Grassroots Soccer

Ages 5-14 | Where Players Start. Where Development Matters.

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Eastshore Alliance FC Grassroots provides a structured, positive environment where players build skills, confidence, and a lasting connection to the game, while developing habits that support long-term growth.

Two young players in Eastshore Alliance FC uniforms chase the ball during a recreational soccer game on a sunny day in the East Bay. Part of EAFC's Grassroots soccer program for ages 5-12.

Contact Us:

John Tamrat - Grassroots Director

Contact Us

Where Players Begin

Ages 5-14 | Co-ed | All Levels Welcome

Designed for players ages 5-14, this program focuses on long-term development, helping players build confidence on the ball, understand the game, and enjoy the process of learning.

We are committed to creating an environment where every player can grow at their own pace, supported by clear structure, coaching, and a positive experience.

Program Snapshot

AGES: 5-14

SEASONS: Fall, Winter, Spring

TRAINING: Two 1 hour sessions per week

GAMES: Weekend play (in-house scrimmage or league)

LOCATIONS: Berkeley & El Cerrito

AGES 5-7
In-House Development

  • 2 training sessions per week

  • Weekend 2v2/3v3/4v4
    small-sided in-house scrimmage day

FOCUS:

  • Ball mastery

  • Coordination

  • Confidence

OUTCOME:
Players build comfort on the ball and develop a genuine love for the game.

AGES 8-14
League Play (JLYSL)

  • 2 training sessions per week

  • Jack London League, weekend games

FOCUS:

  • Technical consistency

  • Decision-making

  • Introduction to team concepts

OUTCOME:
Players learn how to compete, make decisions, and contribute within a team.

Select Pathway Team
(Invite-Based)

  • 2 training sessions per week

  • Participation in NorCal league

FOCUS:

  • Continued development

  • Increased competitive
    environment

OUTCOME:
Support players progression into the next level of the club.

Development Over Results

Players develop at different rates. Our focus is on building strong habits, confidence, and understanding of the game over time.

We prioritize:

  • Learning through game situations

  • Encouraging creativity and decision-making

  • Supporting players through challenges

Season Structure

  • AUGUST 31st - NOVEMBER 15th

    • Two (2) weekday practices led by mix of volunteer and staff coaches

    • 1hr practice time, with training typically starting at 4:00, 4:30, 5:00, 5:30, or 6:00PM

    • Practice locations - El Cerrito & Berkeley fields

  • January - February

    • Small group training and futsal

    • Focus on technical growth and repetition

    • Supplemental development environment

  • MARCH - MAY

    • Two (2) weekday practices led by mix of volunteer and staff coaches

    • 1hr practice time with training typically starting at 4:00, 4:30, 5:00, 5:30, or 6:00PM

    • Practice locations - Berkeley Fields

  • JULY 13-17, 2026

    Get ready to train like the stars! Join Eastshore Alliance FC for our World Cup Soccer Camp at Gilman Complex in Berkeley, CA. This week-long camp runs Monday-Friday, 9:00AM-12:00PM and is open to players ages 7-13.

    • Time: 9:00AM-12:00PM, Monday-Friday

    • Location: Gilman Complex, Berkeley, CA

What to Expect

    • Structured, engaging training sessions

    • Opportunities to learn, compete, and grow

    • A positive environment that builds confidence

    • Clear communication through PlayMetrics

    • Organized schedules and expectations

    • A development-focused experience

    We ask families to:

    • Support effort over results

    • Encourage resilience through challenges

    • Help maintain a positive sideline environment

  • Eastshore Alliance FC Grassroots coaches are expected to:

    • Teach and guide, not just instruct

    • Create engaging sessions

    • Build confidence in every player

    • Uphold club standards and values

  • Required Gear (if competing in league games):

    • EAFC training kit

    • Game kits (Navy & White)

    Available for purchase at Soccer Post (El Cerrito)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Grassroots teams are formed through registration and when possible allowing for friend requests. No tryouts required. Register early to get placed on a team before we fill up.

  • We accommodate requests when possible while maintaining team balance.

  • Movement is based. on coach evaluation and readiness. If our competitive teams are in need of a player we can provide recommendations. Outside of that, movement to competitive teams typically happens during tryouts held in May every year.

  • The focus is development, with age-appropriate competition introduced as players progress.

Player Pathway

Mini Allies » Grassroots » Junior Allies | Select » Competitive

Eastshore Alliance FC provides a clear pathway for player growth and development:

  • Ongoing coach evaluation

  • Identification opportunities (All-Stars/Turkey Cup game invitations at end of fall season. Training invitations with competitive team.)

Each step builds on the last, preparing players for the next level in the player pathway.

Join Eastshore Alliance Grassroots Soccer

Be a part of a program built to develop players the right way, through structure, challenge, and a positive environment.

Register for Grassroots Soccer

LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION?

For more information about our Grassroots Soccer program, please reach out to our Grassroots Director, John Tamrat.

john.tamrat@eastshorealliancefc.org