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Lil' Kickers Classes
Skills Institute Classes
Lil' Strikers Classes

Lil’ Kickers
Ages 18 months – 9 years

Not your typical classroom.
Not your typical results.

Lil’ Kickers classes are carefully curated and wildly fun. Classes are led by high-energy coaches and packed with creative games structured to help kids tackle age-appropriate developmental milestones. Rooted in renowned child development theories, our innovative curriculum provides kids ages 18 months to 9 years the skills they need to learn soccer and grow as individuals, all while having a blast. Come see why more than a million kids nationwide love our program!  Classes meet weekly for 50 minutes.

Lil' Kickers Bunnies class

18 – 24 MONTHS
ADULT INTERACTIVE
15:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Often a child’s first experience with group learning, this class is designed to give them a perfect start.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences and create new relationships while learning in a fun and dynamic environment.

Lil' Kickers Thumpers class

24 – 36 MONTHS
ADULT INTERACTIVE
12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

In this class, kids begin to learn to actively engage with the coach and other players.

“Why?” Hang around enough with this age group of curious, older toddlers and you will hear that word a lot. Working with Thumpers and their parents, we welcome their inquisitive nature and sense of wonderment in learning. We use those traits to shape confidence and self-esteem to further build core movements like balance, coordination and timing–all necessary for mastering a soccer ball. While parent involvement continues here, this class bridges the gap between parallel play and directly interacting with the coach and other players. So “why” take a Thumpers class? Because it is a blast.

Lil' Kickers Cottontails class

2½ – 3½ YEARS
ADULT INTERACTIVE
7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Here, preschoolers who are not quite ready to be on the field alone discover some independence.

Terrible twos? Not in our opinion! Though toddler behavior can be puzzling, these little ones are just trying to put the pieces together to grow into the person they are meant to be. Sometimes they get frustrated and their feelings come out sideways, especially when they are shy and a little tentative. We embrace the complexities of this time of life and help them transition into being more interactive, confident, self-reliant and relational. We do so with fun and engaging games that help them begin to master basic movement and ball control skills. The goal is to get them to be more interactive with the coach, to play with (rather than alongside) their peers and to engage in the game. Parents are there to provide just the right support.

Lil' Kickers Hoppers class

3 & 4 YEARS
7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

To share and share alike? Not always. These kiddos are raring to go, but need lots of direction to get there.

Preschoolers have a hard time sharing, but we help get them there. After all, soccer (and life!) is all about give-and-take. The goal of these classes is to create teammates who are coachable and eager to learn. Sharing is a big part of that. Creative storylines and animated coaches keep kids engaged and having fun. They won’t even know they’re working hard and learning. They’ll come away with important skills for soccer and beyond.

Lil' Kickers Jackrabbits class

3 & 4 YEARS
7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Fun and fast-paced classes for kids who are naturally a little more competitive or with previous class experience.

Buckle up! These preschoolers are eager for action and ready to learn. With a curriculum chock full of imaginative games and adventures, these players are going to have a blast and won’t even realize just how much they’re learning. Coaches will guide them towards great soccer skills (specifically passing, trapping, shooting, attacking and defending) and introduce them to scrimmaging. Look a little closer and you’ll also notice improved communication, listening, sharing, perseverance and resilience.

Lil' Kickers Big Feet class

5 & 6 YEARS
12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

For kids who are just getting introduced to organized soccer or who are less competitive by nature but want a great soccer experience.

Some kids are a little shy and perhaps not very competitive by nature, but still want to learn a sport and have a team experience. We get that. Big Feet classes serve these kids well. Full of all the same fun, goofiness and opportunities to learn soccer and life skills, these classes do it just a little differently. After all, lack of experience or temperament shouldn’t keep us from getting in the game.

Lil' Kickers Micro Classes

4 – 9 YEARS
12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

For kids who are driven to play.

