Business Details
30 Years
experience
Youth Soccer Development in Birmingham
NorthStar Soccer Ministries was founded in 1996 with a mission to empower urban youth in Birmingham through soccer and holistic development. Our organization has grown from a community outreach program to a dedicated soccer ministry serving over 240 youth annually. We focus on cultivating responsibility, resilience, and reverence through structured sports programs and mentorship. Our experienced leadership team combines decades of local community engagement with soccer expertise to create accessible opportunities for children who might otherwise lack access to organized sports. We maintain partnerships with schools and community organizations across Birmingham's diverse neighborhoods to expand our impact.Our programs include intramural leagues, competitive travel teams, coaching development, and parent resources. We emphasize character development alongside athletic growth within a Christ-centered environment. Our staff includes certified coaches and educators who bring both professional expertise and personal commitment to youth development. We collaborate with local businesses and sponsors to sustain our operations while keeping participation costs accessible. Our 28-year track record demonstrates our effectiveness in creating positive life outcomes through sports-based mentorship.
Services
Youth Soccer Programs
Intramural Leagues
Travel Teams
Coaching Clinics
Parent Resources
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We provide soccer access to underserved Birmingham youth since 1996
- Our staff includes certified coaches with local community expertise
- We combine athletic training with character development education
- We maintain partnerships with 3 Birmingham neighborhood locations
- Our alumni have progressed to competitive state-level teams
Services
Youth Soccer Programs
NorthStar offers structured soccer programs for Birmingham youth aged 6-18. Our curriculum combines technical skill development with character education in a Christ-centered environment. Programs include age-appropriate training sessions, team competitions, and mentorship opportunities that emphasize responsibility and teamwork.
Intramural Leagues
We operate intramural leagues for U6-U12 players across three Birmingham locations. These community-based programs focus on skill development and sportsmanship rather than competition. Teams practice weekly at Cornerstone Field, Legion Field, and Hemphill Elementary locations with seasonal schedules accommodating 100+ participants.
Travel Teams
Selected players can join competitive travel teams competing in Central Alabama Soccer League and Alabama State League divisions. Our travel program provides advanced training, regional competition experience, and pathways for talented players seeking higher-level soccer opportunities beyond recreational play.
Coaching Clinics
NorthStar offers coaching development programs for volunteer and staff coaches. Our clinics cover age-appropriate training methods, character education integration, and safety protocols. We emphasize creating positive team environments that foster both athletic and personal growth for young players.
Parent Resources
We provide comprehensive resources for soccer families including schedules, field locations, equipment guidance, and volunteer opportunities. Our parent portal offers access to program information, event calendars, and communication tools to help families maximize their children's soccer experience.
People
Paul Neville
Founder & Executive Director
Founded NorthStar in 1996 after recognizing youth development potential. Holds degrees from Auburn University and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Committed to Birmingham's Smithfield Community revitalization through sports-based mentorship programs.
Victoria Deen
Financial Developer
Manages fundraising and donor relations. Former collegiate soccer player at Covenant College. Combines marketing expertise with passion for youth development. Coaches U19 Girls State League team while overseeing financial operations.
Harrison Neville
Operations Director
Oversees daily operations and coaches U14 boys team. Editor-in-chief of The Sunrise News. Balances soccer leadership with community journalism and historical preservation efforts through The Montevallo Legacy Project.
Cora Dickinson
Marketing and Program Director
Former youth soccer player turned program leader. Manages marketing initiatives and coaches U14 ASL Boys team. Focuses on building player relationships and integrating faith-based values into soccer training programs.
Michelle Chambers
Registrar
Part-time staff since 2015 managing player registrations. UAB-educated clinical research professional. Brings personal experience as parent of two NorthStar players to her organizational role supporting program logistics.
Questions
How can I register my child for NorthStar programs?
Visit our website to complete online registration for available programs. Paper forms are available upon request. Registration periods typically open 8 weeks before each season starts.
What volunteer opportunities are available?
We welcome coaches, mentors, and van drivers. Complete our volunteer application and background check. Training is provided for all coaching and leadership positions.
Are donations to NorthStar tax-deductible?
Yes, we are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All financial contributions qualify for tax deductions. Receipts are provided for donations of $25 or more.
What equipment do players need?
Basic requirements include cleats, shin guards, and water bottles. Uniforms are provided for registered players. Goalkeeper gear is available for shared use during practices and games.
How are travel team players selected?
Intramural coaches recommend players showing advanced skills and commitment. Tryouts are held annually for competitive teams. Selection considers technical ability, attitude, and attendance.
