CRYSC 11U-19U Competitive Programs are Colorado’s premier option for growing, learning, and developing in youth soccer. The Competitive Program builds on the foundation players have learned throughout their time with Rapids Youth Soccer, including philosophy, the Rapids curriculum, and The Rapids Way. Program offerings cover the spectrum of player pathways, from new players to competitive, all the way to the top leagues in the United States.

Training and game locations will vary depending on level of play of each team. Game format is played in line with U.S. Soccer directives for small-sided games, which is 9v9 for 11U/12U and 11v11 for 13U-19U. Team sizes may vary depending on age and level of play.

Coming Soon

The Whole-Part-Whole (WPW) philosophy is a learning model used by the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club to achieve our long-term player development initiative. The WPW philosophy was first outlined by Malcolm Knowles in 1973 and is used in many learning situations, both practical and theory based. When added to a well-planned and well-thought out pedagogy, the WPW philosophy puts players in realistic situations, which should always include decision-making elements.

When coaching soccer, WPW can be used in a variety of ways to break down techniques, skills, or tactics. Most commonly the players are taken from practice with high game context to a low one, before returning to the original practice. When possible, it is best to practice the game, or elements of the game, in their entirety. An example of this could occur in a topic such as ‘Defending in the Direct Game Channel’. What do you do if the individuals or units in your squad don’t understand how to defend 1v1 or 2v2? You break it down.

‘Whole’ doesn’t necessarily mean a game. Actually, in this theory, a ‘whole’ practice could be a series of complex skills that can be broken down into more discrete skills. The ‘whole’ element should be as realistic to the game as possible. The coach looks to pull actions or components of the game and break them down into chunks so the players can understand and digest the information. The coach will then pull those elements back together into the game situation.

References: Swanson, R.A. & Law, B. (1993). Whole-part-whole learning model. Performance Improvement Quarterly. 6(1), pp 43-53.

@coachdanwright. Coachdanwright.blogspot.co.uk

In addition to our technical soccer curriculum and teaching philosophy, we aim to represent The Rapids Way in all our programming. The Rapids Way is much more than just what we do and how we do it. It encompasses who we are as a Club, from how we handle our administrative details to how coaches instruct players in training to how our players and families conduct themselves on and off the field. 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 player has from the time they enter the Club to the time they graduate.  From a technical perspective, we focus on establishing an individual foundation before teaching group actions and tactics. This includes the WPW philosophy and long-term development planning. The technical, tactical, physical, and psycho-social pieces of our soccer curriculum come together in the form of a distinct style of play, consistent from our most inexperienced levels to our elite levels in the Club.

The culture we create provides a system of support for all of our young players. We take pride in the professionalism exhibited by our coaching staff, from the way they teach to their demeanor and appearance at sessions and games. Our parents are well informed and respectful on the sidelines, during both games and practices, which in turn creates a fun, safe and enjoyable atmosphere for our players to develop. This is captured in our free-flowing and positive thinking style of play.

We have a saying in the Club, “Prepare your child for the path, not the path for your child.” This is the Rapids Way.

July-August 2020

  • Practices Begin: TBD
  • Check with your coach about any preseason tournaments your team is participating in

September-October 2020

  • Game Days: TBD

November 2020

  • Game Days: TBD

Jair Vasquez
15U-19U Boys Director
Boys Director of Coaching
jair@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 205

Tom Poole
11U-12U Boys Director
tom.poole@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 216

Matt Gordon
13U-14U Boys Director
matt.gordon@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 217

Ash Hopkins
15U-19U Girls Director
Girls Director of Coaching
ash@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 202

Daniel Nestor
11U-14U Girls Director
daniel.nestor@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 210

Overview

CRYSC 11U-19U Competitive Programs are Colorado’s premier option for growing, learning, and developing in youth soccer. The Competitive Program builds on the foundation players have learned throughout their time with Rapids Youth Soccer, including philosophy, the Rapids curriculum, and The Rapids Way. Program offerings cover the spectrum of player pathways, from new players to competitive, all the way to the top leagues in the United States.

