The U13–U17 Elite & Competitive Program is designed to develop advanced youth athletes capable of competing at the highest regional, national, and international levels. This developmental stage emphasizes:

• High-level technical execution
• Tactical intelligence
• Physical performance and conditioning
• Psychological resilience and leadership
• Exposure to elite pathways (showcases, tournaments, scouts)
• DEER values—Discipline, Ethics, Excellence, Respect—at a mature, professional level

This program prepares players for showcase leagues, college recruitment, MLS NEXT, USL Academy, international trials, and professional academies.

2. Player Development Philosophy

2.1. “Total Player” Model

At this age, players must develop the complete profile of an elite athlete:

• Technical quality under pressure
• Tactical mastery and understanding of systems
• Peak physical condition and discipline
• Mental toughness, leadership & composure
• Academic responsibility & life skills

2.2. Player-Centered & Growth-Focused

Coaches prioritize:

• Individual progression
• Positional development
• Decision-making
• Constructive feedback & film analysis

2.3. Elite Standards of Conduct

Athletes must demonstrate:

• Professional behavior
• Team commitment
• Training discipline
• Respect on & off the field

3. Core Objectives (U13–U17)

3.1. Technical Excellence

Players must master:

• First touch under pressure
• Driven balls, lofted passes, long-range accuracy
• Dominant 1v1 attacking & defending
• Advanced dribbling combinations
• Crossing, finishing, volleys, and weak-foot development
• Aerial control & heading technique

3.2. Tactical Mastery

Team Tactical Knowledge

Players learn:

• Multiple formations (4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 3-5-2, 4-4-2 etc)
• Pressing systems (high press, mid-block, low block)
• Defensive shape & compactness
• Building from the back
• Switching the point of attack
• Counterattack strategies
• Set-piece execution

Individual Tactical Intelligence

• Reading the game
• Scanning habits
• Movement off the ball
• Supporting angles
• Decision-making speed

3.3. Physical Conditioning

The program includes:

• Speed training with and without the ball
• Agility, explosiveness, acceleration
• Strength-conditioning (age-appropriate)
• Aerobic fitness for 90-minute matches
• Injury prevention & recovery routines

3.4. Psychological & Leadership Development

Players build:

• Confidence under pressure
• Emotional regulation
• Game focus
• Accountability
• Captaincy & leadership skills
• Sportsmanship rooted in DEER values

4. Competitive Calendar & Expectations

4.1. Training Frequency

• 3–5 sessions per week (90–120 minutes)
• Strength & conditioning sessions
• Video and tactical classroom sessions

4.2. Competitions

• League play (local & regional)
• Elite tournaments (state, national, international)
• College showcases & combines
• Friendly matches vs. other academies
• International football tours