US Soccer Development Academy

US Soccer Development Academy Profile and History

About US Soccer Development Academy: Following a comprehensive review of elite player development in the United States and around the world, U.S. Soccer created the Development Academy in 2007. The Academy Program's philosophy is based on increased training, less total games, and more meaningful games using international rules of competition. In 2017, the Girls' Development Academy was launched wi th a mission to improve the player development landscape and create a pathway for elite female players. The Academy is comprised of teams across six age groups in the Boys' program: U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16/17, and U-18/19 and four age groups in the Girls' program: U-14, U-15, U-16, U-17, and U-18/19. The Academy Program focuses on positively impacting everyday club environments to assist in maximizing youth player development across the country. The Academy values individual development of elite players over winning trophies and titles. The Academy sets the standard for elite environments for youth soccer clubs nationwide and is a part of U.S. Soccer's global leadership position in youth soccer that will impact thousands of players.