developing players. developing people.
getting started with eclipse
New to Eclipse? Here's everything you need to know to get your player on the field.
new to eclipse?
Whether you're new to soccer or new to club soccer, we want to make getting started as easy as possible. Eclipse offers programs for players ages 4-18, with options ranging from introductory programs to competitive year-round teams.
First time here? Start by understanding which program fits your player's age and experience level.
ages 4-8 (future eclipse)
No tryouts required
Future Eclipse is our foundational program for youngest players. All U5-U8 players are welcome to join.
How it works:
- You may sign up at any time for the current or upcoming program
- Flexible attendance—come when you can, we understand kids this age are exploring many activities
- Program fees are set per season and are not prorated based on attendance
How to register:
- Visit our Programs, Camps & Clinics page
- Check current offerings and registration links
ages 9-18 (competitive teams)
Tryouts required
Our competitive teams (U9-U19) require players to attend tryouts, which are held each May. Players who make a team commit to year-round training (June-November, Spring program March-May).
How it works:
- Players attend three practices per week during the season
- Teams compete in NorCal Premier leagues, State Cup, and tournaments
- Attendance expectation: 75% attendance over the course of the season
- We understand families take vacations and kids play other sports—however, we ask that soccer is your priority during the Fall season
- Players with fall sport conflicts may be placed on Solar teams to ensure fairness for those prioritizing soccer
- Regular attendance benefits both individual player development and team growth
How to register:
- Visit our Tryouts page in spring
- Register for tryouts (held in May)
- Attend tryout sessions for your age group
- Team selections announced within one week
seasonal programs
No tryouts required
Our seasonal programs are open to all players in the community and serve different purposes depending on the season:
Summer/Fall: Development-focused training for community players exploring soccer or looking for flexible options
Winter/Spring: Standard training programs that intermix community players with Eclipse club players, providing quality training during the off-season
These programs are great for players trying soccer for the first time, staying sharp between seasons, or training without the commitment of a full-year team.
How to register:
- Visit our Programs, Camps & Clinics page
- Check current offerings and registration links
- Sign up for the program that fits your schedule
frequently asked questions
what should I know before signing up?
Eclipse offers multiple ways to participate. Our Club Mission & Philosophy page explains our Five P's approach. We prioritize player development, joy in the game, and creating an environment where kids want to play.
If you can attend an Information Night in the spring, that's a great opportunity to meet our staff and ask questions. Information Night dates are posted on our website each spring.
how much does it cost?
Costs vary by program:
- Future Eclipse (U5-U8): $1,350 per season (2025 fees)
- Competitive Teams (U9-U19): $1,700-$2,350 per season (varies by age) (2025 fees) + uniform and team fees
- Seasonal Programs: Varies by program
what if my player has never played soccer before?
That's okay! Future Eclipse (ages 4-8) and our seasonal programs are perfect for beginners. For players ages 9+, we recommend starting with our Spring Program or a seasonal clinic to get comfortable before trying out for competitive teams.
what if my child is nervous about trying out?
Every year we have players trying out for competitive soccer for the first time. We run our tryouts in line with our club philosophy—kids generally have a lot of fun. If your child is particularly nervous, let us know ahead of time. One of our coaches or directors will introduce themselves to help your child feel more comfortable.
can my child play multiple sports?
Yes! We encourage multi-sport participation for healthy development and injury prevention. However, we ask that soccer is your child's priority during our Fall season (June-November). Players with significant fall sport conflicts may be placed on Solar teams to ensure fairness for families prioritizing soccer. Winter and spring sports work well with our training schedule, as those are Eclipse's off-season months.
what's the difference between Solar and Lunar teams?
When we have multiple teams in an age group, we designate them as Solar and Lunar. Lunar teams typically play at a slightly higher competitive level, while Solar teams provide excellent development opportunities. Both teams receive the same quality coaching and commitment to player development. Players with significant fall sport conflicts may be placed on Solar teams to ensure fairness for families prioritizing soccer during our season.
what's the difference between red and black teams?
When we have multiple teams in an age group, we designate them as red and black. There is no competitive difference between the teams. Both teams receive the same quality coaching and commitment to player development.
can my child play up or down an age group?
No players are allowed to "play down" per US Soccer rules. In rare instances, players may be allowed to "play up" for developmental reasons. These must be approved by club directors via email before tryouts.
how much travel is involved?
Most league games are within the East Bay and surrounding areas. State Cup and tournaments may require travel throughout Northern California. Families should expect 1-2 overnight tournaments per season.
what if we have a vacation planned during the season?
We understand families have commitments. Please communicate your schedule with your coach at the start of the season. We ask that you aim for 75% attendance overall and prioritize soccer during our Fall season.
what happens if my child doesn't make a team at tryouts?
Players not selected for teams will be notified via email and may be placed on a waiting list if spots become available. Eclipse also offers seasonal development programs (Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring) open to all community players.
can my child switch teams mid-season? can I be placed on a team with carpool/friends?
Team rosters are set at the beginning of the season. Mid-season transfers are not possible due to league roster rules. Teams are crafted to give each and every player the best experience and we do not take teammate requests.
where does eclipse practice and play?
Eclipse uses multiple fields throughout Orinda, Lafayette, and Moraga. Our primary location is Wilder Sports Complex in Orinda. Visit our Field Locations page for complete details.
why did the age group system change?
Eclipse is following the guidance of US Club Soccer, US Youth Soccer, and NorCal Premier, which have returned to an age group formation based on August 1 - July 31 (rather than birth year). This change affects all clubs nationwide. Visit our Tryouts page to see the complete age chart.
what about scholarships?
Families facing financial hardship can email eclipse@eastbayeclipse.com to discuss payment options and scholarship opportunities. All inquiries are kept confidential.
how do I get updates?
Add your name to our mailing list! We're also active on Facebook and Instagram @eastbayeclipse.
still have questions?
Contact us at eclipse@eastbayeclipse.com. We're here to help!
