The World Cup Is Here. Is Your Child Ready to Play?

This summer, soccer is everywhere.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup taking place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, families all over the country are watching the game, learning the names of new players, cheering for favorite teams, and feeling the energy that only soccer can bring.

For kids, that excitement can be powerful.

They see the big goals, the creative dribbling, the celebrations, the teamwork, the joy, and they start to wonder:

Could I play soccer too?

At Southeast Soccer Club, the answer is yes.

A Local Club for Southeast Portland Families

Southeast Soccer Club has been providing youth soccer to SE Portland since 1979. Our goal is simple: help kids play the game in a safe, welcoming, affordable, and fun environment.

Whether your child is brand new to soccer or already kicking a ball around every chance they get, SESC has a place for them.

Our programs include:

  • Mighty Mites for PreK through 1st grade players

  • Recreation soccer for 2nd through 8th grade players who want to play, learn, and have fun with friends

  • Development soccer for 2nd through 4th grade players ready for a more focused training environment

  • Competitive soccer for 5th through 8th grade players looking for year-round training, tournaments, and league play

From a child’s first small-sided game to more advanced team environments, we believe soccer should help kids build confidence, friendships, discipline, creativity, and a lifelong love of the game.

Why Now Is a Great Time to Get Involved

The World Cup reminds us why soccer is called the world’s game. It brings people together across countries, cultures, neighborhoods, and generations.

That same spirit is at the heart of youth soccer.

A child does not need to dream of playing in a World Cup to benefit from soccer. They might simply need a place to run, laugh, learn, make friends, try hard things, and feel like they belong.

At SESC, we want players to experience all of that.

We want kids to learn that mistakes are part of growth. We want them to discover what it feels like to be brave on the ball. We want them to celebrate teammates, listen to coaches, compete with joy, and keep coming back because soccer feels like home.

New to Soccer? You Belong Here.

If your family is new to the sport, you do not need to know all the rules before signing up. You do not need expensive private training. You do not need to already be part of a soccer community.

You just need a child who wants to play.

Our recreation and Mighty Mites programs are great entry points for families looking to get started. Players learn the game through practices, games, teamwork, and encouragement from volunteer coaches who care about helping kids grow.

For players who are ready for more, our development and competitive programs offer additional training, league play, and a pathway to keep growing within the club.

Come Play With Us

If your child has been watching the World Cup and asking about soccer, this is a great time to help them take the next step.

Come join Southeast Soccer Club and be part of a community that has been helping kids play soccer in SE Portland for generations.

Fall registration is open now for Mighty Mites and Recreation soccer.

Learn more about our programs, find the right fit for your child, and register today.

Explore SESC Programs