Full Armor Soccer

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Raleigh, NC  ·  Faith-Centered  ·  Soccer Training

Forged strong. Anchored in faith.

Ephesians 6:11 — Put on the full armor of God

Work hard. Honor God. Let the game be played with joy that lasts.

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Meet the Creator

Full Armor Soccer was born out of my own story — the mistakes I made, the lessons I learned too late, and a desire to give players something I never had.

I didn't come to faith until 2015, at 29 years old. My playing career was already behind me. Looking back, I can see clearly how much that absence shaped everything.

I grew up with one vision: play professionally for a top club and represent the United States in a World Cup. And for a moment, it looked like it might actually happen. By 14 I was the starting center back for the top club team in the country — one of a handful of defenders being tracked by regional and national team scouts. The path was there.

But I made a decision that changed everything. I watched forwards score goals, receive glory, and command attention — and I wanted that. So I walked away from a position I was genuinely elite at and chased something I wasn't built for. Not because I lacked ability, but because my identity was wrapped up in the wrong thing. I wanted to be seen.

I worked hard enough to earn looks from top Collegiate Division I programs. Coaches always found their way back to putting me at center back. Teams won. But I was selfish — I resisted the role consistently, moved into attacking positions, and performed adequately when I could have been exceptional somewhere else.

After college I played in the USL, attended a combine in Florida, and caught the attention of a coach from Real Salt Lake who invited me to training camp. From there a group traveled to Turkey for pre-season camp alongside some of Europe's top clubs. I was asked to play in a defensive role. I stayed briefly — and then simply stopped.

I remember walking along the shore of the Mediterranean Sea thinking I want nothing to do with soccer anymore.

I had trained without a single day off since I was six years old. I was 24. I was emotionally hollow — worn down by difficult teammates, demanding coaches, multiple concussions I hadn't properly recovered from, and a spiritual battle I didn't yet have the tools to fight. I believe God was pulling me out of the game for that season of my life. I just didn't know it yet.

What I thought was failure, I now understand was preparation.

I spent the next fifteen years in fitness, strength and conditioning, and soccer coaching — working at high level clubs and colleges, developing players, and slowly falling back in love with a game I had once wanted nothing to do with. I've only recently started to enjoy soccer the way it was meant to be enjoyed — freely, without my identity riding on it.

That's what Full Armor Soccer is for.

I want to build an environment where players don't make the choices I made. Where soccer is a gift held loosely, not an identity gripped tightly. Where players are developed completely — physically, technically, tactically, and spiritually — and sent out not just as great players but as people grounded in God, ready to honor Him and carry the gospel wherever the game takes them.

Instead of becoming the world class center back I may have been, God used every wrong turn to shape me into something more useful — a coach who understands the pitfalls from the inside, and who genuinely wants something better for the players in his care.

Full Armor Soccer

The Method

Ephesians 6:11 ‍ ‍

  • Warm up: Dynamic movement prep, body temperature, joint mobility, nervous system activation and technical readiness.

    Daily Fitness Test: These are designed to continue each players work capacity, athleticism and performance on the pitch.

    Soccer is essentially a year-round sport, which means physical development must be approached strategically and consistently throughout the season. Because of this, we structure training through weekly microcycles that balance both GPP (General Physical Preparedness) and SPP (Specific Physical Preparedness). Athletes need both at the appropriate times to perform at their highest level while staying healthy over the long term.

    Soccer places demands on nearly every aspect of athletic performance, including endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, agility, balance, coordination, and accuracy. The importance of each quality also varies depending on the player’s position, style of play, and individual physical profile.

    For training to be truly effective, the individual athlete must be taken into account. Genetics, strengths, weaknesses, and physical tendencies all influence how a player should train. For example, an athlete with naturally high endurance may benefit from a greater emphasis on strength and power development, while a naturally explosive and fast athlete may need additional focus on aerobic capacity and overall conditioning.

    There is no one-size-fits-all approach to developing an elite soccer athlete. The objective is to provide the correct training stimulus at the right time so adaptation can occur effectively. Equally important is proper recovery, including intelligently timed rest days, sleep quality, nutrition, hydration, and stress management, all of which play a major role in physical performance and long-term development.

    At Full Armor Soccer, physical training is designed not only to enhance performance, but also to reduce injury risk, correct imbalances, and improve overall athleticism. Our goal is to develop athletes across all major physical domains, energy systems, and movement patterns so they can perform confidently, powerfully, and consistently on the field.

