SECAUCUS, NJ - The MetroStars announced that the Player Development System will have Academy teams at the following age groups for the 2005-2006 season: Under 14, Under 15 and Under 18.
"The addition of the Under-14's to the MetroStars Player Development System allows us to identify players at a key age of their development process," said MetroStars Director of Youth Soccer & Player Development Giovanni Savarese. "The MetroStars Academy teams have achieved great success in a short time and the organization believes that we must be the leaders in player development for Major League Soccer. The Super Y League recently recognized our Academy teams as the top boys teams in North America based upon our success on the field and we will look to build on that. Each of our Academy teams qualified for the Super Y League Finals and our current Under 14 and Under 16 Academy teams are in Tampa, Florida from November 17th -22nd to compete in the Super Y League North American Finals".
In 2006, the newly created Under 14 Academy team will compete in the Super Y League which is recognized as one of the top youth soccer leagues in North America. Also, the Under 15 team will become a full time team that will compete in the New Jersey State Cup, Super Y League and various top level tournaments and the current Under 16 team will be playing in the Under 18 age group in '06 to further develop and challenge the players. The Under 18 Academy team will also compete in the Under 18 New Jersey State Cup, Super Y League and various college showcases.
"We are looking for young players that can accept challenges and who strive to play at the next level." said MetroStars Manager of Academy Teams Paul O'Donnell. "This is a highly disciplined and focused developmental program which demands that players are held to the highest of standards and conduct themselves as young professionals on and off the field.
All players who are interested in trying out must forward a player resume to podonnell@metrostars.com or call (201) 583-7025. All resumes must be received by Monday, December 5th.
Under 14 Academy Team tryouts (Players that are born on or after August 1, 1991)
Wednesday December 7th 7pm-10pm @ Giants Stadium bubble
Thursday December 8th 7pm-10pm @ Giants Stadium bubble
Monday December 19th 7pm-10pm @ Giants Stadium bubble
Under 15 Academy Team (Players that are born on or after August 1, 1990)
Saturday December 10th 11am-1pm @ Tryon Field (Rutherford)
Sunday December 11th 11am-1pm @ Tryon Field (Rutherford)
Under 18 Academy Team (Players that are born on or after August 1, 1987)
Saturday December 10th 2pm-4pm @ Tryon Field (Rutherford)
Sunday December 11th 2pm-4pm @ Tryon Field (Rutherford)
The Academy Teams are presented by Valley National Bank and St. Baranbas Healthcare System.
