Lions Academy

Ages 6-8 (Pre-Select), Ages 9+ (Academy Plus)
Development-focused recreational soccer.

Lions Academy is our developmental recreational program designed for players who want to grow their skills, deepen their understanding of the game, and continue developing in a structured team environment—while still maintaining a healthy balance of fun and competition.

This program focuses heavily on technical development, soccer IQ, teamwork, and character. Players will receive intentional coaching in core areas such as ball mastery, passing, movement, defending, positioning, and decision-making, while also learning important life values like discipline, resilience, integrity, and sportsmanship.

All Academy teams are led by parent volunteer coaches who are supported every step of the way. Coaches are provided with structured practice plans, drills, equipment, and guidance to confidently run sessions—even if they have little or no coaching experience. While led by parent volunteers, because all Idaho Lions FC practices are held at the same location, on the same days, licensed coaches are always available to oversee and help when needed.

Lions Academy is ideal for players who love the game and want strong coaching and meaningful development without the full commitment level of competitive tournament soccer.

What Families Can Expect

  • Twice per week practice for 1 hour each.

  • 3v3 or 4v4 games as part of practices.

  • Structured practices focused on player growth and confidence

  • Parent volunteer coaches who are supported every step of the way.

  • A balanced recreational environment with healthy competition

  • Training centered around technical skills and game understanding

  • Team-first culture rooted in encouragement, effort, and character

  • Opportunities for players to continue progressing within the club pathway

Program Focus

  • Technical skill development

  • Soccer IQ and decision-making

  • Confidence and teamwork

  • Character development on and off the field

Seasonal Structure

  • Fall Season: August-October/November. Outdoor season with league play or friendlies, and potential invite only tournaments

  • Spring Season: March-May/June. Outdoor season with league play or friendlies, potential invite only tournaments and continued player development

  • Summer Open Play (Optional): Additional training and open play opportunities available for all ages and programs, from Lion Cubs through Lions Select

For Players Ages 9+

In age groups where numbers do not allow for separate Lions Academy and Lions Select teams, Academy players may train alongside Lions Select players to increase developmental opportunities and exposure to a higher level of play. While they participate fully in Lions Select training sessions, they do not compete in league-sanctioned competitive matches or tournaments. Instead, players have opportunities to participate in club-organized scrimmages, friendlies, and developmental game experiences throughout the season.

In these situations:

  • Practices may be combined

  • Academy players will continue participating in recreational league play

  • Tournament participation will remain invite-only for Academy players

This structure allows developing players to benefit from a competitive training environment while progressing at the right pace for their individual growth.

investment

  • U6-U8: $195 per season, fall and spring -OR- $360 for fall and spring paid in full before the fall season starts (expected dates will be communicated).

  • U9+: $285 per season, fall and spring -OR- $540 for fall and spring paid in full before the fall season starts (expected dates will be communicated).

  • Uniform not included. Cost is around $110. Uniforms will not change season on season and this will be good as long as your child is an Idaho Lion and it still fits them, across all programs.

  • Volunteer Coaching: Volunteer Head Coaches will receive 100% off one Lions Academy player tuition. Volunteer Assistant Coaches will receive 50% off one Lions Academy player tuition.

participation information

  • Uniform, shin guards and cleats all required for participation. Required uniform information will be provided upon registration.

Interested in this program? Sign up here and we will reach out with more information soon.