Youth Athletics
Our athletic programming allows youth to experience a new sport or enhance their skills in a sport they already love. With a variety of camps, clinics, and leagues offered for all ages, your child will be active year round as they grow and develop their athletic ability.
2026 Youth Soccer League
Welcome to BTPD’s first year of recreational youth soccer league in partnership with MLS Go! Our league is designed to inspire a love for the game while helping young athletes grow in skill, confidence, and teamwork. Open to players of all experience levels, the league provides a fun, safe, and supportive environment where kids can learn the fundamentals of soccer. Your athlete will participate in age-appropriate training with our volunteer coaches who will guide players through MLS Go structured weekly practices and games. This youth soccer league will play an 8-game season on Saturday mornings. Each team will also practice one night a week for the duration of the season.
Important Dates
-
Registration Begins: Wednesday, April 1
-
Registration Deadline: Monday, July 6
-
Practices Begin: Week of July 28
-
Games Begin: Saturday, August 8
League Information
Registrations after July 6 will be placed on a waitlist while teams are formed with registered participants. Please note: Once teams are formed, you will only be contacted if we are able to accommodate your child.
League Cancellation Policy
All cancellation requests received prior to July 6 will be assessed a $5 service fee. No refunds issued after July 6
Please note: Park District staff will make every effort to reschedule all games that are cancelled due to inclement weather if time and space allows. Participants will not be refunded for canceled games that are not played.
Fees
Tiny Tots (3-year-olds) and Pre-K to 7th Grade: Residents: $75 (includes MLS inspired uniform)
Volunteer Coaches Needed!
The youth soccer league relies on volunteer coaches and every team must have a coach. If you are interested in coaching for the 2026 Fall Soccer League, please email LindseyL@btpd.org
Contact our registration team at 815-933-9905, Monday-Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or email us at Athletics@btpd.org.
Soccer Programs
MLS GO
Participants can have fun and gain coordination and self-esteem while learning the fundamentals of this popular team sport. Basics such as passing, shooting and dribbling are taught.
Chicago Fire
Chicago Fire gives children an introduction to a soccer program where children and parents can take their first steps in soccer together! Using the fun of play and imaginative stories, Little Sparks facilitates a child’s physical, mental and social-emotional development through the game of soccer!