HUNTINGDON VALLEY AA TRAVEL SOCCER CLUB

HVAA FAQ | WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE UPCOMING 2025-2026 SEASON

Everything You Need to Know About Our Player Pathways

Everything You Need to Know About Our Player Pathways

We are incredibly proud of the experience we provide at HVAA. As the youth soccer landscape continues to evolve, so do we. We are excited to offer more opportunities to meet the diverse needs of our players. This FAQ answers common questions from families and players regarding the upcoming 2025-2026 season league structure, including GA Aspire (Girls Academy Aspire) and NPL (National Premier Leagues). HVAA will continue participating in ACELA, EDP League/National League USYS Conference, ICSL (Inter-County Soccer League), and Rock League. HVAA is proud to evolve with the needs of our players and offer strong long-term development pathways through competitive leagues like NPL and GA Aspire. Our growth is a testament to our aspiring athletes who want to continue growing their game and competing at a higher level. With these exciting additions, we’re more ready than ever to help our players chase big goals, push their limits, and thrive in every stage of their soccer journey!

HVAA Proud: Our Vision, Mission, & Values

HVAA is committed to creating a positive, player-focused soccer experience grounded in our club’s core values of commitment, respect, pride, determination, courage, and selflessness. Every player’s soccer journey is unique, with different growth patterns, abilities, and ambitions. That’s why we offer multiple pathways within our program — to ensure each athlete is challenged, supported, and inspired at their level. HVAA designed a competitive travel program with the vision of offering a top soccer program that excites, inspires, and motivates players in the long term. We aim to instill a life-long, lasting passion and love for the game in each of our players. Our mission is to develop the strength of character and the physical skills of our players through education, training, and hard work. At HVAA, we are driven to develop athletes with sharp minds, strong characters, and next-level soccer skills. We’re here to build confident, passionate, and well-rounded individuals who lead with heart on and off the field.

Q. What is HVAA’s tryout process, and who determines player placement?

HVAA typically holds two tryout sessions for each age group. After the second tryout session, the age group coordinator and the professional coaching staff will finalize player placement. Finalizing the rosters for each team takes time. We understand that you may have additional questions about the overall tryout process. Click here to visit our tryout FAQs. 

Q: Why is HVAA launching new league options for the 2025-2026 season?

As our players grow, so do their needs. We’re committed to offering the right level of competition to help each athlete reach their goals. Leagues like NPL and GA provide higher-level platforms for exposure, development, and long-term success while ensuring we offer strong options at every level.

Q: Are all HVAA teams participating in NPL or GA leagues?

No, not all teams will participate in NPL or GA. For the 2025–2026 season:

  • Top teams will continue to compete in Acela (U9-U12 boys & girls), NPL (U13-U19 boys), GA Aspire (U13-U19 girls). 

  • Second teams in each age group will be evaluated for ACELA, EDP/USYS National League Conference, ICSL, or Rock League

  • Third and Fourth teams in each age group will continue participating in a competitive division of ICSL’s Fall League. In spring, the girls will participate in Rock League’s girls league, and the boys will remain in ICSL.

Player placement is determined through tryouts and ongoing evaluations to ensure each athlete is placed in an environment suited to their current ability and goals. HVAA is committed to supporting every player’s journey by providing the right level of competition, development, and opportunity for success both on and off the field.

Q: Will HVAA offer Pre-NPL and Pre-GA (U12) teams?

Yes! For the 2014 age group, we plan to identify each team as:

  • a Pre-NPL Boys team
  • a Pre-GA Aspire Girls team

However, for the 2025-2026 season, these U12 teams will compete in the ACELA league and serve as advanced development squads, preparing players for full participation in NPL or GA the following year.

Q: Will all goalkeepers continue to receive specialized training?

Yes! Our Goalkeeper Academy, led by Thorne Holder, continues to provide top-tier training for all HVAA goalkeepers, regardless of the league their team competes in during the 2025–2026 season. We’re proud to include this elite training as part of the player package for our keepers. Click here to learn more about Thorne and his highly successful GK program. 

Q: What if my son or daughter doesn’t make an NPL or GA Aspire team?

Being selected for any HVAA travel team is something every player must be proud of! Every level represents dedication, talent, and opportunity. Players may be placed on the team that matches their level of play. No matter the placement, our goal remains the same: to put each player first and continue growing their passion for the game. At HVAA, we believe every player’s journey is unique—and we’re here to support them with a team-first mindset, developmental opportunities, and the guidance they need to grow as athletes and teammates. Our second and third teams will continue to follow our proven travel program structure, offering quality development and exposure:

  • Professional Coaching & Training: Team training sessions during both the fall and spring seasons

  • League Play: Competitive matches in the fall and spring

  • Tournaments: Participation varies by team

Q: If my child is selected for an NPL or GA Aspire team, can they still play for their high school or middle school team?

