Alliance Frequently Asked Questions
How does the North Clackamas Alliance (NCA) differ from the NCSC recreational program?
NCA is our competitive, full-year program for young athletes demonstrating advanced skill and dedication. It focuses on intensified training, strategic development, and competition in OYSA competitive divisions. Our recreational program prioritizes fun, inclusion, and participation with equal playing time; NCA focuses on placing players in a challenging, performance-driven environment selected through annual tryouts.Is NCA a year-round commitment?
Yes, commitment is year-round, but the schedule varies by age group:
* Youth (U11–U14): Year-round, including Fall/Spring OYSA league play, 1–3 Summer tournaments, and optional Winter Futsal leagues.
* High School (U15–U19): The NCA club season is from May through August and late November through April. Players are released from August to mid-November to participate in their high school soccer seasons.Is competitive soccer organized by birth year or grade level?
Until recently, OYSA competitive teams were divided strictly by birth year, as mandated by US Soccer. Starting in 2026-2027 they are switching the cutoff date from Januar 1 to August 1. This means players will effectively be at the same level (indicated by the "UXX" moniker) as their classmates, generally. For more information, refer to the page "Player Division Calculator" under the Resources menu for more information.Does NCA support multi-sport athletes?
Absolutely. We highly encourage multi-sport participation. Our coaches will support players who need to manage overlapping commitments. We only ask that you communicate any anticipated conflicts or absences in advance.Why are there no girls teams in the Development Program?
While we strive to field girls' teams, if there are not enough registered players, girls are placed on teams competing in the boys' divisions to ensure a competitive opportunity. This integrated approach has been consistently positive for player development and overall team dynamics.When are tryouts held for NCA teams?
Tryouts for the upcoming season are held annually in May. Dates and times are announced in April.What is the goal of the tryout process?
Our main objective is to find the best fit for every player. We strive to place players in an environment that maximizes their development by surrounding them with teammates of similar skill level.What are players assessed on during tryouts?
Players are evaluated by our training team on four core areas:
1. Technical Skills: Proficiency in fundamental execution (e.g., first-touch control, passing technique).
2. Tactical Decision-Making: Game intelligence and choices (e.g., when to pass, dribble, or shoot).
3. Physical Fitness: Endurance, agility, speed, and strength.
4. Commitment to the Game: Attitude, involvement, communication, and resilience.How are teams formed after tryouts?
The top players are selected first based on rankings from the training team. Remaining spots are filled with input from the team's Head Coach, the Director of Coaching, and evaluator feedback. We aim to form up to two teams per age group.How much does it cost to play NCA Competitive Soccer?
We are proud to be one of the most affordable competitive options in our area, driven by our volunteer organization model. Fees can vary from year to year. In 2026 our Youth feees were $750, high school was $550 (no fall season), and Development was $600. We offer varying levels of financial support based on need. We never want to turn away a family for financial reasons.What is included in the NCA team fees?
Fees cover the essential operational costs, including:
* Twice-weekly trainings established by coaching staff.
* League Competition
* End-of-season OYSA-sanctioned tournament.
* Facility rentals.
* Administrative costs (OYSA league fees, player card, insurance).What costs are *not* covered by the NCA team fees?
Costs not covered by the annual team fee include:
* Uniform kits.
* Summer Tournaments (these are paid separately by the team).
* Travel expenses for league games.
* Winter Indoor or Futsal leagues.Is financial aid available?
Yes, financial aid is available. Please email our treasurer at info@ncsoccerclub.com for confidential information regarding the application process.Are NCA fees refundable?
When a player accepts a position on a team, all program fees including future payments are considered non-refundable. Exceptions are at the sole discretion of the NCSC Board.










