AFC Lightning Soccer Club

★★★★★Zach Eyster

My kid finished the season more passionate about the game and committed to improving than when he started. There is no better testimonial I can think of, and we are excited to continue with the club!

★The RealKeke

I’m deeply disappointed with the way this soccer team treated my 8-year-old nephew. He’s an amazing kid with so much energy, passion, and talent for the game, but unfortunately, the coaches showed very little patience or understanding with my nephew who was a starter on the team. Instead of helping him channel his focus and excitement in a positive way — as good youth coaches should — they often made him feel singled out and discouraged. Every child deserves a supportive and patient environment, especially in youth sports where confidence and teamwork are being built. My nephew came into this experience excited to play and grow, but he left feeling misunderstood and left out. As an Aunt/ Parent that’s heartbreaking to see. I truly hope this team (and others like it) will take the time to learn more about building young boys to succeed and how to support kids who learn and focus differently. A little empathy and patience can make all the difference — not just for my nephew, but for every child who deserves to feel included and valued on the field. — A concerned and disappointed Aunt/Parent

★Kyra King

We were initially impressed with Lightning, especially after one of the coaches invited my son to try out. Coming from Fayette Rec, where he was a standout player, he was excited to make the team and play under Coach Ballmore — who has been supportive and encouraging from the start. Unfortunately, our experience took a negative turn due to Coach Dave, who is not my son's coach. Despite that, he’s repeatedly inserted himself into situations involving my son, including telling other coaches to take him out of games and emailing me to say my son wouldn’t be rostered for an upcoming match due to a lack of focus. This was followed by a suggestion that we return to recreational soccer — something I found completely unprofessional, especially considering this is my son’s first year in club soccer and he’s still learning the game. Constructive feedback is one thing, but undermining a young player’s confidence and threatening removal from the team sends the wrong message. We expected a more supportive and developmental environment from a club like Lightning. Disappointed in how this was handled.

★★★★★Matt L

Really happy with the experience. My daughter has learned a lot on the field in terms of the game itself, but she’s learned more important life lessons about teamwork, leadership and confidence.

★★★★Chris Daniel

4 out of 5 because there is always room for improvement and AFC recognizes this fact. My oldest daughter played here and my wife and I were so impressed that we brought our other children over, as well and after 12 years of coaching elsewhere, I came to AFC to coach. This is a club with deep roots in its community and a long history of success. The club and experience are centered around developing the player. This well-respected club has won national championships and remains an independent club that favors substance over style.