ASHLAND – A new sport blending robotics and soccer is on its way to Ashland.
The Salvation Army Ashland Kroc Center is bringing the future of sports and STEM education to the Ashland County community this February with the launch of Drone Soccer, a fast-growing, high-tech sport that blends robotics, teamwork and competitive gameplay.
With this addition, The Ashland Kroc Center becomes only the third location in Ohio to offer this innovative program, placing Ashland at the forefront of a global movement in youth athletics and education.
Drone Soccer is the only educational robotic competition that is also an internationally sanctioned team sport, recognized by the World Air Sports Federation. Teams pilot professional-grade quadcopter drones — safely enclosed in protective cages — in full-contact aerial matches, blocking, defending, and scoring goals in midair.
The result is a fast-paced, visually exciting sport that captures students’ imaginations while developing real-world technical skills. Beyond competition, Drone Soccer serves as a powerful gateway to the future workforce.
Participants will build, program, fly and repair drones, gaining hands-on experience in robotics, engineering, coding and problem-solving — skills that directly align with high-demand careers in aerospace, technology and advanced manufacturing.
“Programs like Drone Soccer reflect our commitment to innovation and to preparing young people for what’s next,” said Dan Lawson, PhD, director of community relations and development.
“We’re not just introducing a new sport — we’re opening doors to future career pathways and giving students access to opportunities they might not otherwise experience right here in Ashland.”
Originally developed in Asia, Drone Soccer features two teams of up to five players, each with a designated position similar to traditional soccer. Matches take place inside a large enclosed arena. Victory is determined by the team that scores the most goals through a suspended aerial target.
The Ashland Kroc Center is proud to partner with Ashland City Schools to bring this program to local youth. Co-ed teams are open to students in grades 6–8 from any Ashland County school, reinforcing the Center’s mission of accessibility, inclusion and community collaboration.
Initial sessions will run Mondays and Wednesdays from Feb. 2 through April 29, 5:30–7 p.m., with Jarred Bates serving as coach. Registration is now open.
Program fees are $200 for Kroc Center members and $275 for non-members. In keeping with The Salvation Army’s mission to meet human needs without discrimination, financial assistance and scholarships are available to ensure all interested students can participate.
The Ashland Kroc Center extends sincere thanks to the program’s founding supporters — Ashland County Community Foundation, Braxton Miller Foundation, and Whitcomb & Hess — whose generosity literally helped get this innovative initiative off the ground.
To learn more about Drone Soccer, watch this introductory video from the U.S. Drone Soccer Association:
