Keeping Youth Sports Affordable: How NPSC is Fighting Rising Costs
Amie Bowman • July 1, 2025
Across Virginia and the country, families are feeling the pinch when it comes to the cost of youth sports. From uniforms and field rentals to coaching and equipment, expenses are climbing—making it harder for kids to participate in the sports they love. At Northern Piedmont Sports Club (NPSC), we recognize this challenge and are working hard to keep recreational and travel sports accessible and affordable for all families in our community.
The National Trend: Rising Costs in Youth Sports
According to recent studies, the average family spends over $700 per child, per sport, each year—and that number increases dramatically for travel programs. The costs come from a variety of factors: facility fees, referee shortages, rising insurance premiums, and the need to pay qualified coaches and staff. In Northern Virginia, where field space is limited and competition is high, those costs are often even more pronounced.
But at NPSC, we believe every child should have the opportunity to play, grow, and learn through sports—regardless of their family’s financial situation.
Prioritizing Affordability
We are committed to offering some of the most competitively priced programs in our region. Whether it's recreational soccer and volleyball or travel soccer, we continually evaluate and adjust our budgets to ensure that participation fees remain reasonable.
Here are a few key strategies NPSC uses to keep costs down:
- Community Partnerships
We actively collaborate with local government agencies, school districts, and community organizations to secure field space at reduced rates and access shared resources. These partnerships are essential in minimizing overhead and avoiding high rental fees that often get passed on to families. - Volunteer-Led Programming
A large portion of our recreational programs are led by dedicated parent and community volunteers. Their passion and time allow us to keep staffing costs low without sacrificing the quality of the player experience. We offer ongoing coach education and support to ensure that volunteers are confident and effective in their roles. - In-House Management of Operations
Unlike many clubs that outsource league management or coaching, we manage most of our operations in-house. This allows us to streamline expenses and maintain quality control, while avoiding third-party fees that can drive up registration costs. - Uniform Reuse and Value Bundles
For our recreational soccer and volleyball programs, we offer uniform reuse options and simple, low-cost kits that can be worn for multiple seasons. This approach minimizes waste and keeps family expenses predictable. - Financial Assistance Programs
We never want cost to be the reason a child can’t play. NPSC offers need-based scholarships and payment plans in both our recreational and our travel programs to ensure that families facing financial hardship can still participate. Our fundraising efforts and sponsorships help support these initiatives and bridge the gap for players in need.
Looking Ahead: Smart Growth, Sustainable Choices
As we expand our offerings and enhance our programs, we are careful to grow in a sustainable way that doesn’t compromise affordability. We’re investing in coach development, improving field maintenance efficiency, and exploring grant opportunities—all with an eye toward long-term impact rather than short-term profit.
We also remain committed to transparency. On our website, we share updates on our budget priorities, field usage, and program costs with our board and stakeholders to ensure we are making fiscally responsible decisions.
A Community Effort
NPSC’s mission is rooted in community, and we know that keeping costs low is only possible with the support of our families, volunteers, sponsors, and local leaders. When you coach a team, help line a field, donate to our scholarship fund, or simply spread the word about our programs, you’re helping keep youth sports accessible in the Northern Piedmont region.
Together, we can ensure that all kids—regardless of background—can play, compete, and grow through sports.
Interested in getting involved or supporting our scholarship fund? Visit
npscunited.org or reach out to our team today.
At NPSC, we believe every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive through sports. This Giving Tuesday, we’re inviting our community to join us in supporting the NPSC Scholarship and Financial Aid Fund, which ensures that no child is left on the sidelines due to financial barriers. Last year, thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, we awarded approximately $25,000 in financial aid, helping one in ten kids in our programs access local sports programming. Your donation goes directly to providing opportunities for children who might otherwise miss out on the benefits of youth sports: teamwork, confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships. Giving Tuesday is about more than donations; it’s about community. Every contribution, big or small, helps NPSC continue to build a welcoming, inclusive environment where all players can reach their full potential. Here’s how you can participate: Donate online to the Scholarship and Financial Aid Fund Share our campaign with your friends, family, and social networks Encourage others to support youth sports and the next generation of athletes This Giving Tuesday, make an investment in the future of local youth sports. Together, we can ensure that every child who wants to play, can play.
