Sofios Soccer Park
39 N Old State Rd Norwalk, Oh 44857
Stronger Together, Greater Forever
Greater Firelands Soccer Association (GFSA)
is proud to be the heartbeat of soccer in North Central Ohio, uniting vibrant communities of players, coaches, families, and supporters. With a rich legacy of fostering talent and passion, GFSA represents a bold vision for the future of soccer in our region. Whether through recreational leagues, competitive club teams, elite pre professional programming, or league play we are dedicated to nurturing players and the playing of the game at every stage of the journey.
With a focus on innovative training, strategic play, and a culture of excellence, GFSA is poised to redefine soccer in our region. From a child’s first touch to their pursuit of high-level competition, the Greater Firelands Soccer Association is here to inspire and empower the next generation of soccer enthusiasts.
Upcoming Programs
2026
2026/2027
Lorain County Team Tryouts
Take the Next Step in Your Soccer Journey
We're excited to launch our new Lorain County club teams and invite players who are ready to grow their game in a positive, competitive environment. At Greater Firelands Soccer Association, we welcome both returning and new club players. Our player-first philosophy focuses on developing athletes through a step-by-step approach that builds technical ability, confidence, character, and leadership both on and off the field. Our success is built on three core values:
- Club Culture
- Work Ethic
- Teamwork
These principles guide everything we do and create an environment where players can reach their full potential while enjoying the game.
Tryout Information:
Dates:
- Wednesday, July 16
- Thursday, July 17
Location:
16218 Chamberlain Rd.
Grafton, OH 44044
Tryout Times:
- Birth Years 2015–2018: 5:30 PM
- Birth Years 2012–2014: 6:30 PM
Please arrive 10 minutes early for check-in.
Club Season Information
Fall Season
- Season: August–October
- Practices: 2 evenings per week
- League Games: 6–8 games
- Game Days: Saturdays
Spring Season
- Season: April–June
- Practices: 2 evenings per week
- League Games: 6–8 games
- Game Days: Saturdays
Tournament Play
Club teams also participate in scheduled tournaments throughout the year, with tournament fees included in the club registration fee.
Financial Assistance
We believe every child should have the opportunity to play. Scholarships and a variety of fundraising opportunities are available to help make club soccer accessible to all families.
Questions?
For additional information, please email nico@greaterfirelands.com.
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2026 Fall Recreation Soccer
Join Greater Firelands FC this fall for a fun, developmental soccer experience designed for players of all skill levels! Our Fall Recreation Soccer program provides a convenient, family-friendly environment where players can learn the game, build confidence, make friends, and develop their skills throughout the season. All practices and games take place at Sofios Park in Norwalk, Ohio, giving families the convenience of one central location for both weekly practices and games.
What Players Receive
- Weekly team practices with their coach
- Weekly games throughout the season
- Skill development in a fun and supportive environment
- Opportunities to build teamwork, sportsmanship, and confidence
Important Dates:
Late Fee Begins: August 1, 2026
Registration Closes: August 15, 2026
Meet the Coach & Picture Day: September 5, 2026
Season Kickoff: September 12, 2026
Final Game Day: October 17, 2026
Weather Make-Up Date: October 24, 2026
New Age Formation Guidelines for Fall 2026
Greater Firelands FC will be implementing updated age formation guidelines this fall. Please review the information below before registering, as some players may be placed differently than in previous seasons. What's changing?
New Seasonal Age Calendar
Teams will now be formed using a soccer year that runs from August 1 through July 31.
Aligned with National Soccer Organizations
Our age groups will now align with those used by national organizations, including U.S. Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, and American Youth Soccer Organization. This creates consistency across leagues, tournaments, and registration systems.
Keeping Players with Their Classmates
If a player falls outside the standard age cutoff, we will place them with their current school grade whenever possible to support friendships, social development, and a positive team experience.
Fall 2026 Age Group Chart
U5 August 1, 2021 - July 31st, 2022
U6 August 1, 2020 - July 31st, 2021
U7 August 1, 2019 - July 31st, 2020
U8 August 1, 2018 - July 31st, 2019
U9-U10 August 1, 2016 – July 31, 2018
U11-U14 August 1, 2012 – July 31, 2016
Please review the updated age chart carefully before registering your player. If you have questions about placement, our staff is happy to help guide you to the appropriate division.
Early Registration closes July 31st. Late registration begins on
August 1st until August 15th. Register early to avoid additional fees and prepare for an exciting fall season!
FACILITIES
Our Sponsors
Special thanks to our dedicated sponsors for their unwavering support. Your generosity fuels our passion for the game and empowers our players to reach new heights. We're grateful for your commitment to our soccer club's success.
Testimonials
The Firelands Huddle
Transition to Grade-Year Age Grouping At Greater Firelands FC, our focus has always been on doing what’s best for our players both on and off the field. As we continue to grow and align with the broader soccer landscape, we are transitioning back to grade-year age grouping. This change allows us to better serve our athletes socially, developmentally, and competitively—while staying consistent with national standards.
Greater Firelands and Firelands United are joining forces to create an unprecedented pathway for soccer players across Northern Ohio. Both organizations share a common vision: building a sustainable local soccer system that keeps talent, opportunity, and passion right here in the Firelands region. Why This Partnership Matters Firelands United has long aimed to provide local players opportunities to reach higher levels without leaving the area. Greater Firelands has a proven track record of developing youth players and supporting families who care deeply about the game. By partnering, these organizations are combining their strengths: youth development, elite competition, and community engagement — all under one unified system. Goals of the Partnership Player Pathway: Create a clear route from youth soccer to college and beyond. Coaching & Development: Share education, mentorship, and training opportunities. Community Engagement: Offer camps, clinics, and events that bring players and families together. Long-Term Growth: Develop a pipeline that showcases the pride and talent of the Firelands region. What’s Next Together, Greater Firelands and Firelands United plan to host joint training sessions, player ID events, summer tournaments, and community programs that strengthen both the competitive and recreational soccer experience. Families, players, and coaches will benefit from a connected, consistent system that makes soccer more accessible, inclusive, and fun. Stay tuned for our upcoming interview with Firelands United director Andrew Chwalik , to learn more about how this partnership will impact players, families, and the future of soccer in the Firelands region.
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