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Top Rated Youth Soccer Clubs in Mansfield, Ohio

For families living in or near Mansfield, finding a club that balances high-level player development with reasonable commute times is critical. This directory lists the competitive youth soccer organizations headquartered specifically within the Mansfield metropolitan area and surrounding suburbs.

These clubs offer programs for various age groups, typically starting at U6 and progressing through U19 college showcase teams. The listings below include detailed data on field locations, tryout dates, and league affiliations to help you compare local options side-by-side.

Find the Best Soccer Club in Mansfield, Ohio for you.

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Soccer Clubs Near Mansfield, Ohio (12)

Columbus Force logo
Lewis Center, OH

Columbus Force Soccer Club is a premier youth soccer organization operating in Central Ohio. The club was established in Fall 2024, with registrations for the 2024-25 season. Columbus Force provides player pathways for boys and girls across local, regional, and national levels, serving age groups from U-3 through U-19. The club distinguishes itself through its commitment to player development, integrating coach development, player development, and parent education. Columbus Force employs accredited and experienced coaching staff holding US Soccer Federation National A, B, and C licenses, along with full-time directors. Their philosophy focuses on developing and challenging players by innovating soccer education. The club offers competitive programs, including participation in the GLA ECNL RL. Columbus Force aims to empower hardworking, responsible, and humble athletes to achieve their goals on and off the field.

Leagues: ECNL RL Boys | Pre-ECNL | Pre-ECNL | NPL

Columbus United logo
Columbus, OH

Columbus United Soccer Club is a youth soccer organization operating in Central Ohio, with an address in Lewis Center, Ohio. The club is dedicated to fostering a competitive and positive soccer environment for youth and adult players. Their philosophy focuses on developing technical, tactical, physical, and mental skills through expert training and high-level competition. Core values such as discipline, determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship guide the club in shaping skilled players and well-rounded individuals. Columbus United offers programs for youth players, though specific age groups are not detailed on the main page. The club features competitive programs including CU Girls Academy and CU NAL. They aim to be a premier amateur club for adults, competing at high levels locally and beyond.

Leagues: Girls Academy

Internationals Soccer Club (ISC) is a highly respected youth soccer organization primarily operating in Northern Ohio, drawing players from across the state. The club's youth program was launched in 1985, building on the foundation of a club established in 1976. ISC offers comprehensive programs for various age groups, including Youth Academy (U6-U9), Youth Premier (U8-U12), and ECNL & Regional teams (U13-U19), alongside a Fall Team for High School Players (U15-U18). The club is renowned for its playing, coaching, and organizational excellence, with coaches holding the highest licenses. Internationals SC has achieved numerous State, Regional, and National Titles, distinguishing it as a top competitor in the region. A significant unique selling point is the club's success in player development, with a strong record of national exposure for its athletes at both US Youth National Team and collegiate levels. Over 95% of Internationals' graduates advance to play soccer at universities, and several alumni have progressed to professional and national ranks. The club's top competitive program includes participation in the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL).

Leagues: ECNL Girls | ECNL RL Girls | Pre-ECNL | NPL

Elite Football Club, operating as Union County Elite FC, is a premier youth soccer club based in the Northwest Columbus, Ohio area. The club serves communities such as Dublin, Delaware, Plain City, Powell, and Marysville, with its primary training facilities located in Ostrander. Its mission is to develop players' skills and passion for soccer while maintaining low player fees to ensure accessibility. The club provides an elite soccer experience with professional, licensed coaches guiding the teams. Elite FC offers year-round training opportunities, including futsal and indoor training, to foster continuous player development. A key feature is its partnership with Memorial Sports Med, which provides a free injury clinic for all its players. The club caters to a range of age groups, from its U8 Academy up through its high school programs. Top teams at Elite FC compete in several high-level leagues, including the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) and the National Premier League (NPL). Additional competitive pathways include the Central Ohio Premier League (COPL) and the Ohio Champions League (OCL).

Leagues: NPL | USYS-NL

Greater Firelands Soccer Association operates in Huron County, Ohio, serving the local community through structured youth soccer programs. The organization has rebranded to Greater Firelands Soccer Association to advance its commitment to youth soccer development. It focuses on fostering a love for the game among players by emphasizing creative, attacking, and possession-style soccer built on strong technical skills. The club creates an environment free from the fear of failure, encouraging players to explore and grow without limitations. Programs include recreational soccer leagues, club soccer teams, and specialized tryouts for high school winter and spring sessions. Youth participants engage in developmental activities designed to build lifelong participation in the sport. The club's core approach prioritizes motivation to play attractive soccer over the fear of losing, promoting personal and athletic potential. Greater Firelands Soccer Association continues the legacy of excellence from its Huron County roots, expanding opportunities for regional youth involvement.

