Union FC Indy Announces New Coaching Development Partnership with Elite Soccer

January 6, 2026

Union FC Indy Announces New Coaching Development Partnership with Elite Soccer

January 6, 2026


Union FC Indy is proud to announce a new partnership with Elite Soccer that will bring a high-level professional development program to coaches across our competitive pathway.


This collaboration provides Union FC Indy’s academy staff with access to Elite Soccer’s renowned coach development curriculum, offering a flexible and modern approach tailored to the realities of the American youth soccer environment. Through this partnership, our coaches will engage in meaningful, external CPD that aligns with Elite Soccer’s comprehensive player and coach development framework.


Investing in Coaches, Investing in Players

At Union FC Indy, we believe that empowered coaches create empowered players. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to long-term learning, reflective practice, and innovation throughout our academy.


Robert Klatte, Sporting Director at Union FC Indy, shared: 

“We’re excited to partner with Elite Soccer, as we know it will further empower our coaches with the tools and knowledge to inspire. By investing in our coaches’ education and growth, we’re creating stronger learning environments that will elevate the development and passion of every player at Union FC Indy.”


This initiative directly supports our strategic focus on coaching excellence and continuous improvement.


Matthew Lo, Director of Coaching (Boys Junior & Senior Academy) and Coach Education Coordinator, added: 

“We are thrilled with how this partnership with Elite Soccer promotes Union FC Indy’s strategic pillar of ‘Innovative and Elite Coaching.’ This collaboration will guide a core group of our coaches through a deep dive into what they value most and equip them with the tools to create even greater alignment between those values and how they go about developing players.”


Building a Culture of Learning

Through the Elite Soccer Coaching Award, Union FC Indy coaches will be challenged to refine their methodology, deepen their understanding of player development, and contribute to a connected, reflective coaching community.


Ben Bartlett, Technical Director at Elite Soccer, noted: 

“Union FC Indy’s commitment to coach development extends far beyond minimum requirements. The club is clearly invested in creating learning environments that are intentional, reflective, and responsive to the needs of both coaches and players. This partnership allows us to support and challenge coaches in ways that enhance their individual craft while strengthening alignment across the club.”


Access to World-Class Resources

In addition to the Elite Soccer Coaching Award, Union FC Indy coaches will receive full access to Elite Soccer’s extensive session library—featuring training practices and session plans created by top Premier League, EFL, European, and international coaches. These resources will provide daily inspiration and practical tools to elevate our training environments.


Together, Union FC Indy and Elite Soccer are committed to building a collaborative, values-driven coaching culture that inspires innovation, strengthens alignment, and supports the long-term development of every player in our club.


About Union FC Indy (https://unionfcindy.org/)

Union FC Indy is one of Indiana’s most comprehensive soccer clubs, offering a complete pathway for players of all ages and skill levels. From young children taking their first touches to high school athletes preparing for college soccer—and adults who simply love the game—Union FC Indy provides the coaching, competition, and community to help every player thrive. With programs ranging from recreational to elite, we are dedicated to developing players while fostering a lifelong passion for soccer.


About Elite Soccer (https://elitesoccercoaching.net/)

Elite Soccer is a professional development program offering coaches a structured pathway to refine their methodology, supported by training sessions designed by top managers. The program goes beyond formal qualifications by providing practical tools, fresh ideas, and access to a global coaching community.

