When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
EP Sports Academy
Why EP Sports Academy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
EP Sports Academy is a vibrant community hub in South Austin offering a wide range of youth sports and physical development programs for children aged 2 to 15. With locations in Skyline Park and Easton Park, the academy provides an inviting atmosphere where kids can develop physically while building confidence and friendships through active play. The academy's offerings include soccer, martial arts, athletics, yoga, movement and mindfulness classes, and specialized speed and agility training. Beyond physical skills, EP Sports Academy emphasizes mental benefits by incorporating leadership building, teamwork, and emotional learning into its curriculum. Their programs feature small instructor-to-player ratios ensuring personalized attention that fosters confidence on and off the field. Additionally, the academy hosts creative and energetic adventure camps during school breaks and holidays, featuring unique weekly themes that combine sports, arts, games, and team challenges. These camps prioritize camper safety and hygiene with rigorous protocols and dedicated staff. This supportive environment nurtures not only athletic skill but also social and emotional growth, making EP Sports Academy an exceptional place for kids to meet friends, learn new skills, and grow as leaders in the community. The strong ties with the Easton Park neighborhood also contribute to a sense of belonging and ongoing community development.
Here's what people think of EP Sports Academy
As of recent, EP Sports Academy holds a 5-star rating based on 28 reviews.
Users consistently praise EP Sports Academy for its engaging, well-organized programs and the positive impact on children’s development. Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable instructors who provide individualized attention, fostering both physical skills and personal growth. Parents frequently mention how their children gain confidence and enthusiasm for sports while enjoying a safe and supportive environment. The variety of programs, from soccer to martial arts and adventure camps, is also frequently appreciated for accommodating different interests and ages. Reviewers note the academy’s emphasis on leadership, teamwork, and emotional growth as standout features that set it apart from other youth sports providers. On the positive side, several parents commend the flexible scheduling options and attentive staff, emphasizing how the small group sizes create a family-like atmosphere that helps each child shine. The quality of safety protocols, especially during camps, receives particular recognition for keeping kids secure. As for negative feedback, most critical comments are minor and often related to specific scheduling conflicts or limited class times for certain age groups. Some parents mention the desire for expanded adult or family involvement activities. Overall, the reviews strongly reflect satisfaction and appreciation for EP Sports Academy’s mission and quality, with a consensus that it provides a unique, nurturing environment that supports both athletic and personal development for children in South Austin.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Emma Daub
We love the kids karate and soccer as well as the adult volleyball with EPSA. It’s incredible to be able stick our kids in an affordable and close by activity, any time of year! Krysta, Aiden, and the the rest of the staff are fantastic with the kids. My boys leave every practice with a new skill that is continuously built off of, and more confidence.
Shannon Montoya
There’s legitimately not enough space here for me to adequately express how WONDERFUL this program is. Krysta and her coaches are the most caring, patient, fun and invested mentors. My son is almost 4 and he has participated in their Soccer, Karate, Parents Night Out and Summer Camp programs; where each experience he has gained confidence, social and athletic skills, listening skills, and made many new friends. And best of all, he has A BLAST. I love that Krysta and her team are 100% attentive to the kids, responsive to the parents, and you can truly see how much they love what they do for our kids and the community.
Chloe Armstrong
EPSA is all around incredible!!! Everything Krysta and her staff do for the community and players/campers/kiddos is amazing. Our 2 year old has been involved in soccer and camps so far and she has a blast EVERY TIME! The curriculum, planning, and intention behind everything they have to offer is top notch. I recommend EPSA to everyone I know!!
Ashley Saylor
EPSA is an amazing organization and we’re so grateful to have it in our community. Coach Krysta and the rest of the coaches do a wonderful job of teaching our kids soccer and karate skills while also building their confidence and ability to interact with others. Our daughter loves being a part of EPSA and so do we.
Roberto Lago
My children, 9yo and 11yo, have been playing competitive soccer for years with various clubs around town. They have been in countless summer camps at these clubs and have had good experiences. We decided to try something a little different (variety is the spice of life) and signed them up to take EP Sports Academy's summer agility trainings. They did 1.5 hr trainings twice a week this past summer and I couldn't be more impressed. The coaching staff, namely Krysta and Nigel, were honestly the best coaches my kids have had in years of soccer. They kept the training sessions fun for the kids, but also pushed them. In addition to physical training, they also spent time talking about the mental aspects of the game. I was just really impressed all around.
How to reach EP Sports Academy
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Why EP Sports Academy may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at EP Sports Academy with your friends? Because it offers an exceptional environment where active fun, community spirit, and personal growth seamlessly combine. Rated a perfect 5.0 from 28 reviews, EP Sports Academy has quickly become a standout destination in South Austin for groups seeking a dynamic and engaging meetup location. Whether your group is family, friends, or a community circle, this place provides the perfect blend of physical activity and social connection that makes gathering truly memorable. Its foundation in Easton Park, a vibrant, family-friendly neighborhood, lends a warm, welcoming vibe that invites everyone to experience teamwork, sportsmanship, and active play together. The academy’s commitment to fostering confidence and building lasting friendships through multi-sport programs and camps makes it far more than just a sports facility — it’s a community hub where your group can bond deeply while having a blast. In today’s world, where connection can sometimes be digital and distant, EP Sports Academy brings people physically and socially closer in a way that’s both healthy and exhilarating.
