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Finding Your Fit.
Connecting ambition with opportunity.
The college recruiting process can be complex and looks different for every player. Our goal is to provide clear, trustworthy guidance, practical support, and useful tools so players and families can make confident, informed decisions at every stage—and ultimately find the college program that’s the right fit academically, socially, and athletically.
The Eastside FC Coaching Staff
It's more than just performance on the pitch.
We think about college recruiting in four phases:
Plan
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Research schools and programs
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Understand eligibility requirements
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Set academic and athletic goals
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Build a highlight reel/profile
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Create a recruiting timeline and align with your family
Perform
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Train year-round for improvement
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Compete at your highest level, in training and in matches
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Track stats and achievements
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Take leadership roles
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Stay healthy and consistent
Promote
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Maintain an online profile
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Email coaches with updates
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Attend showcases and ID camps
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Create and share your highlight video
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Network through the coaches you know
Commit
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Visit campuses
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Compare offers and opportunities
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Sign the necessary paperwork
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Communicate your decision
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Transition to your new program
The process starts early.
9th Grade
Development & Visibility
Focus on academic success, develop strong training habits, and begin understanding the college recruiting process. Create highlight clips, start using a recruiting platform. Attend ID camps for experience and exposure. Build your online profile and get comfortable communicating with coaches, even though they can’t officially respond yet.
10th Grade
Exposure and Initial Connections
Maintain strong grades, update your highlight videos, and expand your college list. Begin reaching out to coaches with personalized emails. Attend showcases and ID camps where target schools will be. Track who’s viewing your profile and begin narrowing your focus based on program fit, competition level, and academics.
June 15th
Recruiting window opens. Coaches may contact you.
11th Grade
Active Recruiting
This is the most critical recruiting year. Reach out consistently to coaches, schedule campus visits, and attend high-priority showcases. Keep your video content fresh and targeted. Respond quickly to interest, ask smart questions, and take ownership of the process. Stay organized with deadlines, eligibility, and communications.
12th Grade
Commit & Finalize Plan
Finalize your college list, commit if the right opportunity arises, or keep pushing. Communicate clearly with coaches about timelines and offers. Keep grades up and stay in shape. If not yet committed, cast a wider net. Celebrate the journey but remain focused until your spot is secured.
Perseverance Is Key
"Perseverance is what separates those who get recruited from those who fade away. This process takes time, patience, and consistent effort. There will be setbacks, unanswered emails, and tough games, but staying committed and pushing forward is key. Coaches absolutely notice players who refuse to quit on their goals."
Viet Nguyen
College Recruiting Coordinator
Everyone plays a part.
Clearly defined roles and responsibilities are essential for success. The player, parent, and club each play a unique part, and being aligned ensures nothing falls through the cracks. While parents and Eastside FC provide guidance, support, and resources, the player must take ownership and drive the process—initiating communication, meeting deadlines, and showcasing their abilities.
When the player leads the effort, they not only develop valuable life skills and maturity, but also ensure they find the right fit for their own goals, while demonstrating initiative that college coaches respect and value.
Player
Owns the process—researching schools, contacting coaches, preparing videos, attending events, and staying committed academically and athletically throughout the journey.
Parents
Supports behind the scenes—encouraging, organizing, asking questions, and helping manage stress—while letting the player take the lead throughout.
Eastside FC
Provides guidance, support, and honest feedback; facilitates exposure; advocates for players; helps families navigate the process but does not lead it.
The Right Fit is Essential.
"Every player at Eastside FC who wants to play college soccer can—there’s a place for everyone. But it has to be the right place. It’s not just about getting a commitment and checking a box; it’s about finding a school that fits the player academically, athletically, and culturally. When the fit is wrong, kids transfer or stop playing altogether. That’s why we emphasize that the player, not the parent or the club, should drive the process. Our role is to support, guide, and connect—not to push players toward any school just to say we did it. We care deeply about helping our players find a home where they can thrive, regardless of soccer.”
Tom Bialek
Director of Soccer
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Where can I see the schedule, scores and standings?Scores, schedules and standings will be ALL ONLINE and will be updated continuously throughout each day.
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When are the championship games?The championship games will be played on Monday, August 25th.
