancellations handled?
Team managers and coaches will coordinate with opponents. Most canceled games will be rescheduled.

Uniforms & Equipment

What gear is required to play?
All players must have:

  • Shin guards
  • Cleats

What size soccer ball does each age group use?

  • Size 4: Academy and U12
  • Size 5: U13 and older

Parent & Club Policies

Is there a parent code of conduct?
Yes. We expect all parents to:

  • Be positive and supportive
  • Avoid negative comments toward referees, opponents, or opposing fans
  • Allow players to enjoy the game free from sideline pressure or over-instruction

Health & Safety

What is the club’s policy on injuries and concussions?
Parents are expected to inform coaches and managers of any injuries. Injured players will not be allowed to train or compete until fully cleared. Coaches always prioritize player health over game results.

Are background checks required for coaches and volunteers?
Yes. All adults working with players must pass a background check through the Alabama Soccer Association.