New Jersey ODP recently hosted a series of ODP Friendlies over Columbus Day Weekend. The games took place at the Bordentown FC Friendship Fields for ODP boys and girls in the 2007-2012 age groups, with players having the opportunity to showcase their abilities in full and small-sided games.
“This event is always beneficial for everyone. It is a chance to see our players perform in real games and give them the chance to show us more of their strengths within their game,” said James Galanis, NJYS Director of Technical Operations. “Our coaches eagerly anticipate this event as it provides an opportunity for them to evaluate the players they will be coaching. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and they are enthusiastic about starting future training sessions and tournaments.”
The ODP Columbus Day Friendlies expanded upon the coaching philosophies and developmental framework of New Jersey ODP, while also enabling players to implement those instructions within the context of live game action.
“The ODP Columbus Day Game Event offered opportunities for players to connect and compete through high quality match play and staff coaches to lead teams and individual players as tactical plans were executed and talents were assessed,” added Lou Mignone, New Jersey ODP Youth Coaching Director. “Efforts aimed at performing with optimal technical execution and an attractive style of play characterized this high intensity game event.”
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 the New Jersey ODP, please email odp@njyouthsoccer.com. Also, make sure to like the official New Jersey ODP Facebook Page. Interested in becoming a Club Partner with New Jersey ODP? Contact us today at odp@njyouthsoccer.com.
New Jersey ODP Hosts Columbus Day Friendlies