Does your child always have a ball at their feet? Constantly talk about soccer? Or are they simply driven to get better? Created for kids who are motivated soccer players, Micro classes kick it up a notch. While coaching remains child-centered and fun this curriculum is fundamentals focused and provides game-like situations each week that help solidify learning. Players enjoy 30 minutes of age-appropriate instruction and 20 minutes of small-sided scrimmaging. Classes are offered by age and include Micro 4/5, Micro 6/7, Micro 8/9, Micro Advanced 5/6, and Micro Advanced 7/8.

Lil' Strikers Classes

Lil’ Kickers Ages 18 mo – 9 yrs

Lil’ Kickers classes are carefully curated and wildly fun. Classes are led by high-energy coaches and packed with creative games structured to help kids tackle age-appropriate developmental milestones. Rooted in renowned child development theories, our innovative curriculum provides kids ages 18 months to 9 years the skills they need to learn soccer and grow as individuals, all while having a blast. Come see why more than a million kids nationwide love our program!  Classes meet weekly for 50 minutes.

Lil' Kickers Bunnies Class

  • 18 – 24 MONTHS
  • ADULT INTERACTIVE
  • 15:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

In this class, kids begin to learn to interact with the coach and other players.
Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Kickers Thumpers Class

  • 2 – 3 Years
  • ADULT INTERACTIVE
  • 12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

In this class, kids begin to learn to actively engage with the coach and other players.
“Why?” Hang around enough with this age group of curious, older toddlers and you will hear that word a lot. Working with Thumpers and their parents, we welcome their inquisitive nature and sense of wonderment in learning. We use those traits to shape confidence and self-esteem to further build core movements like balance, coordination and timing–all necessary for mastering a soccer ball. While parent involvement continues here, this class bridges the gap between parallel play and directly interacting with the coach and other players. So “why” take a Thumpers class? Because it is a blast.

Lil' Kickers Cottontails Class

  • 2½ – 3½ YEARS
  • ADULT INTERACTIVE
  • 7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Here, preschoolers who are not quite ready to be on the field alone discover some independence.

Terrible twos? Not in our opinion! Though toddler behavior can be puzzling, these little ones are just trying to put the pieces together to grow into the person they are meant to be. Sometimes they get frustrated and their feelings come out sideways, especially when they are shy and a little tentative. We embrace the complexities of this time of life and help them transition into being more interactive, confident, self-reliant and relational. We do so with fun and engaging games that help them begin to master basic movement and ball control skills. The goal is to get them to be more interactive with the coach, to play with (rather than alongside) their peers and to engage in the game. Parents are there to provide just the right support.

Lil' Kickers Hoppers Class

  • 3 & 4 YEARS
  • 7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

To share and share alike? Not always. These kiddos are raring to go, but need lots of direction to get there.

Preschoolers have a hard time sharing, but we help get them there. After all, soccer (and life!) is all about give-and-take. The goal of these classes is to create teammates who are coachable and eager to learn. Sharing is a big part of that. Creative storylines and animated coaches keep kids engaged and having fun. They won’t even know they’re working hard and learning. They’ll come away with important skills for soccer and beyond.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Kickers Jackrabbits Class

  • 3 & 4 YEARS
  • 7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Fun and fast-paced classes for kids who are naturally a little more competitive or with previous class experience.

Buckle up! These preschoolers are eager for action and ready to learn. With a curriculum chock full of imaginative games and adventures, these players are going to have a blast and won’t even realize just how much they’re learning. Coaches will guide them towards great soccer skills (specifically passing, trapping, shooting, attacking and defending) and introduce them to scrimmaging. Look a little closer and you’ll also notice improved communication, listening, sharing, perseverance and resilience.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Kickers Big Feet Class

  • 5 & 6 YEARS
  • 12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

For kids who are just getting introduced to organized soccer or who are less competitive by nature but want a great soccer experience.

