Business Details
45 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Youth Soccer Development
Established in 1981, Hershey Soccer Club has been a cornerstone of the Central Pennsylvania soccer community for over four decades. Our organization is dedicated to providing comprehensive soccer programming for players of all skill levels, from recreational participants to competitive travel athletes. We prioritize player development through structured pathways that emphasize technical growth, tactical understanding, and character building. Our coaching staff combines USSF, UEFA, and USC certified professionals with collegiate and professional playing experience to deliver elite-level instruction. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we maintain transparent operations guided by a committed board of directors and volunteer committees.Our programs include seasonal camps, tournaments, and specialized clinics designed to meet diverse developmental needs. With a philosophy centered on community engagement and inclusivity, we foster environments where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field. Our partnerships with local organizations and elite-level tournaments enhance our ability to serve the region's soccer community. Through initiatives like the Be Mighty Foundation, we extend our impact beyond sports into broader community support. Every aspect of our operation reflects a steadfast commitment to putting players first while maintaining the highest standards of soccer education and mentorship.
Services
Recreational Soccer
Competitive Travel
Futures Summer Select
Summer Camps
Tournaments
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of soccer programming experience in Central Pennsylvania
- Certified coaches with USSF, UEFA, and USC qualifications
- Structured player pathway from recreational to professional levels
- Community-focused nonprofit organization with transparent operations
- Elite tournament hosting and competitive travel program development
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Services
Recreational Soccer
Our recreational program develops fundamental soccer skills through weekly training and games for players aged 4-14. Sessions focus on technical drills, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a fun environment. Professional coaches guide participants while volunteer parent assistants support team activities.
Competitive Travel
Travel teams compete regionally and nationally with professionally coached squads. Players receive advanced tactical training, fitness development, and game strategy instruction. Tryouts determine placement across multiple age-group divisions for serious athletes.
Summer Camps
Week-long camps combine technical training with competitive games and special events. Morning sessions focus on individual skills while afternoons feature team competitions. Specialized clinics prepare travel players for upcoming seasons.
Tournaments
We host premier tournaments like the Hershey Cup and Memorial Day Challenge attracting regional teams. Events feature competitive brackets, professional refereeing, and facilities meeting elite standards for player development and spectator experience.
Player Pathway
Our structured progression system guides players from recreational participation to competitive levels. The pathway includes skill assessments, personalized coaching, and clear advancement opportunities through Futures Summer Select and travel team programs.
People
Demetrios Papadopoulos
Director of Coaching
USSF-certified coach with professional playing experience and college coaching background, overseeing technical development across all programs while leading NPSL/WPSL teams.
Madison Hemler
Rec Director
Manages recreational programs ensuring quality instruction for beginner players, coordinating volunteer coaches and maintaining community engagement initiatives across local neighborhoods.
Tony Potter
President
Legal professional with extensive nonprofit leadership experience, guiding organizational strategy while maintaining community-focused operations and financial transparency.
Ben Shirk
General Manager
Oversees NPSL/WPSL operations with administrative expertise, managing day-to-day functions while connecting professional standards to youth development programs.
Alyssa Eyster
Juniors Director
Specializes in U8-U10 player development, designing age-appropriate curriculum that emphasizes fundamental skills and love for the game through engaging activities.
Questions
What age groups does Hershey Soccer Club serve?
We offer programs for players aged 4 through high school, with specialized pathways for U8-U10 beginners and progressive levels through competitive travel teams.
Are there opportunities for non-competitive players?
Yes, our recreational league provides skill development and game experience in a fun, non-competitive environment with professionally coached sessions.
What qualifications do your coaches hold?
Our staff includes USSF, UEFA, and USC certified coaches with college/high school coaching experience and professional playing backgrounds.
How do travel team tryouts work?
Annual tryouts evaluate technical skills and game understanding, with placement based on ability and development potential across multiple competitive tiers.
What summer camp options are available?
We offer full-day camps with morning skill sessions, afternoon competitions, and Friday fun days, plus specialized travel clinics for advanced players.
How can families get involved with the club?
Parents can volunteer with committees, assist as assistant coaches, or join our board while supporting community initiatives like the Be Mighty Foundation.
