Highly respected youth soccer club joins the state’s largest and most prestigious organization

COLUMBUS, Ohio – March 18, 2024 – Columbus Force Soccer Club is coming to Central Ohio in the fall of 2024. The premiere youth soccer club, formerly Barca Academy Columbus, will build on its strong foundation of respected leadership, innovative coaching, and a deep commitment to its players. 

Based in Cleveland, the Force Soccer Club network is the state’s premier youth training pathway for soccer players from age three to pre-professional. The organization has an active presence in Cleveland, Akron, Canton and soon Columbus, where it plans to expand.

"Transitioning to Force Soccer affords us a unique opportunity for players to elevate their game,” said Kirby Valle, club director of Barca Academy Columbus. “By combining our established coaching methods with the resources and pathways provided by Cleveland Force, we will be better equipped to help players reach their full potential."

The Barca Academy and its development methods emerged from its partnership with the professional soccer club, FC Barcelona, which included a player-centric philosophy, a distinct playing style, and access to FC Barcelona’s coaching and training expertise. The partnership provided a valuable model for growth, emphasizing community and staff continuity.

As part of the transition to the Force Soccer network, the club will unlock new resources and opportunities for players, staff, and families. These include:

• An illustrated and written curriculum with a common language for all staff to use
•  Coach development to enhance leadership skills, coaching, and player development 
• A capstone program in USL 2, USL W, and USL Academy for the top percentage of the club
•  Additional operational and technical staff to maximize player and family experience

Columbus Force Soccer Club prioritizes pathways for player development and club growth. Players will be offered tailored training programs in soccer skills, strength and conditioning, and a holistic experience guided by a gender-specific staff. The club will remain a member of the Columbus Crew Network.

About Cleveland Force Soccer Club

Cleveland Force Soccer Club offers Northeast Ohio’s most competitive soccer player pathways, from age three to NCAA and pre-professional status. All programs are led by the region's largest and most professional coaching staff. Cleveland Force uses a unique academic approach through a guided curriculum that trains and develops youth at the highest local, regional, and national levels. To learn more, visit https://www.clevelandforcesc.com.

About Barca Academy Columbus

With more than 700 players, the Barça Academy Columbus is the only official Barça Academy in the Columbus area for boys and girls ages five to 18. The Academy aims to develop players not only as athletes but as successful individuals with strong values learned through soccer.