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VSA Rush Launches Unified 13U–19U Select Team Structure

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:18:48 GMT

VSA Rush Launches Unified 13U–19U Select Team Structure

and Additional Playing Opportunities for Younger Players

[Des Moines, IA] — VSA Rush is pleased to announce an expanded collaboration for players in the 13U-19U select programs and additional playing opportunities for players entering 4th and 5th grades (11U-12U age groups) for the 2026-27 season in collaboration with Vision Soccer Academy (VSA) and Iowa Rush Soccer Club.

Building on a successful partnership to create top teams for boys and girls at the 13U-19U age groups, the two clubs are coming together to further VSA Rush’s mission to build people through the game of soccer and are creating additional soccer opportunities for young people within our communities.

Purpose of the Collaboration
VSA Rush has listened to families from within the club’s membership and this additional collaboration brings a more cohesive development environment to benefit players sooner in our soccer pathway. There are several benefits that will reflect positively in our communities and schools.

VSA Rush is committed to helping student-athletes realize the lifelong benefits of participation in soccer. Well-documented research shows that sport participation enhances physical health through improved fitness and disease prevention, supports mental well-being by reducing stress and building confidence, and fosters social development through teamwork, leadership, and meaningful relationships—all while nurturing a love for competition.

At VSA Rush, intentional coaching and mentorship ensure these benefits extend beyond the field, equipping athletes with lasting life skills such as discipline, time management, resilience, and accountability. Together, these attributes contribute to stronger academic performance and prepare young athletes for success in sport, school, and life.

"While Iowa Rush continues to serve the community of Ankeny, our partnership with VSA has really allowed us to follow our mission of giving all players a place to play by providing national level platforms within our pathway at VSA Rush. This progressive next step provides and maintains growth and competition," said Kirk Artist, Executive Director of Iowa Rush Soccer Club.

"By expanding our VSA Rush collaboration, we are ensuring all our select athletes have the best possible environment to develop their skills and can continue to develop their passion for the game," added Carlos Acebey, Executive Director of Vision Soccer Academy. "This unified approach allows us to deliver on our core mission of building exceptional people both on and off the field."

Through this collaboration, VSA and Iowa Rush will be able to provide players access to higher standards of competition at younger age groups, allow advanced players to train and compete together earlier and create a smoother transition into the already established VSA Rush programming for players in middle school and high school.

Looking Ahead:
This collaboration represents a strategic step forward for both Vision Soccer Academy and Iowa Rush Soccer Club by continuing to strengthen a shared player pathway, while aligning with national competition standards and upholding a commitment to long-term player development.

Additional details regarding this announcement can be found on the VSA Rush website, specifically on the FAQ page . Additional details such as program structure, tryouts, staffing, uniforms, and pricing will be released in the coming months.

About:

Vision Soccer Academy and Iowa Rush Soccer Club have a shared history of developing players in a professional, competitive and growth-focused environment. This expanded collaboration under the VSA Rush brand, reflects a unified vision for excellence in youth soccer and developing people through the game of soccer.

For more information, please visit:

www.vsarush.com

www.iowarush.com

www.visionsocceracademy.com

Contacts:

Carlos Acebey, Executive Director - Vision Soccer Academy

executivedirector@visionsocceracademy.com

Kirk Artist, Executive Director - Iowa Rush Soccer Club

kirkartist@iowarush.com

Farewell Ginger

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:48:38 GMT

VSA extends its deepest gratitude to Ginger Parson-McGill for her dedicated service and significant contributions to the club. Since joining VSA in July 2012, Ginger has been an invaluable leader, mentor, and coach, positively impacting countless young female athletes.

During her tenure, Ginger notably coached various age groups and achieved the following Coaching Licenses: A-Youth (2018), Academy Director (2022), and Coach Educator B License (2025). Her passion, expertise, and commitment to player development have been instrumental in the growth and success of our girls' program.