NPSC is thrilled to share several exciting improvements taking shape across our travel soccer program, changes driven by the vision, expertise, and leadership of our new Technical Director, Doug Orr. Over the past several weeks, Doug has begun implementing a training model that is raising the level of instruction for both players and coaches, strengthening our competitive edge, and creating a more unified developmental pathway across age groups. One of the first major initiatives was a technical-and-tactical training session with the Boys U12 and Girls U11 teams which emphasized one of the most important concepts in the modern game: switching the point of attack. Players and coaches learned what switching play is, why it matters, when to use it, when to avoid it, where it should happen on the field, and how to execute it effectively. Over a 90-minute, five-step progression, players practiced the skills, decision-making, and field awareness needed to move the ball with purpose and break down defensive pressure. A second major event was the tactical learning session Doug led with our Boys U14 team. This session focused on preparing the boys to face the top-ranked opponent in their division. Doug designed a session centered on real-game application, using a controlled scrimmage between the U14s and an older, more experienced U15 squad. This environment allowed players to learn under pressure and coaches to watch tactical concepts come to life. During this session, Doug introduced the group to a 4-5-1 formation, emphasizing how to use compact defensive shape, disciplined midfield lines, and smart positional choices to manage stronger opponents. Players were taught when to concede possession, how to force play into less dangerous areas, and why allowing long-range shots and wide attacks can be part of an effective defensive strategy. On the attacking side, the focus shifted to the timing and purpose of counterattacks—helping players understand how to quickly transition from defense to offense with purpose and confidence. These sessions are just the beginning. Doug’s vision ensures that all NPSC players, regardless of team or age, will benefit from consistent, high-level coaching focused on long-term development, game intelligence, and competitive excellence. We are incredibly excited for what’s ahead and look forward to seeing the continued growth of our players, coaches, and entire travel program. Look for more exciting updates about improvements to NPSC's travel soccer program in the near future! #NPSCisUnited
This month, we’re proud to recognize Austin Berecz of the Fall 2025 Buccaneers (Rookie) as NPSC’s Athlete of the Month! Austin had an incredible season, showing tremendous growth both on and off the field. Whether he was pulling flags, running plays, or cheering from the sidelines, Austin always gave 100%. His energy and enthusiasm lifted everyone around him, and his positive attitude set the tone for the entire team. On the field, Austin was a key playmaker—scoring touchdowns, reading plays, and always being in the right place at the right time. But what truly set him apart was his character. Win or lose, Austin consistently demonstrated great sportsmanship. He shooh hands with opponents, encouraged teammates, and treated coaches and referees with respect. Austin is the kind of player every coach loves to have—one who listens, learns, and leads by example. His commitment to teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth represents what NPSC is all about. Congratulations, Austin, on a fantastic season and for earning this well-deserved recognition as our Athlete of the Month!
At NPSC, our volunteers are the heartbeat of our programs, and this month, we are thrilled to honor Justin King as Volunteer of the Month! Justin’s dedication to youth soccer goes far beyond coaching; it’s about connection, growth, and the joy of the game. Justin was motivated to volunteer to be actively involved in his children’s teams while deepening his own appreciation for soccer. From the very beginning, he approached volunteering with curiosity and an open mind, eager to learn alongside the players and share in their growth. For Justin, the rewards of volunteering have been twofold. First, he has cherished the special bond formed with his son and daughter as they navigated learning the game together. Those moments on the field, celebrating successes, tackling challenges, and discovering new skills, have created lasting memories for their family. Second, Justin has experienced the profound impact of connecting with the other players. Each practice and game brings a unique dynamic as he engages with the kids’ personalities, encouraging them through playful challenges, back-and-forth interactions, and individual growth moments. To Justin, every interaction is meaningful, every smile or achievement is priceless. When asked what advice he would share with new volunteers, Justin’s message is simple: “Just give it a shot. Celebrate the smallest growth in a player as a win, and most importantly, have fun. That’s what makes it all come together.” Justin’s enthusiasm, patience, and commitment exemplify what it means to make a difference in the lives of young athletes. We are grateful for his contributions, and we celebrate the positive energy he brings to the field every day. Thank you, Justin, for your dedication and passion—NPSC is lucky to have you!
