The Academy Program is a pre-competitive program that is a perfect fit for the younger U9 and U10 player, regardless of ability, who is committed to becoming a better soccer player and has a passion for the sport. The program is designed to prepare players for competitive soccer which starts at U11. Teams are coached by paid Avalanche coaches.

Refer to this chart to match your player's birth year to their age group (U9-U19)

7v7 Training Model- Development Phase (U9-U10)

Players begin connecting technique with decision-making in game situations. Training is more intentional while still maintaining a love for the game.

Key Focus Areas

• Ball Mastery Under Pressure
  Continued emphasis on dribbling, turning, and protecting the ball in tighter, more realistic environments.
• Passing & Receiving Fundamentals
  Introduction to passing with purpose and receiving across the body, with an emphasis on first touch.
• Spacing & Basic Shape
  Players learn how to spread out, create width, and avoid crowding the ball.
• 1v1 & Small Group Play (2v1 / 3v2)
  Decision-making in numbers-up and numbers-down situations becomes a major focus.
• Building Out of the Back
  Introduction to the build-out line, encouraging players to play rather than clear the ball.
• Transition Moments
  Early understanding of attacking and defending when possession changes.

The Avalanche Approach to 7v7

At Avalanche Soccer Club, we emphasize:

• High Repetition, High Engagement – More touches, more decisions, more learning
• Freedom to Play – Encouraging creativity and confidence in possession
• Guided Discovery – Coaches ask questions and guide players to solutions
• Positive Competitive Environment – Players are challenged while building confidence

Outcome:
Players develop strong technical foundations, improved decision-making, and a growing understanding of how to play with teammates.

Games:

Academy teams play in the Colorado Soccer Front Range League. U9 & U10 teams play 7v7 format with 8 games per season, 4 home and 4 away games. All home games are played at Kullerstrand Elementary or Prospect Park. Away games are played at locations on the Front Range. Games are refereed by a certified referee, but due to a shortage of referees, a referee is not guaranteed. Academy teams usually participate in one tournament per season.

Trainings:

Two 75 min. trainings per week, plus "Find Your Game" optional trainings. Trainings are held at area Wheat Ridge fields. Training will follow Avalanche's centralized training model where sessions are lead by multiple coaches and supported by a supervising lead coach, ensuring consistency, collaboration and a higher level of development across the age group and club.

Commitment:

The Academy program is a 2-season, one-year commitment that runs from August to May.

:Team Placement

Invitations for teams will be sent out in late May.

Uniforms:

Academy uniform kit consists of one home jersey, one away jersey, one pair of shorts and socks.

Typical Season