I believe this accreditation speaks volumes about the holistic experience we offer our players. It highlights our commitment to providing a high-quality environment where they can develop not only as soccer players but also as individuals. It underscores our focus on professional coaching, player development pathways, and a positive, supportive club culture.” – Matt Miller, Chicago KICS CEO
Chicago KICS FC is the third program to receive the Illinois Youth Soccer Premier Club Accreditation, an honor that recognizes clubs excelling in key areas of youth sports. This recognition highlights their commitment to more than just wins and losses, but rather the importance of overall quality and the player experience.
“It feels incredible to earn this accreditation,” Matt Miller, Chief Executive Officer of Chicago KICS said. “It validates the hard work and dedication our coaches, players, and families put in every single day. We’ve always strived to build something special here, focusing on more than just the scoreline, so this recognition truly resonates with our core values. It was important for us to pursue this recognition because we wanted an external validation of the standards we hold ourselves to. We believe in continuous improvement and being recognized as a Premier Club demonstrates to our current and future members that we are serious about providing the best possible experience. It also aligns us with other top-tier clubs in the state, fostering a competitive and developmental environment for our players.”
To earn Premier Club status, a club must earn five badges by meeting specific criteria in five pillars of youth sports: Coaching Education, Parent Engagement, Player Development, Safeguarding & Participation.
“Congrats to KICS on achieving Premier Club status,” said Adam Howarth, Illinois Youth Soccer Director of Coaching. “It is a clear reflection by KICS of their dedication and the pursuit to create better environments for their players. Every member of the club is part of this milestone and they should feel very proud!”
“I believe this accreditation speaks volumes about the holistic experience we offer our players,” Miller said. “It highlights our commitment to providing a high-quality environment where they can develop not only as soccer players but also as individuals. It underscores our focus on professional coaching, player development pathways, and a positive, supportive club culture.”
Chicago KICS joins Northwind SC and Chicago City SC as the only organizations to earn Premier Club status. Nineteen other clubs have started their path to the accreditation, by earning at least one badge. You can find complete details about the Premier Club program.