Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer

As the spring season winds down and we shift toward summer, now is the perfect time to reflect on what makes development at Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club special. While our coaches plan sessions and our players give their all on the field, the truth is: real development doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when we all lean in—coaches, players, parents, and directors—working together to support each child’s journey.

At CRYSC, we believe that shared responsibility is the foundation of meaningful youth development. When we all understand our role in the process, players are more confident, resilient, and motivated to learn—not just to win.

Every person in a player’s soccer life plays a role in shaping how they grow—not just as athletes, but as learners, teammates, and people.

Coaches

• Create game-realistic training environments based on fun, development, belonging, and safety
• Promote learning through guided discovery and high standards
• Model growth mindset, resilience, and care

Players

• Bring energy, curiosity, and effort to training
• Learn to take ownership of their development
• Reflect on mistakes, try again, and support their teammates

Parents & Guardians

• Reinforce the importance of effort over outcomes
• Ask questions that promote reflection (“What did you learn today?”)
• Trust the process—even when the results aren’t immediate

Directors & Club Leadership

• Set the standards for development and coach education
• Align programs with our Game Model and Key Qualities
• Create safe, supportive environments for everyone involved

Our shared purpose, “The Heart Behind the Crest,” is more than a slogan. It means we are united by a deeper mission: to help kids grow through soccer. Not just as players, but as confident, thoughtful, and resilient people. This doesn’t happen in one training session or one weekend. It happens over time, across thousands of moments—moments where coaches, parents, and teammates say: “We believe in you. Keep going.”

• At practice: Coaches prepare engaging sessions, parents get players there on time and encourage them to engage in the learning process, and players show up ready to learn.
• On the sideline: Parents cheer (but don’t steer) respectfully and focus on effort, coaches manage the game through learning moments, and players try their best regardless of the score.
• After the game: Parents ask reflective questions, coaches provide specific feedback, players process the experience, and set goals for the week ahead.
• In the summer: Directors offer workshops and resources, coaches plan for next season, players rest and recover, and families reconnect to what matters most.

While the official season may be winding down, CRYSC continues to offer engaging summer camps for players of all levels. These are opportunities for kids to stay active, build skills, make friends, and have fun in a positive, development-focused environment.

Check out our full list of CRYSC Summer Camps on our website. Whether your player is new to soccer or looking to sharpen skills for the next level, there’s a program for them!

If you’re a coach—or looking to grow as one—stay tuned for our upcoming Coaching Newsletter, where we’ll feature:

• Details on the Summer Coaching Workshops
• U.S. Soccer licensing course opportunities
• The Phase 2 launch of our online learning system
• Tools to help you reflect, grow, and recharge this summer

In the meantime, view our full list of summer courses here: CRYSC Summer Coaching Course Offerings

When we work together, we’re not just building better players. We’re building:

• Better problem-solvers
• Better teammates
• Better communicators
• Better humans

So as we head into summer, let’s keep leaning into this shared journey. Let’s support each other, learn from each other, and continue to raise the standard together.

Your voice, your support, and your presence matter. Whether you’re on the sidelines, at a coaching workshop, or helping your child lace up their cleats—you’re part of something bigger. Thank you for being part of our CRYSC community.

Let’s keep growing. Together.
– Zac Crawford, CRYSC Chief Technical Director

Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (CRYSC) serves approximately 10,000 players ages three through 19, beginner to elite, in year-round leagues, camps, and tournaments. As a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, CRYSC has been named a top 15 youth soccer club in the U.S. by Soccerwire and the top youth soccer club in Colorado by Colorado Parent Magazine. CRYSC’s mission is to provide an environment where young soccer players from diverse backgrounds are guided and inspired to reach their full potential, both on and off the field.

This June, Nico will be presented with a plaque and a gift card to acknowledge his achievements. We met with Nico to learn a bit more about him. Check out the full interview below!

What influence has soccer had in your life?

I have played and loved soccer since I was 3, and it is my favorite sport / activity among many that I do. Most of my best friendships have come from soccer. Soccer has helped me understand that in order to succeed you must put the team’s interests first. Doing many other activities in addition to soccer has helped me learn how to prioritize things and balance my time, and has also helped me to develop healthy living habits like making good eating and sleeping choices to help me perform at my best across all activities.