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What is the check-in process?Check-In is ALL online. Each team must upload a signed, official roster NO LATER than 8:00AM on August 21st, 2025, or you will forfeit your first match We DO NOT need waivers for each player uploaded to TGS - please have them on hand at the tournament Please have your player cards on hand at the tournament as well Teams from out-of-state will need to have their players fill out and sign the Washington Concussion Compliance Form These forms can be sent, as an entire team, via email to tournaments@eastsidefc.org or turned into Andrew Dortch, Eastside FC Tournament Director, on the first day of the tournament
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Where can I find the tournament rules?Tournament rules
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Locations, parking and moreThe vast majority of games will be at Starfire Sports Complex - with some games on Friday at Valley Ridge, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at Preston Park, and Sunday at North SeaTac Park. Starfire Sports Complex 14800 Starfire Way, Tukwila, WA 98188 Parking day pass: $7 Parking weekend pass: $21 Starfire Sports Complex, NOT Eastside FC, manages and charges for parking Shelters will be provided on all fields Benches will be provided for turf fields Athletic Trainer is onsite between fields 2 and 3 Field Map Preston Park (Some Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Games) 30634 SE 87th PL, Preston WA 98027 Parking: Free Shelters and benches will be provided on Field 1 and 2 Mod Fields do not have benches or shelters No athletic trainer will be on site Valley Ridge (Some Friday Games) 4644 S 188th ST, SeaTac, WA 98188 Parking: Free PARKING can be found at the complex and OVERFLOW PARKING is available Shelters and benches will NOT be provided No athletic trainer will be on site North SeaTac Park (Some Sunday Games) S.128th & 20th AVE, SeaTac, WA 98168 Parking: Free
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How important are grades in the college recruiting process?Very important. Even if you’re talented, coaches need players who qualify academically for their school. Strong grades and test scores make you a safer recruit and can also help with academic scholarships.
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Will social media affect my recruiting?Yes—coaches do check social media. Keep it positive, professional, and soccer-related. Avoid anything that could raise red flags.
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What is a National Letter of Intent?It’s a binding agreement between you and a school stating you’ll attend and play there in exchange for athletic aid. Once signed, recruiting from other schools usually stops.
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Do college coaches come to watch high school games?Sometimes, but not often. Most recruiting happens at club tournaments, showcases, ID camps, and college-hosted events where coaches know they can see a lot of talent in one place.
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Should I focus on one position for recruiting?Coaches like versatile players, but they often recruit for specific needs. If you’re strong in multiple positions, mention them, but be clear about your primary position.
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How do I get noticed by college coaches?Players should proactively reach out to coaches via email, include highlight video links, attend ID camps, and perform well in ECNL games and showcases. U16-U19 Eastside FC players have access to SportsRecruits, a recruiting tool, as part of their club experience.
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What is an ID camp?An Identification (ID) camp is an event where players showcase their skills to college coaches. Some are hosted by a single school, others by multiple schools. It’s a chance to get seen, but also to experience the coach’s style and campus environment. At Eastside FC, we call our ID camps, College Combines.
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Does playing in ECNL help with college exposure?Yes. ECNL showcases and league games are highly attended by college coaches, and ECNL players are viewed as competing at a top national level.
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Can coaches contact me whenever they want?No. NCAA rules limit when and how coaches can reach out directly—often not until June 15 after sophomore year for D1 and D2. Before then, you can email them, but they can only respond with general info or through your club coach.
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What is the transfer portal?It’s a database that allows current college athletes to announce they’re open to transferring. Coaches use it to find experienced players. It’s becoming more common in college soccer.
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When should a player start thinking about the college recruiting process?Ideally, start by freshman or sophomore year. Early on, focus on academics, skill development, and building a highlight reel. The actual contact and exposure to coaches usually picks up around sophomore/junior year.
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What is Eastside FC's role in the college recruiting process?At Eastside FC, we’re here to support and guide our players through the college recruiting journey, but ultimately, it’s a player-driven process. Every athlete’s path is unique, and success in recruiting often comes from taking personal initiative, staying organized, and being proactive in communication with college coaches. While the club isn’t responsible for securing college offers, we play an active role in helping players navigate the process. This includes providing educational resources, offering one-on-one advising, hosting college ID events, and giving feedback on highlight videos and outreach strategies. Our coaches and staff are available to advocate for players, answer questions, and help families make informed decisions every step of the way. We’re committed to helping each player pursue their goals—whether that’s playing at the next level or simply finding the right college fit.
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What should be in a recruiting email to a college coach?A brief, personalized note that includes your name, grad year, position, club/team, upcoming game schedule, GPA, and video links. Always address the coach by name and mention why you're interested in their program.
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Should I attend every showcase and camp I can?No—choose events strategically based on where your target schools recruit. Attending random events without the right coaches present is a waste of time and money.
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How do official visits work?After Sept. 1 of junior year (D1), schools can invite you for an official visit, where they cover some expenses. You can take up to 5 official visits (one per school). You can also take unlimited unofficial visits at your own expense.