  • Short and intentional. Daily technical tests designed to help players improve in aerial control, dribbling, passing, receiving, finishing and defending. These are also used as good data markers to show where players need to spend extra time.

  • 1v1 competition: There is no other way to fully expose a player both physically and technically. These small sided games will quickly tell you if your match ready and show your current attacking and defending abilities. 2v2 and 3v3 games used for combination play development as well

Full Armor Soccer Coaching

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    • Physical training across all domains

    • Technical testing and analysis

    • Periodized programming

    • GPP+SPP development

    • Individual specific growth area guidance

    • Nutritional guidance

    • Understanding how to peak for matches

    • Injury prevention and recovery protocols

    • Development in soccer and as an overall healthy athlete

    • Faith-centered environment

    • Club, collegiate and professional soccer guidance and how to approach each

    • Lifelong tools on how to navigate the soccer world

    • Guidance in leaning into how God created you and your purpose in soccer

  • Hour Sessions

    40 Sessions: $82/session
    Two payments of $1,640 (paid on the 1st and 20th session) or pay in full ($3,280) at the first session.

    30 Sessions: $86/session
    Two payments of $1,290 (paid on the 1st and 15th session) or pay in full ($2,580) at the first session.

    20 Sessions: $90 session
    Two payments of $900 (paid on the 1st and 10th session) or pay in full ($1,800) at the first session.

    10 Sessions: $94/session
    One payment of $940 paid on the 1st session.

    "Pay as you go rate": $124/hour

    *Off site Training: Additional $20 per session to any package

    1⁄2 Hour Sessions

    40 Sessions: $52/session
    Two payments of $1,040 (paid on the 1st and 20th sessions) or pay in full ($2,080) at the first session.

    30 Sessions: $56/session
    Two payments of $840 (paid on the 1st and 15th sessions) or pay in full ($1,680) at the first session.

    20 Sessions: $60/session
    Two payments of $600 (paid on the 1st and 10th session) or pay in full ($1,200) at the first session.

    10 Sessions: $64/session
    One payment of $640 paid on the 1st session.

    "Pay as you go rate": $74/half hour

    *Off site Training: Additional $10 per session to any package

    Package Details 

    Partner & Small Group Training Your package includes free training for up to 3 family members or friends to join you at no extra charge. Most facilities charge $25–$50 per guest — this is our way of making world-class coaching accessible to the people you care about most.

    Package Dates & Consistency Your package begins on the date of purchase and is scheduled around your chosen training frequency. For example, if you purchase 10 sessions and train every Monday, your package runs for 10 Mondays. Sessions are counted on their scheduled date whether attended or not — because consistency is one of the most powerful drivers of real, lasting results.

    Life happens, and we've built in flexibility to keep you on track:

    • Can't make it in person? We'll run a FaceTime session — even 10 minutes keeps your momentum going.

    • Different day or time? You're welcome to hop into any CrossFit class. View the schedule at crossfitfullarmor.com/schedule.

    • Coach cancels? Your end date gets extended. Simple as that.

    Life Happens — We've Got You Covered If you know you'll be away for an extended period (one month or more) we offer a simple spot-hold option. For $75 per month, we'll pause your package and reserve your training slot so you come back to exactly where you left off — no scrambling, no lost progress, no losing your place.

    This is designed for planned absences like travel or busy seasons, not as a substitute for consistent training. When you return, your program picks up right where you left it.

    Spot holds must be requested at least one week in advance.

    Floater Clients Those who prefer not to reserve a time slot can still purchase a package and we will track individual sessions they use. However, sessions are limited so no guarantee to get on the schedule. Once on the schedule sessions will be charged whether the session is used or not. Clients may use the FaceTime option or hop in a CrossFit Class to make it up as well. 

    What You're Really Getting Personal Training is just the starting point. Your program includes nutrition guidance tailored to you, workout programming for the days you train on your own, and advice on sleep, stress management, meal planning and much more — because true health/fitness and sports performance go well beyond the gym.

    Your coach is a published health author, former professional athlete, college coach and current gym owner/competitive fitness athlete, with 15+ years of experience helping individuals and athletes improve their health and performance. With a background in health communications, exercise science, psychology, and sociology from the University at Buffalo and Princeton University — and certifications including CrossFit and CSCS — you're not just getting a trainer. You're getting a complete health and performance system built around you.


