Expert design soccer programming for ages 2+
SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE SOCCER CLASSES
The School of Excellence classes are designed for players 7-12 years old and all skill levels. Whether your child is just getting started, has played recreational soccer, or is looking to get extra touches and coaching to prepare for club soccer, there is a place for them here.
Players are grouped to make sure each child is appropriately challenged and supported as they continue to develop.
At this stage, confidence becomes a major factor as kids begin to define their abilities. Our classes focus on player development through positive coaching and purposeful training in an environment that keeps them motivated to learn and improve.
How The School of Excellence Program Works
Training sessions are active, engaging, fun, and designed to mirror real game situations. Players are constantly moving, thinking, and interacting with the ball throughout each session.
Technical Skill Work
We develop ball control, footwork, passing, and dribbling through structured exercises
Small-Sided Games
Fast-paced 4v4 games help players apply their skills in games while improving decision-making and awareness
Competitive Challenges
Players are encouraged to push themselves while building confidence through effort and improvement
Weekly Classes
Soccer Classes for Ages 7 – 9
(Beginner to Advanced)
AGES
7 – 9
- 1-Hour Class
- 4-week session
- $140/session
These classes are one (1) hour in length, with the emphasis placed on technical mastery of the ball, decision-making, spatial awareness, speed of play, and playing small-sided games.
It’s incredible to watch the growth in confidence that these players realize in a 10-week session. Classes are co-ed, with the exception of our U8 Boys program below.AGES
7 – 9
- 1-Hour class
- 4-week session
- $140/session
These classes are one (1) hour in length, with the emphasis placed on technical mastery of the ball, decision-making, spatial awareness, speed of play, and playing small-sided games.
It’s incredible to watch the growth in confidence that these players realize in a 10-week session. Classes are co-ed, with the exception of our U8 Boys program below.Soccer Class for U8 Boys
AGE
U8
- 1-Hour class
- No summer classes, we'll be back for the fall!
Age 7 is an important transitional age for children who may be shifting from recreational soccer to a slightly more serious club program. To support that transition, we introduced a U8 Boys program focused on preparing young players for club soccer.
This is a skill development class with 30 minutes of skills training, and 30 minutes of 3v3 small-sided games.
AGE
U8
- 1-Hour class
- No summer classes, we'll be back in the fall!
Age 7 is an important transitional age for children who may be shifting from recreational play to a slightly more serious club program.
The U8 Boys program is a skill development class with 30 minutes of skills training, and 30 minutes of 3v3 small-sided games.
Why Parents Love the School of Excellence Program
“The coaches are warm and encouraging, and always looking out for each player’s own journey in the game. The kids are encouraged to do their best and try their hardest without any negative pressure. My son is thriving and I’m so excited to see how much more he will continue to grow both athletically and personally as the years continue on with Locker Soccer.”
“What really sets Locker Soccer apart is the quality and skill level of the coaches. They are knowledgeable, encouraging, and know how to meet players where they are, whether they’re just starting out or already more advanced.”
“Ever since joining Locker Soccer, my son has gained a whole new passion for soccer. His confidence in team playing has grown so much, he’s always motivated and excited to play.”
Player Development Pathway
At Locker Soccer Academy, our programs are designed to guide players through each stage of development.
School of Excellence serves as a key step in preparing players for higher levels of soccer, including competitive and club-level play, while continuing to emphasize confidence, growth, and enjoyment of the game.
For players looking to continue progressing, additional advanced training opportunities include:
U8+
Locker Elite Club Team
Looking to join a community, and family-focused club team? Locker Elite is our club soccer program designed for players who are ready to continue their development in a more structured team environment. Our team prioritizes age-appropriate development, strong coaching, and a positive team culture, helping players grow their skills while maintaining confidence and a love for the game.
U8 and Older
The Performance Lab
Our technology-driven training designed to maximize repetitions and accelerate technical skill development for players looking to gain a competitive edge playing either at a Club or Recreational soccer level.
Questions? Get in Touch
Soccer Classes for Kids Ages 7 – 12 in Columbus, Ohio
Locker Soccer Academy is located in Powell, Ohio and offers youth soccer training programs for players throughout the Columbus area.
Our program is ideal for families searching for soccer for 7 year olds, soccer for 8 year olds, and soccer for 9 year olds in Columbus. Whether your child is just getting started or looking to build on their current skills, our beginner-friendly soccer training provides the structure and coaching needed to help players improve with confidence.Our School of Excellence program is designed for children ages 7–12 who want to improve their soccer skills, build confidence, and develop a better understanding of the game.
Families searching for soccer training for 7 year olds, soccer classes for 8–10 year olds, and youth soccer training programs in Columbus choose Locker Soccer Academy because our programs focus on development, confidence, and long-term growth.
For more than 20 years, Locker Soccer Academy has helped young athletes across Central Ohio build skills and confidence through soccer. During that time, over 50,000 children have participated in our programs, making Locker Soccer one of the most trusted youth soccer training environments in the Columbus community.
Families from Powell, Dublin, Worthington, and across Columbus choose Locker Soccer Academy because our programs are designed around how players learn best — through repetition, structured training, and positive coaching. We understand how to create an environment where players are challenged, learning, and having fun at the same time.