Adidas Uniform FAQ

1. Why are we changing uniforms?

Standard terms for apparel manufacturers are 3 years.  They will usually guarantee to make a certain style of product, and make it available for 3 years.

2. Who made the decision to change uniforms?

The WCSC Apparel Committee is made up of members of the Marketing Committee, House Committee, and Competitive Committee.  We requested bids from manufacturers.  Nike, Puma, and Adidas all gave presentations and samples to the Apparel Committee.  The proposals were passed on to the WCSC Management Committee, and the WCSC Board of Directors for approval.

3. Why are we changing Vendors?

Three years ago, we entered into an exclusive three year contract with Nike to supply uniforms to the House and Competitive programs. After 2 years, Nike discontinued their House uniforms, causing us to have to scramble to fulfill all the uniform requirements for this past fall season. Nike, Puma, and Adidas all gave presentations and samples to the Apparel Committee. After reviewing the quality of the merchandise, product delivery times, and prices, Adidas was the clear choice.

Besides the quality of the uniforms, Adidas also partners with the San Jose Earthquakes, so should be able to get a few special events for our club.

4. Will this be phased in?

No.  While we realize that there is still good use in the Nike uniforms, this year  each player will need to purchase a new Adidas kit.  Soccer is a team sport, and as with all team sports, each player should wear their team uniform.  Having players wearing different styles, slightly different colors, and random sock combinations takes away from the excitement of this great game.  When a player puts on their uniform, it should feel special, and not just like any other practice.

We did quite a bit of research of the other sports, and soccer leagues in the area, and found that the majority of these actually require purchasing of new uniforms each year, and have higher registration fees.  Having a uniform that will last three years, means that you will be paying about $16 per year to use the uniform over the 3 year time.

5. Can I wear my old uniform?

Old uniforms can be used for practices, but should not be worn at games.

6. Why don't we use reversible jerseys?

Reversible jerseys were more expensive, and poorer quality.  Three years ago, the Apparel Committee decided that going with a brand name, quality uniform was the preferred approach over a reversible jersey, or inexpensive t-shirt.

7. What's in it for WCSC?

There is definitely a benefit to going with a single vendor, exclusive uniform.  None of it is monetary. As part of the contract, Adidas will be supplying soccer balls to each of our teams, equipment for our tournaments, and shirts for all our coaches and trainers. Adidas is also one of our Club Scholarship sponsors!

8. How much will it cost? What do I get for my money?

The House kit will cost approximately $60, and includes a blue jersey, white jersey, blue shorts, and 2 pair of socks.  In order to make distribution as easy as possible for all our families, we are going to include the cost of the uniform in the House Registration fees, for this year only.  House registration will be $170. 

The Competitive kit will cost approximately $120.

9. Will we have to do this again in 3 years?

In three years, we will go through the same process as we did this year.  If Adidas is chosen again, and is still manufacturing the kit, or a similar kit, then we could decide to continue using it.  If a different vendor is chosen, or if Adidas has dramatically changed their styles, then most likely a new kit would be required.

10. Where will I get my uniform?

Our uniform supplier will continue to be Soccer Pro in Pleasant Hill.  Once Adidas was chosen as the uniform manufacturer, we had to do the same type of bid collection from the local shops.  While we are very fortunate to have quite a few local shops with great people, Soccer Pro was the only one who could handle the quantity of players, with a an easy distribution system.

We are looking to collect all the uniform information during the online registration process, so that we can get our order in, and delivered well before the season.  We are looking to create a WCSC soccer day in the park this summer where people can pick up their uniforms, possibly do some cleat swapping with other players, and other fun activities (including San Jose Earthquake players).

Uniforms will also be available at Soccer Pro prior to the start of the season, but because of the quantities, we recommend that everyone should get their uniform in July, so that those that register late can go directly to the store.

11. What do I do with my old uniform?

There are several worthy charities that are interested in old uniforms, and send them to areas less fortunate than ours (the Philippines, South America, Africa).  We are looking to partner with one or more locally run charities to handle collection and distribution, for anyone who wants to donate.  We will be collecting uniforms at registration.