Fall Soccer Pre-Deployment To-do List

Jennifer Dunaway
Jul 16
3 min read

This week, I had one of those “how did I miss that?” soccer mom moments.

I signed my two youngest up for the Sporting Columbus summer training camps and noticed in the first week that some of the kids were wearing a training jersey I had never seen before.

Strange, right? My kids have been playing for SCSC for four years. That would have to be an old training top in order for me to have never seen it before.

But I didn’t really think much of it—until this week when my U14 says,“When are our new training tops supposed to come in?”

New training tops? Oh. NEW training tops.

Clearly, I missed something. So here we are, in July, ordering uniforms because this mom just can’t keep up. (They’ll be here in 7–10 days, son, don’t worry.)

Also, in July, I’m sitting here going through my Pre-Deployment Checklist (thanks Coach James at Club Ohio for inspiring that term). Because let’s be real—before you “ship out” for the fall season, you need to have your ducks in a row. We all know that come late August, we won’t be eating dinner at home—or possibly even waking up in our own beds on Saturday mornings—until November.

So, I thought I’d do some of the heavy brainwork for you and share a little to-do list. Whether your child plays Club Soccer or Recreational Soccer (or something in between), these tips will help you stay ahead and avoid the last-minute scramble.

✅ For Club Soccer Parents

Finalize Registration & Payments Double-check that fees are paid or payment plans are set, and your player is fully rostered.
Join Team Communication Channels Make sure you’re in the correct app or chat (BYGA, TeamSnap, SportsEngine, WhatsApp).
Update Your Calendar Add practices, games, tournaments, and travel weekends now. Trust me—future you will be grateful.
Check Uniform & Gear Don’t be like me. If your player needs new kits, order NOW to avoid backorders. Check cleats and shin guards for size.
Handle Player Pass & Paperwork Upload required photos, birth certificates, and medical forms.
Book Travel Tournaments will creep up fast—secure hotel rooms and rental cars before prices spike.
Sports Physicals This is an OHSAA Requirement; schedule now before doctors’ offices fill up for back-to-school season.
Conditioning Counts Encourage light fitness or soccer touches to avoid injury when practices ramp up.
Hydration & Snacks Stock up on hydration packs, water bottles, and quick snacks for long training days.
Volunteer Offer to help with team roles now—team manager, snack coordinator, etc. It takes a village.

✅ For Rec Soccer Parents

Register Before Deadlines Secure your spot and confirm jersey size.
Check the Schedule Add practice and game dates to your calendar.
Buy Basic Gear Cleats (or sturdy shoes), shin guards, socks, and a size-appropriate ball.
Pick Up Uniforms Know when and where to grab jerseys.
Volunteer to Coach or Assist Rec leagues always need help—consider stepping up.
Encourage Fun Play Kick the ball around at home or the park to keep kids moving.
Hydration & Sunscreen July and August are hot—prepare for those sweltering practices.
Join Communication Groups Make sure you’re getting league updates.
Photo Day Prep Watch for announcements about team picture day.
Keep It Positive Rec is about fun and development—help set that tone for your player.

Whether you’re a seasoned club parent juggling five group chats or a first-time rec soccer mom buying shin guards for the first time, July is the perfect time to get ahead. Because once August hits, it’s game on—and the schedule doesn’t slow down until November (or December...or January?)

So, go grab that to-do list (and maybe a coffee), and let’s make this season the smoothest one yet.