ACADEMY PROGRAMS
Pelada Football Academy offers playing opportunities for every skill level and our programming is based around a four season structure, allowing players to participate in multiple sports or activities and focus on soccer during the parts of the year that fit their schedules best. For those who love to play soccer all the time, we have opportunities for both training and competition all year round! Full program summaries by season are available below.
Birth Year / Age Group Program Reference
2023-24 AGE GROUP REFERENCE & DEVELOPMENTAL GOALS
Our seasonal year runs from June through May. Age groups are based on birth year and players age up to the next a age group after the end of the spring season. Summer tournaments are the start of the new seasonal year and are played at the new age level.
| Player's birth year | Age group | Grade | Game format | Core Competitive Seasons | Available programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019/18/17 | U5 | Pre-K/K/1st | 2v2, 3v3, 4v4 (Informal) | n/a | Foundations Academy |
| 2016 | U8 | 1st/2nd | 4v4 or 7v7 | Fall + Spring Leagues (U8 participants on our fall/spring teams will be playing against older U9 & U10 players) | Foundations Academy U9-10 Fall & Spring Teams Summer Tournaments Futsal Academy Indoor Teams |
| 2015 | U9 | 2nd/3rd | 7v7 | Fall + Spring Leagues | U9-10 Fall & Spring Teams Summer Tournaments Futsal Academy Indoor Teams |
| 2014 | U10 | 3rd/4th | 7v7 | Fall + Spring Leagues | |
| 2013* | U11 | 4th/5th | 9v9 | Fall (League + Cup) Spring (League) | U11-15 Fall Teams U11-14 Spring Teams Summer Tournaments Futsal Academy Indoor Teams |
| 2012 | U12 | 5th/6th | 9v9 | Fall (League + Cup) Spring (League) |
|
| 2011** | U13 | 6th/7th | 11v11 | Fall (League + Cup) Spring (League) |
|
| 2010 | U14 | 7th/8th | 11v11 | Fall (League + Cup) Spring (League) |
|
| 2009*** | U15 | 8th/9th | 11v11 | Fall (League + Cup) Winter (League + Cup) | U11-15 Fall Teams U15+ Winter Teams Summer Tournaments |
| 2008 | U16 | 9th/10th | 11v11 | Winter (League + Cup) | U15+ Winter Teams Summer Tournaments |
| 2007 | U17 | 10th/11th | 11v11 | Winter (League + Cup) | |
| 2006 | U18 | 11th/12th | 11v11 | Winter (League + Cup) | |
| 2005 | U19 | 12th | 11v11 | Winter (League + Cup) | |
| *At U11 players age up from the Valley Academy League to the Timbers & Thorns Leagues and transition to a 9v9 game format. **At U13 players transition from the 9v9 to the 11v11 game format. ***U15 players (born in 2008) can choose between fall league and cup and winter/spring league and cup programs. Players wanting to participate year round can do both. |
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DEVELOPMENTAL GOALS
U5-U8: Help players acquire balance, coordination, physical awareness, and socialization skills along with a basic set of techniques and a love of soccer.
U9-U10: Build the foundations of soccer technique and team play while establishing good habits in the areas of learning, work ethic, deliberate practice, and group cooperation.
U11-U12: Intense focus on achieving technical proficiency across skill sets while introducing fundamental tactical themes and terminology.
U13-U14: Build game reading skills and tactical understanding while seeking an increased range of technical ability.
U15-U16: Cement tactical understanding and create team leaders while improving decision making and seeking consistency in execution of technique.
U17-U19: Cement a style of play that takes full advantage of individual skill sets while pursuing advanced tactical understanding, game reading ability, and competitive player impact.
2023 Summer Programs
CAMPS & CLINICS (U8-U19)
Tailored to specific ages and elements of youth soccer development. Clinics are open to any player, PFA member or otherwise. They are one week long (Mon-Thu) with daily sessions ranging from 3-5 hours. Topics include goal scoring, goalkeeping, defending, attacking, and fall pre-season team training camp. Cost range: $150-$200 per camp.
