Central MN Youth Soccer Association

The  U9-U10 age group falls under Phase 2 of our Player Development Chart:  Learning to Train. 

It is considered “the golden age” of learning.  These years are the most critical development years of a youth soccer player’s career. It is at these ages where the basic fundamental skills of soccer are mastered that allow players to compete and be successful as soccer players at the next level of play.  It is also where they develop a true love for the game. The U9-10 Competitive Program is designed for players ages 8-10 years old who have a higher level of ability, commitment and interest level in soccer.  This program is not for everyone and requires a higher level of commitment than the Rec/In-House Program.

This age is considered to be the most important stage in technical and overall development for up and coming soccer players because of their increased capacity for learning. For players who are looking for more training and a higher level playing and commitment, then this program is an appealing option. 

Spring/Summer Season (11-12 weeks long, April-June)

Play in 4-5 tournaments every other weekend or so

Cost: $180

Fall Season (5-6 weeks long, late August-Mid October)

Play in 2-3 “friendly” tournaments 

Cost: $95

Both seasons consist of:

·         Training sessions 2-3 times/week.

·         Professional coaching for 1 of those weekly training sessions.

·         Skill development is the focus along with basic tactical development and team play.

·         Player development is the focus=Player & Ball

·         Other development and playing options are offered throughout the year.

U9-10 Rec Plus Program

This option is for players who want either a little more than what the Rec/in-House Program offers, or who are not quite ready for the U9-10 Competitive Program. 

Some players are not mentally or emotionally ready for this accelerated training.  Others are not ready soccer skill-wise.  This is nothing to be alarmed about.  It is important to note that each player is unique and may fluctuate between levels within each phase of the Player Development Model.  (See CMYSA Player Development Model & Program Chart.) 

The U9-10 Competitive Program is based on the notion that players develop more quickly when surrounded by other players who share their ability and desire to accelerate their learning.  If a player is not ready for this level, we recommend the Rec Plus Program.   This option includes a full season in the recreational/in-house league, as well as four (4) additional training sessions plus one (1) friendly tournament.  (Available during the Spring/Summer season only)

Those interested in only the Rec Plus program need not come to assessments.  They just need to register online.

Players interested in pursuing the U9-10 Competitive Program will participate in CMYSA's U9-10 Assessments at the end of July. This will allow for placing each player within the program that will fit them the best. Those not ready for the U9-10 Competitive Program will be offered the opportunity to participate in the Rec Plus Program.  There will be only one team per age group (one for girls and one for boys) for this program, unless interest suggests a need for more. 

Competitive Registration cost is $180 for the Spring and $95 for the Fall. That includes all the fees for tournaments and the professional skills sessions. In addition, each player must purchase a uniform (2 jerseys, shorts and socks); the estimated cost is $100. Additional Costs include the costs of cleats, shin guards, and a practice soccer ball. Players are required to bring their own ball to practices and games. Transportation cost should be considered.

Rec Plus Registration cost is $105 for the Spring. That includes all the fees for the rec/ in-house league, one tournament, the professional skills sessions, and a uniform top. Additional Costs include the costs of cleats, shin guards, and a practice soccer ball. Players are required to bring their own ball to practices and games. The Rec Plus Program is not offered during the fall season.

The difference between the U9-10 Competitive Program and the Recreational/In-House Program lies in the level of investment/playing ability, commitment, coachability, and interest of the 8, 9, and 10 year olds and their parents/guardians. To help decide which level of play is most appropriate for your child, listed below are the characteristics of typical players who would participate in the U9-10 Competitive Program . If your child displays a majority of the characteristics listed they are probably more suited for this level of play. However, it should be noted that during a player’s soccer development, they may move back and forth in their interest and commitment levels.

·         Demonstrates a solid technical foundation

·         High level of coordination and agility

·         During games, is aggressive in their attitude and approach to getting involved

·         Is attentive and focused at practice and during games

·         Demonstrates high level of passion and concentration during practices and games

·         Listens well and is able to follow directions

·         Started to narrow down the number of extra-curricular activities they are involved in

·         Soccer is a high priority and they have a passion to play

·         Applies the skills and lessons learned at practice consistently (relative to the age group)

·         Practices with a ball in their own time outside regular schedule of games & practices