Ginger shared, “I appreciate the opportunity and platform the VSA Community provided that allowed me to help grow the game in Iowa. I will miss all the individuals who I was blessed to connect with on the soccer fields over the last 13 years. VSA will always have a special place in my heart.”

We wish Ginger all the best as she embarks on a new chapter in her career with Lou Fusz SC in St. Louis.

Please join us in celebrating Ginger and her time at VSA at a farewell reception on Tuesday, April 29th, from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Palms Theatre in Waukee.

Club Highlights: Director of Soccer

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 21:58:43 GMT

VSA is thrilled to announce Isaac Sam as the new Director of Soccer.

Isaac will help lead strategic planning, oversee training operations, develop programs, as well as recruiting and mentoring coaches. His leadership will also play a vital role in shaping player development as a Head Staff Coach within our Academy.

Isaac brings a wealth of coaching experience at the academy and college level. Most recently, he led multiple teams at Liverpool FC International Academy in Washington, guiding squads to 1st and 2nd place tournament finishes and supporting GA teams to the national stage. He also served as Head Women’s Coach at Whatcom Community College and as an Assistant Coach at the University of South Dakota. Earlier in his career, Isaac held the Head Coach position for the Yankton U19 and U17 boys' teams, leading the U17s to a 2nd place finish at the Norfolk Soccer Tournament.

Isaac is also a published research author, with his work appearing in the Women in Sport and Physical Activity Journal (2024). His study, “ Factors Influencing Hard Running Distances in NCAA Division I Female Soccer Players ,” explored the relationship between physical performance data and their contribution to high-intensity running in women's soccer. Not only does his research provide coaches with valuable insights into workload management, performance optimization, and injury prevention strategies, but it also gives him a unique edge in applying evidence-based methods to real-world training environments.

As a former collegiate and semi-professional player, Isaac understands what it takes to compete and succeed at the next level. He was recognized as a Daktronics NAIA Scholar All-American at Mount Marty University and earned Third Team NJCAA All-American honors at Western Nebraska Community College. Isaac went on to play semi-professionally with Sioux Falls Thunder FC in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) and with Bellevue Athletics 2 in the Cascade Premier League (CPL).

Isaac's academic accomplishments include dual master’s degrees—in Kinesiology and Sport Management from the University of South Dakota, and in Football Coaching and Sports Direction from Real Madrid Universidad Europea. His education, combined with hands-on experience, equips him with a unique perspective to elevate the club's programs and operations.

Please help us welcome Isaac to the VSA family!

VSA Announces First-Ever Jersey Sponsor

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:00:01 GMT

HY-VEE BECOMES FIRST-EVER JERSEY SPONSOR FOR VSA

Waukee, Iowa – Vision Soccer Academy (VSA) is excited to announce a new partnership with Hy-Vee, who will become the first-ever front-of-jersey sponsor for VSA’s select and academy teams.

Matt Nickell, Vice President of Sports Marketing for Hy-Vee, commented on the partnership: “We are thrilled to become the first-ever jersey sponsor for Vision Soccer Academy. This organization not only develops athletes with essential skills for success but also fosters teamwork, responsibility and self- confidence. These qualities help shape youth in becoming positive role models.”

Carlos Acebey, VSA Executive Director, stated: “Hy-Vee’s support reflects our shared dedication to community engagement, youth development, and the growth of soccer in Iowa. This partnership will enhance the resources we provide to our families, reinforcing our mission to develop both people and players through soccer. We look forward to collaborating with Hy-Vee to honor their trust in us and make an enduring impression together.”

As part of this agreement, Hy-Vee’s logo will be prominently displayed on the front of VSA’s select and academy team jerseys, representing the collaborative effort of two organizations committed to making a positive impact in the community.

For more information about Vision Soccer Academy and its programs, please visit www.visionsocceracademy.com

To learn more about Hy-Vee, visit www.hy-vee.com.

Club Highlights: Coaching Staff News

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 21:12:57 GMT

VSA is pleased to announce that Katie Helmlinger has been awarded the US Soccer National C License.

