As youth sports trends increasingly show more children dropping out as they approach their teens, Kirkwood United Soccer Club recognized an opportunity to create a community-based soccer experience. The vision was to offer a competitive yet fun environment where kids and families could play soccer locally without sacrificing enjoyment or affordability.

In February 2012, Kirkwood United Soccer Club began to take shape. A group of coaches, whose teams were primarily composed of players from the Kirkwood School District area, met to discuss forming an official club. These early meetings, held at Mike Duffy’s, laid the foundation for what would become Kirkwood United. A pivotal figure in these discussions was Coach Pat McBride, a U.S. Soccer Hall of Famer, who led the Saint Louis Shoccers (KHS Class of 2017). Assisting him were Chris Roseman, Andy Travis, and Frank Gunning. Alongside the Bombers (KHS Class of 2019), coached by Scott Lay and Andy Culbertson, these teams became the core of Kirkwood United Soccer Club. The first official Kirkwood United team, previously the Bombers, began play in the fall of 2012.

As word spread, more teams joined the club. By 2013, Kirkwood United had grown to include teams ranging from U9 to U13. The rapid expansion caught the attention of the St. Louis Youth Soccer Association (SLYSA), which encouraged the club to formalize its structure. After drafting by-laws, a constitution, and establishing a board of directors, Kirkwood United was officially recognized as a nonprofit corporation by the State of Missouri on May 23, 2014.

The founding board members were David Baker, Andy Culbertson, Tom Domian, Scott Lay, and Chris Roseman. Kirkwood United's inaugural season as an official Missouri Youth Soccer Association (MYSA) club featured 13 teams—seven boys' teams and six girls' teams—comprising 178 players.

Kirkwood United Soccer Club continues to provide a competitive yet community-driven soccer experience. With a focus on development, character, and fun, the club offers year-round programming, including team training, league play, and tournaments. The club serves a wide range of age groups, ensuring that players can grow within the program while staying connected to their local community.

In addition to team-based training, Kirkwood United has expanded its offerings to include specialized technical training, goalkeeper training, and physical development programs to help players refine their skills and enhance their athleticism. Summer camps provide additional opportunities for growth in a fun and structured environment. Kirkwood Juniors also provides a program for youth to begin the transition from recreational to competitive soccer. As the club continues to evolve, it remains committed to affordability, player development, and fostering a lifelong love for the game.

The future of Kirkwood United is brighter than ever, with a new soccer complex set to become the club’s home facility. This state-of-the-art venue will serve as a hub for training, development, and community engagement, allowing players to train in a high-quality environment while strengthening the club’s local roots.