General Program Questions
What is youth travel soccer?
Youth travel soccer is a competitive program where skilled players form teams that "travel" to play matches against other clubs in local, regional, or sometimes national leagues and tournaments. It emphasizes higher-level coaching, more training, and greater competition compared to recreational soccer.
What age groups does the program cover?
Most programs start at U8–U19(. Age groups follow U.S. Youth Soccer birth-year guidelines (e.g., U12 = players born in a specific calendar year). Currently CNSC has active teams for U8-U13
How do players join the program?
Players usually attend open tryouts/evaluations held once a year (Apri/May is for the fall and spring season. If you tryout in April of 2026, if selected, you are committing to the fall of 2026 season and the spring of 2027 season. Registration for tryouts is required.
What happens if my child doesn't make a team?
Players who do not make the team can join their age-appropriate team as a training only player to further develop their skills before the next tryout.
Time Commitment & Schedule
How much time is required?
Expect 2 training sessions per week (90 minutes each), plus 1 games per weekend during the season. Tournaments are team specific and organized by coaches but may involve 3–5 games over a weekend. Total commitment is significantly higher than recreational soccer—often 8–12 months per year with lighter optional off-season training.
What is the season schedule like?
Fall season starts at the end of august through the weekend before thanksgiving. The Spring season starts in March and ends in June.
How much travel is involved?
Varies by age group and division. Most teams play in Monmouth and Ocean County leagues. Half the games are home and the other half are typically within 30 mins drive from Colts Neck. Some teams may play in other leagues that require travel to all areas of NY, NJ, and PA.
Costs & Fees
How much does it cost to participate?
The cost of the program is $1100 which is for two full seasons that totals 44 training sessions, and 20 games
What is included in the registration fee?
The only additional expense is uniforms.
Tryouts, Teams & Coaching
How are teams formed?
Coaches and technical staff evaluate players based on skill, athleticism, attitude, coachability, and team fit during tryouts. Teams are formed by age group, and the tryout evaluations are conducted by a 3rd party training company.
Who coaches the teams?
Each team has a parent coach and a paid trainer. Most teams also have a parent assistant coach as well
Can players play other sports or activities?
Yes, but the program expects soccer to be the priority during the season. Missing practices/games for other activities may affect playing time, depending on club policy.
Other Common Questions
What equipment does my child need?
Soccer cleats, shin guards (mandatory), socks, shorts, water bottle, and a size-4 or size-5 ball (depending on age).
Is there a code of conduct for players and parents?
Yes—most programs require positive sideline behavior, respect for referees/coaches/opponents, and no coaching from parents during games. Many follow U.S. Soccer's SafeSport and zero-tolerance policies for abuse.
How competitive is the program?
It's designed for players seeking a more challenging environment with skilled teammates and opponents. The focus is on player development, teamwork, and enjoyment while preparing those interested in high school, college, or elite pathways.