The Rising Stars program at Charlotte Rise FC is the premier starting point for young soccer players ages U5 to U12 across the greater Charlotte area.
Designed to ignite a lifelong passion for soccer, Rising Stars blends fun, creativity, and skill-building in a supportive, structured environment led by experienced professional coaches.
Player Development: Skills for the Future
At Rising Stars, every session is crafted to help young athletes:
• Learn Essential Skills: Players develop dribbling, juggling, shooting, and passing techniques that form the foundation of soccer success.
• Master Proper Kicking: We teach correct mechanics, including striking with the laces, keeping the toe down, and landing the non-kicking foot for balance and power.
• Grow Through Fun, Structured Play: Our approach encourages creativity, ball mastery, and individual skill development in a lively, engaging setting.
• Progress with Age: As players advance, they are introduced to more structured positions, team tactics, and match awareness, preparing them for competitive play in the Rise FC Academy Teams and beyond.
• Build Confidence: Through positive coaching and small-sided games, players gain leadership, communication, and teamwork skills that last a lifetime.
Rising Stars Soccer Fields
Expert Coaching in South Charlotte
The program is directed by Coach Greg Henschel, a former professional player and NCAA Division 1 & 3
head coach with over two decades of experience.
Coach Henschel’s player-first philosophy ensures that every child’s experience is fun, challenging, and developmentally appropriate, with an emphasis on both soccer growth and personal enjoyment.
Rising Stars Winter Season
Program Details:
- Duration: 8 Saturday Indoor Games
- Dates: Saturdays — December 6, 13, 20 & January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
- Location: Cuthbertson Middle School
1520 Cuthbertson Rd, Waxhaw, NC 28173 - Price: $300
- Soccer Kit: Jersey + Shorts + Calf Sleeves — available for $49
- Note: No sessions from December 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026
Rising Stars Summer Season
Session 1, 2 and 3 Details:
- Minimum of 1 weekday practice (soccer skills, soccer games).
- Players are welcome to join all practices and locations at no additional cost. Simply arrive, participate, and enjoy the game-no extra registration required.
- 1 weekend game each Saturday morning at Rea Farms Steam Academy.
- Soccer Kit (1 jersey, 1 shorts, and 1 pair of calf sleeves) is available for just $49.
Session 1 (4 Weeks)
Dates
June 2 – June 28, 2025
Prices
$150
Session 2 (4 Weeks)
Dates
July 7 – August 2, 2025
Prices
$150
Session 3 (4 Weeks)
Dates
August 4 – August 30, 2025
Prices
$150
Note: If you buy more than 1 session, you will get $30 discount
Summer Season Schedule
Days
Time
Locations
- Game formats will vary based on the number of players and their ages.
- Teams will consist of 2-3 field players and a goalie.
- Players will have ample opportunity to touch and be on the ball.
- A goalie will be used to promote realistic shooting situations.
- Rules may change weekly or per game to teach specific concepts (e.g., all players must cross the midline to score).
- Rules and expectations will be clearly communicated to players.
- Fields are secured from 8:30 am to 11:30 am on Saturdays.
- New games will form if players want to continue playing.
Rising Stars Fall Season
Session 1 and 2 Details:
- Minimum of 1 weekday practice (soccer skills, soccer games).
- Players are welcome to join all practices and locations at no additional cost. Simply arrive, participate, and enjoy the game-no extra registration required.
- 1 weekend game each Saturday morning.
- Soccer Kit (1 jersey, 1 shorts, and calf sleeves) is available for just $49.
Session 1 (4 Weeks)
Dates
September 8 – October 4, 2025
Prices
$150
Session 2 (4 Weeks)
Dates
October 6 – November 1, 2025
Prices
$150
Note: If you buy more than 1 session, you will get $30 discount
Rising Stars Spring Season
Session 1 and 2 Details:
- Minimum of 1 weekday practice (soccer skills, soccer games).
- Players are welcome to join all practices and locations at no additional cost. Simply arrive, participate, and enjoy the game-no extra registration required.
- 1 weekend game each Saturday morning.
- Soccer Kit (1 jersey, 1 shorts, and calf sleeves) is available for just $49.
Session 1 (4 Weeks)
Dates
March 5 – March 28, 2026
Prices
$150
Session 2 (4 Weeks)
Dates
April 9 – May 2, 2026
Prices
$150
Note: If you buy more than 1 session, you will get $30 discount
Rising Stars Uniform Kit
Communities We Serve
- Ballantyne
- Weddington
- Marvin
- Fort Mill, SC
- Waxhaw
- Rea Farms
- Matthews
- Mint Hill
- Tega Cay, SC
- Stallings
- Indian Trail
- Eastover
- Pineville
- Davidson
- Lake Wylie, SC
- Harrisburg
- Huntersville
- Wesley Chapel
- Steele Creek
- SouthPark
Why Choose Charlotte Rise FC Soccer?
Families in Charlotte choose Charlotte Rise FC because we offer more than just soccer training—we focus on developing well-rounded players in a fun and supportive environment. Our Unique Player Development Approach includes:
Expert Coaching Staff: Our experienced coaches, led by Director Greg Henschel, are committed to helping every child reach their full potential, both on and off the field.
Convenient Charlotte Locations: With multiple easily accessible locations in South Charlotte, quality soccer training is always nearby.
Flexible Sessions: We offer a variety of session times and formats to fit your family’s busy schedule.
Player-Centered Approach: We focus on the individual needs and growth of each player, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Choose Charlotte Rise FC for a rewarding soccer experience that goes beyond the basics.
Free Demo Lesson
Charlotte Rise FC offers a soccer season for kids ages U5 to U12. Throughout the year, our expert coaches will create a welcoming atmosphere, helping players learn essential soccer skills and develop a passion for the sport through Free Demo Lessons.
Curious if Rising Stars is right for your child?
Contact Coach Greg Henschel to schedule a free one-day demo session and experience the program firsthand.
Flexible Schedule and
Engaging Sessions
Understanding the demands of family life, Rising Stars offers a flexible schedule. Players can attend extra sessions during the week and are always welcome at any practice location—no additional registration required.
Private Soccer Training Programs
Private Training
One-on-one or small group sessions to accelerate skill development and confidence.
• Ball Mastery
• Skill Development
• Learn and Refine Soccer
• Techniques
• Build Confidence
• Reach Individual Goals
• Increase Physical Activity
Individual Sessions
1 - 1 @ $75 / Player
Group Sessions
2 - 3
@ $60 / Player
4 - 5
@ $45 / Player
6+
@ $30 / Player
Goalkeeping Training
Specialized coaching for aspiring goalkeepers.
• Strength Training & Agility
• Diving/ high ball jumping
• Goalkeeping Drills
• Conditioning
• Blocking Skills
• Increase physical activity
Individual Sessions
1 - 1 @ $75 / Player
Group Sessions
2 - 3
@ $60 / Player
4 - 5
@ $45 / Player
6+
@ $30 / Player
