Soccer Shots: Shaping Young Players Through Soccer and Character

Soccer Shots is a standout youth program that introduces children between the ages of 2 and 8 to the game of soccer. Launched in 1997 by former college soccer teammates Jeremy Sorzano and Jason Webb, the initiative was born from a desire to offer high-quality soccer experiences tailored to young children, a niche that had been largely overlooked.

In 2005, Soccer Shots expanded its impact by franchising, with its first franchise locations opening across Ohio, Delaware, Florida, and Pennsylvania. The company has since grown significantly and now operates out of its headquarters near Harrisburg, in central Pennsylvania.

What sets Soccer Shots apart is its balanced focus on both athletic skills and personal development. The curriculum, designed by early childhood and soccer experts, blends basic techniques—such as passing, dribbling, and shooting—with core values like teamwork, respect, and gratitude. Sessions take place in a kid-friendly setting called “Soccer Island,” guided by trained coaches who prioritize safety and engagement.

Training

Soccer Shots provides a detailed training structure for franchisees to ensure the effective launch and operation of their business. The training programs are as follows:

1. Initial Franchise Training: This core training lasts approximately 4 to 5 days and takes place at Soccer Shots' support center in Middletown, Pennsylvania or another selected location. It is mandatory for both the franchisee and their manager and is included in the initial franchise fee for up to two attendees. Topics covered include administration, brand marketing, coaching, customer service, leadership, and company information.
2. Launch Support Visit: After successful completion of the Initial Franchise Training, Soccer Shots sends a representative to the franchisee’s territory for one day. The purpose is to support the launch of the franchise, assist in marketing efforts, and standardize essential procedures.
3. Ongoing and Periodic Training: Franchisees are required to re-attend training every three years, at renewal, or if a default under the franchise agreement occurs. Additional optional or mandatory training sessions may be offered, and while the training itself may be covered, all related travel and accommodation costs are borne by the franchisee.
4. Special Training Requests: If the franchisee requests extra training beyond what is scheduled or required, Soccer Shots may provide it based on availability. A per diem instructor fee and related expenses apply, and additional attendees beyond the initial two are charged a separate training fee.

Territory Protection

Soccer Shots offers franchisees a defined and protected territory, typically encompassing a population of approximately 500,000 people. The territory is established at the time of signing the franchise agreement and is described using natural or artificial geographic boundaries.

While Soccer Shots will not place another franchise or corporate-owned operation that solicits customers within the assigned territory, this does not grant the franchisee exclusive rights in the absolute sense.

Other franchisees may be allowed to reside or establish office locations within your territory as long as they do not market or sell services there. Soccer Shots retains the right to authorize others—including other franchisees or corporate personnel—to serve customers in your territory under specific conditions, such as if you decline service requests or fail to perform.