Franchises Cater to Growing Demand for Kids’ Programs as Soccer Popularity Soars in U.S.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway across North America, giving many Americans a special sense of pride and excitement they haven’t felt since the country last hosted the tournament in 1994. Soccer’s popularity has soared in the U.S. since the 1994 World Cup and the resulting formation of Major League Soccer two years later. Demographic changes and increased youth participation have contributed to greater interest in the sport and the league’s continued growth.
Soccer has become a leading sport for young children because it allows them to develop key life skills such as teamwork and leadership, while staying active and having fun. The youth sports market reached $36.29 billion in 2025 and is expected to exceed $59.52 billion by 2030, according to The Business Research Company.
Youth soccer franchises have sprung up to meet the demand. Below, we take a look at some of the brands helping entrepreneurs achieve their business GOOOOOOOOOOOALS.
Lil’ Kickers
Overview: Founded in 1999, Lil’ Kickers is dedicated to teaching children soccer while building their confidence and self-esteem. Classes for kids ages 18 months to 9 years are tailored to different age groups and skill levels to teach the fundamentals of the game and keep them active. Skills Institute classes designed for kids ages 5 to 12 help hone their technical skills and teach teamwork and leadership.
Franchisee Benefits: Investors receive ongoing support and training, marketing tools and access to the youth soccer franchise’s proprietary software and technology. They also benefit from multiple revenue streams, including birthday parties, camps and on-site classes at preschools, daycares and co-ops.
Soccer Pups
Overview: Soccer Pups is an indoor developmental youth soccer program teaching children ages 3 to 7 about the game in a fun environment. For kids ages 6 to 9, the Soccer Pups Academy provides instruction aimed at taking their skills up a notch.
Franchisee Benefits: Because this is an indoor soccer program, franchisees have year-round business. The franchisor also assists with real estate selection, directly ships all necessary equipment to run the business and provides an internal marketing plan.
Soccer Shots
Overview: College and professional soccer teammates Jeremy Sorzano and Jason Webb founded Soccer Shots in 1997 after noticing a lack of programs for children ages 8 and younger. The youth soccer franchise offers programs designed for children ages 18 months to 8 years, with instruction designed according to age group. Passionate and well-trained coaches teach the research-based curriculum.
Franchisee Benefits: Franchise owners may be owner-operators or executive owners who hire managers to handle daily operations. Owners receive training, marketing materials and networking opportunities at conferences.
Soccer Stars
Overview: Soccer Stars is a youth soccer franchise that offers age-specific programs. These programs include Super Soccer Stars Parent & Me for kids 12 months to 2 years, Super Soccer Stars for ages 1 year to 12 years and older in a non-competitive setting, and Super Stars United for youths ages 4 to 18 years in a competitive setting. Soccer Stars is part of the Youth Athletes United family of child enrichment brands.
Franchisee Benefits: In addition to support and training, Soccer Stars franchise owners have the opportunity to make a difference in their communities. The nonprofit Soccer Stars Foundation provides scholarships and financial assistance to students. The brand’s Shining Soccer Stars program gives children with special needs an outlet to learn and grow.