Some kids are a little shy and perhaps not very competitive by nature, but still want to learn a sport and have a team experience. We get that. Big Feet classes serve these kids well. Full of all the same fun, goofiness and opportunities to learn soccer and life skills, these classes do it just a little differently. After all, lack of experience or temperament shouldn’t keep us from getting in the game.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Kickers Micro Classes

  • 4 – 9 YEARS
  • 12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

For kids who are driven to play.

Does your child always have a ball at their feet? Constantly talk about soccer? Or are they simply driven to get better? Created for kids who are motivated soccer players, Micro classes kick it up a notch. While coaching remains child-centered and fun this curriculum is fundamentals focused and provides game-like situations each week that help solidify learning. Players enjoy 30 minutes of age-appropriate instruction and 20 minutes of small-sided scrimmaging. Classes are offered by age and include Micro 4/5, Micro 6/7, Micro 8/9, Micro Advanced 5/6, and Micro Advanced 7/8.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Strikers Classes

Lil’ Kickers ages 18 months – 9 years

Lil’ Kickers classes are carefully curated and wildly fun. Classes are led by high-energy coaches and packed with creative games structured to help kids tackle age-appropriate developmental milestones. Rooted in renowned child development theories, our innovative curriculum provides kids ages 18 months to 9 years the skills they need to learn soccer and grow as individuals, all while having a blast. Come see why more than a million kids nationwide love our program!  Classes meet weekly for 50 minutes.

Lil' Kickers Bunnies Class

  • 18 – 24 MONTHS
  • ADULT INTERACTIVE
  • 15:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

In this class, kids begin to learn to interact with the coach and other players.
Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Kickers Thumpers Class

  • 2 – 3 Years
  • ADULT INTERACTIVE
  • 12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

In this class, kids begin to learn to actively engage with the coach and other players.
“Why?” Hang around enough with this age group of curious, older toddlers and you will hear that word a lot. Working with Thumpers and their parents, we welcome their inquisitive nature and sense of wonderment in learning. We use those traits to shape confidence and self-esteem to further build core movements like balance, coordination and timing–all necessary for mastering a soccer ball. While parent involvement continues here, this class bridges the gap between parallel play and directly interacting with the coach and other players. So “why” take a Thumpers class? Because it is a blast.

Lil' Kickers Cottontails Class

  • 2½ – 3½ YEARS
  • ADULT INTERACTIVE
  • 7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Here, preschoolers who are not quite ready to be on the field alone discover some independence.

Terrible twos? Not in our opinion! Though toddler behavior can be puzzling, these little ones are just trying to put the pieces together to grow into the person they are meant to be. Sometimes they get frustrated and their feelings come out sideways, especially when they are shy and a little tentative. We embrace the complexities of this time of life and help them transition into being more interactive, confident, self-reliant and relational. We do so with fun and engaging games that help them begin to master basic movement and ball control skills. The goal is to get them to be more interactive with the coach, to play with (rather than alongside) their peers and to engage in the game. Parents are there to provide just the right support.

Lil' Kickers Hoppers Class

  • 3 & 4 YEARS
  • 7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

To share and share alike? Not always. These kiddos are raring to go, but need lots of direction to get there.

Preschoolers have a hard time sharing, but we help get them there. After all, soccer (and life!) is all about give-and-take. The goal of these classes is to create teammates who are coachable and eager to learn. Sharing is a big part of that. Creative storylines and animated coaches keep kids engaged and having fun. They won’t even know they’re working hard and learning. They’ll come away with important skills for soccer and beyond.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Kickers Jackrabbits Class

  • 3 & 4 YEARS
  • 7:1 or 14:2 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Fun and fast-paced classes for kids who are naturally a little more competitive or with previous class experience.

Buckle up! These preschoolers are eager for action and ready to learn. With a curriculum chock full of imaginative games and adventures, these players are going to have a blast and won’t even realize just how much they’re learning. Coaches will guide them towards great soccer skills (specifically passing, trapping, shooting, attacking and defending) and introduce them to scrimmaging. Look a little closer and you’ll also notice improved communication, listening, sharing, perseverance and resilience.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Kickers Big Feet Class

  • 5 & 6 YEARS
  • 12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

For kids who are just getting introduced to organized soccer or who are less competitive by nature but want a great soccer experience.

