Outdoor - RASC Information


Rattlers Academy Soccer Club (RASC) Overview

Welcome to the Rattler Academy Soccer Club (RASC) - Medicine Hat’s Travel Representative Soccer Club! 

Players chosen to participate in RASC represent Medicine Hat Soccer Association at tournaments across Alberta and beyond. These teams compete at a Tier 1-3 Level. 

We are excited to offer a dynamic and comprehensive soccer experience for boys and girls ages 8-16 in U10-U17. Our goal is to foster player development from the ground up, focusing on technical skills, tactical understanding, fitness, and teamwork.

 

What’s New This Year

A Renewed Focus on Elite Development

Over the years, our program has grown to include multiple teams per age group, reflecting the increasing interest and talent within our community. The RASC program has its roots in a long tradition of representative soccer, once known as the Crusaders, which was created to give elite players in our region the chance to compete at higher levels against top urban centers.

The Medicine Hat Soccer Association (MHSA) is excited to return to this original mission—providing greater opportunities for our most dedicated players and their families to pursue advanced competition and development.

At the same time, changes to our House League program ensure that all players continue to have a fantastic playing experience. Those not selected for the RASC program will still enjoy a competitive and exciting season, culminating in the new Youth Soccer League Championships.

 

Pathway to RASC Academy

As part of our commitment to fostering high-level soccer development, MHSA will offer evaluation camps for players interested in progressing to the RASC Academy program. Selection will be based on skill level, dedication, and overall participation.

The number of athletes and teams formed within the RASC Academy will depend on participation levels and skill standards, ensuring that we maintain a high-quality soccer environment throughout the province. This structure provides a clear pathway for players to develop, compete, and reach their full potential within a well-supported framework 

Evaluation/Tryout  Dates: Check out the ‘Register Here’ page for Evaluation Camp Schedule

The RASC Outdoor Program offers an opportunity for local athletes who are ready to compete at a higher level, testing their skills against top teams and associations from larger urban centers.

These tryouts are essential for identifying the elite players of Medicine Hat and forming an academy-style development program. Player evaluations are based not only on tryout performance but also on assessments made throughout the previous season by coaches, Technical Leads, and the Technical Director.

 

What We’re Looking For

Athletes will be scored across key performance areas, including:

  • Technical ability - ball control, passing accuracy, and individual skill
  • Tactical awareness - game sense, positioning, and decision-making
  • Physical attributes - fitness, speed, and agility
  • Intangibles - teamwork, effort, leadership, and coachability

During tryouts, players will demonstrate these qualities through drills, skill challenges, and small-sided games.

 

Selection Process

Final team selections will be based on:

  • Independent adjudicator evaluations
  • Previous coaching assessments
  • Input from current and prospective team coaches

Results will be communicated to players and parents within 1-2 weeks after tryouts via email, our website, and/or social media announcements.

 

Travel Requirements

Travel is a mandatory commitment for all RASC players and their families. The RASC program is designed for athletes competing at an advanced level, and full participation in games and tournaments is essential. Players who are unable to travel not only limit their own development but may also take a roster spot from another athlete eager to grow, compete, and represent the program.

Teams are built with a set roster cap to ensure:

  • Adequate playing time for all athletes
  • Depth to manage injuries and fatigue
  • Strong team performance across competitions

If players miss required travel events, it can put the entire team at a disadvantage.

 

Mandatory Tournaments

The MHSA has established a minimum of two mandatory travel tournaments per season. These events have been carefully chosen based on:

  • The quality of competition
  • Tournament organization and scheduling
  • Past positive experiences for players and families

All teams will attend the same tournaments to help families with multiple athletes plan more efficiently.

Estimated Costs:

  • Hotel: ~$200 per night per room
  • Travel & Food: Varies, typically for 3 days / 2 nights
    Most tournaments run Friday to Sunday, with some starting Thursday
  • Each team is guaranteed a minimum of 3 games

Season Length & Fees

  • Full Season: May 4- August 6, 2026 -$600.00 
  • Full registration payment is appreciated; otherwise, an initial deposit of $325.00 is required.
  • Team Fees are collected by the team manager or treasurer and can vary from team to team. Range $200.00-$400.00/player.

 

Please note: NO refunds will be issued after two weeks into the season. Custom payment plans are available upon request. Please submit a Custom Payment Plan Form.

 

Registration Details

  • RASC registration opens Friday Feb. 20, 2026. Registration packages include Evaluation Camp fee. See details in registration package 
  • Early Bird Discount $25.00 off available until March 1, 2026. Early Bird Code can be found in the registration package 
  • Registration closes March 15, 2026 before eval camp.

 

Divisions

     

Age Group

Division

Birth Year

Ages 8 years 

U10 Boys & Girls

2017

Ages 9 -10

U11 Boys & Girls

2015-2016

Ages 11-12

U13 Boys & Girls

2013-2014

Ages 13-14

U15 Boys & Girls

2011-2012

Ages 15-17

U17 Boys & Girls

2009-2010

 

Schedule

Schedules are to be determined. 

 

Future Plans: Rural Soccer League (Proposed)

MHSA is also exploring participation in a Rural Soccer League (RSL), which would include competition against Lethbridge, Coaldale, and potentially Brooks and Swift Current.

Projected travel commitments:

  • ~3 travel days per season
  • Example schedule:
    • May - Medicine Hat to Lethbridge: RASC vs LETH, LETH vs Coaldale, Coaldale vs RASC (return same day)
    • June - Medicine Hat to Coaldale: RASC vs Coaldale, Coaldale vs LETH, LETH vs RASC (return same day)
    • July - Medicine Hat Hosts: RASC vs Coaldale, Coaldale vs LETH, LETH vs RASC

This league would provide RASC teams with additional, high-quality games while helping coaches and managers streamline scheduling.

 

Divisional Director

Name

Position

Contact

Lacy McLachlan

Director

rascdirector@medicinehatsoccer.com

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