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Do I need a highlight video?Yes—most coaches want to see film before committing to watch you play in person. Keep it short (3–5 minutes), focus on your strengths, and use clear labeling for yourself in each clip.
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What is the difference between NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, and junior college programs?Each offers different levels of athletic and academic commitment, financial aid options, and recruiting timelines. Understanding the distinctions helps players identify the best fit: Division I: Highest athletic level, most competitive recruiting. Division II: Competitive, but often a better balance of sports, academics, and social life. Division III: No athletic scholarships, but strong academics and other financial aid options. NAIA: Separate governing body with good opportunities, often smaller schools. NJCAA: Junior colleges—great for player development and transferring to a 4-year school.
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How much does college soccer cost? What is a realistic scholarship amount?This varies widely. Even with scholarships, most players pay something. Factor in tuition, housing, meals, travel, and gear. Division I offers more scholarships, but very few athletes are on a “full ride.” Scholarship amounts depend on the school, your ability, and how much funding the program has. Many soccer scholarships are partial—covering a percentage of tuition or fees. Academic aid often fills the gap.
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What if I don’t get recruited by my dream school?Keep an open mind. Many players end up at schools they hadn’t considered initially and have great experiences. Fit—academically, socially, and athletically—is more important than name recognition.
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Registration DocumentsCras in lorem et turpis dignissim ultrices. Vivamus porta consequat nulla a ultricies. Maecenas convallis imperdiet risus eu sagittis. Suspendisse nunc diam, tristique ac tortor ac, varius tempor neque. Duis a tortor nec enim feugiat molestie. Etiam ac rhoncus velit, blandit lacinia orci. sdf sdf dsf sdf Cras in lorem et turpis dignissim ultrices. Vivamus porta consequat nulla a ultricies. Maecenas convallis imperdiet risus eu sagittis. Suspendisse nunc diam, tristique ac tortor ac, varius tempor neque. Duis a tortor nec enim feugiat molestie. Etiam ac rhoncus velit, blandit lacinia orci. Cras in lorem et turpis dignissim ultrices. Vivamus porta consequat nulla a ultricies. Maecenas convallis imperdiet risus eu sagittis. Suspendisse nunc diam, tristique ac tortor ac, varius tempor neque. Duis a tortor nec enim feugiat molestie. Etiam ac rhoncus velit, blandit lacinia orci.
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Will the boys and girls have separate PNW Kits?No. We are designing a single PNW Kit that will be shared by the boys and girls of all age groups at the club. Every team has the opportunity to purchase the kits.
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How often can teams wear the new PNW kits?Teams should consider wearing the Pacific Northwest Kit for big matches like tournament finals. Teams should not wear the kits for more than 25% of their total matches.
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Where does my money go?All of your money will go to pay vendors for their goods and services. Adidas will supply the jerseys, shorts and socks. We will also have to pay additional vendors for embroidered patches and printing. This is a volunteer-led project that will have no additonal markup by Eastside FC.
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What if a new player joins the team?We will have a process in place for reorders. There will be an additional cost per new player.
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What is the PNW Kit?We've all seen them: alternate kits, third kits, commemorative kits. Now, Eastside FC is proud to introduce our own alternate kit—the PNW Kit. Designed to honor our home, the Pacific Northwest, it’s a tribute to our deep love for the region and the roots that define us.
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How much does it cost?We estimate the cost of the kit will be up to $150 per player. The final price per kit will reflect the actual cost of the jersey, the shorts, the socks and any embroidery or printing. There will be no additional markup. Once we have our group order numbers, we will know more about the actual per kit cost.
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How and when do teams order them?Teams should confirm their interest in the PNW Kit by letting their manager know. A group order will be placed near the end of November and kits should be ready in early 2025.
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Our team is interested. Now what?Let your team manager know. A group order will be placed at the end of November and kits should be ready shortly after the new year.
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When will it be available to wear?We will put in a group order near the end of November. The PNW kit should be ready for competition in early 2025 and can be used through the current uniform cycle (2024-2025 and 2024-2026 seasons).
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Do teams have to buy them?Not at all. Participation in this project is fully voluntary and teams and families are under no obligation to purchase the kit. Each team must make its own decision.
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What else can I do to help my child?We suggest the following: Please do not coach your child during tryouts. They are nervous enough and don't want to hear you yelling out instructions. Be on time. This will help both you and your child relax before the tryout begins. Work with the ball and start running a few weeks prior to tryouts. Any extra workout is beneficial. Dress properly for the tryout as well as the weather, including proper footwear, shin guards, and water. Attend as many of the tryout days as possible. Make sure your child is hydrated and have eaten properly before coming to tryouts.
