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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]My kid can run and sort of kick a ball, but can’t do both. A lot of kids seem to have started at 3 and I see 6 year olds in “elite” travel teams that require tryouts and training. At what age would my kid feel too behind to be joining as a novice? I’m assuming by age 10-11, kids have at least casually played their chosen sport on rec or sports class if they are looking to join league play right?[/quote]

Hello soccer parent, thanks for posting the question!  You should expect multiple answers... all depending on what you might want for your child in the short, medium and or long-term(s), respectfully; and the realistic outcome based on when they start and where they would likely end-up.

Kids with no team experience should start out in rec soccer at any age.  But by middle school (an without any rec soccer experience), these kids know they would not be able to make their middle-school team and unless they are playing rec with a good friend, their soccer days would most likely be numbered.   But thats ok.

I have a 10 year old neighbor who is athletic and just started rec soccer.  He enjoys it and will do a few skills clinics and sign up for rec soccer again.  -He could easily go on to make the entry "level travel" (aka bottom) travel team in most clubs next year.  Its possible, he would probably not not make the top team until he did 3 years of level at this point.  Even at the top-team, he wouldn't be considered in the elite category yet.

My daughter is also 10, she started playing at age 4, and is now starting her 4th year of travel at the pre-ecnl level... its the clubs top team, it is still not at an elite level.  But she would probably go on to make the middle-school and high school teams.  If she continues on, playing 10 months of the year at the top level, she could become elite and be a prospect for college. maybe even a D1 school.

But to circle back, if your kid loves it, go ahead and sign them up for rec at least.  Then if they really love it, and you can stand to dedicate a lot more time and money, let them go to travel tryouts next spring.  I have seen a few kids come out to travel in middle school and get hit hard by a reality check that every one else is very good.  Some stay because they have friends and don't mind being at the bottom of the pack and some leave after 1/2  a year.  --if you keep it fun and go at your kid's desired pace, its not to late to join.  But if your expecting them too then play in middle school/ high school and or college... she ship is uniting the ropes and setting sail by about 10 or 11 for a lot of kids.  :|

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