VISION SOCCER ACADEMY
ABOUT US
ABOUT US
ABOUT US
Our History
Since 1996, Vision Soccer Academy has been a cornerstone of the Waukee community, evolving from a local grassroots initiative into a premier developmental hub. For three decades, we have remained dedicated to providing players with an environment that balances elite training with a deep-rooted commitment to character.
Our history is defined by the thousands of players who have worn the VSA crest. The players that have gone from our local fields to high school captaincies, collegiate rosters, and leadership roles within the community. As Waukee has grown, so has our vision: to provide a top-tier soccer experience that stays true to our "Player-First" philosophy.
Mission & Vision
Mission
To develop people and players through the game of soccer, instilling positive core values that translate into success far beyond the final whistle.
Vision
A united community fueled by the pride, discipline, and joy of the beautiful game
Developing people and players through the game of soccer
Philosophical Commitments
Players First Club
- Places the long-term interests of each individual player at the heart of every decision in structuring, operating, and managing our club.
- Provides a holistic approach in player development for all of our players, recognizing that the soccer experience must include lessons and opportunity both on the field and off.
- Expects ongoing learning, education and development from all of our staff members in order to ensure that our players have the benefit of best-in-class information and resources in teaching and training young athletes.
- Engages with and educates parents to help them understand and embrace the appropriate expectations and roles for them in their child’s overall soccer and athletic development experience.
Mission & Vision
Mission
To develop people and players through the game of soccer, instilling positive core values that translate into success far beyond the final whistle.
Vision
A united community fueled by the pride, discipline, and joy of the beautiful game
Developing people and players through the game of soccer
Philosophical Commitments
Players First Club
- Places the long-term interests of each individual player at the heart of every decision in structuring, operating, and managing our club.
- Provides a holistic approach in player development for all of our players, recognizing that the soccer experience must include lessons and opportunity both on the field and off.
- Expects ongoing learning, education and development from all of our staff members in order to ensure that our players have the benefit of best-in-class information and resources in teaching and training young athletes.
- Engages with and educates parents to help them understand and embrace the appropriate expectations and roles for them in their child’s overall soccer and athletic development experience.
VSA Staff & Leadership
Led by a staff who care about the person and the player
Staff
Carlos Acebey
Executive Director
Matty Smith
Director of Coaching & U12 Boys Select Head Staff Coach
Wallis Lapsley
Director of Goalkeeping & Set Pieces
Justin Vorster
Director of Skywalk Futsal Classic & U11 Boys Select Head Staff Coach
Keisha Jobe
Director of Extra Programs, Referee Coordinator, & Community Engagement Liason
Isaac Sam
Director of Soccer & U12 Girls Select Head Staff Coach
Robert Amaro
Director of Recreational Program & U8 Jr Academy
Bethany Botchway
Director of Member Services
Cate Dickman
Business Manager
Charlie Bales
Vice President of Club Development & Marketing
Board of Directors
Scott Crawford
President
2027
Chris Jones
Vice President
2027
Ben Parrott
Secretary
2027
Dwayne Vande Krol
Treasurer
2026
Maria Barnes
2028
Kirk Schuler
At-Large 2027
Facilities
Timberline Soccer Complex
2655 SE LA Grant Pkwy, Waukee, IA 50263
Vision Soccer Academy boasts a top-class, soccer-specific facility that includes:
Three FIFA regulation-sized 11v11 pitches (two artificial turf )
20 Multi-Purpose fields for use as 9v9, 7v7, or 4v4 matches
Facilities
Timberline Soccer Complex
2655 SE LA Grant Pkwy, Waukee, IA 50263
Vision Soccer Academy boasts a top-class, soccer-specific facility that includes:
Three FIFA regulation-sized 11v11 pitches (two artificial turf )
20 Multi-Purpose fields for use as 9v9, 7v7, or 4v4 matches
Facilities
Timberline Soccer Complex
2655 SE LA Grant Pkwy, Waukee, IA 50263
Vision Soccer Academy boasts a top-class, soccer-specific facility that includes:
Three FIFA regulation-sized 11v11 pitches (two artificial turf )
20 Multi-Purpose fields for use as 9v9, 7v7, or 4v4 matches
Mihura Memorial Fund
We are proud to introduce the Mihura Memorial Fund (MMF). This fund, established in honor of Eduardo Mihura Sr., aims to provide financial assistance to players at VSA or VSA Rush who face financial barriers hindering their participation.