Training and game locations will vary depending on level of play of each team. Game format is played in line with U.S. Soccer directives for small-sided games, which is 9v9 for 11U/12U and 11v11 for 13U-19U. Team sizes may vary depending on age and level of play.

Curriculum

Coming Soon

Philosophy

The Whole-Part-Whole (WPW) philosophy is a learning model used by the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club to achieve our long-term player development initiative. The WPW philosophy was first outlined by Malcolm Knowles in 1973 and is used in many learning situations, both practical and theory based. When added to a well-planned and well-thought out pedagogy, the WPW philosophy puts players in realistic situations, which should always include decision-making elements.

When coaching soccer, WPW can be used in a variety of ways to break down techniques, skills, or tactics. Most commonly the players are taken from practice with high game context to a low one, before returning to the original practice. When possible, it is best to practice the game, or elements of the game, in their entirety. An example of this could occur in a topic such as ‘Defending in the Direct Game Channel’. What do you do if the individuals or units in your squad don’t understand how to defend 1v1 or 2v2? You break it down.

‘Whole’ doesn’t necessarily mean a game. Actually, in this theory, a ‘whole’ practice could be a series of complex skills that can be broken down into more discrete skills. The ‘whole’ element should be as realistic to the game as possible. The coach looks to pull actions or components of the game and break them down into chunks so the players can understand and digest the information. The coach will then pull those elements back together into the game situation.

References: Swanson, R.A. & Law, B. (1993). Whole-part-whole learning model. Performance Improvement Quarterly. 6(1), pp 43-53.

@coachdanwright. Coachdanwright.blogspot.co.uk

The Rapids Way

In addition to our technical soccer curriculum and teaching philosophy, we aim to represent The Rapids Way in all our programming. The Rapids Way is much more than just what we do and how we do it. It encompasses who we are as a Club, from how we handle our administrative details to how coaches instruct players in training to how our players and families conduct themselves on and off the field. 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 player has from the time they enter the Club to the time they graduate.  From a technical perspective, we focus on establishing an individual foundation before teaching group actions and tactics. This includes the WPW philosophy and long-term development planning. The technical, tactical, physical, and psycho-social pieces of our soccer curriculum come together in the form of a distinct style of play, consistent from our most inexperienced levels to our elite levels in the Club.

The culture we create provides a system of support for all of our young players. We take pride in the professionalism exhibited by our coaching staff, from the way they teach to their demeanor and appearance at sessions and games. Our parents are well informed and respectful on the sidelines, during both games and practices, which in turn creates a fun, safe and enjoyable atmosphere for our players to develop. This is captured in our free-flowing and positive thinking style of play.

We have a saying in the Club, “Prepare your child for the path, not the path for your child.” This is the Rapids Way.

Dates & Deadlines

July-August 2020

  • Practices Begin: TBD
  • Check with your coach about any preseason tournaments your team is participating in

September-October 2020

  • Game Days: TBD

November 2020

  • Game Days: TBD
Contact

Jair Vasquez
15U-19U Boys Director
Boys Director of Coaching
jair@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 205

Tom Poole
11U-12U Boys Director
tom.poole@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 216

Matt Gordon
13U-14U Boys Director
matt.gordon@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 217

Ash Hopkins
15U-19U Girls Director
Girls Director of Coaching
ash@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 202

Daniel Nestor
11U-14U Girls Director
daniel.nestor@rapidsyouthsoccer.org
303.399.5858 ext. 210

2020/2021 Tryout Registration

Click Here

Player Placement Information: (2010-2002) Girls and (2010-2006) Boys

 

Who Should Register an Intent to Play:

  • Any and all players who intend to play with CRYSC during the 20/21 season

Who Should Attend Player Placement:

  • All players, returning or new, in the 2010 (new 11U) age group;

  • Any player at any age NEW to Rapids Youth Soccer;

  • Goalkeepers of all ages

*Returning 2009-2002 Rapids players do NOT need to attend tryouts unless they are invited by a coach or director. 

