THE CHALLENGE
Youth soccer has drifted from its purpose. Costs have risen 46% in five years. 70% of kids quit by age 13, and fewer than 2% will ever see a scholarship. In Charlotte, 70,000+ kids are effectively priced out of the sport. The game that should unite communities has become a filter for who can afford to stay in it.
THE SOLARIS WAY
Solaris United is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit competitive soccer club that returns to a model that works: sponsor-funded teams, volunteer-led programs, local play, and balanced schedules. In our first year of operations, we completed 12 team seasons, with 94% of our budget went directly to programs. Players who can’t pay are supported through scholarships. Development happens close to home – without sacrificing quality, competition, or the lessons the game teaches.
THE PATH FORWARD
The Solaris Way extends beyond the field through our four core values: confidence, leadership, empathy, and responsibility. These are practical lessons soccer teaches, and we’re building programs that put them into action in our community. Each value connects to a specific focus area, a clear goal, and a set of tangible initiatives.
Core Value
CONFIDENCE
Community Focus: Youth Access & Affordability
We instill confidence in kids by making competitive soccer reachable.
Active Programs
- Solaris Spark Fund | Fall 2025
Scholarships for local families who otherwise couldn’t afford club play. - Open Play | Spring 2025
Free Friday sessions in Cotswold throughout the year. Let the ball be the teacher.
Future Programs
- Little SOLs | 2027–28
Ages 5–8 discover the game in a supportive, low-pressure environment that builds skill and confidence from the start. - Community Clinics & School Partnerships | 2029
Free clinics, open-play sessions, and school partnerships giving more kids a place to start and grow.
Core Value
LEADERSHIP
Community Focus: Youth Empowerment
Our leadership programs develop young leaders on the field and beyond it.
Future Programs
- Solaris Horizons Girls’ Leadership Series | 2026–27
In partnership with Kristy Boyles, combining soccer with mentorship, confidence coaching, and leadership development. - Solaris Horizons Boys’ Leadership Series | 2026–27
Focused on resilience, teamwork, and growth mindset, kicking off with Night Ops events that combine endurance and team challenges with real-world skills like communication and accountability.
Core Value
EMPATHY
Community Focus: Standing With Families
We will build a strong club rooted in service, ready to step up when our community needs us.
Future Programs
- First Light Families | 2026
In partnership with a local charity, each team sponsors a family during the holidays, providing meals and gifts to households in need. - Community Service & Charity Events
Seasonal food and school supply drives, annual community service days, and charity soccer events for local causes. When a need arises, Solaris rises.
Core Value
RESPONSIBILITY
Community Focus: Equipment for High-Need Communities
We will remove the last barrier to play: access to gear.
Future Programs
- Play It Forward Gear Drives | 2026
Expanded through partnerships with local and national organizations, including Project 658 and Peace Passers. - Team-Led Collections
Each Solaris team takes ownership. Captains and players lead collections and organize logistics.