Yes. HVAA supports high school and middle school participation. Our training and game schedules are designed to complement the high school season and avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Q: How many days a week will my child train?

Schedules are built to maximize development while allowing for recovery and balance. Due to their ongoing growth and development, younger children often require more sleep and recovery time than older student-athletes. Also, those teams that train twice a week give flexibility to multi-sport athletes who will continue to play and prioritize different sports. 

  • U13-U14 Top teams: Players in NPL & GA Aspire will train three times a week per the requirements from their league schedule.

  • All U15-U19 teams: Regardless of league, the club season for our high school athletes begins in late October or early November to avoid overlapping with their high school soccer commitments. Typically, our High School teams will have a short winter break from mid-December through early/mid-January. Training focuses on maintaining fitness and preparing for winter and spring competitions. As the high school season ends, players transition back into full club training and competitive play, including winter training sessions, tournaments, and winter/spring league participation, depending on their team’s schedule.

  • U14-U8 non-NPL & Aspire Teams: Fall training starts in mid-early August and will go through mid-late November. There is no set winter training for our U14-U8 teams. Spring training will resume in late February or early March and continue through early June. A coach may add additional sessions at their discretion throughout the year. During the off-season training, we encourage our athletes to develop their technical skills on their own using our HVAA Player guide here.

Q: What’s the travel schedule like for in-season regular league games?

Schedules are not yet finalized, but teams can typically expect the following:

NPL and GA Aspire are regional-based leagues and will focus on keeping travel reasonable within the Mid-Atlantic Region.

  • 4-5 home games and 4–5 away games per season

  • An out-of-state weekend travel will be required if teams advance to the playoffs and championship.

  • Both leagues follow a ‘Club vs. Club’ format designed to support player development and foster healthy competition across the U13-U19 age groups within the same club. For example, all HVAA boys NPL teams from U13 to U19 will play against the same opposing club on game day. The same goes for the HVAA girls U13-U19 age groups in the GA Aspire league. They also will take on their age-group opponents from one club. These leagues offer a club-versus-club environment to give players, parents, and coaches a unified game-day experience.

ACELA and EDP/National League USYS are regional-based leagues and will focus on keeping travel reasonable within the Mid-Atlantic Region. 

  • 4–5 home games and 4–5 away games per fall season and 3-4 home games and 3-4 away games per spring season

  • An out-of-state weekend travel will be required if teams advance to the playoffs and championship.

ICSL and Rock League travel distances may vary by division and are local, under 30 minutes, and up to 1-1.5 hours.  

  • 5 home games and 5 away games per fall season and 3 home games and 3 away games per spring season

Q: Can NPL and GA Aspire teams play in other tournament/showcase competitions?

GA Aspire and NPL teams will be required to attend one mandatory tournament event each season, which may involve out-of-state travel, including flights. Teams that advance to the playoffs and championship will also have significant travel. 

Because of this travel commitment, any additional tournament participation outside of these events must be reviewed and approved by the club. HVAA follows a club-first model, meaning GA Aspire and NPL teams are expected to attend outside tournaments together, promoting consistency, unity, and shared development across the program

Q. Are player out-of-state travel expenses, such as flights and hotels, for NPL and GA Aspire teams included in the registration fee?

No. However, team fundraising efforts will be key in helping offset travel costs, and all families are encouraged to get involved. Such fundraising efforts not only ease the financial burden but also build a stronger sense of community and support within the team. If you’re passionate about supporting the team and want to make a difference, consider volunteering as your team’s fundraising coordinator. Every contribution, whether through time, resources, or participation, makes a meaningful impact and helps ensure that all players can fully experience and participate in NPL and GA Aspire playoffs, tournaments, and showcases.

Q: Will current HVAA players need to purchase new uniforms for the 2025-2026 season? What will new HVAA players need to purchase?

HVAA launched an awesome new Under Armour uniform kit in Fall 2024, and players in these leagues will continue wearing that same sharp, high-performance design for next year. Teams competing in ACELA, ICSL, EDP, National USYS Conference, and Rock League will NOT need to purchase new uniforms for the 2025–2026 season. 

However, all NPL and GA Aspire players will be required to purchase a 2025-2026 team new uniform set for the 2025–2026 season, adhering to the league requirements. Returning HVAA players will also use the current kit alongside the new one, giving players an updated and professional look while maintaining consistency across the program. The uniform fee for the NPL & GA Aspire kit will be included in your team’s registration fee.

