United Futbol Academy of Iowa
Parent &
Family Resources
Everything you need to support your player's journey at UFA from season dates and uniforms to tournament tips and program details.
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Season Calendar & Key Dates
Tournament dates follow Iowa Soccer's published tryout and event calendar. Check iowasoccer.org for updates.
2
Registration & Payment
Registration Platform
All registrations are managed through PlayMetrics. You'll receive a link from UFA when registration opens for your program.
New to UFA?
Start by submitting an interested player form on our website. Our staff will reach out with next steps.
Payment Questions
For billing, payment plans, or account questions, email us at ufa@ufaiowa.com and we'll get back to you promptly.
Refunds & Cancellations
Refund requests are handled case by case. Please review the Terms & Conditions and contact us if you have a specific situation.
3
Uniforms
Fall Season Uniform Deadline: July 3, 2026. Orders placed after this date may not arrive in time for the start of the fall season on August 17. Please order early to guarantee your kit.
How to Order
UFA families receive a direct link via email from Soccer Post with your player's team kit. Watch for this email after your registration is confirmed.
Uniform Vendor
UFA partners with Soccer Post for all official kits. Do not purchase UFA uniforms from any other source items must match team specifications.
What's Included
Your kit includes the items required for your specific program. Details will be listed in your Soccer Post order link. Questions? Email ufa@ufaiowa.com.
Didn't Get the Email?
Check your spam folder first. If you still haven't received your Soccer Post order link within a week of registering, contact us at ufa@ufaiowa.com.
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Who to Contact
We aim to respond to all emails within 1to2 business days. For urgent matters, please indicate that in your subject line.
5
Age Group Guide
Important change for 2026–27: US Youth Soccer has updated the age group format. The season year now runs August 1 – July 31 (previously September 1 – August 31). Your player's age group may have shifted. Use the chart below to confirm.
Age group assignments are determined by US Youth Soccer guidelines. Contact us if you have questions about your player's specific placement.
6
Travel & Tournament Guide
Tournament Schedule
UFA teams attend both local and out-of-state events throughout the year. All scheduled tournaments will appear on your team calendar in PlayMetrics. Your coach will communicate specific details for each event.
Are Tournaments Included in Fees?
Yes tournaments planned by the club are included in your program fees. Any extra events added outside of the club's planned schedule may carry an additional cost, which will be communicated in advance.
Hotel Blocks
For out-of-state and overnight events, your team manager will coordinate hotel blocks. Wait for their communication before booking accommodations independently team blocks often come with preferred rates.
Stay Up to Date
Check your PlayMetrics calendar regularly for tournament dates, locations, and game times. Schedules can update as brackets are finalized always verify before making travel arrangements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which program is right for my child?
UFA offers programs for all skill levels and ages, from our Kicker Clinics (U4toU6) to competitive teams (U9toU19). If your player loves soccer but isn't ready for or interested in competitive play, check out Des Moines Futbol Academy (DMFA) our lower-cost recreational program for U10toU14 players. DMFA competes in the Iowa Soccer Rec League at Cownie Soccer Complex and is a great fit for kids who want to play, grow, and have fun without the commitment of a competitive schedule. Email us at ufa@ufaiowa.com to learn more or submit an inquiry form and we'll point you in the right direction.
What is the tryout process for competitive teams?
Tryouts for the 2026to27 season run June 1to20, 2026. All players trying out must register in advance at bit.ly/playmetrics-signup. Tryouts are evaluated by UFA coaching staff and follow Iowa Soccer's published tryout dates. Families will be notified of placement decisions through PlayMetrics.
How does UFA communicate with families?
UFA primarily communicates through PlayMetrics (for team-specific messages from coaches) and email (for club-wide announcements and admin). Make sure your contact information in PlayMetrics is current. For urgent communications such as weather cancellations, we also post updates to our UFA Facebook page.
My player's age group changed with the new format. What does that mean?
Beginning with the 2026to27 season, US Youth Soccer moved to an August 1toJuly 31 seasonal year. This means some players may now be classified in a different age group than before. Refer to the Age Group Guide above to confirm your player's group, and contact us at ufa@ufaiowa.com if you have questions about how this affects your player.
What is UFA's weather cancellation policy?
In the event of severe weather or unsafe field conditions, UFA will notify families as quickly as possible via PlayMetrics message and email. We also post cancellations to our Facebook page. Please do not assume a cancellation always wait for official communication from UFA or your coach before missing a session.
Can I request a payment plan?
Yes. UFA is committed to making our programs accessible. If you need to discuss a payment plan or have a financial question, please email us at ufa@ufaiowa.com and we'll work with you directly. All financial conversations are kept confidential.
How do I contact my player's coach?
All coach communication should go through PlayMetrics. Once your player is rostered on a team, you'll be able to message your head coach directly through the app. Please allow 24to48 hours for a response. For urgent matters, contact the UFA office at ufa@ufaiowa.com.
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What to Expect: Player Development
Our Philosophy
UFA develops the whole player not just soccer skills. We focus on technical ability, tactical awareness, physical conditioning, and character. We believe sport is one of the best classrooms in life.
Playing Time
Competitive teams are performance-based. Playing time is earned and determined by coaches based on effort, attitude, and development not just results. Our development teams prioritize equal participation.
How Parents Can Help
The best thing you can do is encourage effort over outcomes. Cheer for your player and their teammates. Trust the coaches and the process. A positive sideline makes a real difference.
Long-Term Outlook
UFA provides a clear pathway from recreational to competitive to advanced play, including college recruitment guidance for older players. We're invested in your player's journey at every stage.
Summer 2026
UC Summer Futsal League
A free Saturday futsal league held at United Center DSM open to all teams from any club, any level. No registration fee. Just show up and play.
Dates
June 27 – August 8, 2026
Saturdays
Location
United Center DSM
Cost
Free
Open to all clubs & teams
Still have questions?
Our team is happy to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you within 1to2 business days.