Academy Program Pilot

Designed for players born in 2016 and 2017, who are ready for a more focused and structured training environment that emphasizes individual growth, technical development, and a deeper understanding of the game.

This developmental phase emphasizes player growth over results, creating a positive environment where athletes can refine their skills, build confidence, and learn to play as part of a team. The focus is on technical ability, decision-making, and developing a love for the game that lasts well beyond youth soccer.

This is still considered recreational level 3 soccer

• No tryouts
• Anyone who wants to register is able to do so
• Looking for 50% playing time in games

Teams will play in the Academy Division (vs the Rec Central Division)

They will play other Academy teams

• Des Moines Soccer Club
• Iowa United FC
• Dallas Center Grimes Soccer Club
• Gilbert Soccer Club
• Indianola Soccer Tribe
• Apex Soccer Academy
• United Futbol Academy
• FK envision
• Bondurant Soccer Club
• Pleasant Hill Soccer Club
• 515 Soccer Academy
• Rozeboom Futbol Academy
• Spring Creek FC

Player Registration: $230

• Includes registration to one tournament, see below.

Why these age groups?

Per US Soccer. Before 9U, players are still in the “discovery” phase—training should be simple, fun, and heavily movement-based, not structured like an academy environment.

The Iowa Soccer League (ISL) and most state associations only offer Academy divisions at 9U & 10U.

We know there are other options for the club to consider at 11U+, but we are starting here per Iowa Soccer's input. 

Player Development Philosophy

The program will follow the U.S. Soccer Grassroots and Play-Practice-Play model, emphasizing age-appropriate learning through guided discovery and game-like activities.

Our guiding principles:

• Players learn best in small-sided environments that maximize touches and involvement.
• Development is prioritized over wins and losses.
• Each player progresses at their own pace through consistent coaching and feedback.
• Training should be engaging, competitive, and fun.

Training & Game Structure

Ideally, we have enough interest for at least one team at each age group (9U Girls, 9U Boys, 10U Girls, 10U Boys. If not, we would look to potentially combine two age groups (9/10U Girls or 9/10U Boys). 

Players register for their age group rather than a specific team. If numbers allow for multiple teams within an age group, rosters will remain fluid and may change throughout the season. The emphasis of the program is on individual player development, not team results.

Training Sessions

• Frequency: 2 sessions per week (60–75 minutes each).
• Everyone trains at the same time and together (boys at one time and girls at another time)
• Format: Combination of technical skill work, small-group games, and situational scrimmages.
• Curriculum: Structured around the following technical pillars—dribbling, passing/receiving, finishing, first touch, and decision-making.
• Coaches: Sessions led by an Academy Director, who is US Soccer licensed, with assistance from volunteer and parent coaches.

Game Format

• League: Iowa Soccer League (ISL) Academy Division.
• Game Format: 7v7 (6 field players + goalkeeper).
• Game Length: Two 25-minute halves (per ISL standards).
• Ball Size: Size 4.
• Roster Size: Typically 10–12 players per team to allow for adequate playing time.
• Playing Time: All players receive roughly 50% playing opportunities throughout the season.

Season Structure

Spring Season

Mirrors the recreational calendar. See for more information.

Tournament

League America Tournament
Spring Creek Sports Complex (Altoona)
May 2-4, 2025

Player Expectations

• Attendance: Regular participation in practices and games supports individual and team development.
• Effort: Players are encouraged to give their best effort, listen to feedback, and support teammates.
• Sportsmanship: Respect for teammates, opponents, referees, and coaches is expected at all times.
• Growth Mindset: Mistakes are part of learning; players are encouraged to be brave, take risks, and try new skills.

Equipment & Uniforms

• Ball Size: Size 4.
• Uniform: Our standard ADMSC kit (black and red jerseys, black shorts, black socks).
• Additional Gear: Shin guards, water bottle, soccer cleats (no baseball or football cleats).

Program Goals

1. Build technical proficiency and creativity on the ball.
2. Develop awareness and decision-making in game settings.
3. Promote teamwork, respect, and a love for the game.
4. Prepare players for success in ADMSC’s 11U+ program.
5. Create a positive culture that supports every player’s growth.

Summary

Adding an Academy Program to complement the Recreational Program represents a meaningful step in growing the game and providing more development pathways for players in and around our community.

Ready to Play?

We’d love to have your family join us.

👉 Register today and give your player a fun, positive introduction to the world’s game.

If you have questions, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to help you find the right fit.