What is Select Soccer?
In simple terms, “Select” soccer means that players are chosen (selected) for positions on teams using a means of assessment, such as a tryout. Positions on teams are secured based on performance. This differs from recreational soccer where players may be placed on teams simply by signing up.
In South Carolina, Select teams begin at the age of U13 as recommended by United States Youth Soccer. States vary as to the number of levels within Select soccer they are able to offer and support with some states having as many as 4 or 5 competitive levels within Select. South Carolina supports three levels: National League South Carolina (highest level), Presidents Medal Soccer League (second highest level), and Open League (Third Level). All three leagues are statewide leagues.
Beyond the National League South Carolina level of play is the Piedmont Conference Premier League. This is a regional league played in NC, SC, and Georgia. First and second place finishers of the SC Challenge Cup are invited to participate in this region (not statewide) league, competing against other top teams from surrounding states, providing them with a level of competition unavailable within the state of South Carolina.
Is Select Soccer for You?
Select soccer is for serious soccer players who want professional instruction and who desire a more competitive environment with other players who share the same goals. Most Select soccer players tend to be those that want to play for their high school and even possibly in college. Players should not try out for a competitive team simply because some of their friends are. They should tryout because they really love to play soccer, want to learn to play at a more advanced level, and are willing to commit the time and effort required to become the best soccer player possible.
Can a player join a Select team if he or she has never been a part of any ESC Program?
Yes, players can be tryout for a team in their respective age groups during Select Tryouts in May. Prior participation with ESC is not required.
Who coaches Select teams?
ESC select coaches are chosen each year by ESC Director of Coaching in the spring. These coaches are dedicated and enthusiastic about teaching individual skills, group tactics and teamwork. It is required that they hold minimum State Coaching Licenses and have experienced a higher level of training at the club or collegiate level themselves.
Where do the Select Teams train?
Select teams train at the JB "Red" Owen soccer fields and Pope Field.
How many times a week do Select teams train?
Select teams train two or three times a week for 1 and 1/2 hours. Goal keepers are required to attend goal keeper training weekly. Participation in Technical training and Speed & Agility Sessions is highly recommended. Scrimmages, practice games, and tournaments are an integral part of the commitment. Scrimmages or practice games may be scheduled during the week in addition to regular training or on the weekends.
Where do the Select teams play games?
Select teams play in a state competitive league run by SCYSA against other club's teams from the SC. The Select teams will travel at minimum to one tournament per season. These tournament will be in the Southeast region. Select teams may also qualify for the Presidents State Cup or the State Challenge Cup tournaments and play for a state championship. Click here to see some of our past tournaments: Trophy Room and State Championship Cups
When are the Select Games/What's the Select Games Schedule?
Select teams play in a SCYSA state league with the other clubs in the state. These games are scheduled by the coaches of the teams at a state meeting before the season. The games can be Saturday, Sunday, Friday night, or a Wednesday, but typically coaches try to schedule Saturday or Sunday afternoon games. The schedule is basically based on each coaches schedule, field availability, and referee availibility. The games are played at different fields in the upstate and sometimes Columbia if we play a team from there or from the low country. Generally the state divides teams in age group into East and West divisions with 10-12 teams in each division.
How long is the Select soccer season?
The fall Select season goes from mid-August to late November with a possible State Cup tournament (Fall for U15-U19) and the spring Select season goes from late January to late April with a possible State Cup tournament (Spring for U13-U14). Each fall and spring there will be a minimum of one team tournament.
Are Summer camps mandatory?
ESC encourages all players to participate in the Summer camps. The camps provide players with an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season and for players to get to know new players on their team and their coaches.
Is financial assistance available?
Yes, financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Please contact Jeff Young at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to start the process.