The Development Phase
Bridging the gap between potential and performance. We develop Passionate , Dedicated , and Adaptable players within an Inclusive Family culture, preparing them for the tactical demands of the competitive game.
Explore the Levels
Player Pathway
Developmental Focus
At this age, we prioritize developmental goals over rigid formations. Our coaches focus on individual technical growth and collective tactical understanding.
Coach's Focus
Expectations & Conduct
Every role is vital to the success of the club. We are a family that shows up for each other.
Director
Sets the strategic vision, oversees the curriculum, and supports the coaching staff to ensure the highest standards of player development.
Staff Coach
Delivers professional training sessions, manages match days tactically, and provides mentorship and evaluation to players.
Team Manager
Handles logistics, scheduling, and communication. The primary administrative link between the club, coach, and families.
Treasurer
Manages team-specific finances, including tournament fees and travel budgets, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Social Coordinator
Organizes team bonding events and community service opportunities to foster a strong team culture off the field.
Player
Expected to show up prepared, give 100% effort, respect teammates and opponents, and take ownership of their development.
Parent
Provides support and encouragement. Trusts the coach's decisions and maintains a positive, non-interfering presence on the sidelines.
Spectator
Cheers for good play from both teams. Refrains from coaching from the sidelines or criticizing officials.
Referee
Essential to the game. Deserves respect from all players, coaches, and spectators. We enforce a zero-tolerance policy for referee abuse.
Competition
Playing time is earned through attendance, effort, and performance. We balance development with the goal of competing at the highest level.
Travel Commitment
Premier and Elite teams require regional travel. Families should be prepared for weekend commitments across Virginia and surrounding states.
Family FAQ
How does the focus change in U11?
The "Development Phase" marks a shift from pure technical repetition to applying skills in tactical contexts. Players learn to make decisions based on the movement of teammates and opponents.
How is playing time managed?
Unlike the Foundation Phase where time is often equal, playing time in the Development Phase is increasingly earned through attendance, effort, and performance.
Can my player play other sports?
Yes. We support multi-sport athletes. However, communication is key to managing load and schedule conflicts, especially as the commitment level rises in Premier and Elite tiers.
Winning vs. Development?
While scores matter more at these ages, our priority remains developing intelligent players. We value winning through our style of play rather than bypassing the midfield.
Important Program Dates
| M - Dev. Acad + Acad | T - U10 Elite Only | W - Academy + Elite | Th - U10 Elite Only | F | Sat. Match Day | Sun. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WK 1 | March 2 | March 3 | March 4 | March 5 | - | March 7 | - |
| WK 2 | March 9 | March 10 | March 11 | March 12 | - | March 14 | - |
| WK 3 | March 16 | March 17 | March 18 | March 19 | - | March 21 | - |
| WK 4 | March 23 | March 24 | March 25 | March 26 | - | March 28 | - |
| WK 5 | March 30 | March 31 | April 1 | April 2 | - | April 4 | - |
| WK 6 | April 6 | April 7 | April 8 | April 9 | - | April 11 | - |
| WK 7 | April 13 | April 14 | April 15 | April 16 | - | April 18 | - |
| WK 8 | April 20 | April 21 | April 22 | April 23 | - | April 25 | - |
| Make Up | April 27 | April 28 | April 29 | April 30 | - | May 2 | - |
| Make Up | May 4 | May 5 | May 6 | May 7 | - | May 9 | - |
| - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - |
| Match Time Slots | Saturdays | ||||||
| U3-U4 | 9AM-10AM | KSP 2 | ||||||
| U5-U6 | 10AM-11AM | KSP 2 | ||||||
| U7-U8 | 11:30AM-12:30PM | KSP 2 | ||||||
| U9-U10 | 1:15PM-2:15PM | KSP 2 | ||||||
| - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - | - - - - |
| Training Time / Location | M - Dev. Acad + Acad | T - U10 Elite Only | W - Acad. + U10 Elite | Th - U10 Elite Only | F | Sat. | |
| U5-U6 | 5PM - 6PM | KSP 2 | - | - | ||||
| U7-U8 | 5PM - 6PM | KSP 2 | - | 5PM - 6PM | KSP 2 | ||||
| U9-U10 | 6PM - 7PM | KSP 2 | 6PM - 7PM | KSP 2 | 6PM - 7PM | KSP 2 | 6PM - 7PM | KSP 2 |
Player Checklist
- VA United FC Training Top (Provided)
- VA United FC Team Kit & Training Kit
- (available for purchase through soccer.com)
- Shin Guards (Required)
- Size 4 Soccer Ball | U11-U12
- Size 5 Soccer Ball | U13-U14
- Water Bottle
- Cleats
- Athletic shoes
We Need You!
Our Grassroots & Development Academy programs are powered by parent volunteers.
No experience? No problem! We provide everything you need to succeed.
- Weekly session plans & curriculum
- Balls, cones, and pinnies provided
- Ongoing support by our Grassroots Director & Master Coach
Financial Assistance
VA United FC provides need-based aid to help offset program registration fees.
- How to Apply: Submit your application through PlayMetrics.
- Pro Tip: Submit early so your financial aid package is ready when tryout offers go out.
- Confidentiality: Your privacy is our priority; all data is kept strictly secure.