May 2026 Newsletter
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May 4th - 8th Tryouts
A message from President Ryan Merrill
Dear Old Town Families,
We hope this message finds you well. The Spring 2026 season is closing in on the final month of play. Many teams will be participating in the OCL tournaments in the upcoming weeks. We wish you the very best and hope all players and families enjoy the moments and memories. We hope that this Spring season has been a season filled with growth and development. We appreciate your commitment and dedication to OTSC and the amazing game of soccer. We encourage all players to show up to all training sessions and games with a desire to compete, a hunger to learn and grow and find the joy of the game.
Those interested in getting involved. Old Town is in a transitional phase as several long term board members are transitioning to other obligations. We are currently seeking a new treasurer, registrar and if anyone is interested the president position. We are a non profit volunteer based club. Those that love what OTSC is all about and plan to stay with the club for years to come, we would love if you would take on the commitment as so many others have in the past to keep this great club thriving.
Soccer starts at home. We encourage every player to continue working with the ball at home. Building a strong technical foundation is the key to confidence and creativity on the field.
Sincerely,
Ryan Merrill
President, Old Town Soccer Club
Tryouts start next week for Fall and Spring!
2026-2027 Annual Tryouts
Aligned with the standard competitive soccer tryout calendar used by clubs across the region, Old Town Soccer Club holds its annual tryouts May 4th - 8th.
Why May? Why Practice-Based? Consistent with player development best practices, we evaluate players by integrating them into existing team practice sessions. This allows coaches to observe players in a real team environment rather than a one-off drill session. This ensures a fair and comprehensive look at every player.
All Age Groups Must Attend in May To secure a roster spot for the 2026-2027 season, all players—including High School age groups (U15-U19) and players only wanting to join a team in the spring —must attend tryouts in May.
High School Players: Even if you plan to play for your school in the fall, you must try out now to potentially lock in your spot for the club season. This is how competitive rosters are built.
Registration is required. All current and prospective players must complete the online registration form below. Once registered, you will receive specific details regarding tryout times and locations.
Summer Training Opportunities
Summer 2026 offers a wide variety of soccer camps in the Central Ohio area, ranging from recreational skill-building to high-level elite training.
Club & Local Performance Camps
Old Town Personal Training
• Personal training is also available email us here: personaltraining@oldtown.soccer
Sporting Columbus Summer Camps
Description: Offers Elite Summer Camp Series focusing on high-energy, tech-driven development.
Ages: U7–U15 (Born 2011–2022)
Dates: Multiple sessions in June and July (e.g., June 1–4, July 13–16, July 27–30).
Location: Thompson Park.
Locker Soccer Academy
Description: Known for a low 10:1 player-to-coach ratio. Programs include "Elite Juniors" for newcomers and "Player Development" for those wanting to translate technical skills into game scenarios.
Ages: 5–12 (Elite Juniors and Player Development)
Dates: Weekly sessions starting June 8 through July 31.
Location: Seldom Seen Park, Powell.
Link: Locker Soccer Summer Camps
Club Ohio Soccer
Description: Provides youth academies and recreational programs. They often host "Juniors" sessions for younger ages and specialized clinics for older academy players.
Ages: Youth Academy through High School.
Collegiate & National Brand Camps
Nike Soccer Camp at Ohio Wesleyan University
Description: Intensive technical training led by college coaches. Offers both full-day and half-day options focused on footwork, agility, and tactical awareness.
Ages: 6–14
Dates: June 22–25, 2026.
Location: Delaware, OH.
Link: US Sports Camps - Nike Soccer OH
Real Madrid Foundation Clinic
Description: A unique opportunity to train under the methodology of Real Madrid Foundation coaches from Spain, emphasizing both technical skills and sportsmanship.
Ages: 6–15
Dates: July 13–17, 2026.
Location: Capital University, Bexley.
Link: Real Madrid Clinic Columbus
Dutch Soccer School Camp
Target: Travel Players (Boys & Girls) | Youth & HS Prep Groups
The Dutch Way: Master technical skills using the famous Dutch training method.
Elite Staff: Learn directly from professional coaches traveling in from the Netherlands.
The Ultimate Prize: Standout players will receive invitations for the 2027 Holland Tour.
Exclusive: Use code Sporting50 for a $50 club discount!
Dutch Pro Camp
Target: Advanced Travel Players (Ages 9–14)
Take it to the next level with a curriculum designed by Dutch Pro Academies. This camp is led by academy coaches specifically for high-level players looking to test themselves.
Player Spotlights
Leo Gleich #1
Leo Gleich #1
Leo plays on the U13 boys team. This season Leo has been playing Keeper full time. Leo has a strong leg and a long throw. Leo has a very high soccer IQ. He is a tremendous leader in the back who makes great decisions. Leo is consistently communicating and organizing the back line. Leo is a positive and uplifting asset to the team. Leo’s transformation from last fall to this spring has been awesome to witness. He has been inspired, put in a tremendous amount of work in the off season and is one of the strongest players on the team. He has been such a joy to coach and to see a player find inspiration and determination to make life changes to be the best version of himself is what the beautiful game is all about.
— Coach Ryan Merrill
How long have you been playing soccer?
7 years
How many years have you played for Old Town?
3 years
Please share a memorable moment in your soccer career.
When I got my first clean sheet.
Why do you enjoy playing for Old Town Soccer Club?
I get to meet new people and get better.
Do you have a favorite soccer team or player?
Columbus Crew
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have always wanted to be a goalkeeper since I was 5.
98
Elliot Gibson #22
Elliot Gibson #22
He has had a great season on the U9 boys team. Elliot has become a foundational piece to our defensive unit. He is constantly positioned well and has been consistently seeking out the correct pass regardless of the pressure from the opposing team. Elliot has been the quickest to pick up on possession being key and decision making out of the back. Excited to see him continue to grow and build upon this season.
— Coach Alton Frizzell
How long have you been playing soccer?
5 years
How many years have you played for Old Town?
This is my first year with OTSC but plan on coming back stronger next year .
Please share a memorable moment in your soccer career.
When one of my teammates had my back during a game and defended me after getting hurt.
Why do you enjoy playing for Old Town Soccer Club?
I love to be apart of my team and making goals .
Do you have a favorite soccer team or player?
Ronaldo all the way
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I absolutely LOVE pizza
Volunteers Needed
The strength of our community is built on the pitch, but it is sustained by the dedication of the families behind the scenes. To continue providing a high-quality experience for our players, the Old Town Soccer Club needs passionate volunteers to step into vital roles at every level of our organization. Whether your expertise lies in technical development and coaching, managing financial oversight, driving our advertising and community outreach, or keeping our programs running smoothly through registration and field maintenance, your contribution is essential. By lending your time and talent, you aren’t just filling a position—you are directly impacting the growth and success of our athletes. Join us in making this season our best one yet by finding a role that fits your skills and helping us build a stronger club together.
Please email vicepresident@oldtown.soccer so we can find a place for you.
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