It's time for Red Star Soccer Club tryouts.

Red Star is a select program with the best soccer players in the region from LaGrange and Albany, Ga., the tricommunity and Auburn, Ala., said Tony Frankovich, executive director of coaching for Red Star. In 2009, 400 children tried out and 50 to 60 percent earned a spot on one of the 20 teams in the program.

"Red Star is perfect for players who are serious about soccer and want to improve their soccer skills," Frankovich said. "The level of play is a step above recreational soccer leagues."

There are 15 Red Star coaches, including three who are A-licensed.

The tryouts, which will be from June 1-4 and 8-11 at Woodruff Farm Soccer Complex in Columbus, are open to ages 8-18.

The 8-to-12-year-old group learns technical and basic fundamental skills such as ball passing, shooting and individual technique. Ages 13 and older learn advanced technical, tactical and functional skills. Scenario-based drills are used to teach and incorporate individual skills in a team setting.

Some teams travel to Atlanta and other places. In the past, teams have traveled to Louisiana, Alabama and Florida. All teams will begin practice Aug. 1 with regular season beginning in September after Labor Day. The season will last until December and then players will begin winter training in January, followed by the spring season.

The cost ranges from $625-$650, depending on the age group. It includes club fees, coaches, referee and field fees. The cost doesn't include uniforms, which are about $100.

Each player will get two jerseys, two pairs of socks and shorts. Payment is due on signing day, which is about a week after tryouts. Monthly payment plans, ranging from $52-$54, are available.

For more information, visit www.redstarsoccer.org or send an e-mail to tony.frankovich@gmail.com.