Player Placement Details:

When: June 22-24 (June 25 will be reserved for any weather cancellations)

Where: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park – check in 45 minutes prior to your scheduled time at Eighteen76

Times:

Monday, June 22

  • 4pm-5:15pm – 11U (2010) Girls
  • 5:30pm-6:45pm – 11U (2010) Boys
  • 7pm-8:15pm – 15U-19U (2006-2002) Girls and 15U (2006) Boys

Tuesday, June 23

  • 4pm-5:15pm – 11U (2010) and 13U (2008) Boys and Girls
  • 5:30pm-6:45pm – 12U (2009) and 14U (2007) Boys and Girls
  • 7pm-8:15pm – 15U-19U (2006-2002) Girls and 15U (2006) Boys

Wednesday, June 24

  • 4pm-5:15pm – 11U (2010) and 13U (2008) Boys and Girls
  • 5:30pm-6:45pm – 12U (2009) and 14U (2007) Boys and Girls
  • 7pm-8:15pm – 15U-19U (2006-2002) Girls and 15U (2006) Boys

Player Placement Information: (2005-2002) Boys

 

Who Should Register an Intent to Play:

  • Any and all players who intend to play with CRYSC during the 20/21 season

Who Should Attend Player Placement:

  • Any player at any age NEW to Rapids Youth Soccer;

  • Goalkeepers of all ages

*Returning 2009-2002 Rapids players do NOT need to attend tryouts unless they are invited by a coach or director. 

Player Placement Details:

When: July 20-21 (July 22 will be reserved for any weather cancellations)

Where: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park – check in 45 minutes prior to your scheduled time at Eighteen76

Times:

Monday, July 20

  • 5pm-6:30pm – 16U (2005) Boys and 17U (2004) Boys
  • 6:45pm-8:15pm – 18U (2003) Boys and 19U (2002) Boys

Tuesday, July 21

  • 5pm-6:30pm – 16U (2005) Boys and 17U (2004) Boys
  • 6:45pm-8:15pm – 18U (2003) Boys and 19U (2002) Boys

2019/2020 Player Placement Presentation

CLICK HERE

Gold teams offer players the opportunity to continue playing soccer and training with the guidance of our professionally trained coaching staff.

Gold teams practice three times per week and participate in the Colorado Soccer Association Centennial League. It is common for Gold teams to play 2-3 in-state tournaments and/or college showcase events per year depending on the age-group.  Although Gold players will often participate in off-season Rapids camps, there is no expectation for teams to train in the off-season.

11U-12U Player Pools

Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-30 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9 play in the CSA Advanced League.

Gold Teams

$1250/$910 11U-14U / 15U-19U
  • Add’l tournament fees of $75-$190

  • Aug – Nov | Mar – June

  • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

  • 2-3 Local Tournaments

  • Some In-State Travel for Leagues

  • Compete in Centennial League

  • Optional Off-Season Training

Blue teams offer players the opportunity to continue playing soccer and training with the guidance of our professionally trained coaching staff.

Blue teams practice twice per week and participate in the Colorado Soccer Association Centennial League.  It is common for Blue teams to play 2-3 in-state tournaments and/or college showcase events per year depending on the age-group.  Although Blue players will often participate in off-season Rapids camps, there is no expectation for teams to train in the off-season.

11U-12U Player Pools

Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-30 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9 play in the CSA Advanced League.

Blue Teams

$1250/$910 11U-14U | 15U-19U
  • Add’l tournament fees of $75-$190

  • Aug – Nov | Mar – June

    • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

    • 2-3 Local Tournaments

    • Some In-State Travel for Leagues

    • Compete in Centennial League

    • Optional Off-Season Training

    White teams are competitive teams that typically compete in mid-level CSA competitive leagues.

