FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Chattanooga Red Wolves Academy takes great pride in being a sanctioned member of the Tennessee State Soccer Association. We have boys' and girls' teams in the 11v11 age groups, U13-U19, competing in the Tennessee State League and Tennessee State Cups.

• What is the TN State Soccer Association?

The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation. Founded in 1976, TSSA is governed by a Board of Directors that is elected by representatives from our 100+ Member Associations and maintains a State Office in Nashville, TN with a professional staff. Our vision is, “To be the Premier State Association known for Partnerships, Promotion, and Pioneering the next movement of soccer.”

• What are the benefits of playing in the TN State League?

Tennessee State League (TSL) provides a competitive competition where results are important and tracked. TSL has multiple divisions, Division 1, Division 2, and Division 3 which help different levels of teams within clubs play at the developmentally appropriate level.

• Where are the games for TSL? how is the league formatted?

Games will be within the state of Tennessee, sometimes if travel is too far teams will decide to meet in the middle and play at a neutral site. For Example, teams from Knoxville and Memphis may meet in Nashville for their TSL game. Each league will have around 6-8 teams and you will play each other 1 time. The state will give guidelines for the first and last playable dates.

• What is the State Cup?

Your regular season position in the league will determine your state cup seeding. Previous years' state cup finalists do not have to play in the State League competition in order to be eligible for the State Cup and will be given the #1 and #2 seeds automatically. State Cup gives you the opportunity to Win a State Championship. Division 1 Champions will qualify for USYS Regionals, and Division 2 Champions will qualify for USYS Presidents Cup.

• What is USYS Regionals?

The event will feature Boys and Girls teams in the U13-U19 age groups who will compete for a regional championship and a spot at the USYS National Championships. There will be 12,14 or 16 teams in each age bracket. Teams will qualify by winning their Division 1 State Cup or USYS National League.

• What is the USYS Presidents Cup?

The US Youth Soccer Presidents Cup is designed for those teams seeking additional challenges to play against teams of similar abilities for a national title. The Presidents Cup provides a progressive, competitive experience to teams that might not otherwise get the opportunity to participate in a series of unique experiences highlighting competition, camaraderie, and community from the state to regional to national levels of US Youth Soccer.

US Youth Soccer Regional Presidents Cup events will determine the regional qualifiers that will compete in the US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup. Regional winners in the U13-U19 groups, both boys and girls, will vie for the national title.

Last edit: May 2, 2023

• What is the ECNL?

The Elite Clubs National League Boys (ECNL Boys) was founded to improve the daily environment for

 boys youth soccer players through a collaborative club-based development program featuring competition, player identification, and coaching and club development platforms.

• How does ECNL competition work?

 The ECNL Boys season includes both regular-season conference games and cross-conference events (college showcases), and qualifying teams from the ECNL Boys will advance into the ECNL Boys Post-Season.

• How many clubs are in ECNL Boys?

 There are 146 (2022-2023 season) that play in 10 different conferences across the country. Age groups for ECNL Boys are u13-u19. 

• What conference does Chattanooga Red Wolves compete in?

CRWA competes in the Southeast Conference.

• How far will we have to travel for ECNL matches?

-CRWA competes in one of the most competitive conferences for Boys ECNL, but the best part is all games are within two and a half hours. Most are 2 hours or less away from Chattanooga. The club furthest away from CRWA is located in Suwanee, GA (UFA). All of the league matches are either in Tennessee, Alabama, or Georgia.

o Southeast Conference teams and locations: Alabama FC (Birmingham, AL- 2 hours 15 minutes), Atlanta Fire (Duluth, GA- 2 hours 10 minutes), Atlanta United FC (Marietta, GA- 1 hour 35 minutes), Concorde Fire Platinum/Premier (Atlanta, GA- 2 hours), FC Alliance (Knoxville, TN- 1 hour 45 minutes), GSA (Lilburn, GA-2 hours), NTH-NASA (Marietta, GA- 1 hour 35 minutes), Tennessee SC (Franklin, TN- 2 hours 15 minutes), UFA (Suwanee, GA- 2 hours 15 minutes), South Carolina United (Columbia, SC-5 hours), Carolina Elite Soccer Association (Greer, SC-4hours), SC Surf (Charleston, SC-7 hours), and CRWA (Chattanooga, TN)

