CRYSC 9U-10U programming continues to build upon the technical foundation started in the Soccer Start and 6U-8U programs and builds on the Colorado Rapids curriculum. Program offerings cover the spectrum of player pathways, from beginner to pre-competitive leagues that offer the highest level of competition in the State.

Game format is played in line with US Soccer Directives for small-sided games, 7v7 with goalkeepers.

9U-10 Rising Rapids
Player AttributesChild enjoys soccer, especially for the fun and social atmosphere but needs motivating to practice at home.
SeasonTwo 9-10 week seasons
CoachingParent volunteer coach
League PlaySaturday games across the northern metro area
Playing Format7v7
Team Size9-12 players
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 can explore content, develop an understanding for the clubs coaching ‘language’ and create their own sessions. As the club continues to update and add new drills and practices, RISE will open up new educational opportunities for coaches, offer a more rewarding CRYSC experience for members, and ultimately enhance the level and consistency of soccer being played across the Club.

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

  • Registration Opens – May 1
  • Registration Deadline (or when teams are full) – August 1
  • Registration Late Fee – August 1
  • Training Starts – Last Week of August
  • First Game Kicks Off – Saturday After Labor Day

 

In House Fall Schedule:

**Please note these are the anticipated game days. If games are cancelled or delayed due to weather will be moved to either the end of October or beginning of November. Reschedules may take place on Sundays as needed. 

September 2024 

Game Day 1: September 7th

Game Day 2: September 14th

Game Day 3: September 21st

Game Day 4: September 28th

October 2024

Game Day 5: October 5th

Game Day 6: October 12th

Game Day 7: October 19th

Game Day 8: October 26th

  • Registration Opens – November 1
  • Registration Deadline (or when teams are full) – March 1
  • Registration Late Fee – February 15
  • Training Starts – Second to Last Week of March
  • First Game Kicks Off – March 29

Spring Schedule:

**Please note these are the anticipated game days. There is one doubleheader weekend currently planned to avoid playing during DPS spring break.

Clint ShadeSoccer Start - Recreational Director - North[email protected]719.357.8881
Kathryn BalogunAssistant Rec and Camps Director - North[email protected]720-213-8652
Ashley  HeinekampRecreational Program Administrator[email protected]303-578-6799

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.

Overview

CRYSC 9U-10U programming continues to build upon the technical foundation started in the Soccer Start and 6U-8U programs and builds on the Colorado Rapids curriculum. Program offerings cover the spectrum of player pathways, from beginner to pre-competitive leagues that offer the highest level of competition in the State.

Game format is played in line with US Soccer Directives for small-sided games, 7v7 with goalkeepers.

9U-10 Rising Rapids
Player AttributesChild enjoys soccer, especially for the fun and social atmosphere but needs motivating to practice at home.
SeasonTwo 9-10 week seasons
CoachingParent volunteer coach
League PlaySaturday games across the northern metro area
Playing Format7v7
Team Size9-12 players
Curriculum
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 can explore content, develop an understanding for the clubs coaching ‘language’ and create their own sessions. As the club continues to update and add new drills and practices, RISE will open up new educational opportunities for coaches, offer a more rewarding CRYSC experience for members, and ultimately enhance the level and consistency of soccer being played across the Club.

Philosophy

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

Fall Dates
  • Registration Opens – May 1
  • Registration Deadline (or when teams are full) – August 1
  • Registration Late Fee – August 1
  • Training Starts – Last Week of August
  • First Game Kicks Off – Saturday After Labor Day

 

In House Fall Schedule:

**Please note these are the anticipated game days. If games are cancelled or delayed due to weather will be moved to either the end of October or beginning of November. Reschedules may take place on Sundays as needed. 

September 2024 

Game Day 1: September 7th

Game Day 2: September 14th

Game Day 3: September 21st

Game Day 4: September 28th

October 2024

Game Day 5: October 5th

Game Day 6: October 12th

Game Day 7: October 19th

Game Day 8: October 26th

Spring Dates
  • Registration Opens – November 1
  • Registration Deadline (or when teams are full) – March 1
  • Registration Late Fee – February 15
  • Training Starts – Second to Last Week of March
  • First Game Kicks Off – March 29

Spring Schedule:

**Please note these are the anticipated game days. There is one doubleheader weekend currently planned to avoid playing during DPS spring break.

