VERO FC FAQ


What is VERO FC?

Vero FC is a top-tier competitive program for U13-U19 players in North Alabama, designed to provide elite training, competition, and exposure through access to top-tier leagues.

Why was VERO FC created?

Vero FC was created to:

  • Unify top talent across North Alabama
  • Provide a higher level of competition and development
  • Create a clear pathway to college and professional opportunities
  • Bring top-tier opportunities to our players and families without them needing to leave our community.

What is the long-term vision for VERO FC?

To build the strongest development pathway in North Alabama, producing:

  • Youth National team-level players
  • College-level players
  • Professional-level players
  • A more unified and competitive soccer environment

Why is this considered a major step for North Alabama soccer?

Because leading clubs in North Alabama are working together to create:

  • A stronger talent pool
  • Better competition
  • A unified pathway that has not existed before

What is MLS NEXT and why does it matter?

MLS NEXT is one of the top youth development platforms in the United States, providing:

  • Elite-level competition
  • College and professional exposure
  • A structured pathway for high-level players

What about the Girls Program?

Our Girls program will be of the same standard and level expectations as the boys. We are still waiting on League confirmation and our conference to be sorted but we WILL have a girls’ program. That information will be sent as soon as we have it. 
It will have:

  • Elite-level competition
  • College and professional exposure
  • A structured pathway for high-level players

Will existing clubs continue to operate independently?

Yes. Member clubs will:

  • Continue to field teams at U4-U19
  • Run their own programs
  • Serve as the foundation of player development

How does VERO FC work with member clubs?

  • VERO sits at the top of the pathway (U13-U19)
  • Member clubs continue to develop players at all levels
  • Players move into higher levels at U13-U19 at Vero FC when ready

What ages are eligible for VERO FC?

U13-U19 only

What happens if a player does not make VERO FC, and can players be involved with both VERO FC and their home club?

They will continue playing with their member club, which may include:

  • State League
  • NewComp/ Mid-South / other competitive leagues

Players may play for a member club while also participating in Vero FC on a part-time basis.

Will there be different pathways for all skill levels?

Yes.

  • VERO FC = Top-tier (1 team per age)
  • Member clubs = All other competitive levels

How will players be selected?

Through a tryout and evaluation process based on:

  • Ability
  • Development potential
  • Commitment

When will tryouts take place?

  • U13 Boys and Girls: April 27-29
  • U14 Boys and Girls April 29-May 1
  • U15-U19 Boys and Girls: May 9-10

Where will tryouts be held?

  • All VERO FC tryouts will take place in Huntsville
  • Member clubs will hold tryouts at their own locations

Do players need to register for both VERO and their current club?

Yes - strongly recommended to ensure placement.

Can players from outside the member clubs try out?

Yes - Vero FC is open to all players in North Alabama and the surrounding areas.

How many teams per age group?

One team per age group.

Will there be cuts?

Yes. However, players who are not selected for Vero teams are strongly encouraged to try out with our four member clubs. We are committed to helping every player who wants to play find the right home within the Vero family

Where will teams train?

  • Training will be primarily in the Huntsville area, however:
  • It may vary depending on team makeup
  • Some teams may use rotating training locations, especially at younger ages

Full training details will be published soon.

What is the expected travel commitment?

  • Primarily regional (AL, GA, TN)
  • Potential national events (MLS NEXT Fest)
  • Optional preseason tournaments

How are travel expenses handled?

Travel expenses are the responsibility of each family. VERO FC fees cover club and team-related costs only. Once fees are released:

  • Everything included will be clearly listed
  • There will be no surprise or hidden fees

For the Boys, who will VERO FC compete against?

The top clubs in the MLS NEXT Academy Division (Southeast Division).

How competitive is the MLS Next Academy Division level?

The MLS Next pathway is the highest level of boys' soccer in the country.

Can players play fall, spring, or both?

  • U13-U14: Fall + Spring
  • U15-U19: Primarily Fall

Can players play high school soccer?

Yes - for U15 and up.

What birth year policy will we follow?

Vero FC will follow the new national age group guidelines beginning in the 2026-2027 season, which align more closely with school grades (August-July).

What will it cost to play for VERO FC?

We'll publish the fees clearly before team acceptance.

Who will coach VERO FC teams?

Coaches will be selected from qualified staff within Vero member clubs across North Alabama, along with additional qualified coaches to meet the needs of the program.

Where can parents get updates?

Updates will be shared through:

  • Official club communication
  • Social media
  • Meetings (as scheduled)

What should families do now?

Register for both Vero FC tryouts and your current member club tryouts. This ensures that if your child is not selected for a Vero FC team, they still have an opportunity to play within the Vero FC family.

Is this the right level for my child?

VERO FC is designed for players who:

  • Want a high-level competitive environment
  • Are willing to train consistently (3x per week)
  • Are comfortable being challenged and pushed

For many players, their member club team may be the best fit, and that is a strong and valuable pathway.

What is the time commitment like?

Players should expect:

  • 3 training sessions per week
  • Weekend matches
  • Regional travel

This is a serious commitment, similar to other top-tier programs.