Lawrence Youth Soccer runs 8–10 weeks of seasonal play with weekly practices, team-building, and weekend games in both the Essex County Travel League and In-City leagues. Nearly all teams are led by former players turned Coach Mentors, who guide younger athletes on and off the field. The program emphasizes fun, teamwork, skill-building, and community, while also connecting players to Beyond Soccer’s broader youth development opportunities.
Program Overview
Travel Soccer (Grades 4–8)
Players who qualify for our Lawrence Youth Travel Soccer teams (based on past participation & more) compete in the Essex County Youth Soccer Association.
- Game/Practice Schedule: Released before the season start (Fall 2025 Practice Start: Monday, August 25th. Game start: Saturday, September 6th)
- Schedule Access: ECYSA Website
Beyond Soccer Google Calendar – To the right!
Weekly communications shared by Coach-Mentor via WhatsApp
Important Note: League rules limit travel roster spots. All registered players will play for a travel or an in-city league team. That ensures everyone gets the same amount of play time.
Jerseys and shorts included, thanks to New Balance Foundation!
Pre-K & Kindergarten
- Program: Saturday-only with pop-up weekday activities
- Uniforms: T-shirt & shorts included, thanks to New Balance & Good Sports
- Start Date: Saturday, September 13th (time t/b/d)
In-City League (Grades 1-8)
Players who do not qualify for Lawrence Youth Travel soccer teams compete in the Lawrence In-City League.**
- Practice Schedule: For Grades 1-6, practices are every Tuesday and Thursday, from 6:00 – 7:15 pm (daylight permitting). The first practice is September 9th at Greater Lawrence Technical School.
- For Grades 7 & 8, practices are every Monday and Wednesday, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. The first practice is scheduled for September 8th at the Riverwalk Pavilion.
- Game Schedule: Games are every Saturday starting September 13th.
- Schedule Access: Beyond Soccer Google Calendar and weekly via WhatsApp.
- Uniforms provided thanks to the New Balance Foundation & Good Sports!
Weekly Activities
** Many in-city players will be invited to join a travel team during the season. These decisions are made carefully by the coach mentor and Soccer Director Chris, based on attendance, commitment, and participation. Unless you’re personally contacted and added to the travel team WhatsApp group, your child will start on an in-city team.
Chris, the oldest of 9 siblings, began playing soccer at age 5. By age 8, he fell in love with the game. He credits soccer and those who pushed him to stick with it over the years with being constant positive influences in his life, always steering him in the right direction.
A BEAUTIFUL HOME FIELD — with another on the way (STAY TUNED)!
As our program grows, field space remains a challenge, with John Kane Park’s limited access and frequent closures. Thankfully, our long-term partnership with Lupoli Company provides weekly access to the state-of-the-art turf at The Pavilion at Riverwalk — the best field in the region. With a 1,200-car garage for easy parking and our offices overlooking the field, it’s truly a game-changer for Beyond Soccer.
Lead Supporters!
Since early on, New Balance Foundation has been all-in for Beyond Soccer. They’ve outfitted our teams with high-quality gear and uniforms. Also, since 2024, thanks to Good Sports, our In-City League players rock new jerseys!