Why do you believe that you were nominated for this award?

I think I was nominated because of my actions on and off the field:

• On the field my willingness to work and always give my hardest effort no matter the conditions. I always try to be a good teammate and stay positive with everybody. I try to be a very unselfish player, find the right pass and do the right thing for the team rather than look for my personal glory.
• Off the field I think my hard work to accomplish unique things like recently earning my 1st degree black belt in taekwondo, and learning to speak 4 different languages, has helped show my discipline and perseverance.
• I think my coaches can see that I always try to have fun with my friends and just be a good person.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club?

I love playing with my teammates and spending time with them and my coaches. I really enjoy the ambience between us and I love our style of play. In trainings I like that we have a mix between high expectations and supportiveness amongst teammates and coaches. When it comes to games I really appreciate how our coaches let us play and learn from our mistakes.

What soccer accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am pretty proud of winning the Coach’s Award at a soccer camp I attended in France a couple of years ago. Nobody spoke English so I had to rely on my then-very-limited French to get by, and I was the youngest player (9 at the time) in a group where everyone else was 11 – 14. It was a lot of fun even though it was very challenging.

But receiving this UC Health Player of the Month award now tops my list!

What academic achievement are you most proud of?

I’m very proud that I’m pursuing fluency in my 4th language. I speak Italian at home with my mom and sister, English with my dad and friends, Spanish in my language immersion school, and I am advancing my French in my free time. Achieving this means a lot to me because I know when I’m older my language skills will open possibilities to me and who knows maybe one day I can play for a European team.

How do you think your teammates would describe you?

I think my teammates would describe me as a funny yet focused and kind-hearted person. I think they see me as a person who is composed in challenging situations and one who works very hard and puts the team’s interests first.

What is something that shows your exemplary character, commitment to sportsmanship, community involvement, etc..?

I try to always be kind around others. I don’t like when kids are mean to other kids and, when this happens, I stand up for others. An example of this happened a few weeks ago, at school. A kid wanted to play foursquare with us and a classmate came up to him, grabbed the ball he was holding and kicked it away. I felt super bad for the kid being bullied and told the bully that what he did was not very nice. After that I ran and got the kids’ ball and let him play with us.

What’s your favorite soccer player and team?

My favorite soccer team is Liverpool, and my favorite current player is Luis Diaz because he combines his skills with his work rate to make good things happen. The player I most want to play like, however, is Xavi (Hernandez), because I love how he always maintained possession and found the right pass.

What do you hope to pursue in the near future?

My dream is to one day play pro, but I also hope to get a scholarship to play in college and create my backup plan in case I don’t make it as a professional player. A very important steppingstone will be making MLS Next, so that’s what I’m working towards now.

Who inspires you and why? This can be someone famous or someone you know personally!

My mom and dad are an inspiration to me. They work really hard to give me everything that I have but they still always make time in their busy schedule to be with me and help me in my life. My dad has a lot of experience in soccer and is always helping me and giving me tips to achieve my goals. My mom is always there for me comforting me when I need it. Both of them have always guided me and encouraged me to be kind, respectful and just to be a good person around everybody.

What else do you enjoy outside of playing for CRYSC?

Apart from soccer I love big mountain, mogul, and park skiing; and I’m currently pursuing my 2nd degree black belt in taekwondo. Also I really enjoy doing activities outdoors like biking, rollerblading, scootering, camping, and playing pickleball.

Since 2018, CRYSC and UCHealth + CU Orthopedics and Sports Medicine have worked together in an effort to grow the safety and health resources that are available for Rapids Youth players and members.

As our partnership strengthens with UCHealth, we want to work together to highlight the amazing players within the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club with a monthly ‘Player of the Month’. Check out the criteria and nominate any players that deserve to be highlighted by UCHealth and CRYSC on the UCHealth Player of the Month page.

This May, Colin will be presented with a plaque and a gift card to acknowledge his achievements. We met with Colin to learn a bit more about him. Check out the full interview below!

What influence has soccer had in your life?

Playing soccer has taught me how to work hard and be a team player. It’s helped me grow not only as an athlete but also as a person, teaching me how to overcome challenges as a team.