  • Day/Times and age groups

    Send all your available days and times and I’ll check my availability. I work with all age groups

    Locations

    • GRACE Christian athletic fields, Sport HQ and Raleigh, Cary and Apex fields

  • Full Armor sessions comprise of three main parts. Physical testing, technical testing and 1v1 or small sided play. Leading up to physical and technical testing a thorough warm up and practice time is administered. Post 1v1 or small sided play mobility and a proper cool down is completed.

    • Memorial Day

    • 4th of July

    • Labor Day

    • Halloween

    • Thanksgiving Wednesday and Thursday

    • Christmas/New Years: December 24th - January 1st

  • Most soccer programs train the game. Full Armor Soccer trains the player. While club and school teams focus on tactics, formations, and match preparation, the physical and technical foundation underneath a player's ability to execute those things is almost always left to chance. Full Armor Soccer fills that gap — building strength, power, speed, stamina, and agility through a structured, periodized program designed specifically for the demands of soccer, alongside intentional technical skill development through our daily tests. But the program exists for a reason that goes deeper than performance. Soccer has a way of becoming the thing a player builds their identity around — and when that happens, the game stops being a gift and starts being a burden. Full Armor Soccer is built for players who want to compete hard, develop completely, and go home at peace — because their identity is anchored in something greater than a scoreline. Faith is not an add-on here. It is the foundation everything else is built on.


  • Send us an email: crossfitfullarmor@gmail.com or head over to our contact page and message us there. From there we can answer any questions and get you set up with a free trial class.

Full Armor Soccer Remote Coaching

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    • A weekly custom training plan that fits around their practice and match schedule.

    • Physical training across all domains

    • Technical testing and analysis

    • Periodized programming

    • GPP+SPP development

    • Individual specific growth area guidance

    • Nutritional guidance

    • Understanding how to peak for matches

    • Injury prevention and recovery protocols

    • Development in soccer and as an overall healthy athlete

    • Faith-centered environment

    • Club, collegiate and professional soccer guidance and how to approach each

    • Lifelong tools on how to navigate the soccer world

    • Guidance in leaning into how God created you and your purpose in soccer

  • $150/a month, cancel anytime

    I focus on building a weekly personalized training and technical plan delivered to each Sunday by email. This training plan is built around your actual schedule, load and match calendar. Specific playing advice included.

  • Full Armor sessions comprise of three main parts. Physical testing, technical testing and 1v1 or small sided play. We’ll use these alongside a thorough warm up and cool down to create the idea session for you each day.

  • Most soccer programs train the game. Full Armor Soccer trains the player. While club and school teams focus on tactics, formations, and match preparation, the physical and technical foundation underneath a player's ability to execute those things is almost always left to chance. Full Armor Soccer fills that gap — building strength, power, speed, stamina, and agility through a structured, periodized program designed specifically for the demands of soccer, alongside intentional technical skill development through our daily tests. But the program exists for a reason that goes deeper than performance. Soccer has a way of becoming the thing a player builds their identity around — and when that happens, the game stops being a gift and starts being a burden. Full Armor Soccer is built for players who want to compete hard, develop completely, and go home at peace — because their identity is anchored in something greater than a scoreline. Faith is not an add-on here. It is the foundation everything else is built on.


  • Send us an email: crossfitfullarmor@gmail.com or head over to our contact page and message us there. From there we can answer any questions and get you set up with a discovery call.

Physical Qualities

  • Long-duration aerobic work. Builds the engine that sustains performance across a full match and a full season.

    Lactate Threshold: Long challenging efforts over 11 minutes

    • Example: 20 minute row for max meters

    Aerobic Threshold: Long moderate efforts over 11 minutes

    • Example: 20 minute row at a moderate pace

    Strength Endurance: Build structural durability over time — the ability to maintain proper mechanics and resist fatigue

    • 20 minute AMRAP: 10 pull ups/20 DB walking lunges

    Power Endurance: Sustain explosive capacity across a full session

    • Example: 18 minutes: 12 med ball slams/12 broad jumps

    Agility Endurance: Keep movement mechanics sharp over long durations

    • Example: 15 minute agility ladder (in-in-out-out), rest :30 every 10 efforts

  • High-intensity interval work. Builds the ability to repeat hard efforts and recover between them — the primary energy demand of soccer.

