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

Matt Gordon
11U-14U Boys Director of Coaching
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 217

Jair Vasquez
15U-19U Boys Director of Coaching
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 205

Ash Hopkins
Director of Player and Coach Development
(Interim) 11U-14U Girls Director of Coaching
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 202

Stephen Latta
15U-19U Girls Director of Coaching
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 244

Ashley Yandt
Competitive Administrator
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 151

Scholarships

Scholarship opportunities are available for all qualifying Rapids players in both our Rec and Competitive programs. To learn more about the process and to apply for financial aid click here to be brought to our scholarship page. There you can view specific competitive scholarship information under the ‘Competitive & Elite Application Process’ tab.

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

Contact

Matt Gordon
11U-14U Boys Director of Coaching
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 217

Jair Vasquez
15U-19U Boys Director of Coaching
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 205

Ash Hopkins
Director of Player and Coach Development
(Interim) 11U-14U Girls Director of Coaching
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 202

Stephen Latta
15U-19U Girls Director of Coaching
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 244

Ashley Yandt
Competitive Administrator
[email protected]
303.399.5858 ext. 151

Scholarships

Scholarships

Scholarship opportunities are available for all qualifying Rapids players in both our Rec and Competitive programs. To learn more about the process and to apply for financial aid click here to be brought to our scholarship page. There you can view specific competitive scholarship information under the ‘Competitive & Elite Application Process’ tab.

2021/2022 Tryout Information

The 2011 to 2003 girls and 2011 to 2007 boys tryouts will be taking place the week of June 1-3 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The deadline to register for these tryouts is Friday, May 28.

Who: 11U-14U (2011-2008) Boys and Girls, 15U (2007) Boys, 15U-19U (2007-2003) Girls

When: June 1-3, 2021 (June 4 will be reserved as a make up day for weather)

Location: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park – 6000 Victory Way, Commerce City, CO 80022
*Check in is required 45 minutes before your scheduled time.

Tuesday 6/1
5-6:15pm – 11U (2011) Boys
6:15-7:30pm – 11U (2011) Girls
7:30-9pm – 15U-19U Girls (2007-2003), 15U (2007) Boys

Wednesday 6/2
5-6:15pm – 11U and 13U (2011 and 2009) Boys and Girls
6:15-7:30pm – 12U and 14U (2010 and 2008) Boys and Girls
7:30-9pm – 15U-19U Girls (2007-2003), 15U (2007) Boys

Thursday 6/3
5-6:15pm – 11U and 13U (2011 and 2009) Boys and Girls
6:15-7:30pm – 12U and 14U (2010 and 2008) Boys and Girls
7:30-9pm – 15U-19U Girls (2007-2003), 15U (2007) Boys

*GK’s will follow the same schedule.
**11U (2011) GIRLS, please note that your time changes from 6/1 to 6/2.

Who Needs to Attend Tryouts:

  • 2011 Birthdates (Players Moving into 11U): All players, both internal Rapids Youth players and external players from outside the Club who were born in 2011 must register their Intent to Play and attend the Tryout event.
  • New Players from Outside the Rapids Youth Soccer System: All players wishing to join the Rapids Youth Soccer community must register their Intent to Play and attend the Tryout event.
  • Goalkeepers: All players wishing to participate in the goalkeeper position need to attend the designated Tryout times.

Reminder – Returning FIELD players 2010-2003 boys and girls do NOT have to attend tryouts and can expect their offer emails by Friday, June 4. GK’s in all age groups are expected to attend tryouts and can also expect their offer emails by Friday, June 4.

HS Boys 2021/2022 Tryout Information

The 2006-2003 boys tryouts will be taking place the week of July 13-15 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The deadline to register for these tryouts is Monday, July 12.

Who: 16U-19U (2006-2003) Boys

When: July 13-15, 2021

Location: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park – 6000 Victory Way, Commerce City, CO 80022
*Check in is required 45 minutes before your scheduled time.

Tuesday 7/13
5-6:30pm – 16U/17U
6:30-8pm – 18U/19U

Wednesday 7/14
5-6:30pm – 16U/17U
6:30-8pm – 18U/19U

Thursday 7/15
5-6:30pm – 16U/17U
6:30-8pm – 18U/19U

*GK’s will follow the same schedule.

Who Needs to Attend Tryouts:

  • New Players from Outside the Rapids Youth Soccer System: All players wishing to join the Rapids Youth Soccer community must register their Intent to Play and attend the Tryout event.
  • Goalkeepers: All players wishing to participate in the goalkeeper position need to attend the designated Tryout times.

Reminder – Returning FIELD players 2010-2003 boys and girls do NOT have to attend tryouts and can expect their offer emails by Friday, July 16. GK’s in all age groups are expected to attend tryouts and can also expect their offer emails by July 16.

2021/2022 Intent to Play / Tryout Registration

REGISTER NOW

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

$1350/$910 11U-14U/15U-19U

  • Add’l tournament fees of $125-$200

  • 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

$1680/$1180 11U-14U/15U-19U

  • Add’l tournament fees of $125-$200

  • 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

  • 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

$2225/$1360 11U-14U/15U-19U

  • Add’l tournament fees of $100-$200

  • 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 Centennial or Champions League

  • 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

$2225/$1360 11U-14U/15U-19U

  • Add’l tournament fees of $100-$200

  • Aug – Nov | Jan – June

  • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

  • 3-4 Local & Put of State Tournaments

  • In & Out of State Travel for Leagues and Tournaments

  • Compete in Centennial or Champions League

  • Winter Training Included

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

$1350/$910 11U-14U/15U-19U

  • Add’l tournament fees of $125-$200

  • 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

$1680/$1180 11U-14U/15U-19U

  • Add’l tournament fees of $125-$200

  • 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

  • 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

$2225/$1360 11U-14U/15U-19U

  • Add’l tournament fees of $100-$200

  • 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 Centennial or Champions League

  • 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

$2225/$1360 11U-14U/15U-19U

  • Add’l tournament fees of $100-$200

  • Aug – Nov | Jan – June

  • Train 3x a Week In Denver Metro

  • 3-4 Local & Put of State Tournaments

  • In & Out of State Travel for Leagues and Tournaments

  • Compete in Centennial or Champions League

  • Winter Training Included

Rapids Youth Soccer =

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 at the beginning of each season. 

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 shirt, training shorts, training socks, training jacket, training pants and a backpack.

For instructions on how to order uniforms, please visit rapidsyouthsoccer.org/uniforms.

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 traditionally about a month or two prior to the season starting. Each season you will receive the updated deadline. 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.

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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.

Are Scholarships Offered For Competitive Players?

Scholarship opportunities are available for all qualifying Rapids players in both our Rec and Competitive programs. To learn more about the process and to apply for financial aid click here to be brought to our scholarship page. There you can view specific competitive scholarship information under the ‘Competitive & Elite Application Process’ tab.