The push for better training in youth sports often comes with a hefty price tag and a shortage of fun. However, as the Royal Palm Beach Strikers show, youth soccer can be affordable and enjoyable without sacrificing quality. Embracing the needs of the families it serves, the club has been able to keep costs low thanks to committed volunteers and strong sponsor support.
This season, the Royal Palm Beach Strikers have added three additional competitive teams to the youth soccer club, bringing the total to seven. The U-12 boys competitive team, led by Club President Mal Hasan, is currently ranked No. 5 in the state. That team has won five tournaments so far this season.
But more than trophies and standings, Hasan said the best thing the club does is provide a program where everyone feels at home. “We have three levels depending on how into soccer a kid is,” Hasan said. “We offer competitive and recreational soccer divisions. Our better recreational players are invited to participate in our all-star division. We really try to provide something for kids of all ability levels who love soccer.”
The Strikers’ focus on making soccer a game for all youth has earned parents’ appreciation. Rick and Vicki Dempsey have two sons who play soccer with the club. As they see it, the club scores big on putting children’s best interests first.
“The Royal Palm Beach Strikers soccer league provides a fun and family enriched environment for kids to learn soccer,” the Dempseys said. “We have personally enjoyed being a part of the Strikers family.”
The goodwill the Strikers have built up with parents has helped the club tap volunteer energy to fill coaching and board positions. “It’s a great place to be,” Strikers All-Star Coordinator Ali Munley said. “Being a part of what we do here is incredible.”
Registration for the club’s recreational spring season will be open throughout January. To register, visit www.royalpalmbeachstrikers.com. For more information, call (561) 324-0708.
