Bay Area United Academy

What Bay Area United Academy does

Bay Area United Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community soccer organization founded in 2014 and headquartered in Oakland, California, with primary operations at Estuary Park/Challenger Field in Alameda. It serves youth players ages 6 through 18 and adult/semi-professional players through four core programs: the Annual In-Home League (launched 2016, $99 per player, 200+ annual participants in 2024 and 2025), the Youth Academy competing in the UPSL Youth Academy League (U8-U18, including U11/U13/U16/U18 teams), a Youth Soccer Training Program for ages 8-13 ($100/month, twice-weekly 2-hour sessions), and a semi-professional men's first team competing in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) and US Open Cup. The organization also runs summer camps and community engagement events and partners with the Oakland Police Department for youth initiatives.

The business model is a hybrid nonprofit model combining low-cost program registration fees, recurring training subscriptions, merchandise sales (apparel and accessories priced $11-$38.50 through an on-demand storefront), corporate sponsorships (Rihla Shop as front-of-jersey sponsor, CoolRite Refrigeration as official sponsor), and tax-deductible donations processed through its website under Tax ID 93-1756302. Distribution is community-led, relying on social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube), local partnerships, word-of-mouth, and direct in-person registration at the Alameda venue, with live match streaming via VEO cameras. A flagship strategic partnership with The Town FC Academy (MLS NEXT) provides player identification pathways to professional-level evaluation, and the organization has extended internationally with the Cairo League in Egypt entering its second season in February 2026. Governance is provided by a 10-member board of directors, and the organization operates with approximately 5 employees.

Name

Bay Area United Academy

Legal name

Bay Area United Academy

Website

https://bayareaunited.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

2014

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

Bay Area United Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit soccer organization founded in 2014 in Oakland, California, serving youth (ages 6-18) and adult players through community leagues, a UPSL youth academy, training programs, and a semi-pro men's team competing in the UPSL.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Youth Sports / Soccer Development

NAICS

Sports and Recreation Instruction (611620), Sports and Recreation Instruction (61162), Educational Services (611)

SIC

Services-Membership Sports & Recreation Clubs (7997), Services-Membership Organizations (8600)

akta.pro industry

PRIMARYEDALAIAB

Club Sports Programs

Education/Student Services & Campus Operations/Athletics, Recreation & Fitness

SECONDARYMPAKACAF

Youth & Scholastic Sports Organizations (K–12, AAU, Club Leagues)

Media, Entertainment & Sports/Sports (Leagues, Teams, Events, Venues)/Collegiate & Amateur Sports Organizations (NCAA, Federations, Clubs)

SECONDARYMPAKACAG

Recreational & Intramural Sports Programs

Media, Entertainment & Sports/Sports (Leagues, Teams, Events, Venues)/Collegiate & Amateur Sports Organizations (NCAA, Federations, Clubs)

Keywords

• Youth soccer development
• Community soccer programs
• Semi-professional soccer
• Nonprofit sports organization
• Soccer training academies

Headquarters

HQ city

Oakland

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Supply Chain, Others

Revenue model

1. Program Registration Fees: Revenue from youth league registrations ($99 per player for In-Home League), training program fees ($100/month), and tryout/player registration fees. These are recurring seasonal and monthly charges.
2. Merchandise Sales: Online storefront selling branded merchandise including hoodies, t-shirts, hats, water bottles, and bags. Products are priced from $11 to $38.50 and sold on-demand with no minimums.
3. Sponsorship Revenue: Corporate sponsorships including Rihla Shop (front of jersey sponsor), CoolRite Refrigeration (official sponsor), and other brand partners provide financial support.
4. Donations: Tax-deductible donations accepted through the website with one-time and monthly giving options. 501(c)(3) status (Tax ID 93-1756302) enables tax-deductible giving.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

Bay Area United Academy is a community-driven nonprofit soccer club that delivers organized youth soccer programs and competitive adult soccer. Core offerings include the Annual In-Home League (ages 6-18), a Youth Training Program (ages 8-13), the Youth Academy (U8-U18) competing in the UPSL Youth Academy League, and a Semi-Pro Men's First Team competing in the United Premier Soccer League. Programs are delivered at Estuary Park/Challenger Field in Alameda, CA, supplemented by branded merchandise sales and a donation program supporting the 501(c)(3) mission.