    Glycolysis: Intervals and hard short efforts 15 seconds-2 minutes

    • Example: 4×200m/Rest 8:1

    V02 max: Intervals and hard short efforts 2 minutes-11 minutes

    • Example: 3×800m run/2 minute rest

    Strength Stamina: Build the ability to produce high structural force repeatedly without full recovery

    • 5 rounds 10 thrusters/90 second rest

    Power Stamina: Reproduce explosive efforts without full recovery

    • Example: 4 rounds :30 box jumps/:30 off

    Agility Stamina: Maintain movement quality and joint control through accumulated fatigue

    • Example: 5 minute continuous T-Test

  • Structural and functional load-bearing. The foundation of power, durability, and injury resistance.

    1–5 reps: Max strength (heavy load, neural focus, some myofibrillar growth)

    • Example: 3×3 rep back squat/5 minute rest

    5–8 reps: Strength + myofibrillar hypertrophy

    • Example: 2×8 deadlift/3 minute rest

    8–12 reps: Hypertrophy (mix of myofibrillar + sarcoplasmic)

    • Example: 10 rep max bench press

    12–20+ reps: Hypertrophy with more metabolic stress (often labeled “sarcoplasmic”)

    • Example: 2×15 push press/3 minute rest

  • Explosive output. The ability to produce maximum force in minimum time — sprinting, jumping, striking.

    Short explosive efforts where maximum force can be applied to a quick movement

    • Example: 6×3 med ball slam/rest as needed

  • Maximal velocity over short distances. Efforts under 15 seconds. Pure sprint quality.

    Efforts under :15 that can be completed by repeating a movement pattern as fast as possible

    • Example: 3x:10 bike sprint/3 minute rest

    Speed Strength: Short efforts that can be completed by repeating a strength movement pattern as fast as possible

    • 10×2 back squat/:60 rest

  • Rapid directional change and movement quality. The ability to accelerate, decelerate, and redirect efficiently.

    Short duration efforts that require quick deceleration to acceleration.

    • Example: 5×5yd shuffle down and back to 5yd backpedal

  • Training that intentionally combines two or more physical domains inside a single piece of work — strength, power, stamina, endurance, agility, or speed — to build the capacity to perform across multiple demands without full recovery between them.

    What it is

    A mixed modal session is not a test of one physical quality. It is a deliberate combination of two or more domains sequenced inside a single continuous effort. Where a pure strength session isolates load and rest, and a pure stamina session isolates intervals, mixed modal work removes that isolation — demanding that the body produce different types of force and energy output back to back, round after round.

    This reflects how soccer is actually played. A match does not ask a player to sprint, then rest fully, then jump, then rest fully, then hold off a challenge. It asks all of those things in rapid, unpredictable sequence. Mixed modal training builds the physical and neurological capacity to meet that demand.

    • Example: 3 rounds for time of 10 presses/200m row/30 box jumps

  • The ability of your muscles and joints to move through a full range of motion. It helps improve movement efficiency, reduce injury risk, and perform actions like sprinting, turning, and kicking more effectively.

    Every session closes with mobility work while the body is still warm. The session ends right so the body recovers right. This is non-negotiable regardless of session type.

    Methods: 1-3 minute standing straddle, deep lunge active reaches, foam roll quads

  • Skill work such as juggling, dribbling, shooting, etc., promotes the ability for the brain to develop the appropriate neural pathways to have technical proficiency

Skill Challenges

Skill isn't given — it's forged through repetition, discipline, and the decision to keep going. Mastery is built in private and proven in public. Earn your mark through personal challenges. Compete in showcases where technique goes head to head.

Challenges and Records

Submit a Score

  • For Time:

    • 100 alternating foot juggles

      • No drops, touches have to stay in sequence

    Records

    1. Silas - :46

    2. EJ - :54

    3. Jack - :59

    4. Riley - 1:18

    5. Jack B - 2:01

  • For Time:

    • 50 right foot only juggles

      • No drops have to stay in sequence

    Records

  • For Time:

    • 50 left foot only juggles

      • No drops have to stay in sequence

    Records

  • For max reps

    • 10 right footed and 10 left footed attempts to chip a ball from 20yds out into a 5×5yd box

      • Must land in box to count, doesn’t have to stay in.

  • For Time

    • Juggle the ball 60yds

    Records

  • For max reps

    • As many head juggles as possible without dropping

    Records

  • For time

    • 30 right foot / 30 left foot / 30 alternating feet / 30 alternating thigh / complete without a drop. Any drop restarts that section.

    Records

  • For max reps

    • Non-dominant foot only, max juggles without dropping.

    Records

  • For max reps out of 50

    • 5 attempts each foot to strike a stationary ball into the following goal targets from 12 yards.