Why do you believe that you were nominated for this award?

I think I was nominated this award because I stay positive, encourage my teammates, and try to be a leader on and off the field.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club?

I love the community and competitive environment of the club. My coach pushes me to be better every day, and my teammates make me feel welcomed.

What soccer accomplishment are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of sticking with soccer throughout the years and developing various skills along side my teammates, who I’ve gotten to become close to throughout my years in the CRYSC program.

What academic achievement are you most proud of?

I’m proud of achieving excellent standardized testing scores while still being able to balance playing soccer.

How do you think your teammates would describe you?

I think my teammates would describe me as dependable and willing to help. I try to keep my team’s energy up no matter what.

What is something that shows your exemplary character, commitment to sportsmanship, community involvement, etc..?

During a tournament, one of our opponents got injured, and I helped make sure they got off the field safely. It reminded me that sportsmanship matters more than the score.

What’s your favorite soccer player and team?

My favorite team is the Colorado Rapids.

What do you hope to pursue in the near future?

I hope to study mechanical engineering and eventually work in designing renewable energy systems.

Who inspires you and why? This can be someone famous or someone you know personally!

My coach inspires me because he always emphasizes discipline, hard work, and respect.

What else do you enjoy outside of playing for CRYSC?

Outside of soccer, I enjoy spending time being active—whether that’s skiing with friends are going to the gym. I also enjoy digital art and traveling.

Since 2018, CRYSC and UCHealth + CU Orthopedics and Sports Medicine have worked together in an effort to grow the safety and health resources that are available for Rapids Youth players and members.

As our partnership strengthens with UCHealth, we want to work together to highlight the amazing players within the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club with a monthly ‘Player of the Month’. Check out the criteria and nominate any players that deserve to be highlighted by UCHealth and CRYSC on the UCHealth Player of the Month page.

In youth soccer, development is not about being perfect—it’s about being persistent. It’s about showing up, failing forward, and learning every step of the way. At CRYSC, we’re committed to developing players who embrace the journey, not just chase the result. And at the heart of that journey? A growth mindset.

In the dynamic world of youth soccer, the journey of development is rarely a straight line. Players experience highs and lows, successes and setbacks. It’s during these moments that the power of a growth mindset becomes truly evident. At CRYSC, we believe in holistic player development, and a growth mindset is a cornerstone of this philosophy, enabling players to thrive both on and off the field.

A growth mindset is the belief that one’s abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This contrasts with a fixed mindset, which assumes that our character, intelligence, and creative ability are static givens that we can’t change in any meaningful way. As part of our “Next Play” mentality, we emphasize that mistakes and setbacks are a natural part of development. We encourage players to acknowledge these moments, learn from them, and move forward without hesitation. This perspective aligns with the understanding that player development is not always linear, with ups and downs being a normal part of the process.

Our Key Qualities (KQs) provide a common structure to view and discuss player development. A growth mindset is intrinsically linked to each of these qualities, fostering their development and application:

• Game Understanding & Decision-Making: Players with a growth mindset view challenges in understanding the game as opportunities to learn and improve their tactical awareness. They are more likely to analyze their decisions, reflect on their effectiveness, and seek to understand the “why” behind different tactical approaches. They understand that learning about tactics is part of their personal growth.
• Responsibility & Initiative: A growth mindset empowers players to take ownership of their development. They are more likely to seek out extra practice, ask questions, and proactively work on areas for improvement because they believe their efforts will lead to growth. This aligns with creating player-led environments where players take ownership of their learning.
• Growth Mindset & Competitive Mentality: This KQ directly reflects the importance of believing in one’s ability to improve and embracing competition as a chance to test and develop skills. Players with a growth mindset see opponents as opportunities to learn and push themselves, rather than as threats to their inherent ability. They show a continuous drive to improve and compete.
• Technical Execution: Players with a growth mindset understand that technical skills are developed through consistent practice and effort. They are more resilient when facing difficulties in mastering a new skill, viewing each attempt as a step towards improvement rather than a reflection of fixed ability. Our training methodology emphasizes creating game-realistic scenarios to apply and refine these skills.
• Physical Execution: Similar to technical skills, a growth mindset encourages players to view physical development as an ongoing process. They understand the importance of consistent training, proper nutrition, and recovery in improving their physical attributes and are more likely to persevere through challenging physical conditioning, recognizing it contributes to their overall development.
• Learning Ability: At its core, a growth mindset fuels a player’s learning ability. Players who believe they can improve are more open to feedback, more willing to try new things, and more persistent in the face of challenges. Our club prioritizes creating dynamic learning environments where players can express themselves and take ownership of their development.