-For cross-conference events such as the college showcases, travel is a little further. Events are regionalized to help those clubs with travel. CRWA would likely participate in ECNL South Carolina located in Greer, SC, and ECNL Florida located just outside Orlando in Sanford, FL.

o College showcases are for the u15/16-u18/19 age groups

o Showcases are during the winter months of December and January

o Each showcase is guaranteed 3 matches over the weekend

o Schedule for the showcase is compiled through match data and team records of the previous

season(s) in order to create the most competitive matches possible

• Why does each team play 2 games over the weekend?

-Each team plays 2 games over a weekend (1/day) to mitigate travel as much as possible.

-Each team has what’s referred to as a “travel partner”. CRWA’s travel partner is FC Alliance. Both teams travel to a respective team’s location for the first match on Saturday then swap opponents for the second game of the weekend on Sunday. This leads the majority of families to find a hotel for the evening along the route to the second game.

• How many cross-conference events are there?

- There are a total of 5 college showcases available to participate in. Each respective club participates in a chosen amount.

- The final cross-conference event is a National Playoff. The location of the playoff changes year to year and only accepts the qualifying teams from each conference.

• Is the ECNL a proven pathway to getting recruited or becoming a professional?

- Yes. There are hundreds of soccer players who are moving on to compete at the college level (NCAA D1,2,3, NAIA, and NJCAA) from across the country.

- There is an ECNL National Training Camp for the top 40 males who compete in the ECNL.

- Number of players who have been called up to their respective national teams through ECNL (boys and girls)

- CRWA is a club in ECNL that offers both college and professional pathways

- Particularly in our region ECNL is the highest level of competition on the boys' side.

• How many players from CRWA are moving on to play collegiate soccer?

- In the last 3 seasons, more than 30 boys’ players have committed to play soccer at the collegiate level, with more still committing: NCAA D1 -14, NCAA D2 -5, NCAA D3 -6, NAIA -9, NJCAA -1

• Is there anything that leads up to ECNL for the younger age groups?

- Yes. The u12 or “Pre-ECNL” age group will also compete in pre-ECNL events along with their normal league play. The pre-ECNL event(s) will have a team selected by a coach, likely the u13 ECNL coach and ECNL Director, to compete against other pre-ECNL teams from the region. This event is typically in May of each year.

o We do this to expose the players to a high level of play early in order for them to learn what ECNL competition is like.

o Exposes team to the setup of national ECNL events

o Helps club gauge ourselves against the best in the southeast

o CRWA will compile the team of the best u12 players possible for the event.

Last edit: May 2, 2023

• What are the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy U13 & U15 Teams?

Red Wolves USL Academy Teams is the youth program of the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL 1 professional team. Our mission is to provide all Chattanooga metro area youth soccer players with the opportunity of competing at the highest level of youth soccer at no cost with a direct path to professional and collegiate soccer.

• What opportunities does the USL Team provide?

Professional team training and the game environment through the summer months

1. Integrated professional learning environment with our first team (culture, style of play, system of play, principles of play, club language).

2. Additional nights of training throughout the Fall and Spring seasons with the USL Academy Team.

3. Elevated possibility of moving through the Red Wolves pathway with the possibilities of professional or

academy contracts

4. Elevated platform for exposure to the highest level of soccer across the country.

*** Each player has their own unique path and we are committed to helping every player make the best decision for the next stage of their life.

• What’s the difference between ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) and USL Academy?

- Our club is a proud member of the ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) and fields teams in each 11v11 age group (U13-U19). The ECNL teams are our flagship teams, however, the USL Academy teams will be made of players who excel in ECNL competitions and their respective age groups.

- We believe in always pushing our players to aspire to higher levels of play. The USL Academy platform not only gives the players another level to aspire to but also prepares them for future opportunities in our club.

• What does it cost to be part of the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy team in the U13 and U15 age groups?

- The Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy stretches across 3 different age groups- U13, U15, and U20. Teams pay an acceptance fee. This fee covers training by experienced and qualified staff.