PROGRAM DETAILS
TOURNAMENT TEAMS (U8-U20)
Various tournaments in June/July/August for teams age U10-U20. This year we are focussing primarily on the Capital Cup (Salem, U8-U17) and Clash at the Border (PDX/Vancouver, U18-U20) in June and the Mt. Hood Challenge (Portland, U8-U20) in August. Tournaments are single weekend events, usually Friday-Sunday, typically including four games. Teams train for three weeks leading up to the tournament weekend. Training only options are available for players who are unable to participate in the games. Cost: $175 per tournament.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Capital Cup Dates: June 16-18 (U13-U17) / June 23-25 (U8-U12)
Clash at the Border Dates: June 23-25 (U18-U20)
Mt Hood Challenge Dates: August 4-6 (U8-19)
Match Format: Four game gaurantee for most events
Training Format: Train 2-3 times per week for three weeks leading up to each tournament
Cost: $175 per tournament
SUMMER FOUNDATIONS ACADEMY (U5-U8)
For U5-U8 players (2016-2019 birth years), the Foundations U8 Academy offers skill building for players age 4-7. The emphasis is on teaching fundamentals of movement, coordination, and technique through fun and engaging exercises and small-sided games. Training is held once a week in a small group setting led by a PFA staff coach and members of our youth Coach Development Academy. Sessions combine scrimmages in a 2v2 or 3v3 format with a combination of fun, competitive training games and one-on-one instruction to teach physical coordination, technical fundamentals, and basic decision making. Runs for six weeks from early July through late August.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Dates: Jul 10 - Aug 18 (exact days TBD)
Times: TBD
Location: TBD
Training: One 45-60 minute session per week
Games: 3rd and 6th week of program; jamborees consisting of 3-4 mini games between Foundations Academy groups (2v2, 3v3 or 4v4 format)
Cost: $75
2023 Fall Programs
U11-U15 TEAMS (2013-2009 BIRTH YEARS)
For U11-U15 players, typically entering or enrolled in grades 4-8. The curriculum is designed to produce technically proficient, intelligent, well-rounded players with a good understanding of the game. Training is weighted toward technical development at the lower age groups, and shifts toward an increased tactical emphasis as players approach and enter high school. Teams will compete in OYSA's Central Valley Regional Leagues (U11-14) or Valley/PDX Metro Leagues (U15) in September and October and participate in either the Presidents or Founders Cup tournaments in early-mid November.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Competition: OYSA Regional Leagues + Post-Season Cup
Match Formats: 9 v 9 (U11-U12) / 11 v 11 (U13-U15)
Dates: Aug 28 - Nov 19
Training Sessions per week: 2-3
Training Location: Les Schwab Sport Park (Willamalane)
Cost: $575 (register by 7/24) / $600 (register after 7/24)
U9-U10 TEAMS (2016-2014 BIRTH YEARS)
For U9-U10 players, typically entering or enrolled in grades 2-4. A high coach-to-player ratio ensures that every player gets personal attention and the curriculum is designed to teach the fundamentals of the game through fun, engaging field exercises and small-sided competition. Teams will compete in the Valley Academy U10 Developmental League with four play dates in Eugene, Corvallis/Albany, Salem, and Bend (two games on each day) for a total of eight games in September and October.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Competition: Valley Academy League
Match Formats: 7 v 7 (U9-U10)
Dates: Aug 28 - Nov 1
Training Sessions per week: 2
Training Location: TBD
Cost: $350 (register by 8/7) / $375 (register after 8/7)
2023-24 Winter Programs
U15+ TEAMS (2009-2005 BIRTH YEARS)
For U15-U19 players, typically entering or enrolled in grades 8-12. League and cup play take place in the winter and spring to avoid overlap with fall high school programs. The curriculum is designed to increase players' tactical knowledge, improve their competitive qualities, and prepare them for the rigors of their high school programs as well as soccer beyond high school. Teams will compete in OYSA's State-wide Leagues (Jan-Mar) and play in either the State, Presidents, or Founders Cup spring tournament (April).
PROGRAM DETAILS
Competition: OYSA Leagues + Post-Season Cup
Match Formats: 11 v 11 (U15-U19)
Dates: Nov 28 - May 6
Training Sessions per week: 2-3
Training Location: Les Schwab Sport Park (Willamalane)
Cost: $875 (Winter League + Spring Cup) / $725 (Winter League Only, No Cup)
FUTSAL SKILLS ACADEMY (U8-U14)
For U8-U14 players. Runs from approximately the first week of December through early February. Players train twice a week with a PFA staff coach in a small group setting (4-8 players). Coaches provide curriculum-led training and individualized progress assessment for each participant. Second session of the week is typically used for game play. Sessions are indoor, usually at Willamalane’s Bob Keefer Center (adjacent to Les Schwab Sports Park).