      • Center

      • Lower left (side netting)

      • Upper left (side netting)

      • Lower right (side netting)

      • Upper right (side netting)

    Records

  • For time

    • Dribble around a 8×8 yard square with the following foot pattern: Dribble, roll, backwards toe taps, roll.

      • 5x clockwise

      • 5x counter clockwise

    Records

Discover your optimal position

As you go through these challenges you will start to see where you might be best suited to play. Physical qualities, tactical awareness and personality also play a role when discovering optimal positions.

Full Armor Soccer League

1v1 Soccer: No goalkeeper. No drama. No oversized rosters full of personalities. Two players head to head, a small goal, and the game itself. Pray before you play — then compete fully.

Standings are kept. Excellence is recognized. The environment just happens to be one where hard work and humility share the same jersey. Free to join, all are welcome.

Joint Today

2026 Schedule and Standings

League Info

  • July – May | Regular Season Weekly matches, rolling enrollment. Players can join any point in the season and enter the standings immediately. Players can also take weeks off in the season. Add your name to weeks you can make on the “Schedule and Standings” sheet above. Standings updated weekly. Regular season champ crowned

    June | Raleigh Cup

  • Step 1 — Sign Up to Play
    Each week, add your name to the "FASL Sheet" (link above) if you're available to play.

    Step 2 — Find Your Matchup
    Click the link above and go to the Schedule and Results tab to see who you're playing that week.

    Step 3 — Coordinate With Your Opponent
    Reach out to your opponent to agree on a time and place. Contact information for every player is in the Contact Info tab.

    Step 4 — Play Your Match
    You can play on any surface — grass, turf, gym, dirt, parking lot, street.

    Step 5 — Submit Your Score
    Scores must be submitted by 7pm Sunday in the Schedule and Results tab. The winning player enters the result using this format:

    Jay (3) vs. Brian (2)

    Below are some ideas for open space in the triangle

    Raleigh

    • Dorthea Dix

    • Baileywick Park

    • Laurel Hills

    Cary

    • Thomas Brooks

    • Mills Park

    Apex

    • Pleasant Park

    • Apex Nature Park

    • Jaycee Park

  • Men (adult: 18+)

    Women (adult: 18+)

    • Coming Soon: 16-17 boys/girls, 14-15 boys/girls, 12-13 boys/girls, 10-11 boys/girls

  • Shin Guards: All players 17 or younger must wear shin guards

    Game Balls: Teams are responsible for supplying their own game balls. The recommended ball sizes are as follows: Size 5 for U13 and older, Size 4 for U9 to U12, and Size 3 for U8 and younger.

    Shoes: Players can wear any soccer shoes that match the field conditions.

    Uniforms: Anything you like

    Field Dimensions

    • Make fields 15×25yds

    Goals: Any goal from 3-4’ high x 5-6’ wide

    Goal suggestions

    Playing Surface: Anything goes as long as both players agree to it. Grass, Turf, gym floor, parking lot, dirt, etc. That’s part of the beauty of soccer, find some space and play. Many of the best players in the world grew up playing in the streets and non ideal conditions. Play everywhere, it will make you better.

  • Each match consists of two 7-minute halves, separated by a short 2 minute water break at halftime/end of regulation and finishes with “target goal”. Running clock, have extra balls ready.

    League standings are used to seed the Raleigh Cup

  • Each match concludes with a target goal after regulation. If the score is 3-1, the target goal is 4 (first one to 4 wins)

    • Win = 3 point

    • Loss by 1 = 1 point

    • Loss = 0 points

    • Forfeit = 5-0 loss

  • If Players are tied in the standings, the following criteria are used to determine the ranking:

    1. Head-to-head

    2. Goal difference

    3. Fewest goals conceded

    4. Total goals scored

    5. Largest margin of victory

    • Calling Fouls: Call your own fouls, both players must agree on the foul call. If there is a disagreement then player who had possession at the time of the foul will get the ball back on their half.

    • No Slide Tackling or Playing on The Ground: Players cannot slide tackle, slide to get the ball or play the ball while on the ground at any time. Player is considered on the ground if they have any part of their body touching the ground while playing the ball or in immediate follow through. A play from the ground will result in the attacking player receiving the ball in their half, unless it is deemed to stop a goal scoring opportunity, in which case a penalty kick is awarded (free shot 25yds from goal).

    • Gender: Girls and boys have to play in their divisions.

  • During all dead-ball situations, defenders must remain at least 9 Feet (3 steps) away from the ball. If the defensive goal area is closer than 9 Feet, the ball is placed 9 Feet from the goal box in line with the original spot of the restart.

