(Please note players may indicate interest in this program by visiting the 'Academy Registration' page)

The Avalanche Soccer Club offers an Academy soccer program for U9-U10 boys and girls. The Academy program is a great fit for teams that aren’t ready to split up, but are seeking a training plan led by a licensed coach. In addition, this program is perfect for the player, regardless of ability, who is committed to becoming a better soccer player and has a passion for the sport.  Our aim for the program is to create a new more fulfilling soccer experience and continue the fun this great sport offers while building life skills and relationships.

There are no tryouts required for the Academy program; however, we do offer player placement sessions in late May to find the best fit for players. Free, no obligation “kick around” sessions provide the player and their parents a chance to meet the Development coaching staff and experience the coaching style and philosophy. These sessions also provide an opportunity for players to meet each other, plus build rapport with potential future team mates and soccer peers. 

Home games and practices are on well-maintained grass fields and conveniently located in the City of Wheat Ridge – accessible from I-70, I-25 and West Colfax. Team requests at this age level are carefully and thoughtfully considered, although not guaranteed. Strong consideration is also offered to incoming teams wanting to stay together. New players seeking a new team and teammates are welcome and encouraged to join. Returning players wanting to stay with previous team are also given additional consideration. Uniforms, tournaments, team activities during the off season and some social events are optional and have additional fees. Avalanche SC believes strongly that all kids should be able to play soccer and therefore financial assistance is available for those meeting need qualifications (see subheading Financial Assistance for more info).

Academy teams practice two days per week for 75 minutes each. Additional training sessions or clinics are also offered periodically at no additional fee. These sessions focus on individual skill sets and development of the player. Games are on Saturdays between 8 am and 4 pm with some exceptions. The regular season consists of 8 games each season (fall and spring). Four home games in Wheat Ridge plus 4 away games within the metro-front range area. Teams play at a suitable level within the Front Range League under the Colorado Soccer Association. 

Avalanche SC uses TeamSnap to streamline all communication and event scheduling including: games, practices, clinics, announcements, special events and social events for the entire club. All teams have access to scrimmages and interact with other teams in the club both on the field and off.

Coaching at this level is supplemented by a licensed and accredited coach or staff trainer with experience at the developmental level under a 9 month curriculum (August to May). Staff trainers are currently contracted through Challenger Sports, a UK company that provides highly experienced international coaches that have come through some of the premier academies in Europe. Staff trainers will be available for home games. In some cases, we rely on volunteer coaches to coach practices and away games. Teams also typically have a volunteer team manger to manage schedules. Curriculum is designed with emphasis on player development, including technical proficiency with the introduction of tactical play. All volunteer coaches are required to have a background check and concussion training.

Avalanche SC is a member of the Positive Coaching Alliance. Training and seminars on these philosophies are offered throughout the year for coaches, volunteers, and parents. It is our utmost priority to provide a quality and positive experience for all participants.

Academy teams usually participate in at least one tournament per season but are team directed regarding which tournament to participate. Teams, coaches, and managers are encouraged to collaborate the tournament scheduling. Tournaments can be one of the most memorable times for your player and provide an excellent opportunity to bond with teammates.