This prestigious certification recognizes her dedication to coaching excellence and her commitment to player development. The C License curriculum covers a range of topics, including coaching methodology, player development, and leadership, equipping coaches with the skills to create a positive and effective learning environment.

VSA congratulates Katie on this significant achievement!

Club Highlights: Coaching Staff News

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 01:15:25 GMT

VSA is proud to announce that Ginger Parson-McGill, our Girls Director of Coaching, has achieved her USSF Coach Educator B License.

This prestigious credential equips Ginger with advanced skills to train and develop aspiring coaches, aligning with US Soccer's coaching philosophy.

VSA players and coaches will benefit from Ginger's enhanced expertise, contributing to elevated coaching standards and player development within our club.

Please help us congratulate Ginger for this tremendous honor!

New Partnership: SM Tile Design

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 23:35:02 GMT

Vision Soccer Academy and SM Tile Design Announce New Partnership

We are pleased to announce that Vision Soccer Academy has entered into a partnership with SM Tile Design!

About SM Tile Design : SM Tile Design LLC is a flooring contractor based in Waukee. They specialize in tile design and installation, offering high-quality tile solutions for various projects. The company is known for its craftsmanship and customer service, and it has built a strong reputation in the community.

Give them a follow on their Facebook Page

New Partnership: Aloft Hotel Waukee

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 16:27:49 GMT

Vision Soccer Academy and Aloft Hotel Announce New Partnership

We are pleased to announce that Vision Soccer Academy has entered into a partnership with Aloft Hotel of Waukee. This collaboration ensures that our teams and visiting athletes will enjoy exceptional accommodations and outstanding amenities during our events. We look forward to the success this partnership will bring and extend our sincere gratitude to Aloft Hotel for their support of VSA.

About Aloft Hotel Waukee

Aloft Waukee is a brand NEW Marriott hotel and the first of its type in the state of Iowa. Part of the new KeeTown Loop development, it is located right next door to the new Vibrant Music Hall and is a short 3-minute drive to the Timberline Complex.

New Partnership: Next Level Portrait

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 17:57:58 GMT

Vision Soccer Academy and Next Level Portrait Announce New Partnership

Vision Soccer Academy proudly announces a new partnership with Next Level Portrait, a top-tier sports photography company in the Des Moines metro area.

Next Level Portrait will provide exclusive photography services for VSA, ensuring families can obtain professional photos that celebrate their child's dedication and achievements in soccer.

About Next Level Portrait

A family-owned, small business located in central Iowa.

They have had the privilege of serving schools and organizations throughout the Midwest for over 10 years, and look forward to continuing their long-standing relationships.

From youth sports to Division I athletics, they provide a next-level experience in team and individual sports photography.

Club Highlights: New Coaching Staff

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 13:51:12 GMT

This summer, we're excited to welcome two familiar faces back to VSA in exciting new roles!

Kailey Crawford, a Sports Management major with a Coaching minor from Wayne State College in Nebraska, steps into the Player Factory role! Her leadership and experience will allow her to play a vital role in supporting extra programs and assisting coaches. Kailey's ultimate goal is a career in sports advertising or event management, and she's thrilled to combine that passion for sports with coaching at VSA.

Rosemary Elliott, a 13-year VSA veteran, joins our Marketing and Social Media team! As a student-athlete at Limestone University majoring in Professional Communications with an Art Minor, Rosemary brings her communication and creative skills to the table. Her future goal is to become a Director of Operations, specifically for a soccer team, making VSA the perfect addition to her resume.

Kailey’s Best VSA Memory

”Being able to come back after playing here and seeing a different side of VSA. It has been a very exciting experience for me and I can't wait to continue growing through the club."

Kailey’s Advice to Current Players

“If you are going to go through rough times in life and sports, never give up and give as much effort as you can.”

Rosemary’s Best VSA Memory

“Saving and making a penalty kick to help her team win the State Cup in a shootout vs Sporting Iowa.”