Leagues: NPL

Kings Hammer Youth Soccer Club operates primarily in the New Albany region of Ohio, serving as a key hub for youth soccer development in the greater Columbus area. Established as part of the broader Kings Hammer network, the club has been fostering soccer talent since its integration into the organization's expansion efforts in the early 2010s. It caters to youth players across a wide range of age groups, from introductory levels through competitive teams up to U-19. The club emphasizes a player-centered approach, focusing on holistic development that includes technical skills, tactical understanding, and personal growth. Unique features include its commitment to core values such as integrity, excellence, and community, which guide all programs and interactions. Kings Hammer New Albany distinguishes itself through strong pathways to higher-level play, including integration with the club's pre-professional USL League Two team. This setup provides elite youth players with exposure to professional environments and coaching. The club prioritizes creating a supportive yet challenging atmosphere to inspire lifelong passion for soccer. Through regional and national competitions, it builds teams that compete at high standards, preparing players for collegiate and professional opportunities.

Leagues: NPL

Legend Soccer Club logo
Granville, OH

Legend Soccer Club operates in east central Ohio, primarily serving Licking County and the surrounding areas. The club's mission is to provide expert development of youth soccer skills to prepare players for high school and potentially collegiate-level play. They offer programs for boys and girls from U8 through U19, as well as a \"Little Legends\" program for younger children. A key feature of the club is its focus on identifying and nurturing untapped soccer talent within its region. Their teams compete in leagues such as the National Premier League (NPL) Great Lakes, Buckeye Premier Youth Soccer League, and the Ohio Champions League. Legend SC aims to be a premier club that inspires top-tier training, coaching, and performance. The club emphasizes player development to enable them to excel at the varsity level in high school. They have a partnership with the Columbus Crew, providing a pathway for aspiring players.

Leagues: NPL

Newark Area Soccer Association's Xtabi Select Soccer operates in the Newark, Ohio region, serving youth players in Licking County and surrounding communities. The club has built a strong presence through year-round programs that foster skill development and passion for the game. Xtabi targets dedicated players seeking advanced training beyond recreational levels, emphasizing long-term personal and athletic growth. It serves boys and girls across various youth age groups, from introductory skills programs to competitive teams. Unique features include professional coaching staff with international qualifications, a focus on affordable access to high-quality training, and a philosophy centered on holistic player development. The club distinguishes itself with private non-profit operations that prioritize player welfare over profit. Xtabi offers select soccer programs designed for competitive play, including participation in regional leagues like Tri-Valley Soccer. Additional offerings encompass indoor Futsal leagues for winter skill enhancement and hosting major tournaments such as the Buckeye Cup and Hopewell Cup. These programs create pathways for players to advance through structured training and matches, building toward higher levels of competition. Xtabi integrates recreational elements with select opportunities to ensure inclusive progression for all participants.

Leagues: NPL

Ohio Strikers United Soccer Club operates as a premier youth soccer organization in the Wooster area of Ohio. Established in Spring 2006, the club focuses on fostering well-rounded athletes who excel both on and off the field. It provides a competitive yet supportive environment that builds confidence and supports goal achievement from youth through college levels. The club serves boys and girls across age groups from U-9 through U-19. All teams are coached by licensed and experienced professionals dedicated to player development. Ohio Strikers United fields teams in top competitive leagues including the National Premier Leagues (NPL), Great Lakes Alliance (GLA), and CASA League. Its squads also compete in prestigious tournaments such as the Ohio North State Cup and US Club State Cup. The club attends college showcase events to facilitate pathways for players advancing to higher education soccer programs. Ohio Strikers United emphasizes comprehensive training through specialized camps that enhance skills in a fun and educational setting. This commitment to holistic growth distinguishes the club in Ohio's youth soccer landscape.

Leagues: NPL

Polaris Soccer Club logo
Westerville, OH

Polaris Soccer Club is a youth soccer organization based in Westerville, Ohio, serving the greater Columbus metropolitan area. Established as a key community resource for soccer development, the club focuses on fostering player growth through structured programs and a supportive environment. They serve players from U6 through U19, with dedicated pathways for both recreational and competitive participation. The club's Polaris Juniors program targets younger athletes in U6 to U8 age groups, emphasizing early skill-building and fun in a non-competitive setting. For older players, they offer developmental and competitive teams that prioritize technical proficiency, tactical understanding, and personal growth. Unique features include a comprehensive player education library, a philosophy centered on challenging curricula to build foundational skills, and integration with local recreational leagues like the Westerville Amateur Soccer Association for broader accessibility. The club promotes a code of conduct that encourages respect, effort, and sportsmanship among participants. Polaris Soccer Club emphasizes holistic development, preparing players for advanced levels through progressive training stages tailored to age-specific needs, from ego-centric learning in U8-U10 to team-oriented strategies in higher groups.

