ST PETE RAIDERS COMPETITIVE PROGRAM
Program Information
Welcome to St Pete Raiders Soccer Club and thank you for your interest in our Competitive program. Established in 1970 as “Northeast Raiders,” we have a long, celebrated history. Our local club currently consists of 20+ teams in St. Pete and an additional 20+ teams in Tampa all of which are competing within the U8 through U19 girls and boys age divisions. Our teams compete in the United Soccer Association (USA) the Florida Club League (FCL) and the Florida State Premier League (FSPL).
Our competitive program is centrally managed to ensure professionalism and accountability from our coaches and to provide the best all-around soccer experience for our players. Our CEO and Director of Coaching, Tony Paris, has led our club for more than 20 years and holds the distinguished “UEFA A” license, said to be the highest credential in the world.
All our teams are coached by coaches that are either USSF, NSCAA-licensed or who have collegiate, and in many cases, professional soccer playing and coaching experience. To ensure that our players receive a consistently high level of training, we encourage all our coaches to continue their coaching education so that they stay current with new techniques and developments. Coaches are evaluated at least annually based on FYSA/USYSA/US Club standards for youth play.
Starting at the U8 age level, our program's primary focus is on player development cultivated in a competitive, team-oriented, fun environment. Players are taught technical proficiency at the younger ages so they will be able to thrive in the sport as they move through the competitive levels. As our players grow and mature, their technical skills continue to be refined; however, the training concentration gradually shifts to the more tactical aspects of the game. At all levels, we also strive to achieve an atmosphere that promotes and nurtures leadership skills, sportsmanship, teamwork and a general love for the “beautiful game.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why enroll your child in the Little Raiders program?
The Little Raiders program will provide fun physical activities for your child in a safe, structured setting, and will focus on helping each child develop his or her social, mental and physical motor skills. All activities will be delivered in a fun environment, ensuring they develop a love for the game.
What’s the minimum and maximum age to join the program?
The program is targeted at 2.5 - 4.5 years old, girls and boys.
How are the children grouped?
Groups will be organized according to age – within each age group, Coaches may also decide to divide groups as appropriate for specific activities.
How long are the sessions?
Younger groups could go for 30-40 mins and older groups could go for 40-50 mins
What time of the year is the soccer program offered, and where?
The program will run during the Fall, Winter and Spring seasons.
The program will run for 7 weeks and will meet once a week.
The Little Raiders program will be held at Puryear Park and other locations.
Can this program be extended to my neighborhood or school?
Yes, all you need is a minimum of 6 children, a location and the club will handle the rest. Please reach out to our office and we will bring our program to your neighborhood or location.
Who will be coaching these programs?
Our coaches are USSF (United States Soccer Federation) licensed, and the Club ensures that thorough background checks are performed on all coaches
What Equipment does my child need?
Players should wear whatever shoes they want so they are comfortable. Players need to wear weather- appropriate clothing.
Families should also provide their own water.
For children who might need a change of clothes for unexpected accidents, please send along with your child.
Can parents volunteer and what should they do?
Parents are always welcome to volunteer, particularly as team managers and snack coordinators. Team managers are a great support to coaches and play a key role in communicating with other parents, including team information and scheduling questions. While there may be some opportunities for assistant coaches, it is always important that coaches be left to handle training and coaching.
*A parent or caretaker MUST be present at all times for each child during the sessions.*