    Similar to our top teams, these teams practice three days per week during the season, in addition to weekend games and demand substantial time commitments from players. They typically play in 2-3 in-state tournaments and/or local college showcases per year depending on the age-group.  With the combined two seasons and off-season training during the winter, teams in this division play for 9 months each year.

    11U-12U Player Pools

    Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-30 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9 play in the CSA Advanced League.

    White Teams

    $1,575/$1,185 11U-14U | 15U-19U
    • Add’l tournament fees of $75-$190

    • Aug – Nov | Jan – June

    • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

    • 2-3 Local Tournaments a Year

    • Some In-State Travel for Leagues

    • Compete in Centennial League

    • Winter Training Included

    Burgundy teams represent the second-most competitive teams in a given age group, and therefore these players and parents are required to demonstrate a higher commitment to training.

    These teams are expected to train 10 months out of the year, three days per week during the season, in addition to weekend games.  It is typical for Burgundy teams to play in the high Centennial or Champions divisions within the Colorado Soccer Association.

    Burgundy teams will play in 2-4 tournaments and/or college showcases per year depending on the age-group.  Out-of-state travel should be expected for high school age groups during the season.  As such, elite level players must have a substantial commitment to the sport of soccer for training and games.

    11U-12U Player Pools

    Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-26 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9 play in the CSA Advanced League.

    Burgundy Teams

    $2,100/$1,400 11U-14U | 15U-19U
    • Add’l tournament fees of $170-$315

    • Aug – Nov | Jan – June

    • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

    • 3-4 Local & Out of State Tournaments a Year

    • In- and Out-of-State Travel for Leagues and Tournaments

    • Compete in high Centennial or Champions divisions

    • Winter Training Included

    Select teams represent the most competitive teams in a given age group, and therefore these players and parents are required to demonstrate a higher commitment to training.

    These teams are expected to train 10 months out of the year, three days per week during the season, in addition to weekend games.  It is typical for Select teams to play in the highest leagues within the Colorado Soccer Association.

    Select teams will play in 2-4 tournaments and/or college showcases per year depending on the age-group.  Out-of-state travel should be expected for all Select teams.  As such, elite level players must have a substantial commitment to the sport of soccer for training and games.

    11U and 12U Player Pools

    Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-24 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9  play in the CSA Advanced League.

    Select Teams

    $2,100/$1,400 11U-14U | 15U-19U
    • Add’l tournament fees of $215-$315

    • Aug – Nov | Jan – June

    • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

    • 3-4 Local & Out of State Tournaments a Year

    • In- and Out-of-State Travel for Leagues and Tournaments

    • Compete in high Centennial or Champions League

    • Winter Training Included

    Gold

    Gold teams offer players the opportunity to continue playing soccer and training with the guidance of our professionally trained coaching staff.

    Gold teams practice three times per week and participate in the Colorado Soccer Association Centennial League. It is common for Gold teams to play 2-3 in-state tournaments and/or college showcase events per year depending on the age-group.  Although Gold players will often participate in off-season Rapids camps, there is no expectation for teams to train in the off-season.

    11U-12U Player Pools

    Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-30 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9 play in the CSA Advanced League.

    Gold Teams

    $1250/$910 11U-14U / 15U-19U
    • Add’l tournament fees of $75-$190

    • Aug – Nov | Mar – June

    • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

    • 2-3 Local Tournaments

    • Some In-State Travel for Leagues

    • Compete in Centennial League

    • Optional Off-Season Training

    Blue

    Blue teams offer players the opportunity to continue playing soccer and training with the guidance of our professionally trained coaching staff.

    Blue teams practice twice per week and participate in the Colorado Soccer Association Centennial League.  It is common for Blue teams to play 2-3 in-state tournaments and/or college showcase events per year depending on the age-group.  Although Blue players will often participate in off-season Rapids camps, there is no expectation for teams to train in the off-season.