PROGRAM DETAILS
Dates: Nov 27 - Feb 9 (no training during winter break, 12/16-1/1)
Location: Bob Keefer Center
Sessions: Two sessions per week, 60 minutes each
Times: Evenings between 4pm and 8:30pm
Cost: $200
WINTER INDOOR TEAMS (U8-U14)
For 2nd-8th grade players (U8-U14). Teams are usually based around our fall squads, but we can also accept new players. Indoor teams play in Kick City Sports Park's Winter 1 Session (Nov-Jan) indoor league.
NOTE: this includes games only. Players wanting a training option should consider the Futsal Skills Training program.
PROGRAM DETAILS
League Format: Eight game season; games on weeknights and/or weekends
Game Format: 7 v 7 (10 & Under, 12 & Under) / 6 v 6 (14 & Under, 15 & Over)
Dates: Early November - mid February (approximate)
Location: Kick City Sports Park
Uniform: White/blue/red shirts (official kit not required)
Cost: $90
WINTER FOUNDATIONS ACADEMY (U5-U8)
For U5-U8 players (2015-2018 birth years), the Foundations U8 Academy offers skill building for players age 4-7. The emphasis is on teaching fundamentals of movement, coordination, and technique through fun and engaging exercises and small-sided games. Training is held once a week, led by PFA staff coaches and members of our youth Coach Development Academy. Sessions combine scrimmages in a 2v2, 3v3, or 4v4 format with fun, competitive training games and one-on-one instruction to teach physical coordination, technical fundamentals, and basic decision making. Runs for ten weeks in December, January, and February (total of ten practices). All sessions are held indoors on court or artificial turf surfaces.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Dates: Nov 27 - Feb 16 (approximate). Ten sessions total. No activities during winter holidays (12/16-1/1)
Location: TBD
Times: TBD
Training: One 45-60 minute session per week
Cost: $125
2024 Spring Programs
U11-U14 TEAMS (2013-2010 BIRTH YEARS)
For U11-U14 players, typically enrolled in grades 4-8. The curriculum is designed to produce technically proficient, intelligent, well-rounded players with a good understanding of the game. Training is weighted toward technical development at the lower age groups, and shifts toward an increased tactical emphasis as players approach and enter high school. Teams train 2-3 times per week and compete in OYSA's Central Valley Regional League.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Competition: OYSA Central Valley Regional Spring League (no spring cups for these age groups)
Match Formats: 9 v 9 (U11-U12) / 11 v 11 (U13-U14)
Dates: Feb 19 - May 6
Training Sessions per week: 2-3
Training Locations: Les Schwab Sport Park (Willamalane), Maurie Jacobs Park, Marist HS
Cost: $450 (before 12/27) / $475 (after 12/27)
U9-U10 TEAMS (2015-2013 BIRTH YEARS)
For U9-U10 players, typically enrolled in grades 2-4. A high coach-to-player ratio ensures that every player gets personal attention and the curriculum is designed to teach the fundamentals of the game through fun, engaging field exercises and small-sided competition. Teams will compete in the Valley Academy Developmental League with four play dates in Eugene, Corvallis/Albany, Salem, and Bend (two games on each day) for a total of eight games between late March and early May.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Competition: Valley Academy League
Match Formats: 7 v 7 (U9-U10)
Dates: Feb 26 - May 5
Training Sessions per week: 2
Training Location: Les Schwab Sport Park (Willamalane), Maurie Jacobs Park, Marist HS
Cost: $350 (before 1/15) / $375 (after 1/15)
Coach Development Academy
COACH DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY
The CDA provides PFA members age 10 and older with the chance to be trained as coaches and work alongside senior Academy staff as mentors to younger players. Candidates are expected to demonstrate the following qualities:
• Leadership, maturity, and accountability within team environments.
• Desire for and dedication to learning.
• Commitment to and love for the game.
• Caring and respect for coaches and peers.
The goal of the Coach Development Academy is to offer ongoing education and support for youth players who show interest in coaching, leadership, and mentoring. It delivers specific, age appropriate curriculum to help young coaches learn and progress. CDA participation comprises dedicated training sessions in which candidates are educated as coaches coupled with regular opportunities to work alongside senior coaching staff to train and mentor younger players in our U8 and U10 academy programs. There is no fee for participation.
