WASHINGTON, D.C. - D.C. United announced Thursday the establishment of the D.C. United Elite Academy at RFK Stadium. Under the direction of John Harkes, the Elite Academy will be an intense week of training for elite soccer players, boys and girls, aged 13-18 and will take place August 2-6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the D.C. United training complex adjacent to RFK Stadium. The Elite Academy ranks a tier above other D.C. United soccer academy programs and is designed specifically for the serious soccer player with competitive playing experience at the club, ODP, Y-League and high school level.
"The D.C. United Elite Academy is a great opportunity to expose players to the high level of training present in the professional environment," said John Harkes, D.C. United director of youth development. "In addition to the exposure, the top-class training is an excellent way to prepare players for fall soccer seasons."
Unlike other D.C. United soccer academy programs, the Elite Academy will offer students top-class instruction from Harkes, United's Technical Staff and players, former professional players and top area coaches. The week will focus on technical training, tactical training, fitness and speed, and small-sided and full-sided scrimmages alongside United's first team training sessions. Academy training also includes in-class videotape analysis of the professional game and discussion of what it takes to be a professional soccer player. Participants will also have an opportunity to observe United practice. Fees for the Academy are $275 per player and enrollment is limited to the first 75 applicants.
D.C. United is the leader of youth development in Major League Soccer. All D.C United Academy students receive an official D.C. United Camp ball, Official D.C. United Camp t-shirt, a free ticket voucher to a 2004 D.C. United regular season home match, membership in D.C. United's Youth Fan Club (open to campers age 16 and under) and discount offers on D.C. United ticket packages.
For More Information on the Elite Academy or to register for any of D.C. United's youth development programs, please contact Chris Megaloudis at 202-587-5468 or visit www.dcunited.com.
