Serving players from: Castle Rock • Castle Pines • Highland Ranch • Larkspur • Lone Tree • Monument • Parker • Colorado Springs • Elizabeth • Franktown
The 5U-8U Recreational League provides a fun, safe, and developmentally appropriate soccer environment for 4 to 8-year-olds. The 5U-8U Recreational program is designed to help players continue to grow in the sport of soccer by introducing them to formalized games on Saturdays. The specialized curriculum helps players grow in their technical skills and learn the rules of soccer at a developmentally appropriate level for their age. Players will receive a solid foundation of coaching needed to continue into the 9U-10U level and onward.
5U and 6U Game Format – 5U and 6U teams play 3v3 on 4 goals. Research has shown that having each team attack two goals and defend two goals increases players’ opportunities to score and positively impacts their decision-making. All this elevates game enjoyment. Having an extra goal per team will not only help players score more often, but it can also help prevent ‘clogging up’ in the middle of the field.
7U and 8U Game Format – 7U and 8U teams will play 5v5 with four field players and a goalie on one 4’x12′ goal.
Fall practice options are as follows (due to limited daylight in the fall practices shift 30 minutes earlier):
Spring practice options are as follows:
| Small-Sided Game Model | Goalkeeper | Team Size | Ball Size | Practices a Week | Games in a Season | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5U (2020 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 5-7 players | 3 | 1 | 7-8 |
| 6U (2019 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 5-7 players | 3 | 1 | 7-8 |
| 7U (2018 birth years) | 5v5 | Yes | 7-10 players | 3 | 2 | 7-8 |
| 8U (2017 birth years) | 5v5 | Yes | 7-10 players | 3 | 2 | 7-8 |
RISE (Rapids Integrated System of Excellence) is a one-of-a-kind youth soccer development platform that houses our Club’s curriculum. RISE provides an online space where coaches, players, and members can interact, creating a living and growing classroom. By connecting the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (CRYSC) community online, RISE will open up new educational opportunities for players and coaches, offer a more rewarding CRYSC experience for members, and ultimately enhance the level and consistency of soccer being played across the Club.
The Rapids Way embodies everything we are and stand for as a soccer club. The Rapids Way is much more than just what we do and how we do it. The Club’s mission and vision shape a philosophy, methodology, and culture that provide a framework for us to work in these key areas.
The Rapids Way is defined by the experience each individual player has from the time they enter the Club to the time they graduate. Using the Whole-Part-Whole teaching model we are able to build a Long-Term Development Plan that drives each player’s experiences in the four key pillars of the game: technical, tactical, physical and psycho-social.
WPW is learning model used by the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club to train age-appropriate curriculum aimed at the long-term development of a soccer player. The WPW philosophy will put players in realistic situations, that should always include decision-making elements.
We have a saying in the Club, “Prepare your child for the path, not the path for your child.” This is the Rapids Way.
The 5U-8U Recreational League provides a fun, safe, and developmentally appropriate soccer environment for 4 to 8-year-olds. The 5U-8U Recreational program is designed to help players continue to grow in the sport of soccer by introducing them to formalized games on Saturdays. The specialized curriculum helps players grow in their technical skills and learn the rules of soccer at a developmentally appropriate level for their age. Players will receive a solid foundation of coaching needed to continue into the 9U-10U level and onward.
5U and 6U Game Format – 5U and 6U teams play 3v3 on 4 goals. Research has shown that having each team attack two goals and defend two goals increases players’ opportunities to score and positively impacts their decision-making. All this elevates game enjoyment. Having an extra goal per team will not only help players score more often, but it can also help prevent ‘clogging up’ in the middle of the field.
7U and 8U Game Format – 7U and 8U teams will play 5v5 with four field players and a goalie on one 4’x12′ goal.
Fall practice options are as follows (due to limited daylight in the fall practices shift 30 minutes earlier):
Spring practice options are as follows:
| Small-Sided Game Model | Goalkeeper | Team Size | Ball Size | Practices a Week | Games in a Season | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5U (2020 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 5-7 players | 3 | 1 | 7-8 |
| 6U (2019 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 5-7 players | 3 | 1 | 7-8 |
| 7U (2018 birth years) | 5v5 | Yes | 7-10 players | 3 | 2 | 7-8 |
| 8U (2017 birth years) | 5v5 | Yes | 7-10 players | 3 | 2 | 7-8 |
RISE (Rapids Integrated System of Excellence) is a one-of-a-kind youth soccer development platform that houses our Club’s curriculum. RISE provides an online space where coaches, players, and members can interact, creating a living and growing classroom. By connecting the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (CRYSC) community online, RISE will open up new educational opportunities for players and coaches, offer a more rewarding CRYSC experience for members, and ultimately enhance the level and consistency of soccer being played across the Club.
The Rapids Way embodies everything we are and stand for as a soccer club. The Rapids Way is much more than just what we do and how we do it. The Club’s mission and vision shape a philosophy, methodology, and culture that provide a framework for us to work in these key areas.
