Frequently Asked Questions

What is Club Travel Soccer?

Club Travel soccer with Alden Soccer Club is competitive soccer played against teams from other towns and communities as part of the Buffalo & Western NY Junior Soccer League (BWNYJSL).

This program is designed for players and families who are ready for a higher level of commitment in practice, games, and personal development. Players who demonstrate ability, interest, and a desire to be challenged beyond recreational soccer will thrive in Club Travel.

If your child is ready to improve their skills and compete at a higher level, Club Travel is the next step.

What levels of soccer exist?

There are three main levels of play:

Recreational (House): Focused on fun, learning, and community participation.
Club Travel: Competitive games against other towns, requiring moderate commitment and cost.

Alden Soccer Club encourages families to choose the level that best fits their child’s skills, interests, and commitment. Most younger players benefit from playing with friends and teammates in their community.

ASC strives to create as many Travel teams as possible at younger ages to give players the opportunity to experience competitive soccer.

How far will teams travel?

As a BWNYJSL member, ASC teams play games throughout Buffalo and Western NY, reaching as far north as Wilson and Youngstown and as far south as Holland and Arcade.

Tournament participation is determined by the coach. While some tournaments may take place anywhere in the US or Canada, most ASC teams focus on local WNY tournaments.

How often do Club Travel teams play and practice?

During the April–August season, teams generally have:

One game per week
One or two practices per week

Winter indoor practices (December–May) take place at local school gyms or private indoor facilities, with optional fall outdoor practices if weather permits.

Player development is a top priority, and ASC strives to give players plenty of opportunities to improve their skills. Some teams may also participate in local indoor winter leagues at an additional cost.

What if my child plays another sport?

Most ASC Travel coaches encourage participation in multiple sports, especially for players under 13–14. While Travel soccer requires commitment, many players successfully balance other activities.

Coaches provide season expectations at tryouts and will try to accommodate conflicts. Players are expected to attend at least 75% of practices and games, though older age groups may have adjusted expectations based on school, jobs, or other activities.

When are Club Travel tryouts held?

Tryouts usually take place in early August. The BWNYJSL requires team registration, fees, and bonds to be completed before the season opener in May.

Tryouts are scheduled to ensure:

Players are in shape from the previous season
Teams are evaluated fairly
Rosters are created to field competitive and viable teams

Why are there tryouts? Aren’t teams already formed?

All players are reevaluated each year.

The Director of Travel oversees tryouts, with coaches and evaluators assessing each player.
Rosters are then reviewed by the Travel Coordinator and designated committee to ensure fair placement and competitive balance.

How much playing time can my child expect?

U10, U11, U12: Every player is guaranteed at least half of each regular league game, unless absent or injured.
U13 and older: Playing time is at the coach’s discretion, but following the same philosophy is recommended.
This assumes the player regularly attends practices, games, and demonstrates a positive attitude. Tournament playing time may vary by age.

Can my child play with friends?

Alden Soccer Club does not accept placement requests. Players are placed on teams based on skill, ability, and tryout performance.

Can my child play both ASC and Premier programs?

BWNYJSL allows dual-carded Premier players. However, if a neighboring town offers a Premier program (e.g., Lancaster FC, Clarence), the player cannot play for both teams.

Are ASC coaches trained?

Yes!

All Travel head coaches must complete the US Soccer Youth Module within a year of appointment.
Coaches are encouraged to pursue E-Level licenses and may continue advanced training, subsidized by ASC.
Ongoing coach training ensures sessions are effective, safe, and skill-building.

What are the estimated Club Travel costs?

Typical yearly costs per player (December–August) are around $375, which includes:

ASC registration & insurance
Uniforms
Approximately 23–26 weeks of Winter training
Alden Soccer Tournament (last week of June)

Additional costs may include:

Optional tournaments
Team apparel and bags
Indoor league play