Our club’s DNA emphasizes a Developmental Focus, prioritizing the comprehensive growth and well-being of players, encompassing technical, tactical, physical, mental resilience, and personal character development. A growth mindset is fundamental to achieving this holistic development. It fosters Competitive Resilience, helping players navigate setbacks and challenges with adaptability and perseverance. By believing in their ability to improve, players are better equipped to thrive in challenging environments and bounce back from mistakes.

Furthermore, our commitment to Innovation and Progression is supported by a growth mindset. Players who believe in their capacity to learn and adapt are more receptive to new coaching methods, tactical approaches, and evolving game demands. This aligns with the club’s emphasis on creating dynamic and flexible environments where players can have fun and develop.

As coaches and as a club, we play a vital role in fostering a growth mindset in our players. We strive to create player-centered environments where players feel safe to make mistakes and view them as learning opportunities. Our coaching methodology emphasizes an inquiry-based approach that guides players to discover solutions and take ownership of their learning. We aim to provide constructive feedback that focuses on effort and learning, rather than innate ability.

Our commitment to coach development, through initiatives like monthly coaching newsletters, regional workshops, and the learning management system (LMS), further supports the cultivation of a growth mindset in our players. By investing in our coaches’ growth and understanding of player development principles, we empower them to create environments that nurture this essential mindset in their teams. We encourage coaches to have their own Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and engage in self-regulated learning

We encourage all our players to embrace challenges, persevere through setbacks, and view each experience as an opportunity to learn and grow. Remember, your abilities are not fixed; they are cultivated through dedication, effort, and a belief in your potential. Coaches, continue to be environmental architects who prioritize creating supportive and challenging environments where a growth mindset can flourish.

Together, by embracing the power of a growth mindset, we can ensure that all our players at CRYSC not only develop into skilled soccer players but also grow as resilient, adaptable, and lifelong learners.

As a next step, we encourage you to reflect on how you can further cultivate a growth mindset in your own approach to the game. For players, consider a recent challenge you faced and how you can view it as a learning opportunity. For coaches, think about how your feedback and training design can further promote a growth mindset in your team. We can also review the “Key Qualities” in more detail and discuss specific activities that foster a growth mindset if you’d like.

You help shape player mindsets every day through:

• Feedback focused on effort and process
• Training sessions that normalize challenge and struggle
• Questions that spark reflection and ownership

Modeling a growth mindset yourself—through your IDP, professional learning, and coaching curiosity—shows players what lifelong growth really looks like.

You are not the player you were last week—and that’s a good thing. Embrace the hard days. Celebrate the tiny wins. Trust the process. And remember: improvement isn’t a straight line—it’s a spiral. You come back to similar moments, but each time with a bit more wisdom.

Take It Forward
This month, reflect on these questions:

• Players: What’s one challenge you’re facing right now? How could you reframe it as a growth opportunity?
• Coaches: How do your training sessions and feedback encourage—or limit—a growth mindset?

Let’s continue to build a club culture that champions learning, effort, and resilience. Because when we develop growth-minded players, we’re not just building better athletes—we’re building better people.

The growth mindset journey doesn’t end at the sideline—it continues at home. Parents play a critical role in reinforcing how players see success, failure, and effort. Here are a few ways you can support a growth mindset:

• Praise effort, not just outcomes: Instead of “You played so well today,” try “I noticed how hard you worked to stay in the play” or “You kept going even after making that mistake—great resilience!”
• Normalize setbacks: Let your child know it’s okay to struggle. Share stories from your own life where persistence paid off.
• Ask reflective questions: After games, shift away from “Did you win?” toward “What did you learn?” or “What felt challenging, and how did you respond?”
• Encourage independence: Let players own their experiences—win or lose. Empower them to speak with their coach and take responsibility for their growth.
• Celebrate progress: Even if it’s a small improvement, recognizing it builds confidence and motivation.

