About Sporting Arkansas
Our Mission
Grow the person. Grow the player. Grow the game.
Founded in 1998 and based in Bentonville, Arkansas, Sporting Arkansas Soccer Club is the premier player development club in northwest Arkansas and an Official Academy Affiliate of Sporting Kansas City. Our mission is to foster a love of soccer and develop the next generation of athletes in a supportive, competitive, and community-oriented environment. We strive to nurture each player's potential through high-quality coaching, innovative programming, and a commitment to sportsmanship, teamwork, and excellence both on and off the field.
Our Staff
Our dedicated team of experienced coaches and administrators is the backbone of Sporting Arkansas. Each member of our staff brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for the game, working to ensure every player has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.
- Scott Marksberry – Technical Director
- Kevin Tello – MLS NEXT Director
- Ryan Williams – Associate Director of Coaching
- Josie Matlick – Associate Director of Coaching, Girls Programming
In addition to our full-time staff, Sporting Arkansas boasts a team of more than 40 part-time coaches. All Sporting Arkansas coaches have either a USSF coaching license or extensive playing/coaching experience at the high school, collegiate or professional level, or both.
Board of Directors
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Sporting Arkansas is guided by a committed Board of Directors, composed of community leaders, parents, and soccer enthusiasts who share a common goal: to advance youth soccer in Northwest Arkansas. Our board members bring diverse perspectives and expertise, ensuring the club remains aligned with our mission and values.
Sugar Creek Soccer Park
Situated along Sugar Creek and the Razorback Greenway in Bella Vista, Arkansas, Sugar Creek Soccer Park is the home of Sporting Arkansas and the largest all-grass club soccer facility in the region.
Sporting Kansas City Affiliation
Sporting Arkansas is proud to be an official academy affiliate of
Sporting Kansas City, one of
Major League Soccer's premier clubs. This strategic partnership is designed to enhance player development, coaching education, and overall club growth, providing unique opportunities for our players, coaches, and the broader soccer community in Northwest Arkansas.
Player Development
As an affiliate of Sporting KC, our players have access to a direct pathway to professional soccer. This affiliation allows our most talented and dedicated players to participate in exclusive training sessions, scouting opportunities, and development programs hosted by Sporting KC. The partnership also facilitates opportunities for our players to compete in elite tournaments and showcases, gaining exposure to collegiate and professional scouts.
Coaching Education
Our coaches benefit immensely from the affiliation through access to advanced coaching clinics, workshops, and educational resources provided by Sporting KC. This ongoing professional development ensures that our coaching staff stays at the forefront of modern soccer training methodologies and best practices, directly benefiting the development of our players.
Community and Club Growth
Our affiliation with Sporting KC also brings numerous advantages to the overall growth and visibility of Sporting Arkansas. Through collaborative events, community outreach programs, and shared resources, we are able to enhance the soccer experience for all our members. This partnership helps us to foster a stronger soccer community, encouraging participation and support at all levels.
