Although soccer fever has descended upon the Atlanta metro area with the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, the fact remains that youth soccer has become increasingly expensive for many Georgia families and less accessible than other sports. This knowledge led a group of local student-athletes to host an event that ensures local children have the opportunity to experience the world’s most popular sport.

Nearly 50 boys and girls ages 5-12 participated in the inaugural Jordy’s Super Kickers Soccer Clinic on June 5 at Hubert Soccer Complex in Acworth. The free clinic, founded by rising Mount Paran Christian School senior Jordan “Jordy” Gray, introduced young players to the fundamentals of soccer through skill-building activities, games, and friendly competition.

"Soccer has given me so many opportunities throughout my life," Gray said. "What I've learned is that some families simply haven't been exposed to the sport, while others may be unsure about the time and financial commitment involved. Super Kickers FC gives kids a chance to experience soccer, learn the fundamentals, and discover whether they love the game."

Gray’s thinking is consistent with the findings of a new University of Georgia study that examined the impact of America’s pay-to-play youth soccer system. Researchers found that the growing costs associated with fees, travel, and tournament participation can limit opportunities for talented young athletes. 

The clinic was led by Gray and fellow Southern Soccer Association MLS NEXT players Nick Mele, a rising senior at Blessed Trinity Catholic School; Dane Noren, a rising senior at Hillgrove High School; and Feyijimi Kuti, a rising senior at Allatoona High School. The four teammates compete on SSA’s MLS NEXT U17 team, which recently qualified for the MLS NEXT Cup in Salt Lake City, Utah, where they competed among the nation’s top 32 elite teams.

Throughout the morning, participants rotated through a series of stations designed to teach core soccer skills while keeping the experience fun and engaging. Activities included relay races, dribbling and cone challenges, a spirited 5-versus-5 tournament and more. 

“I liked how the camp really challenged me,” said 11-year-old Charlie McGee. “The coaches made us work hard, but it was also a lot of fun. This is a really good camp because it focuses on the fundamentals of soccer.”

Parents were equally enthusiastic about the event and its impact on young players.

“Events like this help kids become more familiarized with the game of soccer, especially with the World Cup coming,” said Peter Baubles, a Mount Paran Christian School teacher, soccer coach, and parent. “Kids who are able to watch the World Cup next week will enjoy the game even more because of experiences like this. This event was perfect. Jordy and the other trainers did a great job teaching the kids.”

The timing of the clinic is particularly significant as excitement continues to build around the 2026 FIFA World Cup, for which Atlanta is a host city, and the event is expected to inspire a new generation of soccer players throughout the United States.

“There is a saying that ‘Soccer is Life’ because it teaches teamwork, discipline, overcoming obstacles, and confidence,” Gray said. “When I looked around and saw nearly 50 kids smiling, competing, and encouraging each other. I said to myself, ‘this is how it’s supposed to be.’”

Following the success of the inaugural clinic, organizers are exploring additional community-based soccer programs, clinics, and training opportunities through Super Kickers FC.

Supporters can learn more by following @superkickersfc on Instagram or by emailing 

[email protected].