Rosemary’s Advice to Current Players

“Always have fun with the game of soccer and not let the competitive demands get to you. Your effort should always be driven by your passion for the love of the game.”

Club Highlights: College Advisor

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 12:59:43 GMT

Ben Jones, currently the Director of Marketing and Select Program Administrator for VSA, will now add College Advisor to his list of responsibilities, taking over from DJ McMoil who recently departed for a position with Minnesota United.

Jones brings extensive coaching experience at the collegiate level to the role, having spent the past 15 years in college soccer. He served for six seasons as the Assistant Men's and Women's Coach at Upper Iowa University, and most recently held the position of Associate Women's Head Coach at NCAA Division II powerhouse Minnesota State University.

During his nine seasons with the Mavericks (2013-2021), Jones played a pivotal role in their success. The team amassed an impressive 147-21-14 record during his time. Additionally, Minnesota State captured four Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) regular-season championships and seven NSIC tournament titles during his tenure.

The Mavericks qualified for the NCAA postseason every season he was with the program. He also helped develop talented players, with 51 earning All-NSIC honors and 33 achieving All-American status, including nine CoSIDA Academic All-Americans.

“I'm honored to be named the new college advisor for the club! This is an exciting opportunity to support our student-athletes, coaches, and families. I look forward to working with everyone to navigate the college search process and help these talented athletes achieve their academic and athletic goals at the next level” - Ben Jones

Club Highlights: GK Training Program

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:38:19 GMT

Andrew has been with VSA for four years now, taking on the lead role of goalkeeper coach for the club. Growing up in Kansas City, soccer wasn’t just a sport for Andrew, it was passion. For thirteen years, he guarded the goal, he was passionate about the game and was eager to learn more. He developed his skills and played for clubs like Arizona Soccer Club and Sporting KC Academy before attending Drake University. After playing for Drake and graduating from there he took on a new role as a goalkeeper coach for the players for the past four years.

For young goalkeepers, he focuses on providing a solid foundation, gradually introducing more game-like situations as they develop. He encourages anyone who wants to play keeper at the academy age to give it a shot.

While Andrew understands the strain that comes with being a keeper, as any other position on the field, he also highlights the value of having fun and giving it your all. His transition from player to coach is proof of the effectiveness of commitment and passion for the game of soccer. If players are interested in signing up for goalkeeper training, please reach out to Andrew at andrew.blalock@visionsocceracademy.com.

New Sponsor! Unleashed Pets

Fri, 10 May 2024 14:24:15 GMT

We are excited to announce a new partnership between VSA and Unleashed Pets!

Unleashed Pets is a premier dog care facility that offers a range of services and amenities for both dogs and their people. They are dedicated to providing exceptional services with a commitment to the well-being and happiness of your four-legged family members.

Unleashed Pets offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to cater to your dog's needs.

Luxury Boarding: When you need to be away, Unleashed Pets offers luxury accommodations which are comfortable and secure. We ensure your pet receives the proper care, attention, and affection they deserve when they can’t be with you.

Daycare: Unleashed Pets doesn’t just do daycare, we have an “enrichment camp” which provides a stimulating environment where dogs socialize, exercise, and have fun through specific activities under the watchful eye of our trained staff.

Indoor/Outdoor Play Park: Dogs at Unleashed Pets can enjoy the best of both worlds, with designated indoor and outdoor play areas. This allows them to stay active and engaged in various weather conditions.

VSA Named Best Youth Sports Organization

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 21:40:40 GMT

We are thrilled to announce that VSA has been named the Best Youth Sports Organization in Waukee by MyWaukee Magazine for 2023! We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition, and we want to thank everyone who voted for us.

We were also fortunate enough to be featured on the front cover of the issue, placing us among the top five entries in the overall vote!

This award is a testament to the dedication of our coaches, players, and families. We are committed to providing a positive and rewarding soccer experience for all of our participants, and we are so grateful for the support of the Waukee community.