Contacts
Clint ShadeSoccer Start - Recreational Director - North[email protected]719.357.8881
Kathryn BalogunAssistant Rec and Camps Director - North[email protected]720-213-8652
Ashley  HeinekampRecreational Program Administrator[email protected]303-578-6799
Scholarships

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.

North 9U-10U Rec

Age Groups: 9U, 10U
Levels: Beginner, Intermediate
Seasons: Spring, Fall, Winter
$230Per Season
REGISTER NOW
  • 8-9 Weeks in Season
  • Practice Twice/Week
  • Convenient Local Practices/Games
  • Volunteer Parent Coach
  • Recreational Uniform Kit Separate
  • Team Formed by Registration
Fall Rec Registration Opens In…
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Package

 Uniforms

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.

CRYSC UNIFORMS PAGE

9U – 10U Recreational

The 9U and 10U Recreational League builds on the philosophy of the 6U-8U program by providing an environment where players find both success and challenges. Teams play small-sided games with goalkeepers (7v7) with emphasis on the development of the individual player in a fun and rewarding environment. Teams are placed in divisions with other teams of like ability based on coach surveys and previous season performance.

Teams generally consist of 10-12 players. These teams are coached by parent-volunteers who follow a curriculum provided by the Recreational Director to run training sessions. Teams practice twice per week (75 minutes each) and play games on Saturdays. Teams play 7-8 games each season.

Each team gets 7-8 games each season during the 8-9 week season. Some weekends may consist of double-header games with a small break in-between games. This will eliminate the need for makeup games on weeknights and Sundays, maximizing the soccer experience and family time.

Fall season runs from September through the first week of November.

Spring season from March through May.

9U – 10U Select

Participants in the Select Program represent an elite standard within each age group and are expected to demonstrate a higher commitment to training for the purpose of development. Each age group is comprised of tiered teams, all led by licensed staff coaches. Participation in the Select Program is by invitation only. Rapids staff select players based upon staff observations throughout the year during training, games, kick-arounds, Rapids Development Centers, Rec parent coach evaluations and any tournaments with final approval from the Director of the Select Program.

MORE INFO ABOUT 9U-10U SELECT
9U/10U Recreational

9U – 10U Recreational

The 9U and 10U Recreational League builds on the philosophy of the 6U-8U program by providing an environment where players find both success and challenges. Teams play small-sided games with goalkeepers (7v7) with emphasis on the development of the individual player in a fun and rewarding environment. Teams are placed in divisions with other teams of like ability based on coach surveys and previous season performance.

Teams generally consist of 10-12 players. These teams are coached by parent-volunteers who follow a curriculum provided by the Recreational Director to run training sessions. Teams practice twice per week (75 minutes each) and play games on Saturdays. Teams play 7-8 games each season.

Each team gets 7-8 games each season during the 8-9 week season. Some weekends may consist of double-header games with a small break in-between games. This will eliminate the need for makeup games on weeknights and Sundays, maximizing the soccer experience and family time.

Fall season runs from September through the first week of November.

Spring season from March through May.

9U/10U Select

9U – 10U Select

Participants in the Select Program represent an elite standard within each age group and are expected to demonstrate a higher commitment to training for the purpose of development. Each age group is comprised of tiered teams, all led by licensed staff coaches. Participation in the Select Program is by invitation only. Rapids staff select players based upon staff observations throughout the year during training, games, kick-arounds, Rapids Development Centers, Rec parent coach evaluations and any tournaments with final approval from the Director of the Select Program.

MORE INFO ABOUT 9U-10U SELECT

Rapids Youth Soccer=

REGISTER NOW

Every team is required to provide a volunteer coach to coach the team throughout the season. The volunteer coach is almost always a parent of a player on the team.

The coach will be provided with a curriculum from our staff for every session, and will be provided with other training opportunities throughout the season. Our staff will help support every coach throughout the season, so even if coaches have never played soccer before, we can help you have a successful season. We recommend that each team has a coach and an assistant coach at this age to help players stay engaged throughout every session.

