Ages 2 to 8 -- Boys and Girls

LITTLE FOOTBALLERS

powered by Bay Area Soccer Academy

Where the love of the game begins. Nurturing, age-appropriate soccer sessions that build coordination, confidence, and a genuine love for the beautiful game.

Age Group
AGES 2 TO 5
Toddlers and Pre-K
Age Group
AGES 5 TO 8
Kindergarten through 2nd Grade
At a Glance

WEEKLY CLASS SCHEDULE

Thursday
Saturday
Sunday

BASA Center & 10th Soccer Field, Oakland. View pricing and register below.

Our Mission

MORE THAN JUST SOCCER LESSONS

The mission of Little Footballers is to foster the growth of young players within a nurturing and engaging environment. We believe in offering more than just soccer lessons. We provide a comprehensive platform for young players to develop foundational skills, enhance their confidence, and cultivate a deep love for the game.

Every session is designed around how young children actually learn: through play, movement, and positive repetition. We do not run drills. We run games that teach coordination, balance, and basic ball skills in a way that feels natural and fun. Our coaches know how to keep energy high, manage attention spans, and make every child feel successful.

Young child in Little Footballers jersey at BASA Center
Our Philosophy

WHAT MAKES LITTLE FOOTBALLERS DIFFERENT

Safe and Fun

Safety is our top priority. All activities are conducted in a secure environment designed to foster enjoyment and learning. Every child should feel comfortable and excited to participate.

Character Building

We nurture not only athletic skills but also life skills. Our program emphasizes respect, teamwork, and perseverance. These are values that extend far beyond the field.

Skill Development

Our curriculum develops the fundamentals of soccer (dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork) in a fun, engaging, and age-appropriate manner that keeps children coming back.

Professional Coaching

Programming developed by Javier Ayala-Hil, founder and director of Bay Area Soccer Academy. Our coaches bring high-level experience to every session with the youngest players.

Two Age Groups

PROGRAMMING DESIGNED FOR EACH STAGE

Toddler kicking soccer ball at Little Footballers session
AGES 2 TO 5

FIRST TOUCHES

For our youngest players, every session is about discovery. Through guided play and simple games, children develop coordination, balance, and basic ball skills. Parent participation is welcome for the youngest age group. Sessions are 40 minutes, which is the right length for this age, and every activity is designed to keep little ones engaged and smiling.

Gross motor development through movement games
Basic ball control and kicking technique
Following instructions in a group setting
Social interaction with peers
Building confidence and independence
AGES 5 TO 8

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS

Players in this group are ready for more structure. Sessions are 55 minutes and introduce passing combinations, dribbling under light pressure, and small-sided games. The emphasis remains on fun and positive reinforcement, but the technical demands increase. This is where young players begin to develop real game awareness and the confidence to take on new challenges.

Dribbling, passing, and shooting fundamentals
Small-sided games and match awareness
Teamwork and communication on the field
Decision-making under light pressure
Preparation for competitive youth soccer
Group of young soccer players at Little Footballers session
Javier Ayala-Hil, Director of Bay Area Soccer Academy, on the training field
Since 2013
Training East Bay Players
The Director

JAVIER AYALA-HIL

Director, Bay Area Soccer Academy and Little Footballers

Javier Ayala-Hil is the founder and director of Bay Area Soccer Academy and Little Footballers. He oversees mentorship programs tailored for young athletes at every level. With a rich background in soccer both locally and internationally, Javier focuses his expertise and passion toward nurturing entry-level players, guiding them to develop their skills and realize their full potential.

Born and raised in East Palo Alto, California, Javier played at UC Berkeley from 2004 to 2007. He went on to coach at Cal, USF, and San Francisco State before founding Bay Area Soccer Academy in 2013. His programs cover a wide range of ages and coaching styles, from toddler play sessions to competitive high school training.

Learn More About Javier
Try It Free

BRING YOUR LITTLE ONE IN

Not sure if your child is ready? Come try a free introductory session with no commitment. Watch your child interact with our coaches, meet other families, and see firsthand what Little Footballers is all about. Most families sign up after their very first visit.

Sessions Available
Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays
BASA Center
5976 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609
Small Group Sizes
Every child gets individual attention

Book a Free Little Footballers Session

Bring your little one in for a free introductory session. No commitment required.

Or call/text us directly at (510) 388-9214

Schedule, Pricing and Registration

CHOOSE YOUR CLASS

Select a class below, then pick your session pack to register.

Day
Thursdays
Time
4:20-5:00 PM
Ages
Ages 2-5
Location
BASA Center, Oakland