Will Scherer, NJ Youth Soccer
The New Jersey Olympic Development Program (ODP) recently concluded its Young Olympians Program (YOP) 9v9 Tournament for the 2022-2023 season. A high-level training program designed for aspiring soccer players in the 2012 and 2013 age groups, Young Olympians is hosted by New Jersey Youth Soccer and is conducted in four regions of the state (north, south, central and shore).
"The Young Olympians came to play in the 9v9 round-robin games, affectionately known as ‘YOLiga,’" said Homere Breton, ODP Junior Coaching Director & YOP Director. “It was great to see how our YO players meshed and bonded on both sides of the ball."
The goal of the Young Olympians Program is to provide players with an introduction to the Olympic Development Program and facilitate a high-level training environment. During the training sessions, players focus on developing technical skills while participating in small-sided and micro-games.
“Not only did they battle each other and the heat after each round, the YOs kept coming back for more,” added Breton. “If there is one thing that I like beyond watching YO players, it is watching them tryout for ODP."
The Young Olympians Program is open to aspiring players who have ambitions of future selection into New Jersey ODP. The program is staffed by experienced, licensed coaches who are dedicated to helping players develop their skills and reach their full potential.
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 in 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 the New Jersey ODP/Young Olympians Program, please email [email protected]. Also, make sure to visit the program online and like the official New Jersey ODP Facebook Page.