U8-U10 Academy Program Information

Charlotte Soccer Academy offers the Academy program to boys and girls ages U8 through U10 that are ready to move from recreational soccer into a curriculum focused on development of skills and techniques. The program, as recommended by US Soccer and the North Carolina Youth Soccer Association, stresses player development over winning. Interested players must try out for the program in May and are expected to commit to the program for a full year.

Academy players practice in a pool format two nights per week and may participate in the weekly supplemental technical training, speed and agility training and goalkeeping training offered by CSA to its members. CSA Academy coaches specialize in developing the youngest players and sharing their love of the game. Most are former or current players; all hold youth coaching licenses and are compensated by CSA.  

The Academy typically plays matches on Saturdays during the season against Academy teams from other clubs. A balance of home and away matches are played. Most teams will play two matches on game day.

CSA strongly believes that the U8-U10 Youth Academy Program is the best development option for children leaving recreational level programs. The training program is unmatched for preparing the youth player for higher level competitive programs. Fees for the Academy Program are similar to those for a challenge program and the reflect the higher level of commitment, training, and coaching provided to these promising players. The CSA association fee includes registration, uniforms, coaching fees, supplemental training and field usage. Players must also pay team fees in the spring and fall, which include variable team-specific costs such as referee fees, tournament fees and travel reimbursements for the coach.