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Opelika Crush Soccer Club – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General Information

What is the mission of the club?
Opelika Crush is a city-run soccer club focused on developing players to succeed at the high school level through strong individual training at an affordable cost. In addition to soccer skills, we emphasize life skills such as effort, commitment, and teamwork.

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

What age groups do you serve?
Academy Program: U8–U12
Competitive Program: U12–U19

Do you offer programs for both boys and girls?
Yes, we offer teams for both boys and girls at all age levels.

How can I get more information?
Please contact Club Director Missy Martin at 334-444-2923.

Registration & Fees

How do I register my child?
Registration is completed online. Links will be posted on our website when registration opens.

What are the fees and what do they include?

  • Tryout Fee: $50 (non-refundable unless not selected)
  • Fall Season: $500 (first child), $450 (each additional child)
    Includes coaching, uniforms, and a home tournament
    Payable in 4 installments
  • Spring Season (returning players): $250
  • New Spring Players: $400

Is financial assistance available?
Yes. Scholarships are available based on financial need. The tryout fee is required for all players.

Are refunds available?
No refunds are issued after accepting a team offer. Optional insurance is available at registration for partial refunds due to season-ending injuries.

Teams & Training

How are teams formed?
Teams are formed through tryouts. Players are grouped by skill level to support development and competitive play.

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

What are the coaches’ qualifications?
All coaches complete the U.S. Soccer Grassroots Licensing Program.

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

How much playing time will my child get?
Playing time is not guaranteed. However, committed players are given opportunities to develop through game experience.

Can players move between teams?
Roster changes are rare. Players may have opportunities to train with other teams or participate as club-pass players when appropriate.

Games & Tournaments

When are the seasons?

  • Fall: Late July through early December (ends with Rumble on the Rails)
  • Spring: Early February through early May

Where are games played?

  • Academy (U8–U12): Typically within 60–75 minutes of Opelika; often two games in one day
  • Competitive (U13–U19): Travel throughout the Southeast, including participation in:
    Southern States Club Champions League (Atlanta-based)
    Alabama State League
    Regional District 4 League (Alabama & Florida panhandle)

Do teams participate in tournaments?
Yes. All teams participate in Rumble on the Rails. Additional tournaments may be scheduled, with a $60 per player fee per event.

What should players bring on game day?

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

How are weather cancellations handled?
Coaches and team managers will coordinate rescheduling with opponents.

Uniforms & Equipment

What equipment is required?
Shin guards
Cleats

What size ball is used?

  • Size 4: Academy (U8–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
  • Respect referees, opponents, and fans
  • Avoid sideline coaching and allow players to enjoy the game

Health & Safety

What is the policy on injuries and concussions?
Parents must inform coaches of any injuries. Players may not return to play until medically cleared. Player safety is always the top priority.

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