FAQs

Q: What is the TNT Dynamite Soccer Club?  
A: The TNT Dynamite Soccer Club is dedicated to training and developing Mid-Michigan’s best soccer players, as both athletes and as young adults.  Since our founding in 1999, we have accomplished numerous feats – the club consistently places teams into the State Cup Quarterfinals and the Midwest Regional League, and our premier teams continue to achieve success in the highest divisions of the Michigan State Premier Soccer League -- and accumulated multiple tournament championships.  Many of our players have made their marks in the Olympic Development Program, and our older players often continue their high-level of play in college.  We are the most successful club in Mid Michigan from individual player and team success.

Q: What is the TNT Dynamite Soccer Club West?
A: TNT West is a satellite program of the main club in Lansing.  The club’s structure and curriculum will be used to build and develop TNT West into a successful club for West Michigan soccer players to join.  Both TNT and TNT West will share resources to further the clubs’ growth.

Q: How many teams are in the club?  
A: We expect to field teams in the u8, u9, u10, u11 and u12 age groups in Fall 2011 for both Holland and Grandville area players.  Additional age groups may be offered depending on the interest level.

Q: What advantages does the club offer?  
A: The TNT Dynamite Soccer Club is one of the most respected clubs in Michigan, and its consistent and progressive leadership and sound club structure will be represented at TNT West.

Our coaching staff is certified and licensed, and will be positive role models who know how to both win and develop players with sportsmanship and integrity.  All of our coaches are evaluated regularly, share feedback and ideas with each other and participate in our continual education program.  Our staff is lead by Aaron Daane (USSF “C” License, USYS National Youth License, MSYSA Coaching Education Staff, MSYSA ODP 101 Coach).

Specialized training – goalkeeper training, individual or small group training – is also available to TNT West players.
Another advantage is the tight-knit relationship between families and teams.  The TNT Dynamite “family” trains, travels to tournaments, and organizes club functions (tailgates, hayrides and picnics) together.

Q: What leagues do TNT Dynamite soccer teams play in?  
A: Our Premier Development teams (u8-u12 teams) will play in the Grand Valley Soccer Association.  U13 and older teams may play in the Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP).  Our ’96 Boys team currently plays in MSPSP.

Q: How much of a time commitment should we expect to make?
A: Teams will typically train two to three times a week and most games are played on the weekends.  For Premier teams, it is common to play on both Saturdays and Sundays during the season.  Most teams will participate in at least one tournament throughout the year.  Often, several teams from the club will travel together to a tournament.

Q: How much travel is involved?
A: Our Premier Development teams primarily play in the Grand Rapids area.  Home games will be in Grandville and Holland, depending on the make-up of each team.  Premier teams play around the state, from Midland to Monroe, and from Muskegon to Metro-Detroit.

Q: What is a Premier Developmental team?
A: It is a team that is not old enough to play in the Premier League (U8-U12). Our goal is to better prepare individual players and the team for premier competition by providing quality coaching at an earlier age in order to teach the necessary skills, habits and knowledge of the game.

Q: What is the Academy program?
A: The TNT Dynamite Soccer Academy is dedicated to training Mid-Michigan’s youngest players in the same professional and organized manner which TNT Dynamite teams receive, at reduced cost, time commitment and travel.  By beginning their soccer careers at an early age, players enrolled in the academy have a head start in their skill development, learning of and appreciation for the game of soccer.  Check out "Academy" for more information.

Q: Can my child play up in an older age group?
A: Talented and committed players may sometimes play on older teams because it is best for their individual development.  Any player within the club who does play up does so under the approval and supervision of the club directors.  Throughout our years as a club, many players have trained with older teams for a greater challenge, while others have played in individual games or have joined an older team during the course or at the start of the year (depending on the league roster and transfer rules).  If your son or daughter wishes to tryout or play for an older age group, contact Aaron Daane at azdsoccer@sbclglobal.net.

Q: What are the costs that are associated with TNT teams?
A: Players who are members of a TNT Dynamite team have fees due to the club in installments paid throughout the year.  Approximate fees for teams --all fall and/or spring outdoor expenses (field fees, referee fees, player registration, tournament registrations, etc), and coaches salaries and club operating expenses -- are:

U8-U10 Select            $385
U11-U12 Select          $435
U13-U14 Select          $485
U15-U16 Select          $280
U17-U19 Select          $305
U13-U14 MSPSP       $1025
U15-U19 MSPSP       $520

Q: What other costs are families responsible for?
A: Uniforms, travel to and from away games, winter training and leagues, and lodging at tournaments.  Additional fees may be required if team decide to participate in events outside of their planned budget.

Q: Does TNT provide subsidies for low-income families?
A: Yes.  Scholarships are available to aid families with part of the club fee.  Families interested in receiving financial aid must submit the appropriate paperwork to the club directors.

Q: What should I expect at the tryout?
A: Players will participate in skills tests and small-sided games.  The head coach, other coaches within the club, and independent evaluators (such as area high school coaches and area college soccer players) will conduct the tryout and evaluate talent.  

Q: What do the coaches look for at the tryouts?
A: A combination of excellent athletic ability, high caliber soccer skills, size and speed, an intense desire to compete at the highest level and a player who responds with a positive attitude and is willing to learn.

Q: How do I know if my son or daughter is ready for the TNT Dynamite Club?
A: If you and your child are looking for a more competitive environment and desire quality coaching with an emphasis on both individual and team development, then the TNT Dynamite Soccer Club might be the answer.