Together, we can create a consistent message—from the pitch to the car ride home—that development matters more than results, and effort is always worth celebrating.

This month, reflect on these questions:

• Players: What’s one challenge you’re facing right now? How could you reframe it as a growth opportunity?
• Coaches: How do your training sessions and feedback encourage—or limit—a growth mindset?
• Parents: How can your words and actions reinforce the message that growth comes from effort, not perfection?

Let’s continue to build a club culture that champions learning, resilience, and belief in potential. Because when we nurture a growth mindset, we’re not just developing better soccer players—we’re developing confident, capable, and courageous young people.

Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (CRYSC) serves approximately 10,000 players ages three through 19, beginner to elite, in year-round leagues, camps, and tournaments. As a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, CRYSC has been named a top 15 youth soccer club in the U.S. by Soccerwire and the top youth soccer club in Colorado by Colorado Parent Magazine. CRYSC’s mission is to provide an environment where young soccer players from diverse backgrounds are guided and inspired to reach their full potential, both on and off the field.

Off the field, Lotte excels academically, ranking #1 in her sophomore class and consistently pursuing excellence in her studies. She is an active member of the National Honor Society, serves as the President of the Flag Football Club at Denver Christian, and is a student council representative. Additionally, Lotte regularly volunteers with MotherWise, a foundation dedicated to supporting women, children, and families during pregnancy and beyond.

This April, Lotte will be presented with a plaque and a gift card to acknowledge her achievements. We met with Lotte to learn a bit more about her. Check out the full interview below!

What influence has soccer had in your life?

I have loved soccer since I was 5. Although there have been ups and downs, it has always been my favorite thing to do. Once, when I injured my hip and was unable to play, I realized that there is almost nothing I would rather be doing that playing soccer. I always look forward to practices, where I can let go of the other things on my mind and just play. It really is a simple sport, and certainly one I have fallen in love with. I have enjoyed growing in my abilities to play and understand the game. However, soccer has also brought me so many other opportunities. I have made countless friends and learned many life skills. Soccer has taught me leadership skills, teamwork, social skills, and independence.

Why do you believe that you were nominated for this award?

I believe was nominated for this award due to my work ethic, leadership, love for the game, and commitment to excellence.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club?

I love how committed my coaches have been to my personal development,. I couldn’t have gotten to the point I am today with out so much help and support. My coach has been very helpful in advocating for my advancement and has always put my development first.

What soccer accomplishment are you most proud of?

The first ECRL season, as captain of the team, we went undefeated and let in zero goals against to win the mountain region league play. That same season I was named on the U-15 all-regional league mountain team and I made all-state my freshman year of high school soccer.

What academic achievement are you most proud of?

I received gold scholar my freshman year of high school, meaning that I was first in the class.

How do you think your teammates would describe you?

I think my teammates would describe me as fun yet focused. I enjoy laughing and joking with them but we also challenge each other competitively. I thin that overall, they would describe me as a leader and a hard worker but also a kind and fun person to be around.

What is something that shows your exemplary character, commitment to sportsmanship, community involvement, etc..?

One time, my friend and I volunteered at a church in South Dakota where they was a very large homeless population. We painted their walls and picked up trash. Afterward, we visited a homeless camp and served food and got to talk to many of them, listening to their stories. One of the most interesting stories I heard was from a woman who was struggling with drug abuse. I talked to her for almost an hour, and at the end of it she thanked my for talking to her and listening. She hugged me, which was something I hadn’t expected. She told me that she hadn’t expected someone to care about her enough to stay with her and her story that long. I honestly don’t know why that was the specific story I remembered, but it stuck with me.

What’s your favorite soccer player and team?

My favorite soccer player is Linsey Horan.

What do you hope to pursue in the near future?

I hope to study education in college while playing college soccer.

Who inspires you and why? This can be someone famous or someone you know personally!