    11U-12U Player Pools

    Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-30 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9 play in the CSA Advanced League.

    Blue Teams

    $1250/$910 11U-14U | 15U-19U
    • Add’l tournament fees of $75-$190

    • Aug – Nov | Mar – June

      • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

      • 2-3 Local Tournaments

      • Some In-State Travel for Leagues

      • Compete in Centennial League

      • Optional Off-Season Training

      White

      White teams are competitive teams that typically compete in mid-level CSA competitive leagues.

      Similar to our top teams, these teams practice three days per week during the season, in addition to weekend games and demand substantial time commitments from players. They typically play in 2-3 in-state tournaments and/or local college showcases per year depending on the age-group.  With the combined two seasons and off-season training during the winter, teams in this division play for 9 months each year.

      11U-12U Player Pools

      Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-30 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9 play in the CSA Advanced League.

      White Teams

      $1,575/$1,185 11U-14U | 15U-19U
      • Add’l tournament fees of $75-$190

      • Aug – Nov | Jan – June

      • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

      • 2-3 Local Tournaments a Year

      • Some In-State Travel for Leagues

      • Compete in Centennial League

      • Winter Training Included

      Burgundy

      Burgundy teams represent the second-most competitive teams in a given age group, and therefore these players and parents are required to demonstrate a higher commitment to training.

      These teams are expected to train 10 months out of the year, three days per week during the season, in addition to weekend games.  It is typical for Burgundy teams to play in the high Centennial or Champions divisions within the Colorado Soccer Association.

      Burgundy teams will play in 2-4 tournaments and/or college showcases per year depending on the age-group.  Out-of-state travel should be expected for high school age groups during the season.  As such, elite level players must have a substantial commitment to the sport of soccer for training and games.

      11U-12U Player Pools

      Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-26 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9 play in the CSA Advanced League.

      Burgundy Teams

      $2,100/$1,400 11U-14U | 15U-19U
      • Add’l tournament fees of $170-$315

      • Aug – Nov | Jan – June

      • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

      • 3-4 Local & Out of State Tournaments a Year

      • In- and Out-of-State Travel for Leagues and Tournaments

      • Compete in high Centennial or Champions divisions

      • Winter Training Included

      Select

      Select teams represent the most competitive teams in a given age group, and therefore these players and parents are required to demonstrate a higher commitment to training.

      These teams are expected to train 10 months out of the year, three days per week during the season, in addition to weekend games.  It is typical for Select teams to play in the highest leagues within the Colorado Soccer Association.

      Select teams will play in 2-4 tournaments and/or college showcases per year depending on the age-group.  Out-of-state travel should be expected for all Select teams.  As such, elite level players must have a substantial commitment to the sport of soccer for training and games.

      11U and 12U Player Pools

      Each team will be comprised of a pool of 22-24 players.  Two game day rosters will be created from each pool for 9v9  play in the CSA Advanced League.

      Select Teams

      $2,100/$1,400 11U-14U | 15U-19U
      • Add’l tournament fees of $215-$315

      • Aug – Nov | Jan – June

      • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

      • 3-4 Local & Out of State Tournaments a Year

      • In- and Out-of-State Travel for Leagues and Tournaments

      • Compete in high Centennial or Champions League

      • Winter Training Included

      Rapids Youth Soccer =

      REGISTER NOW
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      Uniforms

      Rapids Youth Soccer partners with Soccer.com for all uniform needs. Competitive players will receive an email from Soccer.com with a link to order the uniform. If you need the central competitive uniform email please contact Jasmine at jasmine.basile@rapidsyouthsoccer.org 

      It is important to note that uniforms are NOT included in registration costs.

      The Rapids Youth Soccer kit includes two match jerseys, two match shorts, two pairs of socks,  training t-shirt, training shorts, training socks, training jacket, training pants and a backpack.

