San Antonio United Soccer Club

★S N

Our family had a very disappointing and concerning experience with SA United Soccer Club while our son was part of their MLS Next program. The most serious issue involved a screenshot we obtained of a direct conversation between coaches discussing player evaluations. In that exchange, when another coach asked for feedback on a player (our son), the response included the statement: “I don’t even care if you make up some bullshit” regarding what could be communicated to parents. As parents, this was shocking and completely destroyed any trust in the evaluation and feedback process. It raised serious concerns that player assessments were not being communicated honestly or professionally. What makes this even more troubling is that throughout the season, we never received any direct concerns about our son’s performance. The feedback we were given during the year was neutral to positive, and we remained fully supportive of the team, attending practices, games, and traveling for events. Because of this, we were blindsided when, at tryouts, our son was moved down to a lower team without any prior conversation, warning, or explanation. At no point during the season was there any indication that this decision was coming. In addition to this, communication from the club was extremely poor. We were told there would be a “team mom” handling updates, but we were never properly introduced or included in any structured communication. The only consistent communication we received from the club was related to payments. Our son also experienced long delays in receiving uniforms due to internal club issues, despite repeated requests. Overall, we found the club to lack transparency, professionalism, and proper communication expected at the MLS Next level. The facilities and organization also did not reflect the high fees families are required to pay, with poor field conditions and inconsistent standards during travel tournaments. We strongly encourage families to do a thorough research before joining SA United. Based on our experience, we would not recommend this club to parents who expect honesty, clear communication, and accountability in player development decisions.

★B T

After a year with SA United involving both a 5-year-old in Rising Stars and a 15-year-old in MLS Next Academy, our family has spent over $12,000 on training fees, uniforms, coaching costs, travel, and tournament participation. (Google it to confirm) Unfortunately, the experience has not aligned with the expectations set by the organization or justified the financial investment. Many tournaments marketed as MLS Next events serve only as qualifiers for higher-level competitions, and SA United teams consistently failed to advance past initial rounds. Academy teams were often assigned to fields located more than 30 minutes from the main venue where college and professional scouts were present. One scout even stated that Academy matches were not worth evaluating compared to Homegrown or ECNL programs, which receive priority attention. In addition, the club lacks transparency regarding rules and disciplinary policies. Families are not provided clear guidelines upfront and often learn of requirements only after a violation occurs. For example, my 15-year-old received a one-game suspension for not providing a coach-approved reason for missing practice. Consequences such as reduced playing time or suspension appear to be determined case-by-case without published standards. Given the significant costs of mandatory out-of-state travel, coaching fees, and additional tournament expenses, the competitive results and developmental value have been disappointing. Teams frequently faced lopsided losses, and the level of exposure did not reflect the financial and time commitment required. I recommend that parents thoroughly research the assigned coach, team roster, and competitive tier before committing to any club. Request a full fee schedule and written policies in advance, and evaluate whether the level of exposure and development justifies the travel and cost when compared to ECNL or other established leagues. For our family, the MLS Next Academy tier did not deliver value commensurate with the expense and expectations set by the organization. There are better clubs in SA.

★★★★★Teresita Unda

Our family has been with this club for three years, and now our little one has joined as well. My kids both love it! We absolutely recommend it. Communication is clear, the coaches are supportive, and they really care about helping the kids grow and enjoy the sport. We’ve had a wonderful experience so far. Thank you SAU💛

★★★★Thomas Chittenden II

Beautiful fields that are well kept, parking is a little tough but that’s pretty normal for soccer complexes. Definitely one of the nicer complexes we’ve visited in the area.

★★eddie lira

I don’t understand how San Antonio clubs are charging $2,000+ per player, yet hosting games and tournaments at fields with no shade, no restroom facilities, no seating areas, and barely any parking. How does that make sense? The fields are just OK — nothing special, and certainly not worth the price families are paying. No place to sit, no protection from the sun, and minimal infrastructure for large crowds during tournaments. What’s even more frustrating? The YMCA provides better facilities — shade, bathrooms, seating — and it’s way more affordable. So why aren’t these clubs partnering with the Y or similar community organizations? Because they’d rather charge families excessive fees for subpar setups, rather than align with more reasonable, community-driven solutions. San Antonio deserves better. If we’re going to invest in our kids, the facilities should match that commitment.