Capitol Hill League

Welcome to the Capitol Hill Fall League — where soccer, community, and joy come together. Our league is more than just weekend games; it’s a place where confidence grows, friendships form, and players fall in love with the game.

Led by our experienced and enthusiastic team, this recreational league welcomes players from preschool through 2nd grade. Whether your child is taking their first joyful steps on the field or already chasing the ball with purpose, our league meets them where they are — in a supportive, inclusive, and fun-filled environment.

All DC Way Academy players receive 10% off the Capitol Hill League.

Preschool Division (U4–U5)

At this stage, we focus on play-based learning and joy. Each game day introduces our youngest players to movement, balance, ball familiarity, and the basic ideas of teamwork. Our goal is to create a welcoming and fun experience — with no pressure, just positive energy and lots of smiles.

Your preschooler will learn:

  • Dribbling and ball control through playful games

  • How to follow simple instructions in a group setting

  • Basic concepts of teamwork and sportsmanship

  • Confidence, independence, and movement coordination

 Kindergarten Division (U6)

Kindergarteners are ready to take the next step. Our U6 division blends structured skill development with playful team interaction. We encourage listening, following directions, and learning how to be a good teammate while introducing soccer fundamentals like spacing, positioning, and passing.

Players will work on:

  • Basic dribbling, passing, and shooting

  • Explore concepts like spacing and positioning

  • Learn teamwork and how to support one another

  • Grow coordination, focus, and self-confidence

1st–2nd Grade Division (U7–U8)

By 1st and 2nd grade, players are more confident on the field and eager to put their skills into action. This division provides a dynamic environment where they can build on what they’ve learned—improving technique, learning teamwork, and growing as players and individuals. Small-sided games allow for plenty of touches, smart decision-making, and moments of creativity and leadership.

They’ll develop:

  • Technical skills like dribbling, passing, and defending

  • Tactical awareness — spacing, transitions, and working as a team

  • Confidence, resilience, and decision-making under pressure

  • A solid foundation to move into our Challenge Level or travel programs

League Information

Dates: September 6 – October 25 (8 Saturdays)

  • September 6, 13, 20, 27; October 4, 11, 18, 25

  • Make-up day is November 1

Age Divisions & Time: Saturday mornings (all games will be outside)

  • Preschool at 9:00 am (some games at 10 am)

  • Kindergarten at 10:00 am

  • 1st-2nd Grade at 11:00 am (some games at 10 am)

*Girls can play in the boys league!

Location: Brentwood Hamilton Park

Late Fee:

  • $280 per individual spot

  • $408 per individual spot + 1 weekday skills session

Team Registration: If a team wants to register, please email Coach Denis at denis@dcwayacademy.org.

1 Weekday Skills Session Options:

  • Preschool Boys and Girls: Mon at 5 pm or Wed at 5 pm

  • Kindergarten Girls: Mon at 6 pm or Wed at 6 pm

  • Kindergarten Boys: Mon at 6 pm, Tue at 6 pm, or Wed at 6 pm

  • 1st-2nd Grade Girls: Mon at 7 pm or Wed at 7 pm

  • 1st-2nd Grade Boys: Mon at 7 pm, Tue at 6 pm, or Wed at 7 pm

*Practices start on Tuesday, September 2.

Weekday Skills Session Locations: Stuart-Hobson Middle School or the Fields at RFK Campus

  • For more details about the skills sessions, please visit our Skills Clinics page.

Challenge Level Program: For players ready to take their game to the next level, our Challenge Level Program is the perfect opportunity! Designed for 3rd-6th graders, this high-energy, development-focused program combines 9 training sessions with 7 competitive league matches in the Metro Community League (MCL). Learn more and sign up today!

  • Start Date: Week of September 1 (9-week program)

  • Fee: $340 (9 practice sessions + 7 game days)

Why Families Choose DC Way

Game-Day Excitement: Every Saturday is full of energy, friends, and soccer fun at Brentwood Hamilton Park.

Positive Coaching & Communication: Our staff keeps players motivated and supported with clear guidance and encouragement.

Whole-Child Development: We focus on life skills — like teamwork, responsibility, and confidence — not just soccer wins.

Smooth Registration & Flexible Options: Add a weekday Skills Clinic to boost development and practice even more!

WANT TO SEE AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CAPITOL HILL LEAGUE?

Please click the button below to check out the games and winners from the previous leagues. Get a look at all the fun we had and the games we played!

