Serving players from: Denver • Aurora • Commerce City • Glendale • Green Valley • Lakewood • Northfield • Stapleton
The 5U-8U Recreational League provides a fun, safe, and developmentally appropriate soccer environment for 5- 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 Game Format – 5U teams will play 3v3 in our new 4 goal game format. Players will defend and attack two goals. This will increase the the opportunity for our young players to score goals and create a fun game day environment. Developmentally the four goals will increase decision making and the amount of player actions that our young players get to experience.
| Small-Sided Game Model | Goalkeeper | Team Size | Ball Size | Practices a Week | Games in a Season | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5U (2020 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 6-7 players | 3 | 1 | 7-8 |
| 6U (2019 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 6-7 players | 3 | 1 | 7-8 |
| 7U (2018 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 6-7 players | 3 | 1-2 | 7-8 |
| 8U (2017 birth years) | 5v5 | Yes | 7-10 players | 3 | 1-2 | 7-8 |
The Whole-Part-Whole (WPW) philosophy is a 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 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 will put players in realistic situations, that should always includes decision-making elements.
When coaching soccer, this can be used in a variety of ways to break down a technique, skill, or tactic. Most commonly the players are taken from a practice with high game context to a low one, before returning back 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, then 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
**Please note these are the anticipated game days. If games are cancelled or delayed due to weather they will be moved to either the end of October or beginning of November. Reschedules may take place on Sundays as needed.
Game Day 1: September 7th
Game Day 2: September 14th
Game Day 3: September 21st
Game Day 4: September 28th
Game Day 5: October 5th
Game Day 6: October 12th
Game Day 7: October 19th
Game Day 8: October 26th
Potential Makeup Dates: October 20th, 27th, November 3rd
**Please note these are the anticipated game days. There is one doubleheader weekend currently planned to avoid playing during DPS spring break.
Game Day 1: March 29th
Game Day 2: April 5th
Game Day 3: April 12th
Game Day 4: April 13th
Game Day 5: April 19th
Game Day 6: April 26th
Game Day 7: May 3th
Game Day 8: May 10th
Potential Makeup Dates: April 27th, May 4th, May 11th
Rock Cup Tournament: May 16th-18th (optional for an additional fee)
Scholarship opportunities are available for all qualifying Rapids players in both our Recreational and Competitive league programs. Check out our Scholarships page to learn more about the process and to apply for financial aid. There, you can view specific recreational scholarship information and deadlines under the ‘Recreational Application Process’ tab.
It is critical to apply by the deadlines listed on the scholarship page for players to be fully considered for a financial aid package.
The 5U-8U Recreational League provides a fun, safe, and developmentally appropriate soccer environment for 5- 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 Game Format – 5U teams will play 3v3 in our new 4 goal game format. Players will defend and attack two goals. This will increase the the opportunity for our young players to score goals and create a fun game day environment. Developmentally the four goals will increase decision making and the amount of player actions that our young players get to experience.
| Small-Sided Game Model | Goalkeeper | Team Size | Ball Size | Practices a Week | Games in a Season | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5U (2020 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 6-7 players | 3 | 1 | 7-8 |
| 6U (2019 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 6-7 players | 3 | 1 | 7-8 |
| 7U (2018 birth years) | 3v3 | No | 6-7 players | 3 | 1-2 | 7-8 |
| 8U (2017 birth years) | 5v5 | Yes | 7-10 players | 3 | 1-2 | 7-8 |
The Whole-Part-Whole (WPW) philosophy is a 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 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 will put players in realistic situations, that should always includes decision-making elements.
When coaching soccer, this can be used in a variety of ways to break down a technique, skill, or tactic. Most commonly the players are taken from a practice with high game context to a low one, before returning back 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, then 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
**Please note these are the anticipated game days. If games are cancelled or delayed due to weather they will be moved to either the end of October or beginning of November. Reschedules may take place on Sundays as needed.
Game Day 1: September 7th
Game Day 2: September 14th
Game Day 3: September 21st
Game Day 4: September 28th
Game Day 5: October 5th
Game Day 6: October 12th
Game Day 7: October 19th
Game Day 8: October 26th
Potential Makeup Dates: October 20th, 27th, November 3rd
**Please note these are the anticipated game days. There is one doubleheader weekend currently planned to avoid playing during DPS spring break.
Game Day 1: March 29th
Game Day 2: April 5th
Game Day 3: April 12th
Game Day 4: April 13th
Game Day 5: April 19th
Game Day 6: April 26th
Game Day 7: May 3th
Game Day 8: May 10th
Potential Makeup Dates: April 27th, May 4th, May 11th
Rock Cup Tournament: May 16th-18th (optional for an additional fee)
Scholarship opportunities are available for all qualifying Rapids players in both our Recreational and Competitive league programs. Check out our Scholarships page to learn more about the process and to apply for financial aid. There, you can view specific recreational scholarship information and deadlines under the ‘Recreational Application Process’ tab.
It is critical to apply by the deadlines listed on the scholarship page for players to be fully considered for a financial aid package.
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.
Soccer has two seasons, one in the fall and one in the spring. The beginning of the soccer year is in the fall with the remainder of the year taking place in the spring. Most recreational registrations are season-by-season, with some recreational and competitive leagues a full-year registration. During the summer and winter off-season we offer a variety of camps for players to continue to improve upon their skills.
Yes, uniforms are required for players to play. Members can click here to be brought to the CRYSC uniforms page. This page details the ordering process for each program with specific program links to order uniforms.
Definitely! We will do our best to place your child according to your request. However, we cannot guarantee special placement. The best way to ensure your child plays on the team or with the teammate you want is to register early.
