Academy Overview and FAQ's
Joining the NH Classics Academy Program:
If your son or daughter enjoys the game of soccer and you wish to have them join the NH Classics Academy program, ages U7 through U11 (1st grade through 5th grade), contact the Director of the Academy program, Deb McDonough at debbymcdonough@myfairpoint.net
What is the NH Classics Academy?
The NH Classics Academy is an Early Developmental Program (EDP) for players who have a serious interest in the game of soccer and would like to one day become a NH Classics Premier or Select travel player. NH Classics is part of the Bedford Soccer League, a non-profit youth organization dedicated to developing players to the highest level. The NH Classics Academy provides an advanced level of coaching and training for entry level competitive players.
This program is structured to teach youth players the game of soccer in a fun, yet demanding environment. It is important that these youngsters enjoy what they do to allow for an optimal learning experience. Most of the program is oriented toward technical skills training and small–sided games to optimize ball touches. Young players learn to master the ball at an early age so that a wide base can be established and the process of progressive learning is established.
Who can play?
The NH Classics Academy has five age groups of enrollment. Based on the age and skill of the player, he/she will be enrolled in the U7, U8, U9, U10, and U11 group, on A or B level teams.
In June, players are evaluated for their readiness to play and will be placed on age appropriate teams. U-7 players who have the desire, athleticism, and parental support to enter the Academy program will be allowed to enroll. In this case, the player is receiving the additional training benefit and a more competitive environment one-year earlier, but the pool of players and coach will determine the level of play. U-6 players in the 1st grade will be treated as if they are U-7. U-6 players in kindergarten may train with the Academy program, but may not play in competitive travel games.
Does my child have to "try out?"
Yes. Every player who wishes to enter this program must be evaluated for readiness and skills development. Coaches use try-outs to group players with like skill sets for the upcoming season. If a player is interested in the program following the Fall Recreation season, a coach will ask the player to join an Academy evening practice to evaluate the player. Traditional group tryouts are not held for Winter/Spring play for the Academy.
Can my child get "cut" or moved?
Yes. All young children are not ready to participate in a program that encompasses two practices per week, two games each weekend in the Fall/Spring seasons, and indoor training sessions during the winter season. Sometimes, a young player needs additional time to grow before participating and may not be invited to play.
We understand that we deal with kids and that we should give them the opportunity to be a kid on the soccer field. Teaching and coaching takes place at the level that these players are able to comprehend. Learning is an ongoing process that takes place at all times. However, not everybody learns and develops at the same pace. So, some kids will be shifted from A to B teams, and vice versa. The program is called "Academy" so we can foster a learning environment similar to that in school.
How do the kids learn the game?
Soccer is a simple game. With young players we simplify everything. We concentrate on individual skills, insight, and decision-making. Then we progress to group and team tactics. A soccer game is made up of circumstances, situations, problems, and opportunities which players have to read and interpret. Then, based on what they decide to do, they must act or react rapidly.
Simply by playing, young players will intuitively learn to act, react, and how to approach various reoccurring situations. Coaches help them see and recognize possibilities, make better decisions, and use approaches that are more effective. Young players, ages 6 to 10, should concentrate on technical development including ball mastery, skills, and controlling their bodies. Young players should PLAY, discover, experience, and learn, through trial and error, by making plenty of mistakes, by coming up with what works right: on their own. Through repetitive problem solving, the young player learns to sort the game out and play at a higher level.
What is the schedule?
- Early August – summer "pick-up" soccer games once per week
- Mid-August -- team practice sessions begin
- Early September -- Labor Day weekend tournament for U8-11
- September through October -- Two practices per week, Saturday/Sunday games TBD by Coach
- Mid-October -- Columbus Day Weekend tournament for U8-11
- Dec to Apr -- winter training 10-12 sessions
- Mid-April to Mid-June -- two practices per week, Saturday/Sunday games TBD by Coach
- Memorial Day weekend --1 tournament for U8-11
Who do I contact for more information?
Please contact Jenn Johnson-Masse at info@classicsacademy.org or Debby McDonough at debbymcdonough@myfairpoint.net for more info on teams U7-U11. To set up a date/time for a player evaluation, after the June tryout dates, please contact Jenn or Debby.