Concussions: How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 20:58:30 GMT

Concussions: How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Concussions have gotten a lot of attention in recent years. Concussions are

thought of as only occurring with a blow to the head which, in reality, is only

one way that they can happen.

Concussions can also occur from a fall, either during sport or even a large slip

on the ice. These quick movements similar to a whiplash-type event can still

cause concussion symptoms. Concussions can even occur secondary to a collision

with a fellow athlete where the heads do not connect. Click here to learn more.

Physical therapy is usually the thing you are told to do after medication, x-rays or

even surgery. But what if the best way to fix your aches and pains is to start

with physical therapy?

If you experience any aches or pains, click here to request a free assessment

from our partner, Athletico Physical Therapy.

Free assessments are available in-clinic or virtually through their Telehealth platform

VSA Coaching Staff Achievements

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 21:19:11 GMT

We would like to take a moment to recognize the outstanding achievements of our coaching staff, as well as learn more about DJ McMoil, a recent United Soccer Coaches 30 Under 30 honoree.

Clemens and Horton earn National C License

Congratulations to Afton Clemens, Director of Recreational Soccer and Member Services, and Tom Horton, U12 Boys Staff Coach and ADM HS Head Boys Coach, for recently completing their National C License Course. This is a fantastic achievement and we are lucky to have both coaching at VSA!

17 VSA Coaching Staff Members Receive Grassroots License

Congratulations to the following coaches for recently receiving the Grassroots Coaching License! The club recently hosted 4 courses - one of each game model - 4v4, 7v7, 9v9, and 11v11.

Eric Shafer
Madison Gremler
John Huynh
Jared Abodeely
Scott Crawford
Jamie Pitlick
Joy Smith
Zachary Corwin
Kaydee Cuesta
Alex Herrera
Carrie Schuler
John Simons
Andrea Barutta
Matt Fischer
Apollinaire Kabasele Kayembe
Dylan Godwin
Rob Kline

Coaching Staff Spotlight: DJ McMoil

Where are you from? Can you tell us about your family?

I grew up in Minnesota and attended college in Chicago. That's where I met my wife Kristen - we've been married for eight years and have a five year old son named Asher who started kindergarten this year.

What club did you play for growing up? Did you play in college?

I played for Wright County Soccer under the tutelage of the legendary Steve Doimer. I played goalkeeper for Moody Bible Institute in Chicago.

How did you get your start in coaching?

I was given my start in coaching by Steve Doimer, who I mentioned above. He helped me get involved with the city recreational program before giving me a U10 boys team at Wright County Soccer. He introduced me to coaching education as well, helping me sign up for my E License back in 2015.

How long have you been with VSA? What teams and programs do you work with?

This is my second year with VSA. I coach the VSA Rush 2009 and 2010 boys and the U10 boys academy. I also help with Player Factory, the College Advisory Program, and do some work as a liaison to MLS clubs for our top players.

What club or clubs did you work with before VSA?

Before coming to VSA, I was the Technical Director at Rush Wisconsin West in La Crosse, WI. I had previously worked as a goalkeeping coach for Iowa Rush, along with head coach roles at clubs in Minnesota like Wright County Soccer and Minnesota Thunder Academy.

What current licenses do you hold?

I'm currently completing my USSF A-Youth License. I also hold the United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma, a UEFA C License, a USSF Coach Educator License, and a Master of Science in Recreation and Sports Science from Ohio University.

What advice do you have for those looking to advance their coaching career?

Be curious and be available. At the beginning of my coaching career, I watched other coaches at work more than I actually coached myself. I was curious about why they chose their activities, how they structured their season, how they made their tactical decisions. The other piece of advice I would offer is to spend time coaching very young players, 5-8 years old. The benefits are impossible to exaggerate - they play the game with joy, they force you to know exactly what you're trying to communicate, they teach patience, they teach you how to teach. It's a lot of fun and it's a very important challenge for coaches of all levels to embrace.

