What is the 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. 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.

For More information on the Development Academy visit the Academy Website

Academy Membership:

The Academy has 197 total clubs, comprised of teams across six age groups in the boys' program: U-12, 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-16/17 and U-18/19. These clubs are all located within geographically-based divisions across gender and age group levels. Each team plays home and away games against the other teams in their division, plus games against non-division opponents from across the country during the 10-month season. 

For a breakdown of club membership and age group divisions, please refer to the Academy Club Directory.

Program Benefits:

The focus on Individual Development has enabled Academy clubs to develop numerous National team and Professional Players. in the last 3 years NC Fusion has had 4 players sign professional contracts in the MLS. Gianluca Busio - Sporting KC, Brandt Bronico - Chicago Fire, Johnathan Campbell - Chicago Fire, Jeff Caldwell -NYCFC 

For a comprehensive list of benefits visit the Academy Page