- There will be some additional expenses (team fees) that will be expected at a later date

- Team fees are based on the cost of items such as coaches travel, and referees. Information will be transparent and available for all to see.

- There will be financial aid available through the ‘Pass it Forward’ campaign for players who qualify. 

• What’s included and what are the expectations if I were to make a USL Academy team?

- Players who make our USL teams receive added training from an experienced professional staff.

- Attendance at practice is mandatory and expected

- Players will sign a commitment letter to the club which will state values and rules for players and family members to follow.

• What league or teams will Chattanooga Red Wolves U13 & U15 Academy teams play in?

- Chattanooga Red Wolves USL teams will compete in the USL Academy Cup.

- Mid-season games will include other USL and MLS Academy teams

- Games will be in addition to ECNL and will not conflict

- The team is expected to play between 4-6 games through the season.

• What age do you have to be to play for the Chattanooga Red Wolves Academy teams?

- The U13 team will be comprised primarily the best U13s and some U12s.

- U15 teams will be comprised primarily of the best U15s and U14s

- When creating a professional environment age should not be a factor.

- The club will also use this platform to challenge and develop players to aid them in their path to pro.

• How are players selected for the USL Academy team?

- Players are identified by our coaching/scouting staff, and in association with our network of coaches within the Red Wolves Academy.

- Players MUST be full-time within the Red Wolves Academy to be selected for the USL Academy teams.

- Players are then invited to train with the academy team, after which they may be selected to join the academy

roster

- Roster selections will begin July 1st for the Fall and Spring seasons

• Where will the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy team train?

- Training will be held at either Camp Jordan Park, Lakeshore Park, or one of our high school practice locations.

- Beginning competition in the Fall of 2023 the USL Academy teams will train on a Wednesday night in addition to

their regular team training

- This 4th night of practice follows methodology from professional academies across the world that will train players from U8-U20 4 or more times per week

- The U13 & U15 Academy teams will train in the months of September, October, November, (Fall), and January,

February, March, April (Spring). 7 Total Months.

• Where can I find more information about USL Academy?

- You can find more information online at: www.usl-academy.com/about

- Academy members can also contact Mark Ward at mward@redwolves-sc.com

Last edit: May 2, 2023

• Who has the opportunity to join the USL Academy U20 team? 

Both boys and girls who are committed to the Red Wolves Academy may be invited to join the U20 team. 

• What is the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy U20 Team?

Red Wolves USL Academy Teams is the youth program of the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL 1 professional team. Our mission is to provide all Chattanooga metro area youth soccer players with the opportunity of competing at the highest level of youth soccer at no cost with a direct path to professional and collegiate soccer.

• What opportunities does the USL Team provide?

1. Professional team training and the game environment through the summer months

2. Integrated professional learning environment with our first team (culture, style of play, system of play,

principles of play, club language).

3. Additional nights of training throughout the Fall season with the USL Academy Team.

4. A higher possibility of receiving a professional contract with Chattanooga Red Wolves' first team.

5. A higher possibility of receiving a USL Academy contract with the Chattanooga Red Wolves' first team. This contract allows players to maintain their amateur status and retain eligibility for collegiate soccer.

6. The potential to be invited to train with the Chattanooga Red Wolves' first team.

7. Elevated platform for exposure to collegiate programs across the country.

*** Each player has their own unique path and we are committed to helping every player make the best decision for the next stage of their life.

• What’s the difference between ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) and USL Academy?

- Our club is a proud member of the ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) and fields teams in each 11v11 age group (u13-19). The ECNL teams are our flagship teams, however, the USL Academy teams will be made of players who excel in ECNL competitions and their respective age groups.

- We believe in always pushing our players to aspire to higher levels of play. The USL Academy platform not only gives the players another level to aspire to but also prepares them for future opportunities in our club.

• Is the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy team free or do I have to pay?

- The Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy stretches across 3 different age groups- U13, U15, and U20. Teams pay an acceptance fee. This fee covers training by experienced and qualified staff.

• What’s included and what are the expectations if I were to make the U20 USL Academy team?

- Players who make our USL teams receive added training from an experienced professional staff.

- Travel and food will be organized by the club for away games.