DJ was also named a 30 Under 30 honoree by United Soccer Coaches.

The program is a year-long education and mentorship opportunity designed to support up-and-coming members of the coaching profession who are 30 years of age or younger. IT also gives participants exposure to mentorship, and the opportunity to take advantage of educational offerings, such as advanced diplomas and the United Soccer Coaches Convention.

30 under 30 United Soccer Coaches Announcement

You can find DJ on the United Soccer Coaches Podcast at the link below:

Listen Here

VSA 2023 Spring Highlights & Upcoming Events

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 21:21:43 GMT

As the Fall season approaches, we wanted to take a moment to highlight some of the accomplishments and news from this past Spring as well as some upcoming key dates in August.

Hudl Cameras

In an effort to enhance our performance analysis capabilities, the club will now be using the brand new Hudl Focus Flex cameras to record, analyze, and live stream matches. Our staff is continuing to learn and evaluate the best strategies to implement the system this upcoming season. These cameras will be a tremendous upgrade for the club!

ECNL Regional League

This past May, the Elite Clubs National League announced the newly formed Heartland North Division in the ECNL Regional League. Our Boys Premier teams have been invited to take part this fall! They will also be attending two ECNL National Showcase Events in Richmond, Virginia and Sanford, Florida.

College Commitments

The following players will be taking their talents to the next level and will start their pre-season training in the next few weeks. Best of luck from all of us at VSA!

Essentials Camp

This past week, 300+ players took to the fields at Timberline and battled some of the hottest temperatures on record. It was a great way for all campers to be trained by VSA’s professional staff and prepare for the upcoming season!

Upcoming August Events

August 1

Fall Rec Registration Deadline

August 5

4v4 Challenge

Volunteers are still needed for this event!

Volunteer Sign Up

August 6

Grassroots Referee Clinic

More Details

August 18-20

Fall Cutchens Classic

*Be on the lookout for Volunteer Opportunities

August 28

Extra Programs Deadline

Injury Prevention for Youth Soccer Players

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 21:01:15 GMT

Youth soccer is an exhilarating sport that teaches young players valuable skills, promotes physical fitness, and fosters a love for the game. However, like any physical activity, soccer carries the risk of injuries. As parents and coaches, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of young athletes. In this blog, we will discuss common injuries in youth soccer and provide valuable advice on injury prevention exercises and techniques to help keep players on the field.

Common Injuries in Youth Soccer:

1. Ankle Sprains: Ankle sprains are one of the most prevalent injuries in youth soccer. They often occur due to sudden direction changes, uneven playing surfaces, or collisions with other players.

2. Knee Injuries: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) are common knee injuries in soccer. These can result from sudden stops, pivots, or landing awkwardly.

3. Overuse Injuries: Repetitive motions and excessive training can lead to overuse injuries such as shin splints, stress fractures, and tendinitis.

4. Concussions: While not specific to soccer, concussions can occur due to collisions, heading the ball, or falls on the field.

Injury Prevention Techniques:

1. Warm-up and Stretching: Prior to training or matches, ensure players engage in a dynamic warm-up routine that includes light jogging, dynamic stretching, and mobility exercises. This helps prepare the body for physical activity and reduces the risk of muscle strains.

2. Proper Technique: Teach players correct techniques for shooting, passing, and tackling to minimize the risk of injury. Emphasize the importance of using the appropriate body mechanics and maintaining good form.

3. Strength and Conditioning: Implement a well-rounded strength and conditioning program that focuses on core stability, lower body strength, and overall muscular balance. Strong muscles and good conditioning can help prevent injuries and enhance performance.

4. Balance and Agility Training: Incorporate exercises that improve balance and agility, such as single-leg squats, ladder drills, and cone drills. These activities enhance stability, coordination, and body control, reducing the likelihood of ankle sprains and knee injuries.

