Does he or she love soccer? Competitive soccer requires commitment and a love of playing outdoors. While recreational soccer is played in the fall and spring, competitive soccer is a nearly year-round affair. It means occasionally playing in extreme weather.

Competitive soccer players train at least twice a week for most of the year. Plus they play one or two games most weekends during spring and fall and in summer tournaments. And while recreational players can show up for their games minutes before start time, competitive players show up at least 45 minutes early to warm up.

Parents of competitive players can expect to even spend more time on the road, traveling to games outside of their community. Away games during league mostly take place between Eugene and Portland, but occasionally competitive teams travel to southern Washington, Bend, or Medford.

Competitive soccer is pricier than recreational soccer. Recreational soccer, which depends largely on volunteers, costs about $120 to $150 per season. Competitive soccer for older players costs around $100 per month, not including travel expenses, additional summer tournaments, and jersey costs.

Note: scholarships of up to 75% are available for both competitive and recreational players who qualify.

Ask your volunteer coach, Coerver Academy coach, or come into the office for us to give a recommendation.