
What is Sporting Wichita’s mission?
Sporting Wichita provides a positive, safe, and professional soccer environment that supports player development at every stage. As a Sporting KC Academy Affiliate, our mission is to develop well-rounded players through age-appropriate training while fostering a lifelong passion for the game.
What does “development-first” mean at Sporting Wichita?
Development-first means prioritizing long-term growth over short-term results. Training focuses on:
- Technical skill development
- Decision-making and game understanding
- Confidence and creativity on the ball
- Physical literacy and coordination
- Character, leadership, and sportsmanship
- Our approach aligns with the Sporting KC methodology and adapts as players grow.
How are teams formed and players evaluated?
Players are evaluated through tryouts, training observation, and ongoing assessment. Our directors and coaches work together to place players in environments where they can:
- Be challenged appropriately
- Continue developing technically and tactically
- Build confidence and enjoyment in the game
- Team placement may evolve as players grow and develop.
Do players always stay in their age group?
Players are generally placed within their age group. In some cases, players may train or play up when it supports their development. These decisions are made carefully by club directors to protect both the individual player and team environment.
How does Sporting Wichita balance development and competition?
- Competition supports development, but it is not the primary focus—especially at younger ages.
- Younger players focus on skill development and enjoyment
- Older players gradually transition into more competitive environments
- Long-term development is prioritized over standings or results
What additional training opportunities are available?
Beyond team training, Sporting Wichita offers optional development opportunities such as:
- Technical skill sessions
- Small-group training
- Camps and clinics
- Goalkeeper training
- Futsal and development programs
- Speed, agility and conditioning
- These opportunities provide extra touches and support motivated players seeking additional growth.
How does the club support goalkeeper development?
Sporting Wichita offers dedicated goalkeeper training for age-appropriate players, focusing on technical skills, decision-making, and position-specific development. At younger ages, players are encouraged to experience multiple positions before specializing.
How are practice schedules and field usage determined?
Practice schedules are based on:
- Age-appropriate training needs
- Available field space
- Coach availability
- Efforts to keep age groups and teams together
- Training sessions use modified field sizes when appropriate to maximize touches, decision-making, and development—consistent with the Sporting KC training model
What expectations are in place for coaches?
Sporting Wichita coaches are supported by club leadership and are expected to:
- Follow age-appropriate training principles
- Communicate clearly with families
- Pursue ongoing coaching education
- Uphold club values and standards
- Directors provide oversight, mentorship, and support throughout the season.
How does the club communicate with families?
Communication occurs at multiple levels:
- Club-wide updates from administration through Playmetrics based emails.
- Team communication from coaches and managers through Playmetrics team chat groups.
- Director availability for questions or concerns
- Open, respectful communication helps ensure the best experience for players and families.
What is included in club fees?
Fees vary by age and level but typically include:
- League participation
- Coaching and training
- Facility usage
- Goalkeeper training (age-appropriate)
- Club administration and support
- Additional event or travel costs may apply depending on team participation.
Please see club fees tab for further information.
Are fundraising opportunities available?
Fundraising opportunities may be offered periodically and are always optional. Teams may also organize fundraisers in alignment with club guidelines.
Does Sporting Wichita support multi-sport athletes?
Yes. Sporting Wichita supports multi-sport participation, particularly at younger ages. Clear communication helps balance flexibility with team consistency and roster stability.
How can families get involved?
Families are encouraged to participate through:
- Team manager roles
- Event support
- Volunteer opportunities
- Mentorship and community programs
Volunteers play an important role in the Sporting Wichita experience, if you have a strength or talent you would like to share, please reach out to Julie Marsh.
Email: julie.marsh@newspring.org
Text: 316-409-0061
What makes Sporting Wichita unique?
Sporting Wichita offers:
- A development-first philosophy aligned with Sporting KC
- Experienced, supported coaches
- Age-appropriate training and clear pathways
- A welcoming, inclusive club culture
- A commitment to long-term player growth
