Pre-Academy

Welcome to AFC Lightning's Pre-Academy Program—the first step toward joining our competitive Academy teams (9U-12U). Designed for players ages 6U-8U, our Pre-Academy offers structured, high-quality training that builds essential skills and sets a strong foundation for future success in the sport. Our carefully crafted curriculum is age- and skill-appropriate, with activities that foster each player’s growth, development, and, most importantly, a love for the beautiful game!


At the core of our Pre-Academy philosophy is a focus on developing technically skilled players who are confident and creative with the ball. We encourage young players to think critically and make their own decisions on the field with minimal input from coaches and parents. Our dedicated coaching staff provides a fun, challenging environment where creativity and individual growth are celebrated every step of the way.


(6U - 8U)

  • When are tryouts?

    May 30, 2025.  To register, go to  2025/26 tryouts!


    Questions?   Don't hesitate to get in touch with Fabian Patterson at fabian@afclightning.org

  • Who is eligible for the 2025-26 seasonal year?

    The Pre–Academy program is open to boys and girls born in 2018, 2019, & 2020 for the 2025-26 seasonal year.

  • When and where are the training sessions?

    • 7U (Co-Ed) teams train on Wednesdays and Fridays at Peachtree City Athletic Complex on field 2.
    • 8U (Boys) teams train on Mondays and Wednesdays at Peachtree City Athletic Complex field 2.
    • 8U (Girls) teams train on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Peachtree City Athletic Complex field 2.

  • When and where are the games?

    • 7U Pre-Academy teams will play in-house 4v4 games. 
    • Games are typically held on Sundays - from September through November during the Fall season and from March to early May during the Spring season. 

    • 8U Pre-Academy teams will play both 5v5 and 7v7 formats. 
    • They will play a mixture of in-house 5v5 scrimmages and 7v7 games against other 8U teams in the Metro Atlanta area. 

    • Games are typically held on Saturdays and/or Sundays—from September through November during the Fall season and from March to early May during the Spring season.
    • 8U Pre-Academy teams may also participate in local tournaments. 

  • What is the difference between Recreation and Academy Soccer?

    Deciding whether or not your child should play recreational soccer or competitive (“select”) soccer is often a daunting task for parents not familiar with the world of competitive sports. The primary deciding factor that parents should consider when making the select verses recreation decision is whether or not one wishes to accelerate a child’s soccer development in a professionally guided training environment.


    In recreational soccer, the focus is most often on social interaction, “having fun” with friends, which often comes at the expense of instruction. In select soccer, the focus in on teaching in an enjoyable manner that is appropriate for the child’s age level. Individual skills and team tactics are taught by high-level, professionally licensed coaches in order to more fully develop the child’s level of play. When it comes to playing at a select level, the end result is young athletes that know how to play soccer at a much higher level than corresponding recreational players.

FABIAN PATTERSON

Pre-Academy Director