Product overview

Bay Area United Academy is a nonprofit community-driven soccer organization founded in 2014, offering a portfolio of programs and merchandise. The core offerings include: a Semi-Pro Men's Team (BAU FC) competing in the UPSL; a Youth Academy (U8-U18) competing in the UPSL Youth Academy League; a Youth Soccer Training Program for ages 8-13 at $100/month; the Annual In-Home League (launched 2016) for ages 6-18 at $99 registration; seasonal summer programs and camps; community engagement events; and volunteer opportunities. The organization operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (Tax ID 93-1756302) with governance by a board including Chairperson Mohammed Alkawsi, Vice Chairperson Adel Alsharay, Secretary Mohammed Nasser, and others. Additionally, the organization sells branded merchandise including apparel (hoodies, sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats, beanies), drinkware (mugs, water bottles), and accessories (crossbody bags) through its online shop.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Annual In-Home League Yearly youth soccer league for players ages 6-18 offering organized soccer in a fun, competitive, community-based setting. Includes weekly matches, team placement, official personalized jersey, professional coaching, and post-season awards. Registration is $99 per player. Launched in 2016, it has grown to 200+ players annually in 2024 and 2025.
• Youth Soccer Training Program Professional soccer training subscription for ages 8-13, with 8 sessions per month (2 days/week, 2 hours/day). Led by qualified coaches focusing on dribbling, passing, shooting, and game strategy. Also serves as a recruitment pipeline for the competitive academy teams. $100 per month.
• Youth Academy (U8-U18) Boys academy providing affordable, high-quality soccer development for youth in the Oakland/East Bay community. Age groups U11, U13, U16, and U18 compete in the UPSL Youth Academy League, offering a pathway to semi-professional and higher levels of competition.
• Semi-Pro Men's Team (BAU FC) Bay Area United's semi-professional men's soccer team competing in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) and US Open Cup. Provides a high-level competitive platform for talented players with a pathway to higher levels of competition at regional and national stages.
• Summer Programs (Camps & Clinics) Seasonal holiday and summer soccer programs (camps and clinics) designed to improve skills while keeping youth active and social.
• Unisex Heavy Blend Hoodie (Gildan 18500) 50% cotton / 50% polyester hoodie with fleece interior, air-jet spun yarn, and double-lined hood. Branded Bay Area United merchandise priced at $36.50, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Unisex Crew Neck Sweatshirt (Gildan 18000) 50% cotton / 50% polyester crew neck sweatshirt with 8.0 oz/yd² fabric weight. Branded merchandise priced at $30.25, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Unisex Premium Sweatshirt (Cotton Heritage M2480) Premium sweatshirt with 100% cotton face, 65% cotton / 35% polyester body, 8.5 oz/yd² fabric weight. Branded merchandise priced at $38.50, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Unisex Tri-Blend T-Shirt (Bella + Canvas 3413) Tri-blend t-shirt with 50% polyester, 25% combed ring-spun cotton, 25% rayon featuring a vintage look. Branded merchandise priced at $28.75, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Unisex Long Sleeve Tee (Bella + Canvas 3501) 100% airlume combed ring-spun cotton long sleeve tee with 4.2 oz/yd² fabric weight. Branded merchandise priced at $29.50, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Unisex Garment-Dyed Heavyweight T-Shirt (Comfort Colors 1717) 100% ring-spun cotton, 6.1 oz/yd² garment-dyed heavyweight t-shirt with relaxed fit. Branded merchandise priced at $28.75, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Classic Dad Hat (Yupoong 6245CM) 100% cotton twill classic dad hat with unstructured 6-panel low-profile design and adjustable strap. Branded merchandise priced at $22.00, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Distressed Dad Hat (Otto Cap 104-1018) 100% pre-shrunk cotton twill distressed dad hat with adjustable hook-and-loop closure. Branded merchandise priced at $22.50, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Cuffed Beanie (Yupoong 1501KC) 100% Turbo acrylic fabric cuffed beanie, hypoallergenic, hand washable, 12 inches length. Branded merchandise priced at $26.00, made on-demand with no minimums.
• White Glossy Mug Ceramic mug available in 11 oz, 15 oz, and 20 oz sizes; lead- and BPA-free, dishwasher and microwave safe. Branded merchandise priced at $11.25, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw Lid 32 oz (950 ml) double-walled stainless steel water bottle with vacuum insulation, wide-mouth foldable straw, and rotating handle. Branded merchandise priced at $23.65, made on-demand with no minimums.
• Utility Crossbody Bag 100% polyester water-resistant utility crossbody bag (5.7 x 7.7 x 2 inches) with adjustable strap and two-way zipper. Branded merchandise priced at $28.68, made on-demand with no minimums.