The Rapids Way is defined by the experience each individual player has from the time they enter the Club to the time they graduate. Using the Whole-Part-Whole teaching model we are able to build a Long-Term Development Plan that drives each player’s experiences in the four key pillars of the game: technical, tactical, physical and psycho-social.
WPW is learning model used by the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club to train age-appropriate curriculum aimed at the long-term development of a soccer player. The WPW philosophy will put players in realistic situations, that should always include decision-making elements.
We have a saying in the Club, “Prepare your child for the path, not the path for your child.” This is the Rapids Way.
Rapids Youth Soccer partners with Soccer.com for all uniform needs. All CRYSC recreational players are required to purchase the uniform kit (white top, burgundy top, black shorts, and black socks) before the first game. We recommend ordering at least three weeks prior to their first game to ensure they have it in time for game day. Players are required to wear the official CRYSC jersey combo for games. This uniform kit is usable throughout all recreational programs.
It is important to note that uniforms are NOT included in registration costs. Additionally, uniforms are unavailable to purchase on-site at any CRYSC office – they must be purchased online via Soccer.com.
Team managers are a very important piece to the success of any youth soccer team. In order to take some of the responsibilities off of the coach’s plate, teams are requested to have a team manager volunteer to organize the team for the season.
Every team is required to provide a game facilitator for half of every game. The game facilitator will act as the referee for the game, and should referee in a way to help the players learn and understand the rules.
Team managers are a very important piece to the success of any youth soccer team. In order to take some of the responsibilities off of the coach’s plate, teams are requested to have a team manager volunteer to organize the team for the season.
Every team is required to provide a game facilitator for half of every game. The game facilitator will act as the referee for the game, and should referee in a way to help the players learn and understand the rules.
The 5U-8U recreational league is the first time players will begin having practices during the week and games on the weekend. Rapids Youth Soccer posts all our game schedules on PlayMetrics two weeks before the first scheduled game. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to your PlayMetrics account.
It’s important for parents to understand what is available to their child during their time in the 5U-8U program including any supplemental programs and what to expect as players move into the 9U league.
🎓⚽🎓 Graduate Spotlight: Ally O’Hara
A standout GK from South 06/07G ECNL-RL, Ally O’Hara has been a force on the field since age 4 with Colorado Fusion. She’s now headed to Rice University, where she’ll double major in economics & mathematics—a true student-athlete!
Her soccer journey includes a quarterfinal finish at E64 Nationals (2023) and being named MVP of the Colorado President’s Cup as a sophomore. Guided by dedicated Rapids Youth coaches, Ally’s developed into a leader both on and off the field. She plans to continue playing at the club level while tackling her academic goals. Big things ahead for this rising star!
#Classof2025 #SeniorSeason
❄️⚽️❄️ Snow, snow go away, we’ve got spring soccer to play!! Just last weekend we were soaking up the sunshine & cheering on our Rapids teams from the sidelines - what a difference a few days can make 🥶 Bundle up & stay warm this weekend!
#OneClubOneCommunity
🚨 North, Central, & South ECNL-RL Girls 2025/26 COACHING STAFF 🚨
North ECNL-RL Girls
U18/19 (07/08G): Ryan Rombach
U17 (09G): Nic Ryan
U16 (10G): TBD
U15 (11G): Brad Homeyer
U14 (12G): Dannelle Lewandowski
U13 (13G): Ryan Rombach
Central ECNL-RL Girls
U18/19 (07/08B): Lexi Rudolph
U17 (09G): Jack Laurie
U16 (10G): Daniel Nestor
U15 (11G): Daniel Nestor
U14 (12G): Olivia Kearse-Thomas
U13 (13G): Jack Humphray
South ECNL-RL Girls
U18/19 (07/08G): Julia Kendrick
U17 (09G): Deco Costa
U16 (10G): Nicole Nickerson
U15 (11G): Deco Costa
U14 (12G): Julia Kendrick
U13 (13G): TBD
#OneClubOneCommunity #CRYSCGirlsECNLRL #DevelopingRemarkableCoaches
🇺🇸⚽️💪 CONGRATS to Claire Allen (11G ECNL) & Kennedy Early (11G ECNL) on being selected to attend the @ussoccer U-14 Girls’ Central Region Talent ID Mini-Camp in Austin, TX this week! Claire & Kennedy join 80 players from across the central US!
