9U-10U
Academy
WDMSC Academy program is operated by Sporting Iowa. Academy soccer strengthens 9U-10U players’ technical foundations and prepares them for select soccer. Academy soccer allows players to play with and against players of similar ability and at a level where they will experience the most success and have the most fun playing the sport. It follows a set of player development guidelines that include following a training curriculum, mixing training groups, mixing teams after each playing season, maintaining small roster sizes, mandatory coach education for academy coaches, parent education and most importantly a focus on the individual player, not on the team. Players considering the academy program should exhibit sound technical skills, demonstrate good agility, and possess a high level of focus and concentration. Academy programming is available for both fall and spring seasons. Please contact Academy Director, Jamie Mcquillan here for more information.
What
Players born in 2015 or 2016 are placed on teams of typically 10-12 players of the same age and gender. Teams are coached by both professional coaches and licensed volunteer coaches.
Each team plays seven 7v7 games (one per weekend) managed by licensed volunteer coaches against other local club teams with academy programs within the same age group. Games consist of two 25 minute halves, and are refereed by certified referees.
Players participate in two 75 min training sessions per week over a ten week period delivered by Sporting Iowa's professional coaching staff and assisted by licensed volunteer coaches. Training is age appropriate focused on basic skill development with an emphasis on attacking and defending in pairs.
When
Training, Two Week Nights/Week, ~ 5 PM or 6:30 PM, TBD
Game Weekends: Sept 7/8 - Oct 26/27
No Games: Easter, Memorial Day or Labor Day Weekends
Where
Hidden Valley Soccer Complex for training.
Games played in Des Moines metro area.
Cost
$350/season ($25 Late Fee on or after 7/12/2024)
Invited vs New Academy Player
During the registration, all new, not previously ID players, who under Player Pathway Program Options choose "Academy", will be required to participate in a Free ID Training Session, during the Summer Camps, (July 15th-18th, Date & Time TBD). The ID session ensures new players are placed in the most appropriate developmental program. Completing the 'New Player" registration ensures a team placement at the Recreational or Academy program. Learn more about new academy registration process here.
Please contact the Director of Academy with any questions.