Three Programs — Find the Right Fit
Spring is one of our most popular seasons! Whether your child is playing for the first time or looking for a more competitive challenge, Elite Soccer League has a program for every player. Our small-sided formats follow US Soccer player development standards. Open registration — no tryouts required.
Mini Kickers
U4–U5 • Born 2020 & 2021
3v3 • Pre-game drills • Saturday games
$115 super early bird
Rec
U6–U8 • Born 2017–2019
6v6 / 7v7 • Weekly practice • Saturday games
$145 super early bird
Rec Plus
U9–U13 • Born 2013–2016
7v7 / 9v9 • 2x weekly training • Saturday games
$165 super early bird
| Program | Ages | Format | Training |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Kickers | U4–U5 (Born 2020-2021) | 3v3, no goalkeeper | 20 min pre-game drills |
| Rec | U6–U8 (Born 2017-2019) | 6v6 (U6) / 7v7 (U7-U8) | Weekly practice (U7+) |
| Rec Plus | U9–U13 (Born 2013-2016) | 7v7 (U9-U10) / 9v9 (U11-U13) | 2x weekly training |
Why Families Choose ESL for Spring
- Pick your own team — request coaches and teammates with no restrictions. Teams stay together season to season.
- Local games — teams formed by city with games on local fields across South Orange County, including Mission Viejo and Laguna Niguel parks.
- Open to everyone — no tryouts, no prior experience needed. All skill levels welcome.
- Professional coaching — trained coaches focused on skill development, teamwork, and building a love for the game.
- Saturday games — 10 game days from March 13 through May 22, with no games April 3 for spring break. Keeps weekdays free.
- Pathway to more — players can advance to Signature and Club (CFA) programs when ready.
What Families Are Saying
“100% my kids love Elite Soccer. We have always had a great experience. Whether you’re looking to just play and get them outdoors or for it to be a more serious game — they have it all. Thank you, ESL, for all you do.”
“We love ESL! We started at AYSO, but ESL is definitely a more competitive/skilled league if you are looking to have your children’s soccer abilities grow. All 3 of my kids have been in Elite. Highly recommend!”
Ready for More?
For skilled players looking to go beyond recreational soccer, ESL also offers Signature and Club (CFA) programs with year-round competitive play. Learn more about all spring programs.
FAQs
- When does the spring season run?
- Saturday games from March 13 through May 22, 2027: 10 game days, with no games April 3 for spring break.
- What does it cost?
- Mini Kickers $115, Rec $145, Rec Plus $165 through January 11. Pricing goes up twice after Super Early Bird ends. A $20 late fee applies after March 6. Adidas uniform kit (~$75) required.
- What ages can play?
- Mini Kickers (U4-U5), Rec (U6-U8), Rec Plus (U9-U13). Age groups follow Cal South birth-year guidelines. Players looking for competitive play should explore our Club (CFA) program.
- Are tryouts required?
- No! Spring recreational programs are open registration. Anyone who wants to play is welcome.
- Can my child play with friends?
- Yes — players and coaches can pick their own teams without restriction. Just note your teammate requests during registration.
- Where are games played?
- Teams are formed by city with games on local fields across South Orange County. See all field locations here.
- How do I register?
- Register here. Contact spring@elitesoccerleague.com or call 949-468-0086 with questions.
Play Year-Round with ESL
Spring soccer is just one season. Elite Soccer League keeps your child on the field all year long.
Summer Soccer Camps
Week-long day camps for ages 4–15 with professional coaching at South Orange County parks.
Fall Recreational Soccer
Beginner-friendly recreational soccer for ages 3–14 with Saturday games September through November.
Winter 5v5 Soccer
Stay active all winter with fun small-sided 5v5 games for ages 3–13 on Saturdays January through February.
Club Soccer (CFA)
Year-round competitive club soccer for ages 8–19 competing in GA Aspire, EA2, and NPL leagues.