Are you ready to elevate your game and reach your full potential? The New Jersey Olympic Development Program (NJ ODP) offers a transformative opportunity for young athletes to showcase their talent, receive elite coaching, and join a developmental pathway that has prepared players for success at regional, national, and international levels.
How to Get Started
The NJ ODP tryout process begins with registration, where players sign up to participate in the program. Upon registering, players receive detailed information on training dates and locations, typically beginning in July.
- Stage 1 (July/August): The first phase of tryouts allows all registered players to demonstrate their skills, passion, and potential.
- Stage 2 (August): Players selected from Stage 1 are invited to participate in the second phase, which involves more intensive evaluations.
After Stage 2, players who are selected are formally invited to join the NJ ODP program. Once registration is complete, the teams are finalized in September and begin training for the season ahead.
Evaluation Criteria
Players are assessed across four fundamental areas that define a successful soccer player:
- Technical Ability: Skills such as ball control, dribbling, and passing.
- Tactical Awareness: Decision-making, positioning, and understanding of the game.
- Physical Fitness: Speed, strength, stamina, and overall athleticism.
- Mental Toughness: Focus, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure.
These evaluations are conducted by experienced coaches, ensuring each player is given a fair and professional assessment.
The NJODP ODP Selection Process
The New Jersey Youth Soccer ODP selection process is conducted annually, providing players the opportunity to showcase their talent and earn a place in the program. Players begin with Stage 1 tryouts, and those selected advance to Stage 2. Following Stage 2, successful players are invited to represent New Jersey ODPfor the upcoming cycle.
The tryouts are led by experienced coaches skilled in identifying players with exceptional potential. Each player is assessed on four critical components that define a well-rounded soccer player:
- Technical Ability: Ball control, dribbling, passing, and shooting skills.
- Tactical Awareness: Decision-making, positioning, and understanding of the game.
- Physical Attributes: Speed, strength, endurance, and agility.
- Psychological Attitude: Focus, resilience, and teamwork.
Players demonstrating the strongest performance across these areas are selected to join New Jersey ODP, reflecting their potential to excel in competitive environments.
FAQs About NJ ODP Tryouts
Do I need to attend all tryouts?
Attendance at every session is not mandatory, but participating in multiple tryouts increases your chances of being seen and evaluated thoroughly.
When will I know if I made the team?
Results are typically announced within 14 days after each stage of tryouts.
Can I still play for my club team?
Absolutely! NJ ODP is a talent identification and development program designed to complement your club soccer experience.
Is attendance mandatory once selected?
Yes, NJ ODP expects full commitment from all selected players to uphold the program’s high standards.
What are the payment options?
Once selected, players can choose to pay in full or through flexible installment plans.
Register Now
Take the first step on your journey to soccer excellence. Click here (link will be available in May) to register for the 2025/26 NJ ODP Tryouts and join the ranks of athletes who have gone on to achieve greatness on and off the field. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your talent and achieve your dreams!
TRY-OUTS FAQ's LINK
TEAM SELECTION FAQ'S