 

Our Mission & Goals

At DC Way, we believe youth sports should be about more than just wins and scores. Our mission is to inspire a lifelong love of soccer through joyful experiences, inclusive play, and positive role models. We want every child to feel confident, seen, and supported on and off the field. By blending fun with fundamentals, we help young players build lasting skills, strong friendships, and a love for movement that stays with them for life.

Team Spirit Starts with You

Our Capitol Hill League is built on community, and we welcome parent participation to help make each Saturday a success! Each team will need at least one parent volunteer to serve as a Team Manager. Don’t worry — no coaching experience needed! Managers help with team communication, organizing subs on game day, and acting as the point of contact with DC Way.

You can sign up as a Team Manager during registration or on the first day of the season. Once selected, please notify us and we’ll support you every step of the way!

How Our League Works

Each Saturday, players will enjoy a structured and supportive game-day experience at Brentwood Hamilton Park. A DC Way coach will act as the referee, helping guide the match and ensuring a positive environment for everyone on the field. 

Before each game (or during halftime), we’ll introduce a weekly skill theme—like dribbling, passing, teamwork, or spacing—giving young players a fun focus to explore through play.

Our small-sided game format (like 3v3, 4v4, or 5v5) means every player stays involved, gets more touches on the ball, and builds confidence through meaningful play.

Why Small-Sided Games Matter

Smaller team formats are the perfect fit for young players. They touch the ball more often, stay engaged, and make real decisions on the field. This type of play accelerates learning and encourages creativity—without pressure.

Here’s what the research shows:

  • Players in 4v4 get 4x more touches than in larger formats.

  • Games are faster-paced, with more shots, more action, and more fun.

  • Children feel more involved, more confident, and more excited to come back each week!

League Information

  • DC Way Academy is committed to providing a safe, structured, and positive environment for every player, both on and off the field.

  • Each player is expected to bring their own water bottle and shin guards.

  • In case of bad weather conditions, please click here to follow our updates on program cancellations.

All of the DC Way Academy coaches are certified soccer coaches with extensive experience working with children. Our coaches have all passed mandatory background checks, have at least two years of experience working with children, and have received First Aid training.

CODE OF CONDUCT

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PLAYERS

As a Player I will:

  • Ensure that I arrive on time for all games.

  • Always play by the rules.

  • Wear the assigned uniform.

  • Respect referees and the decisions they make.

  • Understand the rules of the game.

  • Listen and follow the instructions of the coaching staff.

  • Respect my teammates and opponents at all times.

  • Not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct or negative communication with players, coaching staff, or families of the opposing team.

  • Maintain a positive attitude during all games.

  • Immediately report any injury to the coaching staff.

  • Never use vulgar or profane language.

  • Not engage in negative comments towards players or teams through any social networking sites.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARENTS & GUARDIANS

As a Parent/Guardian I will:

  • Read, understand, and adhere to all applicable club policies.

  • Ensure the player arrives at games on time.

  • Not pressure my child in any way – I know that this is their game, not mine.

  • Applaud good plays/performances by both my child’s team and their opponents.

  • Not criticize game referees.

  • Encourage my child to respect the efforts of their opponents.

  • Not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct or negative communication with players, coaching staff, or families of the opposing team.

  • Communicate with respect to scheduling or any logistical concerns with the team manager.

  • Give positive comments that motivate and encourage continued effort.

  • Focus on my child’s and their team’s efforts and performance – not the score.

  • Learn the rules of the game.

  • Thank the coaches, officials, and other volunteers who give up their time to conduct the event for my child.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES AND MANAGERS

As a Coach/Manager I will:

  • Never place the value of winning before the safety and welfare of all players.

  • Always show respect for players, other coaches, and game referees.

  • Lead by example, demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship at all times.

  • Be a positive role model for players and parents, by consistently acting in a positive, controlled, and mature manner.

  • Never use abusive or insulting language. I will treat everyone with dignity.

  • Not tolerate inappropriate behavior, regardless of the situation.

  • Provide a positive, enjoyable atmosphere for the players and parents.

  • Maintain the safety and well-being of their players.

  • Ensure that the competition site is safe at all times.

  • Be prepared to act quickly and appropriately in case of an emergency.

  • Encourage parents to support the team with their presence as much as possible.

  • Provide necessary guidance and equipment at games.

  • Discipline players in a fair and consistent manner.

  • Refrain from making negative comments about other coaches, players, parents, and referees.

  • Ensure that everyone is treated equally, regardless of age, color, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, language, religion, athletic potential, disability, family status, gender identity, gender expression, sex, and sexual orientation.