What is the Vikings FC Skills Academy?

At Vikings FC, we believe that soccer should be both skillful and fun! Our Skills Academy is designed to build strong soccer fundamentals while creating a real love for the game. Because let’s be honest — if it’s not fun, why play?

While some programs focus heavily on competition at younger ages, we focus first on the foundations: solid skills, smart habits and a passion for soccer. By doing this, we set players up for long-term success, whether they move on to competitive teams or simply keep playing for the love of the game.

Our Academy follows U.S. Soccer’s Play-Practice-Play method — a proven approach where players learn through fun, game-like activities. It’s an exciting way to build real skills, from dribbling and passing to defending and scoring, all in a natural, enjoyable environment.

Here’s what a typical Academy session looks like:

Play:
Players jump right into the action as soon as they arrive. Small-sided games with teammates their age help them warm up, get active, and start working on the day’s key concepts.

Practice:
Next, we dive deeper into a specific skill or idea. One session might focus on defensive positioning, while another might be all about shooting and scoring.

Play (again!):
Finally, players get to test their new skills in a scrimmage. This real-game experience helps them connect what they’ve learned to actual soccer situations — and it's the best way to grow.

Every session is designed to be energetic, engaging, and educational — because when kids are having fun, they learn faster and play better.

Our Junior Vikings Academy Director, Coach Mike Martin, brings energy, experience, and a passion for teaching young players to every session.

At Vikings FC, we’re not just growing soccer skills — we’re growing a lifelong love for the game.