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What an incredible weekend! The air was crisp, the competition was fierce, and the energy was electric at the Union FC Indy Socctoberfest 2025! We are absolutely thrilled to call this year's tournament a massive success, truly a testament to the passion and dedication of the soccer community. Record Participation and Unforgettable Action This year, we welcomed 250 teams from 6 states to the fields, transforming our complex into a vibrant hub of youth soccer. From the youngest players lacing up their boots for the first time to the highly competitive older age groups, every game was played with sportsmanship, grit, and skill. The sight of so many families and players enjoying the beautiful game is exactly why we host this annual event. A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community Tournaments of this scale simply wouldn't be possible without the unwavering support of so many people. To every player who gave it their all on the pitch—your effort and enthusiasm were inspiring! To the coaches who guided, encouraged, and taught the valuable lessons of teamwork and resilience—thank you for your commitment. To the referees who ensured fair play and kept the games running smoothly—we appreciate your focus and professionalism. And most importantly, to the families who spent their weekend with us: thank you for cheering from the sidelines, driving the miles, and making Socctoberfest a memorable family event. Your support is the backbone of youth soccer! See You Soon! Save the Dates! While we are already missing the action, we are excited to announce our next big events. Mark your calendars! • Socctoberfest 2026 : We will see everyone back next year for even more fall soccer fun at Socctoberfest 2026 on September 25-27, 2026! • Union FC Indy Invitational : Don't want to wait that long? We are thrilled to introduce the brand new Union FC Indy Invitational on April 18-19, 2026! Ready to learn more about our new spring event? 👉 Find all the details and registration information here: https://www.unionfcindy.org/unionfcindyinvitational Thank you once again for making Socctoberfest 2025 our best one yet. We can’t wait to host you again!
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In this episode of Union FC Indy Insider , we sit down with Rob Klatte and Dan Kapsalis to recap an exciting summer of growth and change for the club. We cover: • The story behind Union FC Indy's rebrand and fresh new look • Exciting facility updates that will elevate the player and family experience • New competition levels that expand opportunities for our athletes • Reflections on the summer season and what’s ahead this fall Whether you’re a player, parent, or supporter, this conversation will give you an inside look at where Union FC Indy is headed and how we’re building for the future. YouTube: https://youtu.be/dvDiMCRrHqw?si=mdbnTpso2-4etpYl Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/union-fc-indy-insider/id1804427214?i=1000724858263 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0faKgCyG6dO6AygOTAzc9I?si=5cb6d164ace3473a
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At Union FC Indy, our mission to develop young athletes, build strong character, and foster a love for the game would not be possible without the support of our community. We are incredibly grateful for the generous contributions of our partners, whose continued backing allows our club to grow, thrive, and create meaningful experiences for players and families across Central Indiana. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the following businesses and organizations for their commitment to supporting youth soccer: Blue Duck Lawn Care - https://www.blueducklawncare.com/ CertaPro Painters - https://certapro.com/indianapolis/ Eads Roofing - https://www.eadsroofing.com/ Hope Plumbing - https://www.hopeplumbing.com/ Moontown Brewing Co. - https://www.moontownbeer.com/ OneIndiana Financial - https://www.oneindianafinancial.com/ Soccer Village - https://www.soccervillage.com/ Tom Wood Toyota - https://www.tomwoodtoyota.com/ Village Orthodontics - https://www.vosmiles.com/ Your investment in our club helps provide quality coaching, player development programs, equipment, field improvements, and scholarship opportunities—ensuring that every child has the chance to learn, grow, and compete in a positive and inspiring environment. We are proud to partner with businesses that believe in the power of sport and the value it brings to our community. Thank you for standing with us and helping shape the future of Union FC Indy! With gratitude, The Union FC Indy Team
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Union FC Indy is proud to announce tryouts for the competitive travel program coming this June! We have put together a fantastic coaching staff, created year-round programming to develop players to their maximum, as well as staying committed to providing a dynamic, tight knit, and supportive social culture. You can find all the pertinent information for your the various age groups at the following link: https://www.unionfcindy.org/tryouts If, by chance, you cannot attend the listed dates and times please reach out to your current coach along with the age group DOC in order to ensure that your player has been evaluated in order to be considered for a team roster spot. Of course, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out or connect with the age group DOC's.... Futures (U5/U6) Birth Years 2020/2021 Matt Whicker MWhicker@UnionFCIndy.org Pathway (U7/U8) Birth Years 2018/2019 Josh Weinberg JWeinberg@UnionFCIndy.org Boys Academy (U9-U12) Birth Years 2014/2015/2016/2017 Matt Lo MLo@UnionFCIndy.org Girls Academy (U9-U12) Birth Years 2014/2015/2016/2017 Evan Krupa EKrupa@UnionFCIndy.org Junior Travel Birth Years 2013/2012 Matt Whicker MWhicker@UnionFCIndy.org Robert Klatte RKlatte@UnionFCIndy.org Senior Travel Birth Years 2011/2010/2009/2008/2007 Josh Weinberg JWeinberg@UnionFCIndy.org Goalkeeping Birth Years--All Kelly Freeland KFreeland@UnionFCIndy.org Thank you, Robert Klatte Union FC Indy Sporting Director rklatte@UnionFCIndy.org
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