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What is the policy on playing time and will players have the chance to play different positions?Generally all players will play a minimum of 50% of every game. It does not make sense to pick players and then not play them. Playing time is done on merit and the only time we're playing time varies is during State Cup where emphasis shifts towards success and winning cups. The coach will work with the player to find the best position for them and the team.
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How and when do we find out if my child has made a team?You and your player will be called within 24 to 48 hours of the final tryout by a coach with an offer for a team at Eastside FC. Players who do not make a team at Eastside FC will be notified via email.
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Do I need to register and pay multiple times for my child to tryout for multiple teams, or if we are undecided what team they will tryout for?No. You only need to register and pay once regardless of what team or teams for which your child attends a tryout. Once players are registered at the correct age group, they are added to a master list and are eligible to attend any and all tryout sessions listed for their age group.
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When are tryouts?For information on dates, times and locations of Eastside FC tryouts, please visit the Eastside FC Tryout page.
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How many players are picked per team?Depending on the age group, teams can have 14 to 18 players per team. Our youngest age groups may have up to 10 players.
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Does Eastside FC offer scholarships?Yes, Eastside FC offers financial aid to help cover the cost of registration. Families must apply prior to tryouts. The forms are located on the Deails Section of the Tryouts Page in the Overview section.
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Can my child play high school soccer?Yes. Most of our players at Eastside FC play high school soccer and our ECNL and RCL seasons accommodate the high school season.
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Are there any other costs?Yes, as with all premier soccer teams, there are additional costs like uniforms, team-related fees, and travel costs. Please consult with a coach or current parent to get a better idea of total costs.
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Are all practices at Preston Park?The majority of our teams train at Preston Park. Occasionally, Preston-based teams will use Bellevue College and Issaquah’s Central Park. Bellevue-based Eastside FC teams will train and play primarily at locations in the Bellevue School District. (e.g., Robinswood, Wilburton, Newport Hills, Hidden Valley, Tillicum MS, Highland MS, Odle MS, Bellevue HS, Sammamish HS, Interlake HS, Newport HS and Bellevue College).
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How many days a week and how long are the trainings?Generally, our teams practice three days a week for an hour and a half for each session. Coaches can add and remove training sessions and alter training session durationat their discretion.
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What is the registration cost to play at Eastside FC?The registration cost for Eastside FC is in line with all premier soccer clubs. This covers registration, coaching fees, and all Eastside FC field and club management for the entire year.
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Who are the coaches for the upcoming year?All of our teams, both Bellevue- and Preston-based, are coached by licensed professionals and have strong playing and coaching backgrounds. As the coaches are announced for the upcoming season, they will be posted on our Coaching Assignments page.
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What if my child cannot make all or any of the tryouts?We like to see all kids at as many tryouts as possible but also realize that sometimes schedules do not work out. Please contact us and will get you in touch with the coach to discuss any conflicts.
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What do the evaluators look for?We have some of the most experienced evaluators in the state and while they do a good job of seeing a player’s potential, sometimes kids get nervous. It is a good idea to encourage your child to be as relaxed and as active as possible so we can see more of them in a short time.
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Can kids play sports or do other activities?Yes. They must communicate with their coach and effectively manage their schedule.
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What should my child expect at tryouts?We try to make the kids as comfortable as possible. We do not spring any complicated drills on them; they simply play soccer.
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How are the teams formed?Teams are formed based on ability, with the ECNL forming the top team in each age group from U13 and up. Red teams will form the top team in U11 and below, with White, Blue, and Grey teams formed, based on numbers.
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Can we join at any time throughout one of the four-month sessions?Yes, players can be identified and invited into the program at any time throughout the year.
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Can my son or daughter participate in other EFC programs or other sports while also taking part in the Emerging Talents Program?Yes! The Emerging Talents Program is intended to augment a player’s current programming choices. So whether you are playing another sport or also taking part in an existing EFC program such as Juniors, Friday Teks or a summer camp offering, the Emerging Talents program is meant to serve as additional training, not a replacement.
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When and where are the training sessions?Training sessions will be held on Sunday afternoons / evenings at Preston Park. For each 4-month session, the full schedule will be communicated and published at the outset of the training period.
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Is there potential for an EFC Emerging Talents player to be promoted into an EFC U8 RCL team?Yes, if EFC staff feels that the development of a player within the Emerging Talents Program would be best served by moving full-time into the U8 RCL program, the player(s) will be provided that option. Because there is some crossover between the programs, with current U8 RCL players also taking part in the Emerging Talents Program, there is ample opportunity to assess players’ development.
