Ignite Your Soccer Journey with NJYS!

The Young Olympians Program (YOP) is your first step toward soccer excellence. Tailored for ambitious U10 and U11 players born in 2014 and 2015, this high-energy program combines elite training, high-level competition, and a pathway to the prestigious NJYS Olympic Development Program (ODP).

Hosted by New Jersey Youth Soccer across four regions—North, South, Central, and Shore—YOP offers a dynamic environment where players can unleash their potential. With expert coaching, small-sided games, and a competitive finale featuring 4v4 and 9v9 tournaments, this is more than just a program—it's the start of your soccer legacy.

2025 Young Olympians Registration and Information will be announced around the end of January 2025 for players born 2014 & 2015.

Why Join the Young Olympians Program?

• Skill Mastery: Sharpen your ball control, passing, shooting, and more through interactive drills.
• Tactical Insight: Elevate your game intelligence with small-sided and micro-games designed to enhance decision-making.
• Competitive Games: Showcase your skills in high-energy 4v4 and 9v9 tournaments.
• Expert Coaching: Learn from experienced, licensed coaches who are passionate about player development.
• Pathway to Success: Take your first steps toward being selected for the NJYS Olympic Development Program.

Program Highlights

• Dynamic Curriculum: Focused on technical skills, tactical awareness, and open play.
• Regional Accessibility: Four training hubs across the state—North, South, Central, and Shore.
• Affordable Excellence: A one-time fee of $165 covers all training sessions, tournaments, and a program t-shirt.

Program Structure

Training Sessions:

• Develop core technical skills like 1^st touch, passing, and shooting.
• Engage in tactical small-sided and micro-games to build game awareness.

Tournament Play:

• Compete in 4v4 tournament on small-sided fields.
• Transition to the full-game experience with a 9v9 tournament on larger fields.

Key Details

• Cost: $165 (includes training, tournaments, and a program t-shirt).
• Registration: Opens January 2025. Spaces fill quickly—register early!

Group Sizes  

To ensure a high-quality training environment, group sizes are limited to a maximum of 50 players per age group at each location.  

• This cap allows coaches to provide more individualized attention and maintain effective session dynamics.  

• -Registration operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage families to register early to secure their spot.  

If a group reaches capacity, additional registrations will be placed on a waitlist and notified if spaces become available.  

Where Do You Belong?

Find your training location based on your county:

• North: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex (MAP LINK)
• Central: Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset, Union, Warren (MAP LINK)
• Shore: Monmouth, Ocean (MAP LINK)
• South: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem (MAP LINK)

Our Coaches

The YOP coaching team is comprised of NJYS’s finest—licensed professionals committed to your development. From training sessions to tournament sidelines, our coaches inspire, guide, and help you achieve your best.

Let the Journey Begin!

Are you ready to ignite your soccer journey? Register for the Young Olympians Program and take your first steps toward soccer greatness. More Information below. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How do I register, and are there any deadlines? 

Registration details are available at the bottom of this page. While there are no set deadlines, each group is limited to 50 players, so early registration is recommended.  

Are there any prerequisites or skill level requirements to join the program? 

No prerequisites are required. The Young Olympians Program (YOP) is designed as an introductory program for soccer development.  

Is there a refund policy if a player cannot participate after registering? 

Refunds are not offered once the first training session has taken place.  

What is the cost of the Young Olympians Program?

The program fee is $150, which covers all training sessions, tournaments, and includes a program t-shirt. Financial assistance is not available for the YOP. 

What should players wear to the training sessions?

Players should wear soccer cleats and shin guards to all training sessions. They should also bring a water bottle and a soccer ball, if available. Appropriate soccer attire, such as shorts, t-shirts, and socks, is recommended.

What should players bring to the tournaments?

Players should bring their soccer cleats, shin guards, and a water bottle to the tournaments. Additionally, they should have both a light and dark-colored shirt in case their team needs to change jerseys.

Is there a coach for each team at the tournament?

Yes, each team will have a dedicated coach responsible for leading and coaching the team during the tournament.