Academy

Our Academy program builds on the foundation of our Junior Academy program and is the next step in the Columbus Soccer Club player development pathway. At the Academy stage of development we introduce the concept of teammates and a general team structure. We continue to fine-tune individual skills and technique but expand the learning environment to include the use of other team members and space. This additional focus allows players to build trust with one another and their training to be successful on the pitch. Overall, our focus continues at the Academy level is on individual player development and not wins and losses.

At the Academy level, rosters remain very flexible. Players continue to have the opportunity to play and train with other teams in their age bracket. However, we do begin to organize players by similar skill sets and abilities to maximize their training and participation (touches on the ball). Because every player develops at a different pace, they may be moved onto more or less advanced rosters to provide the best learning experience for their continued development.

Our Academy teams will participate in Nebraska Youth Soccer League (NYSL) games and local tournaments, resulting in increased travel requirements. Because NYSL offers a number of divisions based upon skill level (recreational, competitive, and premier), our Academy teams will be placed in divisions of teams of similar ability to create meaningful, exciting games. Unlike tournaments, where teams of widely different abilities could be competing in the same bracket, NYSL games create the best learning environment at this stage.

Academy players are required to purchase both home and away uniform kits. Teams will practice at least once per week during the Fall and Spring sessions and may participate in indoor training during the winter months.