Behind the scenes, however, the operation runs on a far larger scale.<\/p>\n
At the Long Point Road warehouse, jerseys in every color, font and number are heat-pressed or embroidered, and orders are sorted for shipment in what is now a year-round sport.<\/p>\n
Bins of jerseys await customization \u2014 thousands at a time \u2014 destined for youth clubs in Atlanta, Charleston and for adult leagues such as South Carolina Surf Soccer Club.<\/p>\n
During peak fall season, more than 30 seasonal employees may be brought on to help keep up with demand.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe whistle blows for the club teams all at the same time,\u201d Walter said. \u201cWe\u2019ll get 20,000 orders in three months.\u201d<\/p>\n
Lloyd\u2019s Soccer growth mirrors a broader shift in youth and club soccer, where coordinated off-field apparel has become standard, particularly for travel teams.<\/p>\n
\u201cTeams are looking like what you see professionals wear on TV,\u201d Walter said. \u201cWhen these kids travel, they want matching pants, warmup jackets, training shirts \u2014 all things that have become required. There could be 20 different items in an order.\u201d<\/p>\n
Those relationships with clubs have driven steady expansion since it was founded as Champs Sports by Rich Lloyd in 1983 at Charles Towne Square Mall in North Charleston and Citadel Mall in West Ashley.<\/p>\n