Anonymous wrote:Best program? I assume ASA is the better program, but between Lee- Mount Vernon, and Gunston. Which is better?

It depends on the kids and the amount of commuting time. What is your matrix for best program- wins, ECNL, development, technical, social dynamics, coaching, etc? You could have a very technical player and think she/he should be on a top team in the top league. That top club team could play a typical physical, kick it long style and have problems connecting 2-3 passes. Your kid would be miserable there. The reverse is true also.

You should look for the best fit for your kid’s style of play.

LMVSC Parent here 3 years. We have had some Gunston families leave and come to LMVSC in the U9-U11 range. But both Gunston and LMVSC lose families at U12/U13 (especially the more talented players) to bigger clubs like ASA, SYC and a few other close by clubs who field top teams to compete in ENCL or higher leagues. The atmosphere is very good at LMVSC currently and most practices are at Franconia Park, Edison or Hayfield High Schools.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP here- 13 yo girl

Gunston was strong in that age group, but they merged two teams into one. The top team was very good, the second team was very bad

Still strong at 2010G... the second travel team was replaced by an SFL team that was winning all their games while playing up. That team jumped over to NCSL and will play Div 2 for the Fall.

Gunston parent, here. Are you talking 2010G travel? Looking at Spring results, Gunston's top travel team in that age group beat LMVSC's both times they played.

If you're comparing clubs, I'd suggest you compare who's running the clubs these days. Gunston had a change of leadership in the past couple of years, bringing in the former DC United Academy director, who also lives in the community. He's made tremendous strides towards raising the standards w/rt running the club. New coaches, increased programming (including on FCPS student holidays) and better collaboration between the rec, academy and travel programs. Gunston's past is no way indicative of its present or future.

My question back to the OP is, what are your and your daughter's goals? Play with classmates and friends? If so, the answer might simply depend on which middle school they attend. Play in HS? That answer could depend on if your child is mapped to West Potomac (LMVSC's Exec Dir) or Hayfield (Gunston's Rec Dir). Other goals?

I would talk to both club's Exec/Tech Dirs as well as the potential coaches for your daughter before making a decision...

Anonymous wrote:OP here- 13 yo girl

Gunston was strong in that age group, but they merged two teams into one. The top team was very good, the second team was very bad

In which league does Alexandria's top teams play for U11-U12?

OP here- 13 yo girl

Anonymous wrote:Thank you. I assumed from a recent conversation that many kids move to ASA.

My question was btwn LMtV and Gunston, was there a better club. Interesting to hear ASA is struggling.

No. Both lower tier. No internal insight just based on top teams there playing bottom teams elsewhere. ASA is struggling girls but still see them considerably better. Just depends how you define better and what you’re looking for.

Need to know the age here. It will make a huge difference m…

For older ages, Gunston is bleak.

Thank you. I assumed from a recent conversation that many kids move to ASA.

My question was btwn LMtV and Gunston, was there a better club. Interesting to hear ASA is struggling.

Girls? Depending on the age I would publicly lee mount venom. Alexandria had a rough year last year and there have been changes but it is going to take at least another year to recover from the Metro merger mess

My kids started out at Gunston - it gave them a great soccer base. They did rec then travel, while playing with a lot of neighborhood friends. They moved to ASA when they were ready for an extra day of practice and a step up in terms of competition.
They had positive experiences with coaching at both clubs.

What’s your question? Is it: should we choose LMVSC or Gunston?

I assume from your wording- Alexandria is out?

Best program? I assume ASA is the better program, but between Lee- Mount Vernon, and Gunston. Which is better?