Building Future Superstars: A Look Inside Sporting Columbus' U6 & U7 Soccer Program

I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down to talk with Kendra Collins, Coordinator of Sporting Columbus Future Superstars, a U6 & U7 foundational program. Kendra has been coaching for 10 years. After playing soccer her entire life including a successful college career Kendra started with the Crew Juniors program where she had boys and girls ranging from U8-U14. When describing her own soccer journey you can tell she has had some really special adults in her life making it natural for her to be the leader she has become in this player development space. Kendra described her mother with such loving words explaining how she kept soccer simple for her daughters. Kendra explains “she just wanted her girls to have fun.” Never getting caught up in politics or trying to give her soccer advice. “She was known to be the best cheerleader for us and our teammates,” Kendra has taken this with her and says for her players “I want to be their biggest cheerleader, with a soccer twist.”

Sporting Columbus Future Superstars is a program that is setting a high standard in foundational soccer development for U6 and U7 players. The program has experienced impressive growth over the past five seasons, expanding to two locations and over 70 players with a waitlist for every session.

Kendra's approach to coaching is deliberate, focusing on intentional touches on the ball and providing an inclusive learning environment for all players, regardless of their skill level. She is a firm believer in meeting children where they are, and her program is designed to challenge and support players at every level.

One of the standout features of Future Superstars is the emphasis on player development. Rather than simply providing recreational soccer opportunities, Kendra and her team are intentional about creating a training environment that fosters skill building and growth. This commitment to intentional coaching is what sets Future Superstars apart from other foundational programs.

Another unique aspect of Future Superstars is the team structure. Players participate in one training session per week at each location and come together on the weekends to play games. Teams are divided up based on ability, which provides players with the opportunity to experience both challenges and successes. This approach helps to build a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie among the players, which is essential for their growth both on and off the field.

Compared to other foundational or recreational programs, Kendra is very deliberate in what sets her program apart. "There is a difference between touches on the ball and intentional touches," she explains. "We are all focused on intentional coaching while having fun, providing good training." This commitment to excellence is why Future Superstars is attracting so many young players and their families.

Kendra and her team at Sporting Columbus are dedicated to creating a fun, inclusive, and challenging learning environment for their players. Their commitment to intentional coaching and player development is evident in the growth and success of the program. If you have a young child who is interested in soccer, Sporting Columbus Future Superstars is definitely a program to consider. Not only will they have the opportunity to learn and grow as a player, but they will also be part of a supportive community that values their individual growth and development.