Frequently Asked Questions
Q - What is the difference between Recreational, Select and XL Soccer?
A - There are a few differences between the programs. As a player moves through the different options, the level of competition, the time commitment, and the associated costs increase. Recreational soccer is community based, no tryouts, and has about a three month commitment. While also community based, Select soccer has tryouts, plays more competitive games, has an eight to nine month season, and may travel (once or twice) outside the Puget Sound area. Select soccer is a good fit for the athlete who wants to play soccer at a higher level and still participate in other sports. XL is the highest level of competition in youth soccer offered by MIFC (in conjunction with our sister club, Belleuve United), and draws players from both Mercer Island and Belleuve. XL soccer is year round, requires a greater time commitment (players are expected to prioritize soccer over other sports), and sometimes includes out-of-state travel.
Q - The US Soccer Federation (USSF) changes to "birth year" team formation have me confused. I understand that we are doing away with the name, for example "U8 or U11" and just calling teams by their birth year, i.e. " '06 or '12". Can someone please confirm this? I am used to identifying my child's team by U8 or U11, not by their actual birth year.
A - The USSF Age Chart still uses the "U" designation, so it is not going anywhere. However, in general, teams will not have "U" designations for regular tracking and reporting. Rather, they will be referred to by birth year, e.g. instead of GU15 MIFC Valkyries, it would be the G08 MIFC Valkyries. For tournaments and league play, the "U" designation will still identify the age at which the team is playing and what set of rules will apply.
Q - Who is our parent soccer organization?
A - Eastside Youth Soccer Association is MIFC's parent organization. EYSA has links to other Eastside soccer clubs, including EFC, our local Premier Club. Also has field locations, clinic information, and team standings.