    • 5 Second Rule: Get play moving. Target goals make it so time wasting isn’t a factor but look to get the ball back in play.

    • Dribble-Ins: Instead of throw-ins, the ball is restarted with a dribble from the sideline.

    • Restarts: Restarts from disputes start at receiving players half, fouls start at the spot of the foul and can be taken as a direct kick or dribbled.

    • Kick-Offs: First and second half start with the ball at the half by the goal of the player who’s ball it is.

    • Penalty Kicks: Awarded if deems that a scoring opportunity was unfairly denied by a foul or rules violation (such as a slide tackle). The kick is taken from the end-line with the opponent behind and off the pitch. If the penalty is missed, possession changes via a goal kick. Penalty kicks are not live plays.

    • League Director Discretion: A player may be removed for the remainder of the season at the discretion of the league director. Cussing, fighting or threatening remarks are not tolerated. Send an email to crossfitfullarmor@gmail.com about any match conflicts/disputes.

  • All players are expected to uphold a standard that honors God which demonstrates fair play and sportsmanship. Any player that does not uphold this standard will be removed from the league.

  • A forfeited match is recorded as a 5-0 loss for the forfeiting player.

  • Any situation not explicitly covered in these rules will be resolved at the discretion of the league director.

Full Armor Cup | Raleigh

The Full Armor Cup is Raleigh's premier 1v1 soccer tournament — where there are no teammates to rely on, no systems to hide in, and no excuses. Just you, your opponent, and everything you've built. Competitors from across the region come to test their technical ability, physical dominance, and mental edge on the same field, in the same format, under the same standard. This is the game at its purest — and the only place where the most complete soccer player in the room gets proven, not assumed.

Apply

Tournament Info

  • The Full Armor Cup is a single-elimination 1v1 tournament. Every match is two 7-minute halves with a running clock, a short 2 minute water break at halftime/end of regulation, and a target goal to close out each match. There are no draws. One player advances.

    Bracket seeding is determined by Full Armor Soccer League regular season standings. Open entry spots are available for competitors entering outside the league and are seeded by soccer background.

    • Date —

    • Location —

    • Players —

    • Entry fee —

  • Men (adult: 18+)

    Women (adult: 18+)

    • Coming Soon: 16-17 boys/girls, 14-15 boys/girls, 12-13 boys/girls and 10-11 boys/girls

  • Shin Guards: All players 17 or younger must wear shin guards

    Game Balls: We’ll provide balls, ball sizes are as follows: Size 5 for U13 and older, Size 4 for U9 to U12, and Size 3 for U8 and younger.

    Shoes: Players can wear any soccer shoes that match the field conditions.

    Uniforms: Anything you like

    Field Dimensions

    • Make fields 15×25yds

    Goals: 3-4’ high × 5-6’ wide

  • Win advance, lose your eliminated

    • Fouls: All fouls are taken at the spot of the foul except if closer than 9ft from the goal in which the ball is places 9ft away from the goal. All fouls can be taken as a direct free kick or dribbled in.

    • No Slide Tackling or Playing on The Ground: Players cannot slide tackle, slide to get the ball or play the ball while on the ground at any time. Player is considered on the ground if they have any part of their body touching the ground while playing the ball or in immediate follow through. A play from the ground will result in the attacking player receiving the ball in their half, unless it is deemed to stop a goal scoring opportunity, in which case a penalty kick is awarded (free shot 25yds from goal).

    • Gender: Girls and boys have to play in their divisions.

  • During all dead-ball situations, defenders must remain at least 9 Feet (3 steps) away from the ball. If the defensive goal area is closer than 9 Feet, the ball is placed 9 Feet from the goal box in line with the original spot of the restart.

    • 5 Second Rule: Get play moving. Target goals make it so time wasting isn’t a factor but look to get the ball back in play.

    • Dribble-Ins: Instead of throw-ins, the ball is restarted with a dribble from the sideline.

    • Restarts: Restarts from disputes start at receiving players half, fouls start at the spot of the foul and can be taken as a direct kick or dribbled.

    • Kick-Offs: First and second half start with the ball at the half by the goal of the player who’s ball it is.

    • Penalty Kicks: Awarded if deems that a scoring opportunity was unfairly denied by a foul or rules violation (such as a slide tackle). The kick is taken from the end-line with the opponent behind and off the pitch. If the penalty is missed, possession changes via a goal kick. Penalty kicks are not live plays.

