Pre-ECNL Program Overview

The Pre-ECNL is a developmental platform that leads into the ECNL and ECNL-RL pathways at Challenge. The ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) represents the highest level of youth soccer in the United States, and our goal is to offer this structured pathway at Challenge for our youth teams from U9–U12.

The Pre-ECNL core values are aligned with both ECNL standards and the Challenge Soccer Club philosophy.

ECNL Core Values:

• Leadership
• Service
• Collaboration
• Competition
• Innovation
• Aspiration

At Challenge, we align these values with our long-standing philosophy:

Challenge Soccer Club is committed to the growth and development of our players and teams by always acting in the best interest of the individual player first. We provide motivated athletes the opportunity to develop their soccer skills to the fullest extent possible through top-level professional instruction in a positive yet challenging environment.

We believe soccer should be enjoyable and strive to create a fun and supportive environment for players, coaches, and families. Our success is built through the collective efforts of professional coaches, volunteers, parents, and players.

Teams are formed by grouping players of similar ability levels to ensure they can train and compete at the highest level appropriate for their development. Emphasis is placed on technical skills, tactical understanding, and teamwork.

We believe that high-level competition helps players develop discipline, commitment, confidence, and meaningful relationships, while also teaching life lessons that extend beyond the field. Respect and sportsmanship—both in victory and defeat—are expected and reinforced.

Our club is structured to serve the needs of players first and foremost. The Board and professional staff work collaboratively to support player development. The coaching staff is entrusted with making technical decisions based on what is best for each player’s growth.

To reach their full potential and compete at the highest levels, players must receive the best training available. We take pride in maintaining a culture of integrity, transparency, and fairness, while adhering to the rules and standards of all affiliated organizations.

For Questions please email 

Frankie Espinoza Burroughs Park GIRLS  FrankieEspinoza@challengesoccer.com

Alfredo Martinez Burroughs Park BOYS AlfredoMartinez@challengesoccer.com

Sam Robinson Challenge East GIRLS (Lindsay/Lyons) SamRobinson@Challengesoccer.com

Luis Flores Challenge East BOYS (Lindsay/Lyons) LuisFlores@Challengesoccer.com