Some kids are a little shy and perhaps not very competitive by nature, but still want to learn a sport and have a team experience. We get that. Big Feet classes serve these kids well. Full of all the same fun, goofiness and opportunities to learn soccer and life skills, these classes do it just a little differently. After all, lack of experience or temperament shouldn’t keep us from getting in the game.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

Lil' Kickers Micro Classes

  • 4 – 9 YEARS
  • 12:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

For kids who are driven to play.

Does your child always have a ball at their feet? Constantly talk about soccer? Or are they simply driven to get better? Created for kids who are motivated soccer players, Micro classes kick it up a notch. While coaching remains child-centered and fun this curriculum is fundamentals focused and provides game-like situations each week that help solidify learning. Players enjoy 30 minutes of age-appropriate instruction and 20 minutes of small-sided scrimmaging. Classes are offered by age and include Micro 4/5, Micro 6/7, Micro 8/9, Micro Advanced 5/6, and Micro Advanced 7/8.

Managing a class full of toddlers can be like herding kittens. They’re playful, sometimes skittish and easily distracted. But with the right structure and interactions, a lot can happen. Activities with bubbles, parachutes, cones and other sensory toys build skills for balance, coordination, running, tracking, kicking and changing directions—all building blocks needed for playing soccer. With parents by their side, our youngest Lil’ Kickers feel safe to explore new experiences, create new relationships and while learning in a fun and dynamic class environment.

“My son has enjoyed this program more than any other he has been in, and he’s played A LOT!”

Suzanne H.
Mother, Seattle, WA

“They LOVE the imaginative games that are teaching soccer skills without them realizing it. It is perfect for their age. They love their coaches and look forward to soccer every week! Highly recommend- especially for those younger ones who need to start learning how to listen to other adults!”

Lindsey B.
Mother, Lenexa, KS

“All 3 of our kids have been in Lil’ Kickers because they love it. And because we could see them growing in skill and confidence.”

Jenny C.
Mother, Issaquah, WA

Not your typical classroom.
Not your typical results.

Skills Institute Classes

Skills Institute Ages 5 – 12 years

Not just footwork,
but life work.

In the Skills Institute program, our goal is to educate, develop, and inspire all while having fun. Our program is specially designed for kids ages 5 – 12 years old who love the game and want to improve their skills.  Rooted in child development theory, our classes are not just about soccer—they’re about helping children grow and succeed both on and off the field. Players enjoy 30 minutes of age-appropriate instruction and 20 minutes of small-sided scrimmaging. Classes meet weekly for 50-minutes.

Skills Institute Player Pathway
Skills Institute Level 1

AGES 5/6, 7/8, 9-12
10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

With our focus to Educate, Develop, and Inspire, Skills Institute Level 1 classes start with the fundamentals of player development: dribbling, passing and how to effectively use them in a game situation. This level then takes players through a progression of 1v1’s and 2 v 1 attacking to foster a sense of confidence and begin their journey of developing a high Soccer IQ.

Skills Institute Level 2

AGES 5/6, 7/8, 9-12
10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Designed for those who have completed Level 1 or have played on a soccer team, our Skills Institute Level 2 focuses on advanced dribbling, introduction to finishing, and then progresses into 2v1 and 2v2 attacking. Players will increase their ability to beat opponents on the dribble, push their decision making under pressure, and capitalize on shooting opportunities.

Skills Institute Level 3

AGES 5/6, 7/8, 9-12
BY RECOMMENDATION ONLY
10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Skills Insitute Level 3 brings it all together by progressing from 2v2’s to 3v2 attacking with an emphasis on maintaining possession. Decision making, creating space, combination play, and rapid transitions from defense to offense are all part of this level’s development path. We help players continue to develop their Soccer IQ and be inspired to play at their next level.

