- (614) 619-8320
- 330 W Case St, Powell, OH 43065
Youth Soccer Programs & Development Academy
From beginners to competitors, we develop confident and resilient children who love the game of soccer.
50,000
+ kids coached
20
+ years
5
parent rated
50,000
+ kids coached
20
+ years
5
parent rated
Before they can play the game like a pro, they must first enjoy the game like a kid.
Locker Soccer Academy was founded in 2004 by Steve Locker with the belief that the best thing a youth sports program can do for a child is help them fall genuinely in love with the game. To us, soccer is more than just a sport, it’s a vehicle for personal growth and character development.
Our philosophy and programs are rooted in teaching children valuable life skills like teamwork, communication, resilience, and sportsmanship, not just the mechanics of soccer. As children progress through Locker Soccer Academy’s programs, they’ll be well-prepared to take the next step in their soccer journey. Whether they choose to join a club team, continue playing recreationally, or simply enjoy soccer as a lifelong hobby. They will have the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed.
Our Programs
Find the right fit for your child
Every child comes to us at a different place. Some are brand new to the game and a little shy, still figuring out if they even like it. Others have been involved with soccer for years and are ready to be challenged. A lot of kids fall somewhere in between.
We are committed to finding the best fit for every child who walks through our door and offer a free trial class for all new families.
Ages 2 – 6
Little Kickers
Little Kickers is designed to help young children develop early motor skills in a fun, supportive, and encouraging environment. With games, music, and guided activities we love watching our Little Kickers come out of their shells and become more confident and independent.
Ages 5 – 6
Elite Juniors
For children ready for their first taste of “real soccer.” Elite Juniors introduces more structure, teamwork, and light competition in a way that’s still fun and encouraging. Players begin to understand spacing, decision-making, and how to play small-sided games.
Ages 7 – 12
School of Excellence
School of Excellence builds on strong technical skills, game awareness, and confidence in gameplay. They will learn how to think, move, and play as part of a team. Players are grouped appropriately to ensure they are both challenged and supported. All skill levels are welcomed.
Ages 8+
The Performance Lab
For players who want more touches, more reps, and faster development. We offer both group class training and individual training. Each session includes high-repetition skill work, footwork, and decision-making. Players can get up to 1,000 touches in a single session.
Not sure which program is best?
Complete the Form Below and We'll Provide a Class Recommendation
Parents Say
Trusted by Central Ohio Families
Dr. Mais Khourdaji, PhD
★★★★★
Educational & Child Psychologist
“The patience and dedication the coaches and Steve have toward helping our children grow into thoughtful yet skillful competitive players is unlike any other league you will find."
Christine Schillinger
★★★★★
“Locker Soccer has been an absolutely outstanding experience for our family. From the moment you walk in, you can feel how intentional and well-run the program is. The staff is welcoming, organized, and genuinely invested in the kids—not just as players, but as individuals.”
Andy Romero
★★★★★
“Family. It’s the core belief behind what drives Locker Soccer. Our son has excelled and fallen in love with the beautiful game here."
Lindsay G.
★★★★★
“If you have young kids who are interested in soccer, I can't recommend this place enough! The staff is not only knowledgeable about soccer, but about early childhood education. The coaches know just how to get each child involved and feeling confident and successful.”
Amanda Lute
★★★★★
“My 5 year old son loves Locker Soccer! We’ve been coming here for over a year and he has become so much more comfortable and happy during his classes. He loves the activities and the fact that there isn't intense competition like he has experienced with a team he was recently on.”
Locker Elite
Club Team
We are a proud player-development program who works with all children who want to be part of a club team, not just the early standouts. Teams available for ages U8-U14 boys and girls.
What Makes Us Different
Joy is the method
Enjoyment and fun is how children build skill, resilience, and the kind of intrinsic motivation that no parent or coach could ever manufacture. If your child is enjoying it, they will continue to play.
It's all aboutthem
We are more focused on your child’s individual holistic development than winning soccer games. Every player has the opportunity to succeed and fall in love with the game.
Balance
Success is all about balance. Balance between work and rest, balance between playing soccer and other sports, balance between enjoyment and competition.
Development > Competition
We’re not building “better” eight-year-olds. We’re building kids who are still playing at eighteen.
Upcoming Events
What's happening at The Academy
More Ways to Get Involved
Summer Camps
5 weeks of Summer Camps
June – July 2026
Birthday Parties & Events
Event space for Birthdays, Corporate Events, and Customized Parties.
Locker Elite Club
U8-U14 competitive teams.
Field Rental
Reserve our fields for your team or next event.
Join Us for a Free Class to See if We’re the Right Fit
We offer a free trial class for all new families. Come see why 50,000+ kids have learned to love the game through our programs.