US Soccer Development Academy Teams
In August of 2007 the Rapids Soccer Academy was accepted as a charter member of US Soccer’s Development Academy. The Development Academy program was developed to enhance the development of the country’s top players through high technical standards and a focus on meaningful competition.
Development Academy teams represent the top teams in the Rapids Academy. Participants are also part of the MLS Homegrown Player program and are eligible for events exclusive to members of MLS clubs.
Players are selected through a combination of scouting, training evaluations and open tryouts. Evaluation happens on a year-round basis with open tryouts being held in the fall.
Training for these teams begins in November at the completion of high school season in the fall. Development Academy teams will train a minimum of three times per week at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The Development Academy season consists of 30 games beginning in February and ending with the Academy Finals in July.
Registration, coaching, referee and facilities fees as well as uniforms are provided by the Academy for these players. Actual travel costs and college preparation fees are the responsibility of each player.
For questions about the Development Academy Teams please contact Director of Coaching Brian Crookham at 303-727-3578 or
bcrookham@dsgpark.com.