What should my child bring to camp?
- Soccer ball (1 per player)
- Athletic attire including shin guards
- Appropriate footwear (cleats or gym shoes)
- Sufficient water and/or sports drinks
- A light snack or two (individually wrapped/sealed)
- A lunch (Full-Day participants only)
- Sunscreen
What makes Chicago Fire FC Camps unique?
Chicago Fire FC Camps are the only camps in the Midwest that are operated by a professional soccer club. All camps will follow a curriculum specifically designed by soccer experts to meet the needs of youth soccer players of all ages and abilities.
What can I expect from a Chicago Fire FC Camp?
Chicago Fire FC Camps offer a structured weekly experience with our professional coaching staff in alignment with the Illinois Department of Commerce’s Restore Illinois guidelines. Players will interact with their coach through a small group structure each week as they guide each participant through soccer skills and challenges. Sessions are structured around daily themes that take a closer look at technical soccer skills and holistic soccer concepts.
How do I register for a camp?
Our online registration makes it easy for us to collect important medical information and parents/guardians to sign waivers prior to the week of camp. For all Chicago camps, registration will take place through Sprocket Sports. You will have to create a Sprocket account before being able to register for any Chicago camps. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email that you have successfully completed the registration process.
What is the latest I can register for a camp?
In order to ensure that the facility and our staff are properly prepared for camp, we do not allow same-day registration or walk-ons.
What documents am I required to review prior to the start of the camps?
During registration, you will be asked to review and accept the following documents:
- Program Liability Waiver
- Participant Code of Conduct
- Refund Policy
Are there camps for children of all ages and abilities?
The age restrictions for camp vary by location. All camps are open to children of all abilities!
For children aged 2 – 5 years, we offer a Little Sparks program. For more information, click here.
How will children be grouped at camp?
Players will be grouped based on age and ability, as well as previous playing experience. We will maintain a maximum 16:1 player to coach ratio at all camp programs.
Do I need to check in for camp?
Yes, on the first day of camp, we ask that you and your child arrive 15-20 minutes prior to camp in order to check in. At check-in, we will confirm that you are registered and confirm any important information (i.e. allergies/medical conditions, adults authorized for pick-up, etc.). Parents will also be given any important information about the week of camp at this time.
After the first day of camp, participants should arrive 10 minutes prior to camp so that they are ready to start on time.
Parents/guardians are not required to stay while the camp is underway.
What will happen in the case of injury at camp?
Each of our coordinators has received basic training in first aid, concussions, and allergies. If a serious injury does occur, then the coordinator will immediately contact the parent or guardian and, if necessary, the emergency services.
It is important that parents disclose all of the participants’ important medical information during registration to ensure that our coaches are aware of any pre-existing injury or illnesses.
What happens if I am late to drop off or pick up my child, or if I want to pick up my child early from camp?
If you need to pick your child up early, or know you will be arriving late, please contact the Camp Coordinator (Sara Reilly - city, Gavin Sanchez - suburbs) so that we can be prepared for your arrival.
Are there bathroom facilities?
Yes, all camps will have some form of either permanent or portable facilities.
What happens if there is inclement weather?
We play in the rain! However, if the rain becomes hazardous to the players, coaches, or fields we will take a break under shelter and let the weather pass.
In the event of lightning, we will take the players to a safe location and wait 20 minutes after the last lightning strike before returning to the fields. If the storm lasts longer than 30 minutes, we will cancel camp for that day and make every effort to make up the missed hours throughout the course of the week. Chicago Fire FC cannot guarantee to make up lost hours due to inclement weather.
We will remain cautious and communicate any cancellations at the earliest opportunity. All communication will be done via the email you registered your child(ren) with.
What happens if there is extreme heat?
The Camp Coordinator, as well as the coaches, will monitor the weather forecast daily. If the heat index rises to extreme or dangerous levels, the camp day will be adjusted accordingly. Water, snack, and rest breaks will take place in the shade and/or indoors. We follow the below heat index guidelines at all camps - more information can be found at www.weather.gov/om/heat/index.shtml
Below 91 // Low (Caution)
Modify training to lessen intensity and length of session. Ensure that campers are staying hydrated. Monitor athletes for any signs of heat illness.
Use extreme caution. Monitor campers for heat illness. Increase amount of water breaks and take breaks in shade. Shorten session length and modify intensity levels during training.
Greater than 104 // High to Extreme
Training is cancelled for all ages.
How will cancellations be communicated?
If camp must be canceled for any reason, the coordinator will send out an email to all parents. The coordinator will then call the parents of any participants who have not been picked up within 30 minutes of the email.
What is the refund policy?
In the event that you wish to cancel your camp registration more than seven (7) days before the start date of camp, a 25% cancellation fee will be charged. No refunds will be given for cancellations within seven (7) days of the start date of camp. No partial refunds will be paid if participants miss any sessions for any reason. Chicago Fire FC will not issue any refunds for lost time due to inclement weather. Chicago Fire FC will work with the host organization to make up any missed time where possible during the week. Chicago Fire FC cannot guarantee to make up lost hours.
There is no camp in my area; can I set one up?
Of course! Chicago Fire Soccer In The Community is always looking to expand its community outreach. If you are interested in having a camp in your community please contact sitc@chicagofirefc.com for more information.
Who should I contact if I have additional questions about camps?