This month, we’re proud to celebrate Coach Craig MacDonald , our Coach of the Month and the one of the coaches supporting NPSC’s elementary school volleyball team . Craig’s coaching style perfectly reflects what youth sports are all about: growth, learning, and the pure joy of seeing kids believe in themselves. When asked what he enjoys most about coaching, Coach MacDonald doesn’t hesitate: “The best part of coaching is seeing the improvement over the course of a season.” Whether it’s watching a player finally connect on a serve, understand team rotation, or simply smile with new confidence, Coach MacDonald finds fulfillment in those moments of progress that make all the difference. This fall has been particularly special for him. “I have a lot of returning kids from the spring, so seeing their growth over the summer and the level of confidence that has increased since the spring has been the most rewarding part,” Coach MacDonald shared. The players’ hard work, and his commitment to helping them reach their potential, shine through every week. When it comes to what inspires him as a coach, Coach MacDonald's answer is deeply personal: “It has to be my dad, who was always involved as a coach when I was growing up. I’m just trying to do the same for my daughters.” That sense of legacy and love of the game carries through in the patience, encouragement, and genuine care with which he leads his teams. Thank you, Coach MacDonald, for your dedication to teaching, mentoring, and inspiring our young athletes. Your influence extends far beyond the volleyball court—you’re helping shape confidence, teamwork, and lifelong enthusiasm for sports. Congratulations on being NPSC’s Coach of the Month!
This month, NPSC is proud to highlight flag football athlete Desmond Bennett from the Bucs as our Athlete of the Month! Over the past couple of seasons, Desmond has become a cornerstone of his team’s defense. He's an athlete who plays with determination, discipline, and heart every time he steps on the field. Desmond’s growth as a player has been remarkable to watch. Each game and every drive reveal how much effort he puts into improving his play. His defensive instincts and relentless pursuit of the ball make him a standout on the field. When tasked with getting the flag, Desmond rarely misses; and on the rare occasions he does, you can count on him to chase the play down or steer the runner into the path of a teammate. His “never quit” mentality inspires everyone around him and sets the tone for the team’s defensive effort. Off the field, Desmond’s strong character reflects the values instilled by his family. His sportsmanship, positive attitude, and work ethic shine during both practices and games—qualities that don’t go unnoticed by coaches, teammates, and spectators alike. Desmond Bennett represents what it means to be a true competitor: focused, hardworking, and dedicated to his team. His commitment to giving his best effort, play after play, is exactly why he has earned this nomination for Athlete of the Month. Congratulations, Desmond!
This month, we are proud to recognize Abby Nash and Marisa Klinkenberger as NPSC’s Sportsmen of the Month ! These two best friends bring an energy and commitment to our high school recreational volleyball program that goes far beyond the game itself. Abby and Marisa have been part of NPSC volleyball for multiple seasons, and in that time they’ve become known not only for their skills on the court, but also for their leadership, positivity, and team-first mindset. Every week, they are the first to raise their hands when something needs to be done—whether it’s helping set up, volunteering to lead warm-ups, or encouraging teammates who need an extra boost. Their coach describes them as players who embody true sportsmanship : competitive but fair, hardworking but humble, and always ready to lift others up. When Abby and Marisa are on the court, you’ll see them going for every ball and pushing themselves to give their best effort. When they’re on the sidelines, you’ll hear them cheering the loudest, celebrating their teammates’ successes as if they were their own. What makes Abby and Marisa stand out most is how seamlessly they blend their friendship with their role as teammates. Their bond sets a tone of trust, encouragement, and fun that ripples across the whole team. It’s clear to everyone around them that they play for something bigger than themselves... they play for their teammates and for the love of the game! We are proud to celebrate Abby and Marisa as September’s Sportsmen of the Month. Thank you both for showing us what true team spirit looks like!