      *Updated uniform picture coming soon.

      How Do I Place the Order for My Kit?

      You will receive an email from Soccer.com with a link to order the uniform.

      You can also access the page by following the steps below:

      1. Go to Soccer.com and click on “Find Your Team Store” at the top right.
      2. Once there, search for Colorado Rapids Youth and click on the store. 
      3. On the top of the store the player/parent can either search for their team name on the drop down list, or search for their player name on the right in the “search by player” section.
      4. Once you find the player’s name, you can place your order

      When is the Order Deadline for Competitive Kits?

      The order deadline for competitive kits is July 15, 2019. Kits must be ordered and paid for by the deadline to ensure delivery for the start of the season.

      Do You Have a Competitive Kit Sizing Chart?

      You will find sizing charts and photos on each item at Soccer.com.

      How Do I Receive My Kit?

      All uniforms will be shipped to your home.

      How Do I Order a Replacement Item

      You may purchase replacement items online through Soccer.com. You can use the email link or follow the steps below.

      1. Go to Soccer.com and click on “Find Your Team Store” at the top right.
      2. Once there, search for Colorado Rapids Youth and click on the store. 
      3. On the top of the store the player/parent can either search for their team name on the drop down list, or search for their player name on the right in the “search by player” section.
      4. Once you find the player’s name, you can place your order.

      What Forms of Payment are Accepted

      Soccer.com accepts all major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.

      Registration Deadline is Coming

      REGISTER NOW

      Community Cup

      The Community Cup is a free in-house festival tournament that focuses on a fun-filled, educational day of soccer to provide 11U-12U Select, Burgundy, White, Blue and Gold participants an opportunity to mix-up teams and play with new players. Additionally, this tournament gives the Rapids Youth staff an opportunity to evaluate players in a fun, less-stressed environment than tryouts.

      The Annual Community Cup takes place in the Fall @ The Eddy. The Annual Community Cup takes place in the Fall @ The Eddy. The 2019 Community Cup will take place on November 3rd for girls and November 10th for boys.

      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.

      Team Manager Responsibilities

      • Working with the coach to communicate with the team about sessions and games.
      • Setting up a snack rotation for the season.
      • Setting up pictures with the club’s photographer on picture day.
      • Setting up an end-of-season party for the team.

      Club Support for Team Managers

      • One-on-one support if you have any questions or concerns.
      • Educational opportunities at meetings and in person about next steps for the team.
      • An administrative staff to provide any support you need.

      The Culture Keeper is an important piece to the development of a community-based organization. Culture Keepers do just as the title explains, they help build a culture within the team, providing opportunities for the team and families to have fun and enjoy their time with Rapids Youth Soccer more fully.

      The Culture Keeper get the fun task of setting up team events at tournaments, such as eating out together, setting up events while in town, such as laser tag. The Culture Keeper organizes opportunities for the team’s to better develop friendships with each other to help build long-lasting friendships outside of soccer.

      Culture Keeper Expectations

      • Stay involved with the team and informed about upcoming soccer events.
      • Set up events outside of soccer for the team to build relationships with each other.
      • Plan ahead for all upcoming events to build team and family camaraderie through in-town and out-of-town events.

      Culture Keeper Support

      • Rapids Youth staff provide suggests for Culture Keeper ideas.
      • Rapids Youth Soccer provides a meeting with all Culture Keepers to talk through logistics of the year.
      • Rapids Youth Soccer will have a manual coming out soon outlining ideas for the Culture Keeper to use.
      Team Manager

      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.

      Team Manager Responsibilities

      • Working with the coach to communicate with the team about sessions and games.
      • Setting up a snack rotation for the season.
      • Setting up pictures with the club’s photographer on picture day.
      • Setting up an end-of-season party for the team.