One person who inspires me is my dad. He is one of the most hardworking people I have met, and he is very busy, yet he always tries to be there to take me to practices or to show up to my games. I love his outlook on life and the lessons that he has taught me. He works really hard to be a good leader and I admire the way he conducts himself in hard situations. He taught me to be a leader, to be confident, to work hard and also to be kind, to be gracious and to love others. He is my role model, someone who works for their goals and thinks critically about the world around him and his place in it.

What else do you enjoy outside of playing for CRYSC?

I love to ski with my family. I also like to run and go for bike rides. Additionally, i love hanging out with my friends and baking.

Since 2018, CRYSC and UCHealth + CU Orthopedics and Sports Medicine have worked together in an effort to grow the safety and health resources that are available for Rapids Youth players and members.

As our partnership strengthens with UCHealth, we want to work together to highlight the amazing players within the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club with a monthly ‘Player of the Month’. Check out the criteria and nominate any players that deserve to be highlighted by UCHealth and CRYSC on the UCHealth Player of the Month page.

As a club, we need a process to help us create the best environments for player development. The process should be clear and should help the coach create a truly player-centered environment. At Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (CRYSC), we’re committed to providing an exceptional soccer experience that fosters not only skill development but also a lifelong love for the game. Our approach to training is rooted in the belief that children learn best through engaging, game-like activities that emphasize enjoyment, participation, and personal growth. This philosophy is a cornerstone of our Technical Plan, “One Club, One Community,” which guides our coaches in creating player-centered environments across all regions and ability levels.

• Reality-Based: Using the game as the starting point to develop perception, decision-making, and execution.
• Holistic: Promoting health, emotional, and social well-being, developing attitudes and social skills, and connecting all areas of development.
• Experiential: Learning starts from the player’s experience, utilizing analysis and reflection.
• Autonomy Support: Providing opportunities for players to take initiative, make decisions, and take ownership of their learning.

Our player development philosophy incorporates other key club beliefs. Striving to always keep the player at the center of everything we do, our player development philosophy will influence the methodologies that we use in terms of both coaching and training.

“Children learn and develop to their full potential through game-like experiences in an enjoyable environment that supports individual growth.”

We believe that sport can teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, communication, discipline, perseverance, accountability, and the ability to overcome adversity.

The core principle driving our Games-Based methodology is the understanding that children learn and develop most effectively through game-like experiences in a fun, supportive environment that fosters individual growth. This stems from the recognition that traditional methods involving lines, drills, and lectures often fail to capture children’s interest or address their fundamental needs. We strive to develop remarkable coaches who emphasize the importance of creating practice environments that resonate with what players genuinely want: enjoyment, connection with teammates, and engaging, enjoyable activities.

Sport is a powerful tool for social development, offering a platform for learning, entertainment, and connection that transcends boundaries and enriches lives.

• Intrinsic Motivation: Players learn what they like, tapping into intrinsic motivation as the primary driver for learning. Players always ask, “Coach, are we going to scrimmage?”
• Transferable Skills: They learn what they need, ensuring a seamless transfer of skills from training to the game, eliminating the disconnect often seen in traditional methods.
• Analytical Skills: The games-based approach helps players read, analyze, and decide, enhancing their ability to perceive and explain game situations, which in turn drives their behavior. Our #1 Key Quality is Game Understanding.
• Creative Problem-Solving: The methodology encourages players to be creative and seek their own solutions.
• Reflection and Experience: The games-based approach promotes player reflection on their experiences and how to use those experiences to improve.
• Independent Learning Habits: It fosters the development of independent learning habits when supported by the coach to encourage (mutual) reflection.
• Critical Thinking: Players evolve into independent, critical thinkers who are socially responsible and accountable adults.

The adoption of the games-based approach aligns with research on athlete development pathways, aiming to maximize player enjoyment, intrinsic motivation, and skill development. The primary purpose is to immerse players in activities and game-like situations that focus them on the training goal, promoting conscious learning through fun, active involvement, repetition, and appropriate challenges. Consider it “deliberate play and practice” that involve game-like decision making and (collective) problem-solving skills.