The Northern Piedmont Sports Club (NPSC), in collaboration with the Warrenton Fields Association, is proud to announce the completion of the first phase of a multi-phase improvement project at the Athey Sports Complex. Phase One officially began on July 9, 2025 and concluded on September 1. Work is scheduled to continue through the spring of 2026. The Athey Sports Complex is one of the region’s most heavily used outdoor athletic facilities, serving thousands of youth and families through soccer, flag football, volleyball, and other community sports programs. The upgrades have addressed longstanding concerns about field conditions and ensured that the facility continues to meet the growing needs of local athletes. “This project reflects our shared commitment to providing safe, high-quality spaces for youth to play, grow, and compete,” said Amie Bowman, Executive Director of NPSC. “We are grateful to the Warrenton Fields Association for their partnership and to our community for their ongoing support.” Phase one updates included field reseeding and new sod installation that will benefit both recreational and travel-level athletes across seasons. The project is being funded through a combination of club resources, community partnerships, and ongoing fundraising efforts. NPSC and the Warrenton Fields Association will provide periodic updates as work progresses.
This month, we’re celebrating one of our incredible young athletes who showed grit, skill, and leadership on the field— Carina R. , goalkeeper for our Under-11 Girls team. Over the weekend, the U11 Girls rocked it by goin g 4-0 and bringing home the tournament championship! And Carina played a huge role in their success. 👏 Highlights from Carina’s standout performance: Saved a penalty kick during regulation play. M ade three clutch saves during the semifinal penalty shootout, sending her team to the finals. Assisted the game-winning goal in the championship match with a perfectly placed long punt—helping secure the 1-0 victory! Carina’s determination, composure under pressure, and all-around impact on the game made her an easy choice for this month’s spotlight. She embodies the NPSC values of being proactive, always learning, and being a good teammate. Congratulations, Carina—we’re proud to call you part of the NPSC family! 🖤⚽💛
At Northern Piedmont Sports Club, we know how important it is for families to plan their weekends, especially during busy sports seasons. That’s why we’re taking a more proactive approach to rain date scheduling this fall. Instead of scrambling to reschedule after weather disruptions, we’ve set aside dedicated rain dates in advance—making it easier for families to know what to expect. Soccer If the game is cancelled before September 20 th the rain date is September 21 st If the game is cancelled after September 27 th the rain date is October 19 th Volleyball If the game is cancelled before September 20th the rain date is September 21 st If the game is cancelled after September 27th the rain date is October 12 th Flag Football/Cheer If the game is cancelled before September 27th the rain date is September 28th If the game is cancelled after October 4th the rain date is October 19th It’s also important to know how weather-related closure decisions are made. · Soccer & Volleyball → NPSC will make the final call no later than 7:00am on Saturdays . Updates are communicated through PlayMetrics . If your game is still listed in PlayMetrics, it’s on! Flag Football & Cheer (at Central Complex) → Decisions are made by Fauquier County Parks & Recreation . Our goal is to notify families by 7:30am , but late field closures may happen if the County makes changes after that time. Updates are communicated through PlayMetrics . By setting clear rain dates now, NPSC is reducing uncertainty, limiting last-minute changes, and helping families plan with confidence. While no one can control the weather, we can take steps to keep our athletes playing, our families informed, and our weekends a little more predictable. We’re excited about this new approach and confident it will make the fall season smoother for everyone. Thank you for your flexibility and support as we continue improving the experience for our players and families!
