How It Started

Founded in 2019 by Alex Garcia and many other professionals, Stellar Soccer's goal was to set an atmosphere of fun, soccer learning in a stress-free environment through a grassroots curriculum.

The idea was brought together along with Jen Gowers who served as the Executive Director of ACT programs at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine during the time that our founder, Alex Garcia, was a celebrated early childhood education teacher. While continuing to be a leader of programs and lovingly teaching tiny humans at ACT, Alex was also dreaming and conceiving of Stellar Soccer. Jen was highly supportive of his vision, making sure he knew it was an awesome idea, helping him think through some of the things he would need to get started and giving him space and time to pilot it within ACT programs at the Cathedral St. John the Divine.

Fast forward a few years later, Stellar Soccer is now a recognized play-based program through a rich curriculum set by early childhood educators. Coaches asses each pod and create lesson plans that are appropriate to the development of each pod.

Picture: First Stellar Soccer class at ACT Programs, Winter 2019.

About Coach Alex

Resume At a Glance

  • Early Childhood Education Degree

  • 17 years experience as an Early Childhood Educator

  • 2019-Present - Founder and CEO of Stellar Soccer LLC

  • 2020-2022 - Assistant Camp Director and Social Media Coordinator, ACT Programs

  • 2017-2019 - Sports Coordinator, ACT Programs

  • 2004-2012 - Assistant Teacher, After-School Group Leader, Party Specialist, ACT Programs

Soccer Accomplishments

  • Special Topics Diploma (Leading Up and Down)

  • Special Topics Diploma (Modern Club Administration)

  • Professional Development Certificate (Club Leaders)

  • Professional Development Certificate (Director of Coaching)

  • Special Topics Diploma (Modern Trends of the Game)

  • Special Topics Diploma (Coaching the Complete Player)

  • Connecting Player Development to Game Performance Diploma

  • LGBT: Diversity & Inclusion Diploma

  • Get aHEAD Safety Program Diploma

  • 4v4 Diploma

  • First aid CPR Certified

Mission Statement

Our team of educators and coaches is committed to delivering a distinctive soccer experience that will equip children with essential grass-root soccer skills. We endeavor to provide affordable prices and enrich our community by empowering young leaders. At Stellar Soccer, we prioritize creating a welcoming environment to learn and thrive through the beautiful sport of soccer.

Stellar Soccer Classes

Although our gentle approach remains constant across all classes, each pod's distinctiveness varies based on age, maturity, and skill level. The following three age categories provide a glimpse into the on-field activities. For more information, please reach out to Coach Alex at coachalex@stellarsoccer.org.

Ages 2.5-3

Trained early childhood educators lead the youngest groups and design lesson plans around captivating themes such as pirates, dinosaurs, race cars, and farm animals. Class activities commence with circle time and name games, fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Group play and soccer exploration sessions incorporate interactive elements such as musical instruments, parachutes, plush toys, and size 3 soccer balls.

Ages 4-5

Young children are introduced to fundamental soccer skills, such as dribbling, trapping, and striking the ball through various fun activities led by educators and coaches. Size 3 soccer balls, cones, and hurdles are used to facilitate these activities. Coaches adopt a gentle approach to enable children to comprehend the essence of teamwork by organizing scrimmages during the final minutes of the class. Above all, coaches prioritize creating a fun-filled atmosphere for all.

Ages 6-8

Our oldest groups benefit from targeted grass-root skills training, providing them with ample opportunities to hone and develop their abilities through a series of games and skill-based activities. We encourage individual play to foster self-confidence and productivity. In addition, we introduce lessons on defense and offense through engaging games and scrimmages. Our approach emphasizes a soft focus on skill-building.