FIERCE Academy FAQs

What does FIERCE stand for?

FIERCE is an acronym that describes the attributes we desire to grow in our players:

• Fearless: Proactive players who embrace failing forward and maintain a growth mindset.

• Intelligent: Students of the game who comprehend Total Football and Positional Play concepts.

• Enthusiastic: Emerging servant leaders who stay optimistic, even when faced with adversity.

• Respectful: Unwavering integrity and extreme empathy, even when nobody is watching.

• Coachable: Seek understanding, continuously improve, and trust that iron sharpens iron.

• Empowered: Discipline and accountability fully embraced by every player development stakeholder.

What are some ways FIERCE is different?

• FIERCE began as a grassroots startup by a parent who saw a need for a different approach for youth girls soccer: keeping girls/young women engaged in the sport and playing quality soccer, regardless of whether they aspire to play at the highest level, or their paths lie elsewhere.

• Our goal is to prepare young women for the game of life. We are a boutique, women-led club with role models at the Board, Staff, and player levels.

What is a trial session?

• A trial session is an opportunity for interested players to meet prospective teammates and our professional coaching staff.

• Players get to attend a FIERCE practice with one of our teams at any time of the year! Check out our tryouts page for more information.

What if I can't make it to tryouts, or they already happened?

• If you are unable to make tryouts, that’s okay! Due to FIERCE’s year-round structure and indoor trainings, players can attend a trial session with our teams at any time.

• Before you can attend a trial session, you must register your player through PlayMetrics using this link.

• Once you have registered, our staff will email you age-specific times and locations.

What training facilities does FIERCE use?

• McNeil High School: 5720 McNeil Dr, Austin, TX 78729

• LISD Fields: Leander HS, Vista Ridge HS, Rouse HS, Gupton Stadium

• Round Rock Sports Center (Indoor): 2400 Chisholm Trail Rd, Round Rock, TX 78681

What is futsal?

• Futsal is indoor soccer played on a hard surface in a small space without using walls. This type of soccer allows players to get many more touches on the ball in the same amount of training time and teaches them to increase their speed of play and situational awareness.

When does the season run?

• FIERCE season: year-round training

• CAYSA: September - November, February - April

How often do Academy teams train?

• Academy teams have 2 outdoor trainings per week, with additional indoor futsal sessions every other Sunday.

How many Academy teams are there?

• For TY24-25, FIERCE's Academy program has 4 teams with rosters based on player proficiency.

• Below is FIERCE's anticipated team outlook for TY25-26:

When are Academy games?

• League games fall on Saturdays, with CAYSA typically scheduling matches back-to-back.

• Tournament matches can fall on a Sunday.

How many tournaments do Academy teams play in?

• Academy teams will compete in 1-2 tournaments throughout the year-long season.

• Typically, tournaments will take place at the beginning of Fall and/or after the Spring season concludes.

Does FIERCE have goalkeeper training?

• Currently, FIERCE offers once a week goalkeeper training sessions with professional coaches that also serve on the Olympic Development Program (ODP) staff.

• In addition to weekly training, full-time goalkeepers at FIERCE receive a free keeper kit and a seasonal glove stipend.

Does FIERCE offer scholarships?

• FIERCE partners with a third party system (Independent School Management) to provide an unbiased method of administering need-based financial aid to our players.

• For financial aid questions, please contact FinancialAid@fierceunited.com.

Are players allowed to play up in age groups?

• If our professional staff deems a player capable of handling the challenge, it is possible for them to play up an age group.

Can parents observe training?

• Parents are encouraged to observe so they can meet other parents, players, and see the top level instruction FIERCE provides.

• We only request that parents stay off the pitch/floor and do not interrupt the training.

Are there volunteer hours required for families?

• FIERCE does not require volunteer hours for families, but we do have opportunities for parents to volunteer as Team Managers or supporting FIERCE events like the annual FIERCE Cup fundraiser.

How does the onboarding process work?

1. In order to try out with FIERCE, your player must register in PlayMetrics.

2. If FIERCE is a good fit, an offer letter will be sent to your player through PlayMetrics.

3. To complete registration with the league, your player must also register in GotSport.

4. Upon completion of these items, our staff will begin the remainder of the onboarding process, including sending your player their personalized uniform order link.

5. From that point forward, all invoices and communication will come through PlayMetrics.

What if I have more questions?

• A senior staff member can answer all of your questions at the time of your choosing!

• Schedule a quick virtual meeting or phone call to learn more about our programs using this link.

Schedule a time