    • League Director Discretion: A player may be removed for the remainder of the tournament at the discretion of the league director. Cussing, fighting or threatening remarks are not tolerated. Send an email to crossfitfullarmor@gmail.com about any match conflicts/disputes.

  • All players are expected to uphold a standard that honors God which demonstrates fair play and sportsmanship. Any player that does not uphold this standard will be removed from the league.

  • A forfeited match is recorded as a 5-0 loss for the forfeiting player.

  • Any situation not explicitly covered in these rules will be resolved at the discretion of the league director.

The Foundation

"Work hard. Honor God. Let the game be played with joy that lasts."

The mission of Full Armor Soccer

We pray before we play. Not to win even though we always try to — but to remember why we're here, who gave us these bodies, and what it means to compete with integrity. The standings are real. The effort is full. The perspective is anchored in something greater than the scoreline.

Work Hard We train in any condition — rain, cold, heat, snow. We play on any surface — grass, turf, dirt, street, pavement. We do not wait for perfect circumstances to put in the work. Fitness and technical skill are not given. They are built through time, repetition, and the willingness to show up when it would be easier not to. We play hard because that is how we honor the ability we have been given.

Honor God Contrary to much of the soccer world, we do not dive. We do not complain to officials. We do not retaliate when opponents are harsh. We are respectful whether we win or lose, whether the other team reciprocates or not.

We are not soft. We compete physically, we challenge for every ball, we press hard, and we play to win. There is nothing honorable about backing down from a contest or shrinking from competition. The difference is intent — we play hard against our opponents, never at them. We do not go in to hurt. We go in to win. That line is clear and we hold it.

We do not need to repay anyone for anything — God sees all and He is our foundation. We carry on. We give our best. We try to win the right way, every time, because how we play is a reflection of who we serve. The scoreboard is temporary. Character is not.

Enjoy the Game While we work at a high level, we play with genuine joy. Soccer is a gift and we treat it that way. We compete with energy, we express our individual gifts freely, and we build each other up rather than tear each other down. We celebrate our teammates. We embrace the grind because we love the game it produces. The best teams are not just physically sharp — they are connected, and connection starts with enjoying what you do together.


Full Armor Soccer exists for players who want to compete hard and go home at peace — because their identity isn't on the scoreboard.

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Testimonials

  • Daniel Gwyther - Watford

    "I have been fortunate to play with some great players during my career but quite frankly EJ is one of the most disciplined athletes I have ever met. Always at the forefront of fitness whether on the field or in the weight room, EJ was constantly looking for ways to improve be it through nutrition, physiology or psychology. Anyone looking to enhance their athletic prowess through an elite training program should contact EJ as his passion and knowledge will elevate your performance."

  • Martin John - Cardiff City

    "EJ's meticulousness and understanding of both nutrition and and physical conditioning with regards to optimal football performance has been unrivaled during my time as a footballer.

  • Zack Compton - UNC Asheville

    "Eric Johnson's soccer training with our son has changed Zack's life for the better! Zack's overall soccer fitness and skill level has been taken to the next level and then some. When Zack was certain that he wanted to pursue playing college soccer, we contacted Eric to discuss a plan for increasing Zack's soccer fitness level to be competitive at the collegiate level. With Eric's professional guidance, Zack's speed on the field and improvement in his footwork has enabled Zack, a center forward, to get around tough defenders and consistently score goals for his team. Zack's dream of playing collegiate soccer has been realized due to consistent and ongoing personal training with Eric. Eric's positive outlook, focus and commitment to excellence in all aspects of his training truly sets Eric Johnson apart from other trainers. I can highly recommend Eric Johnson to successfully train and mentor any soccer player at any skill level and age to improve his/her game!"

  • Greg Shepka - Western Michigan

    "I had the distinct please to play both with and against Eric in club/ODP and college. As a teammate nobody worked harder and cared more. He worked effortlessly to continue to grow as a player and always help others accountable. As an opponent both his skill and work ethic made him extremely hard to go against. I fully endorse Eric both as a person and coach, as you won't find anybody who holds the passion for the game the way Eric does."

  • Kyle Mckinney - Penn State

    "Eric has always been dedicated to training and becoming as physically and mentally fit as possible. His focus and discipline in both areas has made him a great mentor. A great teacher must also follow his own regime, and he does that."

  • Lee Catchpole - Norwich and England

    "I can attest that EJ is one of the most driven, knowledgeable, young soccer minds in the game. He remains dedicated to implementing the best strategies and research-based methods for improving fitness and overall performance. EJ is committed to excellence and I have no doubt that you will be thoroughly satisfied with his service."

