Austin Lloyd, NJ Youth Soccer
New Jersey ODP recently held its 3rd Annual ODP Skills Camp, which consisted of a special two-day event with sessions held in Harrison and Marlboro. The ODP Skills Camp was created by James Galanis, NJYS Director of Technical Operations, to provide further instruction, practice and fun to ODP participants. The camps were run by Lou Mignone, New Jersey ODP Coaching Director, and a coaching staff who have all obtained their National A Youth License.
“It is always good to be able to conduct camps for ambitious players over the summer months,” said Galanis. “Our goal was to provide players with an opportunity to improve their skills in an environment that mirrors our Olympic Development Program.”
The ODP Skills Camp focused on technical development while also concentrating on improving the attendees' comfort on the ball. The camp further aimed to give the athletes a chance to develop their tactical awareness and ball handling abilities. During each day of camp, participants spent time on developmental activities before taking part in small-sided tactical games.
“We were very pleased with level of players who turned out,” said Galanis. “The participants showed growth over the two days, and we plan to expand our camps next summer.”
The Olympic Development Program is an identification system linked to the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. The program offers its players a pathway that could lead to representing Regional and U.S. Youth National Teams. Originally established in 1977, ODP was the first program in the country designed to identify potential youth national team players. ODP players begin initially at the local sector before progressing to the state, regional and possibly national levels. By playing with like-talented athletes, ODP offers the opportunity for players to advance in their personal development and to be scouted by college coaches.
For more information about New Jersey ODP, please email [email protected]. Also, make sure to like the official New Jersey ODP Facebook Page.