      Club Support for Team Managers

      • One-on-one support if you have any questions or concerns.
      • Educational opportunities at meetings and in person about next steps for the team.
      • An administrative staff to provide any support you need.
      Culture Keeper

      The Culture Keeper is an important piece to the development of a community-based organization. Culture Keepers do just as the title explains, they help build a culture within the team, providing opportunities for the team and families to have fun and enjoy their time with Rapids Youth Soccer more fully.

      The Culture Keeper get the fun task of setting up team events at tournaments, such as eating out together, setting up events while in town, such as laser tag. The Culture Keeper organizes opportunities for the team’s to better develop friendships with each other to help build long-lasting friendships outside of soccer.

      Culture Keeper Expectations

      • Stay involved with the team and informed about upcoming soccer events.
      • Set up events outside of soccer for the team to build relationships with each other.
      • Plan ahead for all upcoming events to build team and family camaraderie through in-town and out-of-town events.

      Culture Keeper Support

      • Rapids Youth staff provide suggests for Culture Keeper ideas.
      • Rapids Youth Soccer provides a meeting with all Culture Keepers to talk through logistics of the year.
      • Rapids Youth Soccer will have a manual coming out soon outlining ideas for the Culture Keeper to use.

      Understanding Your Child’s Year-Long Evaluation

      The Competitive program provides an opportunity for players who want to learn and develop in an environment that challenges and educates them in the game of soccer. Rapids Youth Soccer is committed to supporting and developing those players that are committed to developing themselves.

      Rapids Youth Soccer is committed to a year-long evaluation process of our homegrown players. This year-long evaluation and feedback process provides our players with a complete overview of their progress during their time with Rapids Youth Soccer.

      Below is an overview of exactly what is done during the year to provide our players with the most comprehensive evaluation and feedback process.

      Player Centered Success Model

      The Player Centered Success model puts the best interests of the player first. This is done by understanding each and every players definition of success and helping them achieve it. Every player at every level of their soccer career has different levels of success.

      Rapids Youth

      Provides operations and oversight for kids to have a great soccer experience.

      Rapids Pro

      Provides curriculum and educational resources for players.

      Parents

      Work in conjunction with Rapids Youth to support kids’ desires.

      Coaches

      Educate, inspire, and help all children excel at the level they desire.

      Referees

      Keep the game safe and fun for kids at all levels.

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      Goalkeeper Training

      Rapids goalkeeper staff work with players to enhance all levels of play during this eight-week program available to Select players free of charge and all other players for a small charge.

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      Summer Camps

      Summer camps are a great way to keep players busy and active during the summer months. Find out more what Rapids Youth Soccer offers for beginner to advanced players.

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      Winter Training

      Winter can be a great time to keep your soccer skills sharp. Check out all the programs Rapids Youth Soccer offers to our players to help them stay active over the long winter months.

      How Often Do Players Need to Change Uniforms

      Rapids Youth Soccer is on a two-year cycle for uniform with Adidas. Players should change uniforms approximately every two years, which usually falls in line growth of players.

      What do my registration fees go toward?

      Your registration covers coaching fees, tournament fees, and administrative fees for the season. You are responsible for tournament travel.

      How far do I have to travel for games?

      During the regular CSA season, teams generally compete against other clubs across the Front Range. Some teams may travel as far north as Fort Collins, as far south as Pueblo or as far west as Grand Junction. Not all ages and levels will compete against clubs in these areas and these trips generally happen once per season.

      Tournament travel varies based on the age and competitive level of the team. Select and Burgundy teams travel out of state for at least one and up to four tournaments and/or college showcases. White and Blue teams only participate in tournaments that take place in Colorado.

      How often do teams train?

      All teams train three times per week.

      Do we train through the winter period?

      Select, Burgundy, and White teams train twice per week outside in January and February.  Blue level players have the option of attending these training sessions.

      Are the coaches qualified?

      All competitive team coaches are USSF Licensed or are in the process of completing USSF certification. All competitive coaches participate in intensive in-house coach education throughout the season.