Youth sports are the backbone of Northwest Indiana (NWI). Whether it’s televised basketball tournaments showcasing the talent in the Region or national baseball series, NWI has a highly active and competitive sports scene that encourages youth to perform their best. One area that hasn’t seen enough attention, however, is the world’s most popular sport: soccer. That’s where NWI Eagles Football Club (F.C.) is hoping to make the biggest impact as it holds its first tryout at the end of April.
Eagles F.C. is a new, competitive soccer club recruiting in the Region that offers more than just an opportunity to play soccer. At Eagles F.C., players are receiving an education they can carry into their high school, collegiate, and even professional careers.
“Our number one principle is education,” said the club manager. “I want to give you solid information. Most clubs are recreational entertainment; we’re a little bit different. We expect certain things – specific techniques – and you have to do them to become a better player. If you come to us, you’ll play, but you’ll also train.”
One way Eagles F.C. helps its players develop by keeping a small team. With a projected team of 16 players, the size means every player gets a more personalized training plan that lets them maximize their growth.
“We keep it small so everyone has the opportunity to play,” said the club manager. “If we have 25 players, there’s not going to be enough time at the end of the year for everyone.”
For this first season, Eagles F.C. is hoping to begin with its 13 to 14-year-old boys team. This gives the club the most amount of time with the players and helps ensure Eagles F.C. can continue to help them grow when they hit the high school level.
Tryouts begin on April 23 at Christ Presbyterian Church of Winfield. Those interested in being on the team should bring a white, non-affiliated shirt, shin guards, shorts, cleats, a bottle of water, and their own soccer ball. Additionally, they should come ready to learn and work.
“The best quality is to have an open mind,” the club manager said. “I have been a coach my whole life, and I have seen players who think they already know everything. They don’t grow as much. You need to have an open mind to absorb and learn and apply the lessons we teach.”
If your child is interested in trying out for the Eagles F.C., detailed tryout information can be found on the club’s website, including the list of equipment needed as well as pre-registration forms. Once players fill out the pre-registration form, tryout application, and waiver of liability, they will receive an email with more information regarding next steps to joining the club.
The Eagles F.C. is a club dedicated to creating competitive, knowledgeable players who can carry the skills and lessons they learn for the rest of their lives. Above all else, players who make a commitment to the club will see the club make a similar commitment to them.
For parents or players with questions, please contact club managers at info@nwieaglesfc.com or by phone at 219-334-8893.
“We're not there just to take your money,” said the club manager. “We want our players to learn, and we want their families to have a return on the investment.”
To learn more about NWI Eagles Football Club, visit nwieaglesfc.com.