Leagues: NPL

Team Challenger FC South is a premier youth soccer club operating in Northeast Ohio. Established in 2007, the club focuses on assembling top talent in each age group to foster advanced development in a competitive setting. It serves players from young developmental ages through U19, with pathways starting in the Youth Development Academy (YDA) program and progressing to elite teams at U10 and older. The YDA emphasizes fundamental skills, creativity, and confidence-building under staff coaching and mentorship from senior players. Team Challenger FC South distinguishes itself by consistently producing players who advance to top universities and earn local, regional, and national accolades, including National Team call-ups and All-American honors. The club represents Northeast Ohio in national rankings and competes in high-level events that showcase regional excellence. Its teams participate in the US Youth Soccer National Championships, where top division performers advance to national play and secure spots in the National League for ages 14U through 19U. This structure provides a clear pathway for youth players to excel regionally and nationally, building toward collegiate and professional opportunities. The club's commitment to a challenging yet supportive environment ensures players thrive in demanding competitions.

Leagues: NPL

Upper 90 FC is a premier youth soccer club operating in Northeast Ohio, serving communities from Akron to Medina, Avon, and Sandusky. Established as a competitive program with a focus on player development, the club has built a strong reputation over the past decade through consistent participation in regional tournaments and leagues. It caters to boys and girls across a wide range of age groups, including U11 through high school levels, with dedicated teams for birth years such as 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. The club emphasizes professional coaching and skill-building in a fun yet challenging environment to maximize each athlete's potential. Unique features include integrated winter training programs, pre-season camps, and open summer camps accessible to all youth regardless of club affiliation. Upper 90 FC stands out for its commitment to holistic development, combining on-field competition with off-season skill clinics and holiday breaks structured for recovery and growth. Teams compete in top regional leagues such as the Great Lakes Alliance National Premier Leagues (GLA-NPL) and GLA Premier divisions, achieving championships in Super Group categories. The club also participates in the Ohio State Cup and US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (ODP) events, providing pathways for talented players to advance to higher levels of competition. Success stories include multiple tournament wins, such as the Kings Hammer Turf Classic and Great Lakes Labor Day Challenge, fostering players who excel in state and regional showcases.

Leagues: NPL

Player Development Pathways in Mansfield

The youth soccer culture in Mansfield is driven by a mix of non-profit community associations and private academies. Many of the clubs listed here utilize local facilities, including municipal parks and school district stadiums.

How to Compare:

We recommend reviewing the 'Competitive Level' tag on each profile. Some clubs in Mansfield focus on recreational play and foundational skills, others are designated as 'High Level', or 'Local/State Level Competitive' requiring regional travel or to nearby cities for league matches, while 'Elite' teams often travel across states and nationally.

Browse Soccer Clubs Near Other Cities In Ohio

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Club Soccer?

Club Soccer, also commonly known as travel soccer, represents a higher level of competitive youth soccer compared to recreational leagues. In the club system, players typically attend tryouts to be selected for a team within a privately-owned soccer club. These clubs are focused on long-term player development and compete against other clubs in various leagues and tournaments. The environment is more structured, with professionally licensed coaches, more frequent practices, and a greater time and financial commitment. The goal is to develop players' technical skills, tactical understanding, and overall passion for the game at a more intensive level.

If you're interested in exploring this path for your child, a great first step is to see what options are available in your area. You can start by looking at our directory of youth soccer clubs. For a deeper dive into what this journey entails, check out our article on Understanding Youth Soccer Player Development.

What is the difference between travel, club, and rec soccer?