Quantifiable outcome

• 200+ youth players annually in In-Home League (2024 & 2025)
• +2 more outcomes

Named customers2 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature3 records

Partnerships

Seven partnerships are on record, tiered flagship, core and minor.

• Rihla ShopflagshipGTM or Marketing PartnerOfficial front of jersey sponsor for the men's team. Rihla Shop is a youth soccer supporter based in Oakland. The partnership provides prominent brand placement on team jerseys.
• CoolRite RefrigerationcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerOfficial sponsor for the men's team. CoolRite Refrigeration provides financial and promotional support for the semi-pro men's soccer team.
• The Town FC Academy (MLS NEXT)flagshipStrategic or Co-development PartnerMLS NEXT academy partnership providing professional-level training and identification opportunities. TTFC Academy coaches lead ID events in partnership with BAU coaching staff. Selected players can join The Town FC Academy for their next season. Partnership connects the Oakland/East Bay community to professional-level soccer pathways.
• GiveLinkUScoreGTM or Marketing PartnerPartnership to launch the Bay Area United Gear Drive for equipment donations. Donations support youth programs with balls, cones, goals, and more. Donors receive photo confirmation of impact.
• Oakland Police DepartmentminorOthersCommunity engagement partnership focused on youth support and neighborhood safety. Discussions about community engagement and positive programs for youth.
• UPSL (United Premier Soccer League)flagshipOthersLeague competition for both men's first team and youth academy teams. Provides high-level competitive platform at regional and national levels.
• Ali AlhajminorOthersCommunity collaborator acknowledged for generous support helping keep programs running and players growing.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Others

• US Club Soccer: National youth soccer organizing body providing league frameworks, coach education, and player development pathways. Comparable as an ecosystem enabler for competitive youth soccer participation in the US.
• America SCORES: National nonprofit combining soccer, poetry, and service-learning for youth in underserved communities. Comparable nonprofit structure, youth-development mission, and community-partnership model though with a broader academic component.

Regional players

• Oakland Roots SC: Oakland-based professional soccer club with explicit community-mission orientation serving the same East Bay demographic. Comparable community-anchored brand, though Roots operate at a fully professional level versus BAU's amateur/semi-pro UPSL status.

Direct peers

• De Anza Force Soccer Club: Bay Area–based competitive youth soccer club running academy teams and league play. Comparable in offering youth development programs, multi-age academy structure, and competitive league participation in Northern California.
• Lamorinda Soccer Club: East Bay community youth soccer organization running recreational-to-competitive league programs for local youth. Closely comparable mission of accessible, community-based youth soccer development in the East Bay region.
• San Jose Surf: Bay Area youth soccer club operating competitive youth academy teams and development pathways. Directly comparable in product offering (youth league + academy) and target market (Northern California families seeking soccer development).
• Mustang Soccer Club: Northern California youth soccer club with academy teams competing in UPSL and developmental pathways. Comparable multi-tier youth offering and competitive league participation targeting Bay Area families.

Emerging players

• Soccer Without Borders: Nonprofit providing soccer programming to refugee and immigrant youth. Comparable community-mission orientation, immigrant/refugee community focus, and youth-development framing in Oakland/East Bay and beyond.
• Street Soccer USA: Nonprofit using soccer as a tool for social impact in underserved US communities. Comparable mission-driven, community-anchored model serving youth in low-income areas, though focused more on social programs than competitive leagues.

Broad incumbents

• The Town FC: MLS NEXT-affiliated professional academy partner of Bay Area United. Directly comparable in Northern California youth elite development offering and professional-tier pathway positioning.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/@bayareaunited
• Facebookfacebook.com/Bayareaunitedfc
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/bay-area-united-academy
• Instagraminstagram.com/bayareaunitedfc

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles11 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Bay Area United Academy