Developmental Pathway
Recreational Programs
PRIMARY ACADEMY
For players age 5-10, typically entering or enrolled in grades K-4. This is arguably the most important stage of a young player’s development: it will determine the skill sets, basic knowledge, and enjoyment of the game that they take into their competitive years. The Primary Academy uses age and skill appropriate games to build confidence, coordination, and technique side by side. Players learn the fundamentals of the game through fun and engaging field exercises and small-sided competition.PREPARATORY ACADEMY
For U11-U14 players, typically entering or enrolled in grades 5-8. Its emphasis is on producing proficient, intelligent, well-rounded players with an advanced 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.
Competitive Programs
PRIMAVERA U9-U10
For U9-U10 players, typically entering or enrolled in grades 2-4. Emphasis is on teaching the fundamentals of the game through fun and engaging field exercises and small-sided competition.PRIMAVERA U11-U14
For U11-U14 players, typically entering or enrolled in grades 5-8. Its emphasis is on producing proficient, intelligent, well-rounded players with an advanced 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.
NOTE: U15 teams may be formed for the Fall Primavera season to accomodate older 8th graders if registration numbers allow.
PRIMAVERA U15+
For U15-U19 players, typically entering or enrolled in grades 8-12. Its emphasis is on preparing players for the rigors of their high school programs as well as soccer beyond high school.
Supplemental Programs
SUMMER CAMPS & CLINICS
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-Fri) with daily sessions ranging from 3-5 hours. Cost: $135-$175 per camp. See below for details.
SUMMER SKILLS ACADEMY
Runs from late June through the early August. Players train twice a week with players of a similar age. This is a training only program (no game schedule – players wanting competition should look into tournament options). Cost: $200.WINTER FUTSAL ACADEMY
For K-8th grade players (U5-U15). Runs from approximately the first week of December through mid-February. Players train once a week with players of a similar age. Sessions are indoor at either Kick City or Willamalane’s Bob Keefer Center (adjacent to Les Schwab Sports Park). This is a training only program (no game schedule – players wanting competition should look into indoor team options). Cost: $150.WINTER INDOOR TEAMS
For 2nd-8th grade players(U8-U15): Self-organized teams can be signed up to play at Kick City Sports Park during the Winter 1 (Nov-Jan) and Winter 2 (Feb-Mar) Sessions. Please see our Indoor Team Formation Guide for details. Indoor teams play games only (players wanting a training option should consider the Winter Futsal Academy). Average cost: about $75 per session.
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 training sessions are held on the 2nd Sunday of each month. Youth coaches will also have the opportunity to assist senior coaching staff with academy training sessions and/or summer clinics. There is no fee for participation.
Log in to your Blue Sombrero account to enroll your player.
CDA 2019-20 CALENDAR
| Theme | Date | Time | Location | Attendance Requirements | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Re-Boot Clinic | July 23-25 | 3:30-7:00pm | Marist HS | Miss only if necessary | A |
| GR 4v4 Prep GR 9v9 Prep | Sunday, August 18 | 12:00-3:00pm | Marist HS | Attend minimum 1 of 2 GR Prep Sessions per year | B |
| Practice Coaching #1 | Attend one or more Primary Academy session(s) in September | Various | St. Paul / MHS | Participate in minimum of three Practice Coaching opportunities per year | D |
| Practice Coaching #2 | Attend one or more Primary Academy session(s) in October | Various | St. Paul / MHS | Participate in minimum of three Practice Coaching opportunities per year | D |
| Video Curriculum #1 | November 10 | TBD | Marist HS | Attend minimum 2 of 3 Video Curriculum Sessions per year | C |
| GR 7v7 Prep GR 11v11 Prep | Sunday, December 8 | 3:00-6:00pm | Marist HS Activity Center | Attend minimum 1 of 2 GR Prep Sessions per year | B |
| Video Curriculum #2 | Sunday, January 5 | 10:00am-1:00pm | Marist HS Activity Center | Attend minimum 2 of 3 Video Curriculum Sessions per year | C |
| Video Curriculum #3 | Sunday, February 9 | 3:00-6:00pm | Marist HS Activity Center | Attend minimum 2 of 3 Video Curriculum Sessions per year | C |
| Practice Coaching #3 | Attend one or more Primary Academy session(s) in March | Various | St. Paul / MHS | Participate in minimum of three Practice Coaching opportunities per year | D |
| Practice Coaching #4 | Attend one or more Primary Academy session(s) in April | Various | St. Paul / MHS | Participate in minimum of three Practice Coaching opportunities per year | D |
| Practice Coaching #5 | Attend one or more Primary Academy session(s) in May | Various | St. Paul / MHS | Participate in minimum of three Practice Coaching opportunities per year | D |
CANDIDATE BENCHMARKS CHECKLIST