  • Yahaya Musa - Wilmington Hammerheads

    "One thing I remember about EJ is his intensity with everything he does. Whether it was in training or games he had an intensity that was contagious."

  • Ernest Alvaro - Tahuichi Academy

    "EJ possessed the unique understanding of the game that he can readily pass on to aspiring players. He was not only one of the most technically talented players on the field, but also one of the fittest and smartest. I trained with EJ on several occasions while at Buffalo and his ability to quickly analyze and provide insight was always extremely beneficial to my development. I am confident that his expertise will be crucial to young players who want to reach their goals of college or professional soccer."

  • Daniel Stevens - PS Kemi Kings

    "EJ is a former teammate at the division 1 level of college soccer. His physical conditioning and training standards where always admirable and at the highest level. If there is anyone I would trust to provide a high quality training program it would be EJ!"

  • Tony Labudovski - Pittsburgh Riverhounds

    "Eric Johnson shows true class as a player and as a coach. He plays with great passion and is very technical with the ball. It was an honor playing with Eric."

  • Andy Straight - Cleveland Select

    "EJ's knowledge and passion for the game brought out the best in myself and the players around me. He was well respected amongst the team and we benefited greatly from his teachings and tactics that were provided to us in training sessions. There were even occasions when we would call EJ on non-training days and he would come up to the field to help us out on his own time. Examples like this go to show the type of character and leader EJ is. Since graduating from West Geauga I have found myself using EJ's teachings both on and off the field and can say that I would have never been the player or man I am today without him."

  • Andres DeLeon - University at Buffalo

    "EJ as a former colleague of mine I can safely say is a gentlemen and a scholar. The beautiful game is something he adores and possesses a perpetual eagerness to master it. Whether on or off the pitch he will give his students 110% of his effort"

  • Alex Andrews - Arsenal

    "EJ is a top class professional in every sense, both on and off the field and holds himself and others around him to a very high standard. His knowledge of holistic training and nutrition together with his drive, dedication and ability to conduct himself professionally is exceptional. As a coach and mentor to performance athletes EJ is no doubt one of the most exciting and innovative coaches out there."

  • Joe Whiteley - College of Charleston

    "If I could Characterize training with Eric, first I would have to point out his focus and persistence. He sets the bar and pushes his expectations of himself and his team to accomplish his/the team's goals. You know you are going to work hard and enjoy it when you are in a training session."

  • Jordan Brouk - University at Buffalo

    "I have never played with anyone as dedicated to soccer as EJ. From training effectively to proper nutrition, his holistic approach and dedication to the game is of the highest grade."

What Is Full Armor Soccer?

Full Armor Soccer is a faith-centered competitive soccer training program based in Raleigh, North Carolina. It exists for players who want to compete hard, work with discipline, and go home at peace — because their identity is anchored in something greater than a scoreline.

The mission is simple: work hard, honor God, and let the game be played with joy that lasts.

Built around delivering the gospel and developing physically and technically dominant players, Full Armor Soccer is not your ordinary training program — it is a complete environment for the faith-centered competitive player. We look to develop the whole athlete: physically prepared, technically sharp, competitively tested, and spiritually grounded.

We pray before we play. Not to win — but to remember why we're here, who gave us these bodies, and what it means to compete with integrity.

Who Full Armor Soccer Is For

Full Armor Soccer is built for the competitive, faith-centered player who wants more than a recreational kickaround — but who has grown tired of the politics, conflict, and noise that often come with larger team formats.

It is for the player who:

  • Wants to compete hard without sacrificing perspective

  • Values faith as the foundation, not just an add-on

  • Wants to grow physically, technically, and as a competitor

  • Prefers a small, high-trust community over a large, complex one

  • Believes that hard work and humility are not opposites

 Faith First

Full Armor Soccer takes its name and identity from Ephesians 6 — the call to put on the full armor of God. That imagery is not decorative. It shapes how this community approaches training, competition, and each other.

The standings are real. The effort is full. The competition is genuine. But the perspective is anchored in something greater than the scoreboard. Players are expected to compete with everything they have — and to remain people of integrity when the final whistle blows.

This is a community for players who want to honor God through their effort, enjoy the game with lasting joy, and build something in themselves that lasts beyond any season.

Start training today.

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Full Armor Soccer I Raleigh, NC  ·  Faith-centered Soccer Training

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