Spark and Flash Programs

This fall, we are sponsoring the “Spark” and “Flash” Program for U10 Recreational Players.

Rationale

The Recreational soccer league, players, and coaches form the fabric of Auburn’s soccer community. As the appeal of the beautiful game in our community has grown, evidenced by steadily increasing participation numbers, the need to identify and reward our outstanding young recreational players has become clear.

How it Works

● Beginning with the 2018 fall season, the Auburn Soccer Association will begin sponsoring the “Spark” (girls) and “Flash” (boys) Program. Over the course of the season, our Recreational coaches will identify U10 players (that is, 7–9 year olds) who have the talent and/or desire to continue their development by being introduced to a more competitive environment. Where possible, each Recreational team will be represented by at least one player.

● Each Spark/Flash team will roster up to 12 players, decided upon with input from both the Recreational and Thunder Academy coaches. These players will train as a team with the Auburn Thunder Academy coaches November 27–29, and then compete in the Dmitri Cup in Columbus, Georgia, the first weekend in December. This will expose these players to both the Thunder Academy training environment led by the staff coaches, as well as the unique pressure of a tournament experience.

● If your child is interested in participating, please contact your child’s coach as soon as possible.

Where We Focus

While this program will highlight the cooperative and interdependent nature of Recreational and Competitive soccer in Auburn, the central focus is rewarding these players with additional high level training and game play, as well as exposure to the Thunder Academy program that could become an integral part of their developmental process.

What it Costs

A $35 fee will cover the required player cards and jerseys. Players must supply their own cleats, socks, shin guards, and shorts. As the tournament is only 45 minutes away, families can return home Saturday night, eliminating hotel cost. The $425 tournament entry fee will be sponsored by Auburn Thunder as part of their commitment to and appreciation of the recreational players and coaches, without whom they would not exist. For this same reason, all training by Thunder staff coaches is provided free of cost.

For more information, contact Mac Matthews, Director of the Thunder Academy Program.