CKU implements new team management platform for improved operations

Central Kansas United Youth Soccer (CKU) has taken a significant step forward in its operations by integrating a comprehensive team management platform, Teams Elevated. This move marks a pivotal change for the club, which previously lacked a centralized system for managing its roster, scheduling, and communication.

CKU, based in Salina, Kansas, operates a youth soccer program serving players aged 5 to 14 and employs about 150 players and 15 coaches across 16 teams. Prior to this implementation, family members had to rely on email, phone calls, and a separate messaging app to stay informed, a system that often led to confusion and missed updates.

"Before, if a practice time changed, we would have to chase people down in multiple places," explained Victor Devora, Director of Central Kansas United Youth Soccer. "It wasn't anyone's fault, but it's a problem that comes with growing faster than your paperwork."

The transition to Teams Elevated began with the basics: team rostering and a shared club calendar. These features allowed families to access their team and schedule information quickly and easily, mirroring the seamless user experience they expect from other parts of their daily lives. According to Devora, the cost-benefit analysis made the decision straightforward.

"The system was very user-friendly, and we could onboard families in just two minutes," Devora added. "It was an easy call to make."

The new platform has already streamlined operations, enabling families to check their schedules and communicate with coaches from their smartphones. CKU's first matches, scheduled for August 18, proceeded smoothly with the new system in place.

Peter Mendez, a CKU board member, noted the positive impact of the new platform. "The system is very user-friendly, and it has made our lives much easier," he said after the club's onboarding session.

Teams Elevated, a platform designed for sports clubs, leagues, and associations, emphasizes user experience and efficiency. Eli Ulvi, Sporting Director at Teams Elevated, highlighted the importance of the club's growth challenges in identifying areas for improvement.

"Most clubs face the same issue: talented, committed people spending evenings on paperwork rather than player development," Ulvi said. "CKU's commitment to making soccer competitive and affordable for everyone is what stood out to us. When coaches and administrators get back those hours, it shows: better sessions, better communication with families, and more kids staying in the game."

CKU is now looking to expand its platform to include online registration and payments, field allocation, and coverage of its remaining programs. The initial rollout began on July 28 and was completed by August 9, ensuring that all necessary information was in place for the club's first matches.

With this new system, CKU aims to enhance the overall experience for players, families, and coaches, fostering a more organized and efficient soccer environment in central Kansas.