8U-12U Showcase Format

"Sportsmanship, Enjoyment, and Development"

At our Academy ages we are committed to placing players and teams into appropriate environments that foster individual and team development. In our 8U-12U age groups there are a number of available tournaments, which they will soon compete in at the appropriate age, but we feel providing a 'festival' atmosphere that encourages taking chances as a team, as a coach and as a player is most beneficial to their soccer development at this early stage.

What is a "showcase" format?

• All teams have a set number of games to play during the weekend
• All opponents are known before the start of the games
• Teams will not have a semi-final or final in this format

Why play in a "showcase" setting?

• Coaches are more incentivized to play all their players equally and experiment with players in different positions.
• Coaches are able to adjust tactics and observe the game without the pressure of a 'must win' environment
• Coaches are encouraged to place players on different teams and give kids a different game day experience
• Players feel more comfortable taking chances and being creative without the thought of costing their team a shot at the title
• Parents are able to focus on their player and the game being played and avoid 'scoreboard' watching

How is a "showcase" competitive?

• Teams are required to list their 'competitive level' during registration so teams are placed against like competition and in an appropriate division.
• Players have a natural desire to compete so coaches are still encouraged to foster this competitive edge during the games to play at their highest level.
• Results matter. This may mean measuring your individual players and team against their own soccer ability and standards instead of a score line.