By Ashley Ferraro
Springs Soccer Club is making significant strides in both player development and competitive success. Under the leadership of Executive Director Laurie Thomas and Director of Methodology Roger Thomas, the organization continues to expand, with a strong focus on national-level competition and college recruitment opportunities.
The club has already made a name for itself in the Elite Club National League (ECNL) on the boys’ side, competing at a regional level. Now, the goal is to advance its boys’ teams to the national level while also pushing its girls’ teams from the National Premier League (NPL) State League into regional play.
Beyond competitive success, Springs Soccer Club places a strong emphasis on preparing players for collegiate soccer. The club has implemented a monthly college seminar series, where players and their families hear directly from college coaches about the recruitment process and academic requirements. Past speakers have included representatives from Saint Louis University, Bowdoin College, and upcoming guests from Georgetown.
Additionally, the club is preparing for its College ID Camp in April, where coaches from over a dozen colleges will scout talent and provide valuable exposure for aspiring collegiate athletes. Open to both Springs Soccer Club members and players from surrounding communities, the camp offers a unique opportunity for participants to showcase their skills. The boys’ camp is set for the week of March 23rd, followed by the girls’ camp the week of March 29th.
Springs Soccer Club has made strengthening its girls’ program a top priority, focusing on player development from the early years through the college recruitment process.
Laurie, a World Cup-experienced coach, has recently led the U-13 girls to tournament victories while maintaining a top-three league position. Jordan, the director of older girls’ teams, has further advanced the program by organizing showcase trips to Disney and North Carolina, where players compete in front of college scouts. Several players have already received college commitments, reinforcing the club’s mission to develop talent for the next level.
In addition to league play, Springs Soccer Club has made a name for itself with large-scale tournaments. The Springs Cup, held in December, has expanded to nearly 340 teams, including participants all the way from Ohio to the Caribbean. The tournament utilizes 11 parks across Coral Springs, with additional venues in Davie and Weston to accommodate the event’s growth.
Additionally, a new Spring Cup tournament in May will focus on second and third-tier teams, ensuring competitive opportunities at all levels.
“We’ve been fortunate to have incredible support from the city,” Roger emphasized. “The Parks and Rec department and city commissioners have been instrumental in providing field space and helping us continue to grow.”
Springs Soccer Club recently honored the city with club shirts at a commission meeting to show their appreciation.
With 42 competitive teams, growing national recognition, and a clear development pipeline from youth to college, Springs Soccer Club is positioning itself as a powerhouse in South Florida soccer. Notably, 78% of Springs Soccer Club’s players are Coral Springs residents, demonstrating the club’s deep local roots and commitment to developing homegrown talent.
To register for the upcoming College ID Camp or get involved in another forthcoming program, visit www.springssoccerclub.com. See ad on opposite page
