by Matt Wright
In 2015 Alex Cifu took early retirement from law enforcement to start a soccer program because he saw a need for true, early development. From that decision, Little Superstars recreational program was created.
For the past two seasons, the Little Superstars Soccer Program has been an official Lakeland parks and recreation offering with over 200 players. What makes the program extra special is that Alex, his wife and three children live in Lakeland. According to Alex “I want to serve my community.”
At Little Superstar, all the coaches go through a coach certification process. They take part in several online courses to assist in their coaching journey here in Lakeland. Alex said the ultimate goal of the recreational program is simple, “we want to emphasize proper training in the recreational branch of soccer while having lots of fun and building a truly social experience for the children.”
Kids ages 3-14 can play and signups are going on now for rec soccer. Click here to signup.
Lakeland Competitive Soccer
Alex’s program has grown recently into competitive soccer options. IFA (International Futbol Academy) is now the official competitive soccer program for Lakeland. “As we talked to our Little Superstar families, we noticed the enthusiasm of the parents to take soccer to the next level. We got together with Lakeland and our first competitive tryouts took place. Resulting from the tryouts and referrals, we were able to put together a U11 boys and a U11 girls competitive teams.”
Competitive soccer is a huge sport in the Mid-South area and families want the option to play competitively for their city. As Alex said, “For the Lakeland player and family that’s more competitive in mind, we want to transition them from our younger rec programs into our futbol academy knowing they have confidence and knowledge of the game.” He continued by saying,”for Lakeland to be successful, the foundation is key for our competitive soccer program. That’s critical if you want to compete against programs like the Collierville Lobos.”
Soccer Facilities
Last year the city won a $500,000 grant from the state to start the process of building fields for soccer and football. The grant will be matched by the city. Work on that facility (located on Memphis Arlington Rd) is expected to begin this year. Facilities like that are desperately needed according to Alex. “We have to put a cap on the number of local kids we take because of our lack of facilities.” Currently, rec soccer practices and plays games on the small city fields behind city hall and rents space from local churches. The competitive teams play at several locations around the Memphis area. Not only will our own dedicated facilities let Lakeland soccer grow, but it will also allow for smaller regional tournaments that can produce revenue for the city. “To truly offer a soccer product Lakeland parents are asking for, we need better facilities to grow. We need it badly,” according to Alex.
Vice Mayor Josh Roman has been a big proponent of soccer and understands the benefits. “Look at Collierville and how a thriving soccer program has benefited their city. Not only are they known for quality soccer development, but they generate a significant amount of money from the Mike Rose complex. Lakeland parents move here and other than schools, it’s one of the first things they ask about (sports and recreational facilities). I want to keep pursuing grants so we can have a great facility of our own.”
