We Spent $7,615 on My Son’s Soccer in 2022

My son played on a U-14 MLS NEXT team in 2022 and loved it. He loved the coaching, teammates, soccer club, and competitive play.

But, for a 13-year-old kid, I thought we spent a crap ton of money. This is due largely because of the pay-to-play model in the U.S.

I’ve never been a huge fan of the model because it doesn’t provide equal opportunity to every child.

Many talented kids go under the radar for a while because his/her family may not have the financial means to place them in club soccer.

I’d rather see more kids get an equal chance. I really can’t provide a logical solution to combat this so I guess “it is what it is” at the moment.

To provide a little more transparency at the youth level, I’ve compiled my expenses for my son’s soccer in 2022.

In total, our family spent $7,615 last year. This includes club fees, uniforms, equipment, travel, camps, and extra training.  I break down all the costs below.

As a side note – Soccer clubs vary in costs by age, region, and league. On average, a parent could pay between $1,500 and $5,000 for their child to play soccer in the U.S. 

How Much Does it Cost to Play U-14 Club Soccer?

As I mentioned, my son plays for a U-14 MLS NEXT team in New England.

This is his seventh year in the program and second year in MLS NEXT. Each year the expenses increase and seem to outpace inflation but it’s the nature of “the beast”.

In total, we spent $7,615. This excludes any food or drinks when we are traveling. Also, we did miss the MLS NEXT Fest in Texas so that would’ve added another $3,000.

As you can see the cost of playing soccer in the U.S. is very high. Depending on what tournaments and additional training you explore, costs could go as high as $10,000.

Is There a Plan to Reduce Soccer Costs in the U.S.?

Although I wish there were an alternative to keep costs lower in the U.S., I don’t think it will happen anytime soon (or at all).

Youth soccer organizations have bills to pay including coaching, staff, facility fees, insurance, and other operating costs. Most are run as a for-profit entity.

Some soccer clubs offer free programs but their costs are offset by either their associated MLS teams or other programs within the organization.

Related: Are MLS Academies Free?

Many clubs do offer scholarships and financial aid to help families out. You’ll have to check in with your club’s director to see what options there are.

What Are My Thoughts?

Soccer in the U.S. is expensive compared to other sports and countries. In other countries, the entry fee to play is minimal and is based more on a player’s talent.

Do I wish the game was less expensive? Of course! I could use that money for something else 😉

But, I’ve accepted reality and have invested in the happiness of my son. He loves playing soccer at a competitive level. I continue to gauge my son’s interest in the game and so far the spark is still lit very bright.

Do I look at this as an investment hoping that my son gets a college scholarship or makes it professionally? That would be nice but I’m not banking on it. I’m more invested in the process and his love for the sport.

“Why doesn’t your son just play town soccer?” Honestly, he wouldn’t have the same drive to get better and would get easily frustrated.

Additionally, I think the challenging path he is on will help teach him some valuable life lessons.

Playing at a competitive-level has created a lot of good conversations between us. I’m helping him navigate through the “challenging times” when he’s tested. And, celebrating his accomplishments along the way.

My best advice to parents is to focus on the child and understand what he or she wants. If they are talented and want to play competitively then club soccer could be an option. If they kind-of-like-it then town travel could be a better choice.

Whatever your decision might be, exhaust all options and ensure that your family isn’t overextending yourselves just to pay-to-play.

If you have any questions that I didn’t address, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]. I’d be happy to help navigate this messy sport.