Club Soccer and Travel Soccer are generally synonymous terms for competitive soccer programs. They are a significant step up from recreational soccer in terms of commitment, competition, and cost.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

  • Competition Level: Club/Travel soccer is highly competitive, with teams formed through tryouts. Recreational (Rec) soccer is open to everyone regardless of skill level, focusing on fun and participation.
  • Coaching: Club teams are typically coached by licensed, professional coaches who are paid for their services. Rec teams are often coached by parent volunteers.
  • Commitment: Club players commit to a full soccer year (fall and spring seasons) and are expected to attend multiple practices per week (often 2-3 sessions of 90-120 minutes) and games on weekends. Rec soccer usually involves a shorter season, with maybe one practice and one game per week.
  • Travel: As the name implies, travel/club soccer involves traveling to play games against teams from other towns, cities, or even states, especially for tournaments and showcase events. Rec soccer games are almost always local.
  • Cost: The financial commitment for club soccer is significantly higher, covering professional coaching, league fees, tournament entries, and uniforms. You can learn more in our detailed guide on the Cost of Youth Soccer.
  • Player Development: The primary focus of club soccer is on developing individual skills and tactical knowledge to prepare players for higher levels of competition. Rec soccer focuses more on learning the basic rules, sportsmanship, and having fun.

For families looking for a fun, introductory experience, a recreational program like MLS Go can be a perfect start.

What are the different youth soccer leagues in the US?

The U.S. youth soccer landscape is comprised of numerous leagues, each offering different levels of competition, exposure to college scouts, and geographical reach. Understanding this structure can be complex, but it can generally be viewed as a pyramid.

Here are some of the most prominent national and regional leagues:

  • MLS NEXT: Considered the highest level of boys' youth soccer in North America, it's run by Major League Soccer and focuses on developing players for professional and national teams. Learn more about the new two-tiered system in our Guide to the New MLS Next Divisions.
  • ECNL (Elite Clubs National League): The ECNL is a premier national league for both boys and girls, known for its high level of competition and as a major platform for college recruitment. It includes both national and regional tiers (ECNL-RL).
  • Girls Academy (GA): A top-tier, girls-only league created by and for players, focusing on holistic player development and providing a direct pathway to college and national teams.
  • US Youth Soccer National League: One of the largest and most established leagues, offering a tiered structure with both team-based and club-based competition that provides a pathway to the annual USYS National Championships.
  • National Premier Leagues (NPL): A national competition platform by US Club Soccer that consists of various regional member leagues, culminating in a national championship event.

For a comprehensive overview of how these leagues compare, explore our Youth Soccer Leagues guide and our detailed analysis in the Boys Youth Soccer Pyramid Explained.

How do I choose the right club for my child?

Choosing the right soccer club is a crucial decision that can shape your child's athletic and personal development. It's about finding the best fit for their skills, goals, and personality, as well as what works for your family.

Here are key factors to consider:

  • Club Philosophy and Culture: Does the club prioritize winning at all costs, or is there a strong emphasis on player development, sportsmanship, and fun? Try to observe a practice or game to get a feel for the environment.
  • Coaching Quality: Look for experienced, licensed coaches who are good teachers and positive role models. A good coach knows how to motivate and develop young athletes while fostering a love for the game.
  • Player Development Pathway: Does the club have a clear plan for developing players from younger ages to older, more competitive levels? What opportunities do they provide for growth?
  • Level of Competition: Ensure the club competes at a level that will challenge your child without being overwhelming. This is where understanding the different youth soccer leagues is important.
  • Logistics and Cost: Consider the practice schedules, travel requirements, and overall financial commitment. Be sure to understand what is included in the club fees and what will be extra.

To begin your research, you can browse our directory of youth soccer clubs. For more tips on the evaluation process, read our guide on Understanding Youth Soccer Player Development.

What is the pathway to college soccer?

Navigating the college soccer recruiting process requires a proactive and organized approach from both the player and their family. The journey typically begins in the early high school years.

Here are the essential steps on the pathway to playing college soccer:

  1. Play at a High Level: Competing in nationally recognized leagues like ECNL, Girls Academy, or MLS NEXT is crucial for exposure, as college coaches heavily recruit from these platforms.
  2. Maintain Strong Academics: Good grades and standardized test scores are non-negotiable. Student-athletes must meet NCAA eligibility requirements to be considered.
  3. Create a Player Profile & Highlight Video: Compile a soccer resume that includes your academic achievements, athletic accomplishments, and contact information. A well-edited highlight video (3-5 minutes) is essential to showcase your skills to coaches.
  4. Attend ID Camps and Showcases: These events are specifically designed for prospective student-athletes to demonstrate their abilities in front of numerous college coaches.
  5. Proactive Communication: Don't wait to be discovered. Research schools that are a good fit both athletically and academically. Send introductory emails to coaches, including your player profile and highlight video, and follow up persistently.
  6. Guidance from Your Club: Your club coaches and directors can be valuable resources in connecting with college programs and offering advice.

For a complete breakdown of the timeline and strategy, be sure to read our Youth Soccer Guide to College Soccer Recruiting.