To date, more than thirty youth coaches have graduated from our Coach Development Academy to join our paid coaching staff. Log in to your Sports Connect account to enroll your player.
COACH DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY 23-24 CALENDAR
| Theme | Description | Dates | Time | Location | Attendance Requirements* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUMMER | |||||
| CDA 22-23 Year End Recap + 23-24 Intro | Introduction to the 2023-24 Coach Development Academy welcoming new and returning Candidates | Tuesday, May 9, 2023 | 5:00-6:00pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Miss only if unavoidable |
| CDA Candidate + PFA STAFF TRAINING - Part 1 | Senior coaching staff training event - CDA candidates particapate as players while learning Academy curriculum & training methodologies | Tuesday, May 16, 2023 | 5:30-7:30pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Miss only if unavoidable |
| CDA Candidate + PFA STAFF TRAINING - Part 2 | Senior coaching staff training event - CDA candidates particapate as players while learning Academy curriculum & training methodologies | Tuesday, May 23, 2023 | 5:30-7:30pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Miss only if unavoidable |
| CDA Candidate Training - Foundations Academy COACHING PREP | CDA Candidates receive training in mentoring U5-U8 players in preparation for the summer Foundations Academy | Thursday, July 6, 2023 | 5:00-7:00pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Miss only if unavoidable |
| Summer PRACTICE COACHING - Foundations Academy | Assist with U8 academy sessions in July and August | Thursdays 7/13, 7/20, 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, & 8/17 | 5:00-6:00pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Absences are allowed as needed to accommodate vacation plans, etc. |
| FALL | |||||
| CDA Candidate Training - U10 Academy Team COACHING PREP | CDA Candidates receive training in mentoring U8-U10 players in preparation for the fall Valley Academy League season | Thursday, August 17, 2023 | 5:00-7:30pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Miss only if unavoidable |
| FALL PRACTICE COACHING - PFA U10 Teams | Assist with U10 academy team trainings in September and October | Season dates: August 28 - Oct 29 Training dates: TBD (usually M/W) | 5:00-6:15pm &/or 6:15-7:30pm | TBD | Participate in a minimum of one U10 session per month. Games optional. |
| WINTER | |||||
| CDA Candidate Training - Futsal Academy COACHING PREP | CDA Candidates receive training in mentoring U8-U10 players in preparation for assisting with fall teams | Monday, November 27, 2023 | 5:00-6:30pm | Bob Keefer Center Courts | Miss only if unavoidable |
| Winter PRACTICE COACHING - Futsal & Foundations Academy | Assist with Futsal Academy trainings in December, January, and February | Season dates: November 29 - February 14 | Wednesdays, 4:45-5:45 (Foundations Academy) | Bob Keefer Center | Participate in a minimum of one session per month. |
| SPRING | |||||
| CDA Candidate Training - U10 Academy Team COACHING PREP | CDA Candidates review winter coaching experiences and receive training in preparation for assisting with spring teams | Monday, February 12, 2024 | 6:00-8:00pm | TBD | Miss only if unavoidable |
| Spring PRACTICE COACHING - PFA U10 Teams | Assist with U10 academy team trainings in March and April | Season dates: February 27 - May 7 Training dates: TBD (usually M/W) | 5:00-6:15pm &/or 6:15-7:30pm | TBD | Participate in a minimum of two U10 sessions per month. Games optional. |
| CDA 23-24 Year End Recap + 24-25 Intro | Review coaching experiences from the 23-24 season and look ahead to 24-25 | Tuesday, May 7, 2024 | 5:00-6:30pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Miss only if unavoidable |
| CDA Candidate + PFA STAFF TRAINING - Part 1 | Senior coaching staff training event - CDA candidates particapate as players while learning Academy curriculum & training methodologies | Tuesday, May 14, 2024 | 5:30-7:30pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Miss only if unavoidable |
| CDA Candidate + PFA STAFF TRAINING - Part 2 | Senior coaching staff training event - CDA candidates particapate as players while learning Academy curriculum & training methodologies | Tuesday, May 21, 2024 | 5:30-7:30pm | Marist HS Grass Fields | Miss only if unavoidable |
| *CDA Candidates are expected to do their best to attend as often as possible, but conflicting family plans and players' own team training sessions and games will take precedence over CDA responsibilities. Please communicate with instructors ahead of time whenever you are unable to attend. | |||||