Programs and age pathways

Travel programming spans U8 through U18/19, with open tryouts for U13 and older players and registration-based entry for younger age groups. The 2026–27 season shifts youth age groups to a school-year cycle running August 1 through July 31, and the club evaluates placements after tryouts to form balanced teams at each level. U8, U10, and U12 players register without a tryout requirement.

Fusion Futures is the club’s U8 introductory track for 2026, with twice-weekly one-hour sessions that start indoors at Long Trail School or Manchester Elementary School and move outdoors in April to Manchester Elementary on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Fall travel runs from late August through late October with six league games—typically two per weekend at Afrim’s—plus one tournament for players seeking stronger weekend competition.

The winter and spring 2026 season opens registration for U10–U12 players, while U13 and older athletes are selected through tryouts. The VT Fusion Goalkeeping Academy welcomes boys and girls ages ten and up, including players outside the club, for a nine-week block led by goalkeeping director Kevin Moran: nine sixty-minute sessions for ages 10–12 and eighteen ninety-minute sessions for ages 13 and up, with technical footwork and handling for younger keepers and advanced tactical work for older groups. Summer camp serves kindergarten through eighth grade at Manchester Rec with morning sessions focused on technique, small-sided play, and finishing in a fun environment.

Training locations and season rhythm

Competitive teams begin indoor training and futsal in January using Manchester-area gyms, transition to turf at Riley Rink in March, and train outdoors twice weekly on local Manchester grass fields the club describes as among the best in Vermont. That year-round rhythm keeps southern Vermont players active through winter weather without leaving the valley.

Philosophy, affordability, and inclusion

The club keeps competitive soccer more affordable than many regional travel programs by leaning on support from the Green Mountain Challenge Tournament, local businesses, and volunteer time from parents and board members. Families facing fee hardship can ask about scholarships and sibling discounts when three or more children register in the same season. Vermont Fusion also emphasizes inclusive placement: the club tries to retain players who try out, assigns athletes to teams where they can develop successfully, and fields multiple teams at some ages so every roster plays a full schedule with extensive training and meaningful games.

International experiences

On a biennial cycle, Vermont Fusion organizes international trips through WorldStrides so players can train and compete abroad, experience different styles of play, and build perspective that carries back into local training. The partnership handles travel logistics while club coaches focus on the team experience.

How families can connect

Questions about tryouts, registration, scholarships, or program fit can go to the club by phone or email. Families should confirm current tryout dates, field locations marked TBD on seasonal schedules, and open registration windows before committing to a season.