Elite Academy

DFA's Elite Academy (U15-U19) prepares players for collegiate soccer through professional coaching, elite league competition, intensive training, and premier college showcase exposure.
A high school player running.
The Pathway to College Soccer

Elite Academy

Elite League Competition

Test your skills consistently against top-tier opponents by competing in highly respected and challenging regional leagues, including the Buckeye Premier Youth Soccer League and OSSL. Facing this level of competition week-in and week-out pushes players to elevate their game, accelerate their development, and adapt to faster, more physical play.

Premier College Exposure

Compete in 3 strategically chosen, high-profile college showcases and 1 competitive cup tournament annually. These events maximize player visibility to a wide range of college coaches from NCAA D1, D2, D3, and NAIA programs, significantly enhancing recruitment opportunities and providing direct exposure during critical evaluation periods.

Professional Coaching & Development

Receive expert, often position-specific instruction from dedicated professional coaches who possess deep knowledge of the game and the college recruitment landscape. They provide individualized feedback, focus on advanced tactical understanding, refine technical abilities for the college level, and guide players through the complexities of collegiate preparation.

Intensive Training & Preparation

Engage in a comprehensive and demanding year-round training schedule, meticulously planned with a focus on the key Winter (Nov-Mar) preparation phase and the Spring competition season (primary season Oct-June). This structure ensures players maintain peak physical condition, continuously hone their skills, and are fully prepared mentally and physically for high-stakes league matches and showcase events.

FAQs

Find answers to common questions about the juniors program.

Who is the DFA Elite Academy for?

The Elite Academy is designed for dedicated high school aged players (typically U15-U19) who demonstrate a serious commitment to training and competition. It's ideal for players aiming to excel on top high school varsity teams and who possess the drive and ambition to pursue opportunities at competitive collegiate programs (NCAA D1, D2, D3, NAIA) or even higher levels of play post-college.

What is the primary focus of the Elite Academy program?

The core focus is comprehensive, holistic player development aimed squarely at preparing athletes for the significant demands of collegiate soccer. This includes advanced technical skill refinement under pressure, sophisticated tactical training to increase soccer IQ and decision-making speed, rigorous physical conditioning for peak athletic performance, strategic guidance to navigate the college recruitment process effectively, and fostering the mental toughness required at the next level.

What kind of exposure do Elite Academy players receive?

Elite Academy teams participate in three strategically selected, high-profile College Showcase events plus one competitive Cup Tournament each year. These events are chosen for their high concentration of attending college scouts and coaches from various divisions and levels, providing players with crucial opportunities to showcase their talents directly against strong competition on a significant stage during key recruitment periods.

What leagues do Elite Academy teams compete in?

Our Elite Academy teams compete in top regional leagues known for consistent high-level competition, such as the Buckeye Premier Youth Soccer League (BPYSL) and the Ohio Soccer State League (OSSL). Playing in these leagues means facing other top clubs in the region regularly, often requiring travel and demanding peak performance in every match, which is essential preparation for the intensity and quality of the collegiate environment.

What is the season structure and commitment for the Elite Academy?

The primary commitment for Elite Academy players runs from October through June, a schedule designed to complement the typical high school season. This structure includes intensive skill refinement and physical conditioning during the winter months (November-March), ensuring players maintain fitness and continue development to peak for the crucial Spring league season and the prime college showcase tournament period.

Who coaches the Elite Academy teams?

Each Elite Academy team is led by a dedicated, highly qualified Professional Coach who brings extensive experience in developing elite players, understanding advanced tactical systems, and successfully navigating the college recruitment landscape. They provide not only high-level training and specific, actionable feedback but also crucial mentorship and valuable guidance throughout the often complex college selection and commitment process.

Are there other perks for Elite Academy players?

Yes, similar to other levels, Elite Academy players receive a significant 50% discount on other eligible DFA programs. This allows dedicated players seeking extra work or specialized training to access supplemental camps or clinics (e.g., position-specific sessions, speed & agility work) at a substantially reduced cost, further supporting their individual development goals beyond regular team activities.

Still have questions?

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Elite Academy Gallery

Witness skill development and exciting soccer fun in action.

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