Find the class that is right for you!

Skills Institute Logo

Level 1 Milestones

Ages 5/6, 7/8, 9-12

Level 1 Milestones

  • Players have some soccer experience from recreational teams, school, or Lil’ Kickers. Some players, especially those aged 9-12, may have no prior experience.
  • All participants usually have a basic understanding of how soccer games work and show a strong desire to learn more about how to play soccer.
  • Players will benefit from focused instruction to improve their fundamental skills, such as dribbling under control and passing accurately.
Skills Institute Logo

Level 2 Milestones

Ages 5/6, 7/8, 9-12

Level 2 Milestones

  • Most players have prior experience in a Level 1 class. Some players are new to Skill Institute but have played on a soccer team.
  • Players have a solid foundation of dribbling and passing and are ready to work on more advanced ball control and shooting.
  • Level 2 players work well with teammates. They show readiness to accept challenges and eager to be coached.
Skills Institute Logo

Level 3 Milestones

Ages 5/6, 7/8, 9-12 (Recommendation Only)

Level 3 Milestones

  • All participants must have prior experience in a SI Level 2 class or have been invited to join a Level 3 class.
  • Level 3 players consistently use proper technique for dribbling, passing and shooting. 
  • Players work hard to keep possession and quickly retake possession if they lose the ball.
Skills Institute Classes

Skills Institute
Ages 5 – 12 years

In the Skills Institute program, our goal is to educate, develop, and inspire all while having fun. Our program is specially designed for kids ages 5 – 12 years old who love the game and want to improve their skills.  Rooted in child development theory, our classes are not just about soccer—they’re about helping children grow and succeed both on and off the field. Players enjoy 30 minutes of age-appropriate instruction and 20 minutes of small-sided scrimmaging. Classes meet weekly for 50-minutes.

In the Skills Institute program, our goal is to educate, develop, and inspire all while having fun. Our program is specially designed for kids ages 5 – 12 years old who love the game and want to improve their skills.  Rooted in child development theory, our classes are not just about soccer—they’re about helping children grow and succeed both on and off the field. Players enjoy 30 minutes of age-appropriate instruction and 20 minutes of small-sided scrimmaging. Classes meet weekly for 50-minutes.

Skills Institute Player Pathway
Skills Institute Level 1

  • AGES 5/6, 7/8, 9-12
  • 10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

With our focus to Educate, Develop, and Inspire, Skills Institute Level 1 classes start with the fundamentals of player development: dribbling, passing and how to effectively use them in a game situation. This level then takes players through a progression of 1v1’s and 2 v 1 attacking to foster a sense of confidence and begin their journey of developing a high Soccer IQ.

  • Players have some soccer experience from recreational teams, school, or Lil’ Kickers. Some players, especially those aged 9-12, may have no prior experience.
  • All participants usually have a basic understanding of how soccer games work and show a strong desire to learn more about how to play soccer.
  • Players will benefit from focused instruction to improve their fundamental skills, such as dribbling under control and passing accurately.
Skills Institute Level 2

  • AGES 5/6, 7/8, 9-12
  • 10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Designed for those who have completed Level 1 or have played on a soccer team, our Skills Institute Level 2 focuses on advanced dribbling, introduction to finishing, and then progresses into 2v1 and 2v2 attacking. Players will increase their ability to beat opponents on the dribble, push their decision making under pressure, and capitalize on shooting opportunities.

  • Most players have prior experience in a Level 1 class. Some players are new to Skill Institute but have played on a soccer team.
  • Players have a solid foundation of dribbling and passing and are ready to work on more advanced ball control and shooting.
  • Level 2 players work well with teammates. They show readiness to accept challenges and eager to be coached.
Skills Institute Level 3

  • AGES 7/8 & 9-12
  • BY RECOMMENDATION ONLY
  • 10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Skills Institute Level 3 brings it all together by progressing from 2v2’s to 3v2 attacking with an emphasis on maintaining possession. Decision making, creating space, combination play, and rapid transitions from defense to offense are all part of this level’s development path. We help players continue to develop their Soccer IQ and be inspired to play at their next level.

