GRSC Partners with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. to Launch Inclusive Summer Youth Futsal Program at Las Canchas
Grand Rapids Soccer Club (GRSC) is thrilled to announce its new summer youth futsal program at Las Canchas, made possible through a partnership with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. This initiative brings structured, accessible soccer programming to the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, activating the city’s vibrant public futsal courts for young athletes ages 8–17.
Set to run from July 13 to August 13, 2026, the program will take place on Mondays and Thursdays from 5–6 p.m. on all three Las Canchas courts. Sessions are designed to welcome both beginners and more experienced players, emphasizing skill development, fun, and community connection in a safe, supervised environment.
Program Highlights
The four-week program will serve 30–60 participants, with age-appropriate groupings to ensure tailored instruction and positive experiences:
Ages 8–10 (Red Court): Focus on fundamentals, technical development, and fun introduction to futsal.
Ages 11–13 (Yellow Court): Emphasis on coordination, technical skills, and game understanding.
Ages 14–17 (Green Court): Development of decision-making, advanced techniques, and competitive play.
Each 60-minute session follows a balanced structure:
Dynamic Warm-Up (10 min): Movement preparation and ball mastery.
Technical Development (10 min): Focused futsal-specific skill work.
Small-Sided Games (20 min): Conditioned games to reinforce skills in realistic scenarios.
Guided Scrimmage/Free Play (20 min): Competitive play with coach feedback and encouragement.
This format promotes athletic growth, teamwork, confidence, and a lifelong love of the game while keeping the emphasis on enjoyment.
Expert Coaching and Mentorship
The program will be led by experienced coaches Carson Robotham (current GRSC player, Michigan Power Futbol Academy coach, USSF D License, Futsal Level 2 License) and TJ Vanslooten (GRSC coach, Kuyper College coach, USYS Olympic Development Program coach, PASS FC Director of Coaching, USSF B License). GRSC semi-professional players will serve as assistant coaches and mentors, giving participants direct access to high-level athletes who have competed at collegiate, semi-pro, and professional levels.
Breaking Down Barriers to Participation
True to GRSC’s community-focused mission, the program removes common obstacles to youth sports:
Low-cost registration: $30 for the full program (8 sessions) or $5 per drop-in session.
All necessary equipment (futsal balls, pinnies, cones) provided on site—no special footwear or gear required.
Scholarships and fee waivers available for families in need.
Flexible drop-in options for those unable to commit to the full schedule.
A Partnership Rooted in Community
Las Canchas, the free public futsal courts operated by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. at 250 Seward Avenue NW, represent a cornerstone of the city’s recreational and cultural landscape. This collaboration allows GRSC to contribute to the ongoing activation of this dynamic downtown space while expanding access to quality youth programming.
“We are incredibly excited and grateful for this partnership with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.,” says GRSC Coach TJ VanSlooten. “Downtown GR Inc. is at the core of our city’s culture, and being able to deliver meaningful youth soccer opportunities in such a central, welcoming space is a true blessing for our players, coaches, and the broader Grand Rapids community.”
Beyond the youth program, GRSC looks forward to exploring additional collaboration opportunities with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. to further strengthen soccer culture in the downtown area.
Registration and More Information
Registration details, scholarship applications, and additional program information will be available soon via the GRSC website at https://gr.soccer/camps and social media channels. Families are encouraged to follow @GrandRapidsSC on Instagram and Facebook for updates.
This summer program reflects GRSC’s commitment to accessible, high-quality youth development and community engagement. By partnering with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., the club aims to create lasting positive impacts on the lives of young people.
Grand Rapids Soccer Club (GRSC) is Grand Rapids’ semi-professional soccer club, dedicated to growing the game at every level.
