We’ve created this guide to help both new and returning Eagles families understand how the club operates, what’s expected of players and parents, and how we can all work together to give every child the best football experience possible. Whether this is your first season or your fifth, we hope you find it a useful reference throughout the year.
History
Eagles FC was founded in 2012 when the class that just graduated from ASL was in K2. It was started by a group of parents who wanted an “everyone plays” football club. We continue to try and do this original ethos justice.
Eagles is managed by a group of parent volunteers - Chair, Treasurer, Welfare and parent coordinators for each team. Our coaches are professionals, and all have FA qualifications. Some of our coaches have been with Eagles for over 10 years. We have added new coaches over the last few years as we continue to expand our program.
Eagles FC has no connection to ASL other than that all our players go to school there. The school is supportive of the program, but doesn’t have any oversight or involvement.
We currently have 13 teams: U6, U7, U7/U8 Girls, U8, U9, U9/U10 Girls, U10, U11 Girls, U11, U12 Girls, U13, U13 Girls, U14. In the past we had almost all mixed gender teams. We have recently been adding more girls teams and the response has been very positive.
Practices
We expect all players to attend weekly practices unless there is an unavoidable circumstance such as illness or injury. We practice in all weather other than lightning, welcome to English football!! Practice is vital for player development, team chemistry, and fairness — even for the most skilled players. Regular attendance helps your child improve and ensures the team works well together. Please be mindful that we have limited spaces in our squads and a waiting list of eager players.
Practice Schedule
Games (U8 and above)
Starting in 2nd grade (U8) all teams play in the Regents Park Youth League, with games every other Saturday. Some teams that have especially eager players will also play in other leagues.
We understand that children have other commitments and may miss the occasional match. However, we expect that if your child is part of Eagles, they will be available for at least 50% of games. If your child’s availability will be below this level, please speak with your coach and team coordinator as soon as possible. We have limited spaces in our squads and a waiting list of eager players.
Transportation
Getting players to and from practices and matches is the responsibility of parents or guardians.
The club does not provide transport.
Families are welcome to coordinate carpools within their teams - the team WhatsApp group is often helpful for this.
Players are not able to return to ASL campus to take the bus service home - this is not allowed by the school as a general policy.
Coaching
Practice Coaches – Your child’s practice will be led by the same coaches each week. Only truly exceptional circumstances would prevent this.
Match Coaches – Occasionally, a head coach will have two games scheduled at the same time. When this happens, an alternate coach may step in. We make every effort to have someone the players already know and trust, though very rarely this may not be possible.
Warm-Ups – If a coach is finishing up on another pitch right before your match, we may ask a parent volunteer to lead warm-ups. This ensures players are ready to start on time.
Playing Time
We are an “everyone plays” club. Our coaches work hard to involve every player in matches regardless of skill level. However, this does not guarantee equal minutes in every match or selection for every game. Occasionally, we may have more available players than match spaces, or the level of competition may require the coach to make strategic decisions. In those cases, selections will be made with the team’s best interests in mind.
Attitude
We expect respect at all times — towards coaches, teammates, opponents, and referees. A positive attitude and good sportsmanship are just as important as skill on the pitch.
Parents
We expect exemplary behaviour from parents at all club activities. Please support the coaches, referees, and players (on both teams) in a positive manner. Any inappropriate behaviour from a parent at a match or practice may result in them being asked not to attend future events.
Communication: Spond & WhatsApp
Spond – All practices and games will be listed in Spond. Please accept or decline events every week. This is VERY IMPORTANT so coaches can plan effectively. If declining a team-specific event, please include the reason (e.g., illness, holiday).
WhatsApp – Used for general announcements, last-minute updates, and quick questions. Please keep the group focused on football-related matters.
Kit & Equipment
Matches
Full Eagles kit (Ordering info)
Shin pads are mandatory
Suitable footwear - studs or blades for grass games at Regents, astroturf or studs for Corams
Practices
Eagles practice shirt (Speak to Team coordinator or coach)
Shin pads
Suitable footwear - astroturf boots or suitable trainers (younger ages only) for practice on turf. Please do NOT wear studs or blades to practice.
Weather & Cancellations
Football is played in most weather conditions. Please assume that practice and matches are ON unless you hear otherwise from your coach or team coordinator. In rare cases of extreme weather or unsafe conditions, we will notify you as early as possible.
Safeguarding & Welfare
The safety and well-being of our players is our top priority. If your child has an injury, health concern, or any issue affecting their participation, please inform the coach, parent coordinator or club chairman. All concerns will be handled sensitively.
Payment
Payments are due twice a year, in mid-September and mid-January. We do our best to run the club near breakeven and on a team-by-team basis, therefore the amount due can vary widely by team. We offer discounts to ASL faculty and also have a generous scholarship program available if family is in need. Please get in touch with either the Treasurer, Sapna Shah, or Chairman, Alexis Johnson, if your family would benefit from a scholarship.
Playing for Another Team?
We support and encourage players who want to develop their skills by playing for another club as well. Many players benefit from the extra experience and variety.
However, when choosing to join another team, please consider how this affects your child’s commitment to Eagles:
Players are still expected to attend all weekly practices.
They must be available for at least 50% of Eagles games.
Before joining another team, we recommend discussing it with your coach to make sure schedules and commitments work smoothly.
We’re happy to support your child’s football journey — we just ask that Eagles participation remains a priority.
Thinking About Leaving Eagles?
If your child is considering stepping away from Eagles, we ask that you let us know as early as possible.
Almost every team has a waiting list, and late notice makes it hard for us to offer spots to eager players in time.
If families wait until after the school year starts, many of those children have already committed to other activities and miss out on the chance to join Eagles.
There are lots of kids who would love the opportunity to play. If your child isn’t really enjoying it or fully committed, please consider stepping aside and allowing another player to take their place.
Your early communication helps us plan effectively and ensures every child who wants to play gets the best chance to do so.
Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to the Eagles spirit. With your support, we can make this season a fantastic experience for every player.
