The Albany Alleycats were founded in 1994 by Afrim Nezaj, originally as a semi-professional men’s soccer team that competed as part of the USISL from 1995-1999. Since that time, the Alleycats have grown into an elite developmental platform for youth soccer in Albany, NY. The Alleycats are a Non-Profit educational organization incorporated under section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code.

The Alleycats Soccer Club’s mission is to foster the physical, mental, and emotional growth and development of youth in the capital district through the sport of soccer. Through proper guidance, professional coaching and centralized leadership, each player will be given the opportunity to play soccer in a supportive and rewarding environment that emphasizes fun, enjoyment and skill learning at a level that fits his/her ability and desire.

The Alleycats aim to educate players both on & off the field through use of best practices associated with the game, and player centered, coach driven, parent guided soccer environments. We pride ourselves on respecting the tradition of our club and our communities, while simultaneously striving to innovate and collaborate in order to expand our knowledge base and practices with the youth and families we work with.

Any players who wish to dedicate themselves to consistent high level training and wish to compete with and against some of the best youth soccer players in the area are prime candidates for the Albany Alleycats. Any player who is looking for a premier soccer organization that is going to challenge them to get better during every training session and is willing to work hard to improve their skills are also prime candidates for our program.

Indoor sessions are usually 1 hour and 15 minutes of field time. Coaches will usually hold team meetings (chalk talk, video sessions, etc.) periodically throughout the season. Outdoor sessions will typically be 1 hour 30 minutes.

Alleycats team training sessions will typically be run by their coach or a designated trainer. For the Boys and Girls Academy (U8-U12), there will be multiple coaches within the club who will be working with the players. The club will always try their best to have multiple coaches at training to help individualize player development, as well as instruct small group concepts.

Yes. Our Goalkeeping Directors, Alex Drambour and Shawn Willis will hold Goalkeeper specific training sessions throughout the entire season for players to attend.

We are proud of our players dedication to their club and team. Of course, we also want them to be well-rounded, and are cognizant of the benefits behind being a multi-sport athlete. We ask that our players hold themselves accountable and do their best to stay committed.

Team managers will typically send weekly emails to all parents and players letting them know where and when their team will train that week.