Coached by Coach Andre Merritt
Where Lancaster's
Next Champions
Are Made
Elite youth soccer training for players ages 13–19 in Lancaster, South Carolina. Tactics, technique, and the values that build champions on and off the field.
13–19
Age Range
SC State Cup
Champion
100%
Community Focused
More Than a Coach —
A Community Builder
Based right here in Lancaster, South Carolina, Coach Andre Merritt brings a licensed background and a state cup championship to every single training session. But what truly sets this program apart is the belief that soccer is a vehicle for life lessons.
Every player who walks onto this field is treated as family. Coach Merritt invests in your development — tactically, technically, and as a young person ready to make an impact in this community.
Ages 13–19
Youth Players Served
State Cup
Championship Pedigree
Tactics
Game Intelligence Training
Community
Giveback Initiatives
The Three Pillars of Our Program
Every session is designed around a proven framework that develops complete players — not just athletes.
Tactical Intelligence
We break down the game like professionals. Players learn formations, pressing triggers, positional play, and how to read the game — skills that translate directly to competitive matches.
Technical Excellence
First touch, passing accuracy, dribbling under pressure, finishing — we drill the fundamentals until they become instinct. Technical mastery is the foundation of every great player.
Character & Community
We believe the field is a classroom. Discipline, respect, teamwork, and giving back to Lancaster — these values are woven into every practice and every interaction.
Individual Development
No two players are the same. We assess each athlete's strengths and areas for growth, creating personalized development paths that accelerate improvement.
Team Cohesion
Great teams are built on trust. We foster a tight-knit environment where players push each other to be better — on the field and in life.
Safe & Supportive
Parents can trust that their child is in a safe, structured, and encouraging environment. We communicate openly and keep families informed every step of the way.
Giving Back to the Community That Made Us
Lancaster is home, and we take that seriously. Our program actively supports youth in the community through discounted training sessions for families in need, partnerships with local schools, and community soccer events that bring Lancaster together.
School Partnerships
Working with Lancaster County schools to bring soccer to more kids
Scholarship Spots
Reserved training spots for players who can't afford full tuition
Community Events
Free clinics and tournaments open to all Lancaster youth
What Families Are Saying
Real stories from the Carolina Arsenal FC community.
"My son has improved more in 3 months here than in 2 years at his previous club. The tactical training is on another level — and Coach genuinely cares about the kids."
Marcus T.
Parent of a 16-year-old midfielder
"I was nervous about trying out but Coach made me feel welcome from day one. I've learned so much about reading the game and my confidence on the field has skyrocketed."
Jaylen R.
Player, Age 15
"As a parent, trust is everything. This program communicates clearly, keeps kids safe, and the state cup background speaks for itself. We couldn't be happier."
Denise M.
Parent of a 14-year-old forward
Where We Train
Our practice field is always kept up to date. The 3D field below shows the current location — if you see the NEW LOCATION badge, the address has recently changed. Check back before heading out!
Lancaster City Park
200 Park Drive, Lancaster, SC 29720
Use the north entrance, parking available
Location Recently UpdatedCoach: Coach Portal to update the practice location.
Lancaster City Park
200 Park Drive, Lancaster, SC 29720
Use the north entrance, parking available
Updated 1h ago
Ready to Join the Academy?
Click the chat button in the bottom-right corner to talk with Coach Merritt's assistant. We'll collect your info and Coach Andre Merritt will get back to you personally — usually within 24 hours.
Lancaster, SC
Ages 13–19
Respond in 24hrs
Carolina Arsenal FC
Coach's Assistant