Brand new players selected for any of our HVAA teams must also purchase the 9-piece Under Armour uniform kit separately, as this is not included in the team uniform fee. The standard uniform kit includes a white jersey with white shorts and socks, a navy jersey with navy shorts and socks, a grey training jersey, and a 2-piece warm-up.

Q: Will HVAA host a uniform fitting?

Yes. HVAA will share the team uniform fitting schedule after tryouts are completed. Fittings will begin in the early evenings on Tuesday, May 27, and continue throughout the week, concluding on Saturday morning, May 31st. HVAA’s uniform fitting will be held indoors at the Valley Youth Center, 625 Red Lion Road, Huntingdon Valley. Our uniform outfitter, The Run Around, will have a representative onsite during all fittings to assist players and families with sizing and ordering. 

Q: Does HVAA offer a College Development Program?

 

Yes. HVAA recognizes that every HVAA player’s club soccer journey is different. As part of their club experience, HVAA high school teams have opportunities to attend and experience college showcases. Furthermore, HVAA supports our athletes who are interested in playing at the collegiate level. Coach Lena Staropoli, our College Recruiting Director, leads the HVAA College Development Program, offering guidance on recruiting, outreach strategies, and building college visibility. 

Each HVAA player aspiring to play at the collegiate level must identify their goals early and commit to the work and consistency required by the recruiting process. For those aiming to play at any collegiate level, it takes more than just skill on the field. It requires dedication—balancing academics, extra training at home, building highlight videos, and actively communicating with coaches. HVAA provides the tools and guidance, but the process is owned by the player and demands a strong commitment from the player and support from their family. We encourage our athletes to take ownership of their journey, knowing that with clear goals, honest effort, and the right mindset, they’ll be prepared for whatever path they choose.

 

  • GA Aspire and NPL teams compete in leagues known for additional strong college exposure

  •  EDP/USYS National League teams also provide other excellent recruiting platforms

Q: How will HVAA support the growth of the organization?

As part of our continued growth and commitment to excellence, HVAA is making exciting changes to our leadership team. We’re thrilled to announce the addition of a new Technical Director, who will guide us into this next chapter and help elevate our programs. Our leadership team reorganization will bring fresh energy, leadership, and vision to both the girls’ and boys' programs. Stay tuned—more details will be provided soon.

Q: How will HVAA manage the training space as the club grows?

At HVAA, we work tirelessly behind the scenes to enhance our athletes' experiences. As part of our ongoing commitment to providing a beneficial training environment, we’re actively investing in and upgrading key parts of our program. This includes securing improved indoor training space for the offseason, expanding access to high-quality grass fields, and launching new turf projects to support player development and growth across all levels. We’re excited about what’s ahead and look forward to sharing more updates with you soon. Thank you for being part of the HVAA community!

Q: If selected for an HVAA travel soccer team, what will my child's player annual fees be?

Fees will vary depending on the team and league. Check back soon to view the 2025-2026 age group and fee information. Also, we understand that the financial commitment of competitive soccer can feel overwhelming for some families. The fees will be payable through our HVAA Demosphere system. You can pay for the season in full or choose a free installment payment plan. There will be multiple monthly installment payment plan options. Also, at HVAA, we believe every child deserves the chance to play, grow, and shine on the field, regardless of financial circumstances.  That’s why we’re excited to share that our new Technical Director will spearhead a club-wide fundraising initiative aimed at supporting our teams and helping to continue to keep the cost of the program affordable. This initiative is not just about raising money—it’s about building a stronger, more connected community where everyone has a chance to participate and thrive. Whether it’s through sponsorships or club-organized events, there will be opportunities for everyone to get involved and make a difference. If you have experience managing large fundraising events and are looking for a meaningful way to give back, we’d love to hear from you. Your skills could make a lasting impact on our players and help create more opportunities for every family in our soccer community. Together, we can make this an inspiring year for all our players.

Q: What is the minimum player commitment level requirement? 

Playing on an HVAA Travel Soccer team is a full-year commitment. Once a player accepts a roster spot and completes registration, they are committed to the team for the entire 2025-2026 season and are financially responsible for the full-year team dues. As a non-profit organization, HVAA relies on seasonal player registration fees to support our Travel Soccer program. Because team budgets and expenses are planned based on full participation, no refunds will be issued after the first team payment is made. If a player chooses to withdraw from the team for any reason, the full 2025–2026 team fee will still require full payment. HVAA appreciates your understanding and commitment as we work together to provide a meaningful and well-supported soccer experience for all players.

Q: Where can I stay up to date with HVAA Soccer news?

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and make sure you’re subscribed to our HVAA Newsletter! Click here to subscribe.

Q: If I have another question about the HVAA 2025-2026 season, who should I contact? 

Contact our Executive Travel Soccer Director, Brad Sorkin, at travelsoccer@hvaa.net.

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