- Attendance at practice is mandatory and expected

- Players will sign a commitment letter to the club which will state values and rules for players and family members to follow. 

• What league does the Chattanooga Red Wolves U20 Academy team play in?

- Chattanooga Red Wolves U20 team is a member of the USL Academy League, featuring a regionalized competition to limit travel demands, a clear youth-to-professional path, the USL Academy Cup (mid-season event), and an end-of-season play-off event.

- In addition to the USL Academy League competition, Red Wolves USL Academy will have the flexibility to create its own schedule of top competition against MLS academies, international clubs, NCAA/NAIA teams, UPSL teams, and USL League 2 teams.

- The team is expected to play between 12-16 games this season.

• What age do you have to be to play for the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy teams?

The U20 team will be comprised of players between 16-20 years old (Birth years 2007-2004)

• How are players selected for the USL Academy team?

- Players are identified by our coaching/scouting staff, and in association with our network of coaches within the Red Wolves Academy.

- Players MUST be full-time within the Red Wolves Academy to be selected for the USL Academy teams.

- Players are then invited to train with the academy team, after which they may be selected to join the academy

roster

- Roster selections will begin April 1st for the summer season.

• Where will the Chattanooga Red Wolves USL Academy team train?

- Training will be held at either Camp Jordan Park, Lakeshore Park, or Chattanooga Christian School.

- Beginning competition in the summer of 2023, we will train 4 days a week with 1 or 2 games per week. As we transition to the fall season, training will take place on Wednesday nights in addition to your respective age group team training with games scheduled around your respective age group team. The spring session will be scheduled around your respective high school schedule as needed.

• Where can I find more information about USL Academy?

- You can find more information online at: www.usl-academy.com/about

- Academy members can also contact Mark Ward at mward@redwolves-sc.com

Last edit: May 2, 2023

• How can I figure out If I am ‘trapped’ for U15 Soccer?

You are playing U15 soccer and still in Middle School.

• What does ‘trapped’ mean?

The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) decided to split soccer by birth year instead of the school year. That means at U15 those 8th Graders born after September may not be in High School yet, like their club teammates. Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) prevents high school students from playing both Club and High School soccer at the same time. Therefore, there is often a group of players who are left without soccer year-round.

• Are the situations different for Girls and Boys in Tennessee?

Yes for Girls, High School soccer is in the Fall (August-October), and club soccer is in the Winter/Spring (November-May). For boys, Club Soccer is in the Fall/Winter (August-January), and High School soccer is in the Spring (February-May)

• What about players in GA? How do the trapped players and High School seasons affect them?

Georgia High School and Club Soccer are aligned on both the boy's and girls’ sides. Club Soccer is in the Fall and Winter (August-January). High School Soccer in the Spring (February-May). Trapped players in GA occur in the spring for both Boys and Girls players.

• Will the Chattanooga Red Wolves Academy offer Trapped players year-round soccer?

Yes, your club fee commits you to the club for 1 seasonal year. As a club, we are committed to you for 1 seasonal year.

• What does year-round soccer look like for a ‘trapped’ player?

You will have your season (spring or fall) with your club team. When your teammates are in High School Season the club will offer training and games. Games are based on the number of players available.

• What are the training or game scenarios for a ‘trapped’ player?

At an absolute minimum training will be 1x Training Academy session and 1x group training session (2 sessions per week). The opportunity for games comes from the number of players available, we do not know this until the season has started.

• What type of game schedule would a ‘trapped’ team play?

The schedule would be friendlies and tournaments. No league play opportunities as the leagues are not operating in the U15 age group during these months.

• I live in GA, Can I play High School and Club soccer at the same time in the spring? (Girls only)

Yes, Georgia High School Association (GHSA) does not have restrictions, like TSSA, to prevent both Club and High School participation at the same time.

• I live in Georgia, what happens if I only want to play club soccer in the fall and High School in the spring?

No problem. The club will work with you and your needs. We plan and hope to be able to offer Fall soccer to our GA players. This would be a separate roster from our ‘normal’ academy team.

• Can an 8th Grader play High School soccer?

At private high schools, 8th graders can play high school soccer (if selected), this would prevent any possibility of being ‘trapped’.

Last edit: May 2, 2023