Youth Academy Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Who will we play?
Academy teams will compete against like teams from other NCYSA Youth Academy Programs and in-house academy games.
2. How much travel will we have?
Travel usually occurs once or twice a month when associations get together to have play days or "festivals". There will be one weekend statewide festival (called a "showcase") in the fall and one in the spring. Each location for the festivals is to be determined on a yearly basis. NCYSA will help facilitate regional Academy festivals in the fall and spring.
3. What are the benefits of academy play?
The Academy program philosophy is to emphasize player development over team development, and focus on the technical development of each child without the pressures of short-term wins/losses/results. This philosophy encourages players to be more creative and the playing environment becomes more enjoyable.
4. Do you keep track of scores and standings?
Matches are played in the form of academy games with NO published scores or standings.
5. Can we play in tournaments?
Yes, as long as the tournament sponsors a U10 Academy Division. It is recommended that Academies do not participate in any elimination bracket tournaments. It is recommended that they participate in festivals.
6. Is there a licensing requirement for the coaches?
Each association must appoint an Academy Director who must hold a National Youth License. The Academy Director has up to two (2) years to obtain the National Youth License. Staff working with the Academy Programs must hold the Youth II Module qualification designed for working with U10/U12 players. Staff have one (1) year to obtain the Youth II qualification.
"True player development focuses on the development of the player, not the development of the team! Up to age 12, this should be the only criteria used in designing and running youth soccer programs."
Ron Quinn, leading contributor, US Youth Soccer Programming