In the spring of 2015, AYSO National approved the formation of the Challenge Football Club (FC). The purpose of this program is to establish a highly competitive program within AYSO increasing the retention of AYSO players by offering a "club" program for those players desiring to play at a higher level. Additionally, the "club" program would provide an opportunity to former AYSO members, now participating on "club" teams outside of AYSO, to return to the organization. Challenge FC is a member of the Arizona Youth Soccer Association(AYSA). While this is a "club" organization, each coach, trainer and administrator is responsible for adhering to the basic principles of the AYSO philosophy.
U10 - U14 Competitive Program
The Challenge FC program offers a higher level of play and coaching/training than our recreational program. It is where players can take their game to another level, become a better soccer player and have fun. This program offers highly skilled coaches/trainers fully dedicated to the development of our youth.
The competitive program consists of a longer season with more opportunities for competition via tournaments and cup play. The season typically starts at the beginning of July with training and tournament preparation, various local and travel tournaments, regular AYSA league in the Fall (September through November) and Winter (December through March), and post league tournament and President's Cup or State Cup play.
U15 - U18 Competitive Program
At this age range, the season is typically sliced into three parts.
Part 1: The summer-fall season typically starts at the beginning of June with training and tournament preparation, various local and travel tournaments, and a regular AYSA league in the Fall (September through November).
Part 2: Club takes a hiatus and breaks for the High School season. The Challenge Football Club has several teams that have players participating in High School Soccer. During the High School season, as a club, we acknowledge specific player participation restrictions defined by the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA). We have provided our interpretation of those AIA specific restrictions. Look for information about playing during the High School season below and read the AIA General Provisions.
Part 3: The last partof the season consists of local and travel tournaments, college showcase tournaments, and the competitive Presidents Cup and State Cup. Some of our players are considering college soccer futures, read the top 10 questions to ask a college coach.