Academy Prep
Academy Prep is Artisan Social FC’s developmental bridge between Kickstart Kids and the Football Academy, where football training becomes more purposeful and structured while remaining enjoyable and age-appropriate.
It is one continuous season from September 2026–June 2027. Players continue developing their individual technique while deepening their understanding of how football is played within a team.. Training emphasizes confidence on the ball, intelligent decision-making, and the habits that form the foundation of possession-based football.
Whether players continue into the Football Academy, move on to another club, or simply enjoy playing the game, Academy Prep provides the foundation for the journey ahead.
Age U7
Age seven marks the start of a very important two years in a player’s development. It is where players begin making the transition from a focus on individual technique to learning how football is played with teammates.
Academy Prep also represents a greater commitment for families, as training transitions from three individual seasons to one continuous, year-long training cycle.
Age U8
Players continue to build upon the foundation established at U7. Technical development remains the priority, with increasing attention given to basic principles of team tactics and possession football.
Training becomes more challenging and increases from a single 60-minute session per week to 90-minute sessions, but always remains appropriate for this stage of development.
Representing ASFC
Establishing an ability to compete in football is important to players’ development. Playing in matches is fun and a place to apply what they learn in training.
Academy Prep provides players with their first opportunity to represent Artisan Social FC in competition beginning at U7 and continuing through the U8 season.
Participation in matches is encouraged but not required.
Next Step: The Football Academy
Academy Prep is designed to prepare players for the next stage of their football journey. As our oldest players reach U9, Artisan Social FC is developing the Football Academy as the next stage of the ASFC Player Pathway.
As the program evolves, additional information will be shared with families.