  • All participants must have prior experience in a Skills Insitute Level 2 class or have been invited to join a Level 3 class.
  • Level 3 players consistently use proper technique for dribbling, passing and shooting.
  • Players work hard to keep possession and quickly retake possession if they lose the ball.
Skills Institute Classes

Skills Institute
Ages 5 – 12 years

In the Skills Institute program, our goal is to educate, develop, and inspire all while having fun. Our program is specially designed for kids ages 5 – 12 years old who love the game and want to improve their skills.  Rooted in child development theory, our classes are not just about soccer—they’re about helping children grow and succeed both on and off the field. Players enjoy 30 minutes of age-appropriate instruction and 20 minutes of small-sided scrimmaging. Classes meet weekly for 50-minutes.

In the Skills Institute program, our goal is to educate, develop, and inspire all while having fun. Our program is specially designed for kids ages 5 – 12 years old who love the game and want to improve their skills.  Rooted in child development theory, our classes are not just about soccer—they’re about helping children grow and succeed both on and off the field. Players enjoy 30 minutes of age-appropriate instruction and 20 minutes of small-sided scrimmaging. Classes meet weekly for 50-minutes.

Skills Institute Player Pathway
Skills Institute Level 1

  • AGES 5/6, 7/8, 9-12
  • 10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

With our focus to Educate, Develop, and Inspire, Skills Institute Level 1 classes start with the fundamentals of player development: dribbling, passing and how to effectively use them in a game situation. This level then takes players through a progression of 1v1’s and 2 v 1 attacking to foster a sense of confidence and begin their journey of developing a high Soccer IQ.

  • Players have some soccer experience from recreational teams, school, or Lil’ Kickers. Some players, especially those aged 9-12, may have no prior experience.
  • All participants usually have a basic understanding of how soccer games work and show a strong desire to learn more about how to play soccer.
  • Players will benefit from focused instruction to improve their fundamental skills, such as dribbling under control and passing accurately.
Skills Institute Level 2

  • AGES 5/6, 7/8, 9-12
  • 10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Designed for those who have completed Level 1 or have played on a soccer team, our Skills Institute Level 2 focuses on advanced dribbling, introduction to finishing, and then progresses into 2v1 and 2v2 attacking. Players will increase their ability to beat opponents on the dribble, push their decision making under pressure, and capitalize on shooting opportunities.

  • Most players have prior experience in a Level 1 class. Some players are new to Skill Institute but have played on a soccer team.
  • Players have a solid foundation of dribbling and passing and are ready to work on more advanced ball control and shooting.
  • Level 2 players work well with teammates. They show readiness to accept challenges and eager to be coached.
Skills Institute Level 3

  • AGES 7/8 & 9-12
  • BY RECOMMENDATION ONLY
  • 10:1 CHILD-TO-COACH RATIO

Skills Institute Level 3 brings it all together by progressing from 2v2’s to 3v2 attacking with an emphasis on maintaining possession. Decision making, creating space, combination play, and rapid transitions from defense to offense are all part of this level’s development path. We help players continue to develop their Soccer IQ and be inspired to play at their next level.

  • All participants must have prior experience in a Skills Insitute Level 2 class or have been invited to join a Level 3 class.
  • Level 3 players consistently use proper technique for dribbling, passing and shooting.
  • Players work hard to keep possession and quickly retake possession if they lose the ball.

Not just footwork,
but life work.

Fun Starts Here – Benefits Last a Lifetime

Step onto the field during any Lil’ Kickers class and you will find it transformed into a world created just for your child. Our well trained coaches will thrill your child with 50 minutes of highly creative, high energy and age-appropriate activities that serve as a great introduction to soccer, and help children master developmental milestones, appropriate for their age.