At Vision Soccer Academy (VSA), we firmly believe that every child deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of their financial circumstances. With the establishment of the MMF, we aim to level the playing field and ensure that no player is left behind due to financial limitations.
Purpose of the Mihura Memorial Fund:
- Honor the memory of Eduardo Mihura, a dedicated soccer enthusiast and community member whose passion for the sport was unsurpassed.
- Provide financial support to youth soccer players and their families.
How it works:
- Fund Establishment: A fund has been established with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines to accept donations.
- Allocation of Funds: Eligible recipients will include youth soccer players aged 8-19, prioritizing those facing financial hardship. The funds will be used primarily for the following purposes:
- Travel Expenses: Covering the costs of long-distance transportation and accommodation for away games, tournaments, and other soccer-related travel.
- Uniforms and Equipment: Providing necessary soccer uniforms, equipment, and accessories to ensure all players can fully participate in the sport.
- Foster* or Legal Guardians can complete a request form here.
- Management and Oversight: An oversight committee consisting of dedicated individuals with experience in finance, youth sports, and community involvement will be formed to manage disbursement of funds. This committee will be responsible for fund administration, reviewing applications, and ensuring funds are used for their intended purpose.
- Reporting and Accountability: Regular financial reports will be provided to the VSA Board of Directors to maintain transparency and demonstrate the impact of the fund. Audits will be conducted annually to ensure compliance with financial regulations and ethical standards.
- Long-Term Sustainability: We will establish a sustainable fundraising plan to ensure the longevity of the fund, including strategies for engaging donors, leveraging community partnerships, and exploring investment options for long-term growth. We will create a committee of volunteers from the community to actively participate in these activities.
Mihura Memorial Fund
We are proud to introduce the Mihura Memorial Fund (MMF). This fund, established in honor of Eduardo Mihura Sr., aims to provide financial assistance to players at VSA or VSA Rush who face financial barriers hindering their participation.
At Vision Soccer Academy (VSA), we firmly believe that every child deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of their financial circumstances. With the establishment of the MMF, we aim to level the playing field and ensure that no player is left behind due to financial limitations.
Purpose of the Mihura Memorial Fund:
- Honor the memory of Eduardo Mihura, a dedicated soccer enthusiast and community member whose passion for the sport was unsurpassed.
- Provide financial support to youth soccer players and their families.
How it works:
- Fund Establishment: A fund has been established with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines to accept donations.
- Allocation of Funds: Eligible recipients will include youth soccer players aged 8-19, prioritizing those facing financial hardship. The funds will be used primarily for the following purposes:
- Travel Expenses: Covering the costs of long-distance transportation and accommodation for away games, tournaments, and other soccer-related travel.
- Uniforms and Equipment: Providing necessary soccer uniforms, equipment, and accessories to ensure all players can fully participate in the sport.
- Foster* or Legal Guardians can complete a request form here.
- Management and Oversight: An oversight committee consisting of dedicated individuals with experience in finance, youth sports, and community involvement will be formed to manage disbursement of funds. This committee will be responsible for fund administration, reviewing applications, and ensuring funds are used for their intended purpose.
- Reporting and Accountability: Regular financial reports will be provided to the VSA Board of Directors to maintain transparency and demonstrate the impact of the fund. Audits will be conducted annually to ensure compliance with financial regulations and ethical standards.
- Long-Term Sustainability: We will establish a sustainable fundraising plan to ensure the longevity of the fund, including strategies for engaging donors, leveraging community partnerships, and exploring investment options for long-term growth. We will create a committee of volunteers from the community to actively participate in these activities.
Interested in Sponsoring Vision Soccer Academy?
Contact charlie.bales@visionsocceracademy.com
Interested in Sponsoring Vision Soccer Academy?
Official Club Sponsors