1. Deliberate Play:
   • Creating an engaging and enjoyable environment is crucial for long-term motivation and learning.
   • “Deliberate play” contextualizes the development of technique and tactical awareness.
   • The game/environment serves as the primary teacher, with the coach facilitating and guiding players to find solutions.
2. Benefits of Deliberate Play:
   • Increased enjoyment and intrinsic motivation
   • Enhanced game awareness
   • Contextualized technical development (skills under pressure)
3. Practice Activities:
   • Activities should be player-centered and game-like, providing opportunities for instructional feedback.
   • The goal is to develop the player in relation to the practice objective, team tactical principles, and key qualities.
   • Players engage in various learning activities, such as game forms that can be modified to elicit certain behaviors and decisions.

The coach is an environmental architect who facilitates learning by creating realistic problems and encouraging players to co-create solutions. They should:

• Encourage collaboration and support mutual reflection to guide players in reflecting on game situations to make their actions more effective.
• Be patient and provide opportunities for learning, using cues and key words to maintain focus.
• Create a safe, enjoyable, and challenging environment that promotes decision-making.
• Use an inquiry-based approach to foster curiosity and critical thinking.
• Challenge and stimulate players to create solutions, using a blend of interactions.

By carefully balancing ‘deliberate play’, structured activities, and regular game opportunities, CRYSC aims to maximize player enjoyment and development. This holistic, player-centered approach ensures that each player’s unique needs are met, fostering a lifelong love for the game and promoting well-rounded development both on and off the field.

Our coaches are trained to design sessions that incorporate game-like scenarios, modified games, and activities that promote problem-solving and decision-making. The goal is to create fun, meaningful experiences that help players work towards their goals and then support the players’ reflection. Instead of traditional drills, players might participate in small-sided games that mimic real match situations, encouraging them to apply their skills in a dynamic and engaging way. Coaches will provide encouragement and support: Coaches should encourage players to take risks, try new things, and view mistakes as part of the learning process. Providing constructive feedback rather than harsh criticism helps create a nurturing environment.

• Enhanced Skill Development: Game-based training allows players to develop technical skills and tactical understanding in a realistic and engaging context.
• Increased Motivation: By making learning fun and enjoyable, we keep players motivated and eager to improve.
• Improved Decision-Making: Game-like scenarios challenge players to think critically and make quick decisions, preparing them for the demands of real matches.
• Stronger Teamwork: Many games emphasize collaboration and communication, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among players.
• A Lifelong Love for the Game: Ultimately, our goal is to instill a passion for soccer that extends beyond the field, encouraging players to continue their development and enjoyment of the sport for years to come.

Parents should become familiar with our games-based approach that encourages children to have fun, connect with teammates, and learn through engaging and enjoyable activites. Furthermore, we should strive to understand the evidence-based approach to coaching that has been proven to develop players by integrating research, coaching expertise, and the needs and values of the player. By actively engaging in these supportive behaviors lised below, parents can create a strong partnership with the coach, contributing to a positive and developmentally appropriate soccer experience for their child.

• Parents can develop an understanding that the CRYSC methodology prioritizes the individual needs of each player to have fun, develop, and learn.
• They can support the coach’s efforts to create a positive and inclusive environment where players feel safe, valued, and motivated.
• Parents can become familiar with the coaching and training methodologies which include our emphasis on game-like activities, inquiry-based coaching, and autonomy support
• Parents can encourage teamwork and positive relationships among players. They should refrain from engaging in gossip or negativity that could undermine team cohesion.
• Parents can set realistic expectations for their child’s development and avoid placing undue pressure on them. We can understand that player development is a long-term process that requires patience and support

We encourage all club members to embrace our games-based approach and support our coaches in their efforts to create engaging and effective training sessions. Talk to your child’s coach about their training methods, attend club workshops or upcoming U.S. Soccer Coaching Courses, and share your feedback to help us continuously improve.

At CRYSC, we’re committed to providing a soccer experience that is both fun and developmental. By embracing a games-based approach, we empower our players to reach their full potential, both on and off the field.

Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (CRYSC) serves approximately 10,000 players ages three through 19, beginner to elite, in year-round leagues, camps, and tournaments. As a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, CRYSC has been named a top 15 youth soccer club in the U.S. by Soccerwire and the top youth soccer club in Colorado by Colorado Parent Magazine. CRYSC’s mission is to provide an environment where young soccer players from diverse backgrounds are guided and inspired to reach their full potential, both on and off the field.