5. Rest and Recovery: Encourage players to listen to their bodies and take adequate rest between training sessions and matches. Recovery time allows the body to heal and reduces the risk of overuse injuries.

6. Protective Gear: Ensure players wear appropriate protective gear, such as shin guards, to minimize the risk of impact-related injuries. Additionally, consider headgear designed to reduce the force of headers and provide added protection against concussions.

The Role of Athletico Physical Therapy:

In conjunction with hosting ECNL and the Girls Academy matches for some of the best youth players in the country, we prioritize the health and safety of our players, and that's why we proudly partner with Athletico Physical Therapy as our preferred athletic training provider.

Athletico's team of skilled professionals specializes in sports injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. They work closely with our athletes, providing individualized care and helping them recover from injuries effectively and safely. Athletico Physical Therapy plays an integral role in keeping our players on the field and ensuring their long-term success.

Injury prevention is a crucial aspect of youth soccer. By implementing proper training techniques, emphasizing injury prevention exercises, and partnering with expert athletic training providers like Athletico Physical Therapy, we can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and keep our young players in the game. At Vision Soccer Academy, we are committed to the holistic development of our athletes, ensuring their safety, and nurturing their passion for soccer. Together, let's create a safe and thriving environment for our youth soccer players to thrive.

VSA Spring 2023 Recreational Season Preview

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 19:35:07 GMT

VSA Spring 2023 Recreational Season Preview

We’re about 3 weeks out from the start of the Spring 2023 Recreational season and we’re anticipating a record number of players joining us this spring. Players four years old through fourteen will join us for our 7 week season. Our Recreational Program has both a fall and spring season and focuses on learning the fundamentals of soccer, giving players an opportunity to socialize with other kids from our community, and most importantly, have some fun!

One of the factors of our recreational program that deserves to be highlighted is our volunteer coaches. Each team in our VSA Recreational Program is coached by a volunteer parent, family member, friend, or community member. With over 100 teams from U5-U15, there are a lot of people who work hard to make sure each season runs smoothly. From planning and facilitating practices to coaching games on the weekend, they are out in the thick of it making sure our players get the opportunity to play every week and every season. It’s because of them our program has grown and will continue to grow - we couldn’t do it without them!

One exciting event our Recreational players have to look forward to this spring is our 3v3 Kick It event . This will take place Saturday, June 3rd at the VSA Timberline Complex. Players U7-U12 will be able to form their own teams and compete in a festival of games throughout the day. It will be a fun way for players to showcase the skills they have developed over the spring season and for our club members to come together and celebrate the spring season.

Whether you’re a coach, parent, or family member of a VSA player - we can’t wait to see you out on the fields in just a few short weeks!

Skywalk Futsal Classic Recap

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 19:48:57 GMT

The 5th Annual Skywalk Futsal Classic

The Skywalk Futsal Classic, hosted by Vision Soccer Academy, was a highly successful indoor youth soccer event that took place in downtown Des Moines at Hy-Vee Hall in December. The tournament brought together 116 teams from all over the region, ranging from youth to high school age.

The tournament was filled with competitive and exciting matches, as teams battled it out on the court to claim victory. The atmosphere was electric, with close to 1000 players and 2000 fans showing their enthusiasm for the sport.

Throughout the tournament, the focus was on showcasing skill in a fast-paced competition. Players were encouraged to give their all on the court, but also to enjoy the experience and compete against friends and foes alike. The tournament organizers did an excellent job of creating a positive and inclusive environment for all participants.

In addition to the tournament itself, Insane Impact provided a massive screen for all participants to watch the FIFA World Cup 2022 ^TM and Fine Designs customized Skywalk FC branded apparel.

Overall, the 5 ^th Annual Skywalk Futsal Classic was a fantastic event that brought together young players and soccer enthusiasts from all over the region including Kansas City and Chicago. We would like to thank We Are Iowa Local 5 News for their coverage as well at the folks at Catch Des Moines and Iowa Events Center for the support. We can’t wait to see what the next edition will bring.