#OneClubOneCommunity #CRYSCElite #RapidsSuccess #CRYSCgirlsECNL
🚨 Castle Rock DPL/EAL Girls & Boys 2025/26 COACHING STAFF 🚨
Castle Rock DPL
U18/19 (07/08B): Nate Billings
U17 (09G): Dan Fearnhead
U16 (10G): Sara Sheets
U15 (11G): Aaron Manahan
U14 (12G): Aaron Manahan
U13 (13G): Dmytro Chepura
Castle Rock EAL
U18/19 (07/08B): Dmytro Chepura
U17 (09B): Kyle Wilson-Kjellberg
U16 (10B): Jordan Brumley
U15 (11B): Tyler Amerman
U14 (12B): Tyler Amerman
U13 (13B): Julian Roberts
#OneClubOneCommunity #CRYSCDPL #CRYSCEAL #DevelopingRemarkableCoaches
🎓⚽🎓 Graduate Spotlight: Jonathan Grattet
A natural leader both on & off the pitch! This dedicated athlete from our South 07/08 Select has consistently stepped up, proudly serving as a three-time club captain & a two-time high school captain. His soccer journey began at the young age of 5, laying the foundation for the accomplished player he is today. Now, Jonathan is embarking on an exciting new chapter at Anderson University, where he’ll be pursuing a degree in Music Business while continuing to play the sport he loves!
His growth mindset has shaped him into not only a skilled player but also someone who understands the importance of being competitive while remaining caring. Jonathan’s journey is a testament to holistic development, proving that you can excel in athletics & academics while cultivating strong leadership qualities. His advice to fellow athletes? “Love yourself, your opponents, & your teammates. Learn, be respectful, & grow.” We’re excited to see Jonathan’s leadership & passion shine at Anderson University!
#Classof2025 #SeniorSeason #CollegeCommitment
🚨 Elite @ecnlboys & Central ECNL Boys 2025/26 COACHING STAFF 🚨
Elite ECNL Boys:
Elite ECNL Boys Director: Daniel Agnew
U18/19 (07/08B): Danny Bills
U17 (09B): Michael Lind
U16 (10B): Sean Baumann
U15 (11B): Jay Needham
U14 (12B): Bobby Hensley
U13 (13B): Sean Baumann
Central ECNL Boys:
Central ECNL Boys Director: Daniel Nestor
U18/19 (07/08B): Jack Laurie/Jack Humphray
U17 (09B): Alex Agne
U16 (10B): Saul Maldanodo
U15 (11B): Peter Pak
U14 (12B): Jack Laurie
U13 (13B): Etzael Gonzalez
#OneClubOneCommunity #CRYSCElite #CRYSCBoysECNL #DevelopingRemarkableCoaches
⭐️🏔️⚽️ #CRYSCAlumni doing BIG things! SHOUT OUT to Denver’s own @darrenyapi_ on getting his first @coloradorapids start & scoring his first goal of the season! 💪
#OneClubOneCommunity #RapidsSuccess
8U-10U Rising Rapids
Rising Rapids is for players that have outgrow their normal soccer environment. This program is designed for self-motivated players who love the game and want more soccer!
9U-10U Recreational
After our 5U-8U leagues, players move into the 9U-10U recreational league, where they'll have designated practice and games. Get more info now.
Soccer Camps
Rapids Youth Soccer offers a variety of camps to help players continue their growth and development year-round. Check out the full Camps page to see how your player can continue to play after their last game!
Recreational Home
Curious about what other programming takes place in CRYSC's recreational programming? Check out the Rec Home page for more information across different age groups.
Yes, uniforms are required for players to play. Our vendor is Soccer.com, click here to be brought to the recreational order page. Do NOT select a team, simply scroll to “Collection” and select “Rec Kit.” You can click on the item picture for youth sizing with dimensions to ensure the right fit for your child.
Players need shin guards, socks, and cleats, a size 3 soccer ball, water, and weather appropriate clothing.
Absolutely, we hope players are able to play with their friends as long as they were born in the same year. Please request this when registering your child for soccer. We’ll do our best to make it happen.
Yes, you can do this when registering. We’ll do our best to make it happen.
The Fall season is from August – November and the Spring season is from March – May.
We offer camps in the Summer (June – July) and Winter (November – February) as well.
For the Recreational Program, practice days, times, and locations are determined by the Parent Volunteer Coach. Practices are held at local Castle Rock parks.
Games will be played on Saturdays and Sundays (as needed) and games will be played at local Castle Rock parks for 5U-7U. 8U will also play in Aurora and South Denver. Game times will vary each weekend with games starting as early as 9:00am or as late as 4:00pm.
Simply put, the more touches on the ball a player gets, the better the player skill set becomes. In a 3v3 environment, with 6 players on the field, players get more opportunities to touch the ball than if they played 11v11, with 22 players on the field. Additionally, soccer is a game of triangles. Having small-sided games at the younger ages not only increases their skill level but also allows the player to see the field. The player is able to conceptualize time and space with the support of a triangle formation. We slowly progress to 5v5, 7v7, and 9v9 for the same reasons.
Research has shown that having each team attack two goals and defend two goals increases players’ opportunities to score and positively impacts their decision-making. All this elevates game enjoyment. Having an extra goal per team will not only help players score more often, but it can also help prevent ‘clogging up’ in the middle of the field. With two additional goals introduced, it is important to be patient as the players learn the new game format.
Makeup games due to weather cancellations will automatically be rescheduled for the following Sunday (8 days later); however, coaches may coordinate another date for make up games.
For our current field conditions and weather policies, please visit our Weather Policy page.