What activities can you enjoy at EP Sports Academy? The academy offers a diverse range of programs tailored for kids and teens ages 2 to 15, making it an ideal destination for families or groups of friends with children of various ages. Among the top draws is their soccer program, which caters to beginners through advanced players with age-appropriate groupings to ensure everyone gets an optimal and enjoyable experience. Beyond soccer, there are martial arts classes designed to build discipline, focus, and physical strength for kids aged 3 to 12, blending fun with profound character development. For the younger crowd and the young-at-heart, the athletics classes offer fun and effective physical development activities to boost strength, coordination, and confidence. Perhaps one of the most exciting offerings is their Adventure Camps, which combine sports, games, arts, and teamwork challenges with creative themes every week. These camps captivate children through energetic, engaging activities that encourage movement and social skills, making each day unique and stimulating. Seasonal day camps, offered during school breaks and holidays, infuse play with leadership, yoga, arts & crafts, and music, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Why is EP Sports Academy perfect for a group meetup? The academy has evolved beyond a simple sports training center into a community-oriented space designed to bring people together. Located in the heart of Easton Park and Skyline Park, it offers accessible, beautiful, and safe locations that perfectly accommodate groups wanting to participate in activities together. Whether you’re organizing a casual gathering or a more structured group event, the facilities and programming at EP Sports Academy allow participants to engage collectively, learn new skills, and cheer each other on in a spirited atmosphere. Their small group sizes mean that everyone gets personal attention, which enhances camaraderie and encourages inclusive participation. The social aspect is amplified by diverse activity options, so every group member, regardless of age or skill, finds something enjoyable to do. Furthermore, the integration of arts, music, and leadership training into physical programs creates a holistic experience that fosters strong bonds and shared memories, making it an enriching venue for families or friends seeking meaningful connection alongside fun.
How does EP Sports Academy foster a community feeling through sports? The academy’s origins and ongoing philosophy are deeply rooted in building a community through sports, reflecting the neighborhood’s active and close-knit spirit. Established by Krysta Merceron, a passionate soccer coach who has lived in Easton Park since 2020, EP Sports Academy grew out of her desire to serve the local community with quality sports programming that also nurtures mental and physical well-being. This approach ensures that each activity not only develops athletic skills but also strengthens values such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience. The careful design of classes and camps to blend physical challenges with team-building activities creates a sense of belonging and mutual support among participants. The use of local parks and facilities reinforces the community connection by allowing families and groups to spend time outdoors together in natural, comfortable settings. The result is a thriving hub where everyone—from kids to parents—feels connected, supported, and proud to be part of the EP Sports Academy community.
What makes the camps at EP Sports Academy stand out for group fun? EP Sports Academy’s camps offer a unique blend of excitement, structure, and creativity that makes them ideal for groups. Adventure Camps, for example, are a vibrant mix of sports, games, team challenges, and themed creative activities that keep energy high and spirits bright across all ages. Camps run both half-day and full-day options, providing flexibility for families and groups with varying schedules. With indoor facilities available at Newton Collins Elementary and outdoor play at Skyline Park, campers enjoy diverse environments tailored for physical activity and social interaction regardless of weather. The small group sizes guarantee personalized attention, while experienced instructors foster an encouraging atmosphere where campers feel safe to try new things and make new friends. The inclusion of arts and leadership activities alongside physical games transforms these camps from ordinary day camps into holistic developmental experiences, perfect for groups wanting a well-rounded, memorable time.
How does EP Sports Academy ensure safety and convenience for groups? EP Sports Academy places a strong emphasis on creating a safe and convenient experience for all participants and their families. Their locations in Easton Park and South Austin offer easily accessible drop-off and pick-up points, including streamlined car lines at Newton Collins Elementary, which helps avoid the typical morning chaos and supports smooth logistics for busy families. Safety protocols are rigorously followed during all activities, with well-trained staff supervising every program to ensure that children and teens engage in a secure environment with proper equipment and attentive guidance. Small group sizes not only enhance the quality of instruction but also allow for closer monitoring of each participant’s well-being. With a variety of indoor and outdoor facilities, the academy adapts to weather conditions to keep programs running uninterrupted, supporting a reliable and enjoyable experience for groups planning meetups or camps. Parents can relax knowing their children are in expert hands, allowing everyone to focus on fun and connection.
What are the long-term benefits for kids and families who join EP Sports Academy? EP Sports Academy isn’t just about short bursts of fun; it prioritizes ongoing growth, health, and community for children and families. Through consistent participation in their programs, kids develop fundamental physical skills such as coordination, strength, and endurance, which lay the groundwork for lifelong fitness. They also build valuable life skills including confidence, leadership, teamwork, and emotional resilience, nurtured through the academy’s focus on mental as well as physical development. Families benefit from the welcoming social atmosphere, where they can meet other local families, create friendships, and engage in shared activities that strengthen family bonds. The academy’s programming aligns closely with the values of its neighborhood, fostering a sense of pride and belonging that extends beyond the sports fields. This community-driven approach supports not just athletic success but also personal fulfillment, creating lasting positive impacts on children’s overall development and family dynamics.
What parents say about EP Sports Academy’s experience? The overwhelmingly positive reviews from parents and participants reflect EP Sports Academy’s commitment to quality and impact. Many commend the academy for its professional coaching, well-organized programs, and the genuine care shown to every child. Parents appreciate how the academy balances skill-building with fun, crafting an environment where kids look forward to each session and grow both as athletes and individuals. Flexibility in scheduling and program variety are often highlighted, making it easier for busy families to fit sports and camps into their routines. The social benefits are also frequently mentioned—parents notice how their children are building friendships and social skills in a nurturing, inclusive setting. This combination of expert coaching, community focus, and strong results underscores why EP Sports Academy has earned its stellar 5.0-star rating and continues to attract families seeking a trusted and inspiring sports experience.