Coach Expectations

  • Lead every practice session of find a substitute if they cannot be present.
  • Coach every game of find a substitute if they cannot be at the game.
  • Find a practice location and time that works for them and their team.
  • Communicate clearly with the team throughout the season.

Coach Education Opportunities

  • Rapids Youth provides coaching sessions for all coaches throughout the season.
  • A website with additional coaches resources available to all coaches.
  • One-on-one support to talk through drills and game setup.
  • Pre-season meetings and coaching educational meetings.

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 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.
Coach

Every team is required to provide a volunteer coach to coach the team throughout the season. The volunteer coach is almost always a parent of a player on the team.

The coach will be provided with a curriculum from our staff for every session, and will be provided with other training opportunities throughout the season. Our staff will help support every coach throughout the season, so even if coaches have never played soccer before, we can help you have a successful season. We recommend that each team has a coach and an assistant coach at this age to help players stay engaged throughout every session.

Coach Expectations

  • Lead every practice session of find a substitute if they cannot be present.
  • Coach every game of find a substitute if they cannot be at the game.
  • Find a practice location and time that works for them and their team.
  • Communicate clearly with the team throughout the season.

Coach Education Opportunities

  • Rapids Youth provides coaching sessions for all coaches throughout the season.
  • A website with additional coaches resources available to all coaches.
  • One-on-one support to talk through drills and game setup.
  • Pre-season meetings and coaching educational meetings.
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 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.

Understanding Your Time in the 9U-10U Leagues

The 9U-10U leagues provide opportunities for beginner to advanced players. As players prepare for their future soccer playing experience, It’s essential for parents and players to understand what is available to their child during their time in the 9U-10U programs, including any supplemental programs and what to expect as players move into the 11U league.

Volunteers

Parent-volunteer notes are collected throughout the season.

Staff

Staff-coach forms are submitted at the end of all staff-led programs.

Field Coordinators

Forms are submitted weekly to the program DOC.

Kick-Arounds

Kick-rounds are held during the spring.

Tournaments

Recreational teams often participate in tournaments where staff can observe them.

Tryouts

Tryouts are held in late May, early June every year.

Preparing for Tryouts

The entire player placement process from 10U to 11U takes place during a players 10U year. Tryouts is the final step in a the year-long evaluation process.

It truly takes a village to create a great soccer program and to provide proper placement for the appropriate development of every player. Below you will find all the ways a player is evaluated throughout their 10U year with Rapids Youth Soccer.

  • Parent-Volunteers | Parent-volunteer notes are collected throughout the season.
  • Staff-Coaches | Staff-coach forms are submitted at the end of all staff-led programs.
  • Kick-Arounds | Kick-rounds are held during the Spring Season.
  • Tournaments | Many recreational teams participate in tournaments where staff are able to observe them.
  • Tryouts | Tryouts are held in late May, early June every year and are the final piece to the Player Placement process.

Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer in Action

⭐️🏔️⚽️ #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

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⭐️🏔️⚽️ #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

Helpful Links: What’s Next For Your Player

Program FAQs

What's the Difference between the REC Program and the REC Select Program?

The Recreational program is a simpler model with only two trainings a week, minimal tournaments, off season training and overall commitment.

The Select program requires more commitment, has a paid, Rapids staff coach, multiple tournaments, a third training by the competitive director of coaching each week, goalie training once a week.

Where Can I Purchase a Uniform?

Uniforms can be purchased at soccer.com

Can I Request a Specific Coach or Team for My Player?

Yes you can.  We do not guarantee that we can meet all requests, but we will do our best to accommodate them.

How Long Do the Soccer Seasons Run?

The Fall season is from August-November and the Spring season runs from March-May.

How Do Players Get Chosen to Participate in The Select Program?

Participation in the Select Program is by invitation only.  Rapids staff will select players based upon staff observations throughout the year during training, games, kick-arounds, Premier Training, parent coach evaluations and Soccerfest with final approval from the Age-Group Directors of Coaching.