Huntsville City Football Club to launch elite academy for youth soccer
Exciting Developments for Soccer in Huntsville
Huntsville has long been a hub of soccer enthusiasm, bolstered by strong high school programs and its role as host for the Alabama High School Athletic Association state championships. The Huntsville City Football Club (HCFC) is amplifying this passion with a robust start to its 2025 season, culminating in a home opener at Wicks Family Field on March 28.
A significant addition to the local soccer landscape is the upcoming HCFC Academy, set to launch this fall. This academy aims to provide an elite training platform for young players, fostering the next generation of soccer talent. “From Day 1, we’ve challenged HCFC to grow soccer throughout our community,” stated John Hamilton, Huntsville City Administrator.
By joining the MLS NEXT league—a prestigious youth soccer system—HCFC Academy will unify north Alabama’s top talents under professional coaching. Coach Babyele Sodade expressed the importance of this initiative, emphasizing its potential to elevate local soccer. The academy will prioritize the best interests of youth athletes, ensuring direct access to elite competitions and collaborations with local soccer organizations.
The framework will initially establish U13 and U14 teams, expanding eventually to a full U13-U19 program. With national-level training available locally, the academy is poised to open pathways for youth athletes seeking collegiate and professional opportunities. As HCFC thrives on the field and the academy gears up, Huntsville’s soccer landscape is set for a promising future.
Read the complete article here: https://cityblog.huntsvilleal.gov/huntsville-city-football-club-to-launch-elite-academy-for-youth-soccer/