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Can my son or daughter still participate in the Emerging Talents Program while playing for an EFC U8 RCL team?Yes! The Emerging Talents Program training sessions are scheduled to not conflict with U8 RCL training. In fact, we hope many U8 RCL players decide to take part and gain an extra day of differentiated training each week.
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How does the evaluation process work for players not currently enrolled in an EFC program?If interested in the Emerging Talents Program but not currently taking part in any Eastside programming, players can contact the club for an evaluation. You will be directed to one of our currently operating programs where EFC staff will be able to assess the player for inclusion. Additionally, EFC staff can take players into the program for an evaluation upon recommendation from other coaches.
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Do we have to commit to all the sessions in order to take part?No, there are no set rosters for the Emerging Talents Program, so players in the program can miss training sessions when there are schedule conflicts.
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How do I register my team for the Eastside Cup?Vestibulum congue facilisis leo sit amet bibendum. Sed hendrerit tellus neque, quis sagittis erat hendrerit vitae. Praesent vitae ipsum erat. Donec non arcu vulputate turpis rhoncus placerat. Nulla interdum vitae nisi volutpat eleifend. In consectetur odio urna, nec tempus lacus blandit nec. Sed et posuere tortor. Praesent vestibulum bibendum metus vitae convallis. Nullam ac sodales dui. Donec eleifend mauris eget metus lobortis, sit amet tempor diam pellentesque.
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Will Bellevue-based Eastside FC players have access to other Eastside FC Promise Player Development Programming?Of course! Eastside FC Promise Player Development programming including Camps & Clinics, Juniors, and other offerings like Goalkeeping are available to all Eastside FC players, regardless of where they train.
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Is there pathway from a Bellevue-based team to the ECNL?Yes! Players on RCL teams, whether they are based in Bellevue or Preston, are monitored by our coaching staff and may receive merit-based opportunities to train with a higher team. Many Eastside FC ECNL and ECNL RL players have moved up from RCL teams.
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If I live in Bellevue, can I try out for a Preston-based Eastside FC team? Can current Preston-based Eastside FC players tryout for a Bellevue-based Eastside FC?Yes and yes. Eastside FC encourages families to choose the best opportunity and location for their player. Bear in mind, Preston-based Eastside FC will compete across multiple leagues including RCL, and the higher-level ECNL and ECNL-RL. Bellevue-based Eastside FC teams will compete exclusively in the RCL. We encourage players to try out for the Eastside FC team that best appeals to their goals and aspirations. Eastside FC will conduct joint tryouts for both locations. Please see our Tryout Page for more information.
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What is the difference between a Preston-based RCL team, and a Bellevue-based RCL team?All Eastside FC premier teams (both Preston-based and Bellevue-based) that play in the RCL will be placed in the competitive division that best suits their needs. Each team will develop their own competitive record of accomplishment which will determine future league placement. All ECNL and ECNL-RL teams will train and play at Preston Park.
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In what league do the Bellevue teams play?Bellevue-based teams play in Washington's RCL.
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Where will the Bellevue-based Eastside FC teams train and play?Bellevue-based Eastside FC teams will train and play primarily at Bellevue College. This year there will be much more consistency in where teams train and play. When Belleuve College is not available, Bellevue-based teams will train and play at other convenient locations in and around Bellevue, including Robbinswood Park.
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Are the costs and fees associated with Bellevue-based Eastside FC teams the same as the Preston-based Eastside FC teams?Yes. Fee structures will be consistent across all Eastside FC teams.
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Why does Eastside FC have teams in Bellevue?Eastside FC has Bellevue-based teams to serve families who may not want to make the drive to Preston but want to have the full Eastside FC experience.
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How many Bellevue-based Eastside FC teams are there?For the upcoming season, we will field a team at every age group from U8 to U19. In some instances, there may be two Bellevue-based teams at a particular age group. At this time, we will not be offering girls soccer in Bellevue. If and when demand increases on the girls side, we will add girls teams.
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Will Eastside FC have any girls teams in Bellevue?At some point, yes. At this time, we are gauging demand and have determined that the player pool in Bellevue may not support girls teams in Bellevue. If you are interested in your daughter playing on a Bellevue team, please register for tryouts and select "Bellevue" for your preferred location. If there are not enough girls to field a team at a particular age group, we will kindly refund your tryout fee, or work with you to place your daughter on a Preston team, or at a partner club like Issaquah FC.
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Will tryouts in Preston and Bellevue be on the same day and time?Yes. Tryouts for Bellevue-based Eastside FC teams will occur in Preston. See the full tryout schedule which includes dates, times and locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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