Player Development Programs
Santa Cruz United is excited to launch two new in-house programs designed to bridge the gap between recreational and competitive soccer while supporting serious young players in their developmental journey. These programs aim to create a clear, structured pathway for players to reach their full potential within our club.

Pathway to Competitive Soccer Program
Target Audience:
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Boys and Girls eligible to start competitive soccer in Fall 2025 (2015-2017 birth years).
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Recreational players of any age who are looking to transition to competitive soccer.
Program Details:
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Training: Two practices per week, led by professional SC United coaches. Schedule: Mondays & Thursdays: 4:15PM - 5:30 PM
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Competition: Participation in NorCal playdates, offering game experience in a competitive setting.
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Goal: Prepare players for Santa Cruz United’s competitive teams by developing their technical skills, tactical understanding, and mindset.
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Culmination: Players will take part in competitive team tryouts in May 2025.
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Starting February 20th
Note: Participation in this program does not guarantee placement on a competitive team.
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Grassroots Development Program
Target Audience:
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Serious younger players (2018-2020 birth years) who are not yet eligible for competitive soccer but seek advanced training beyond recreational soccer.
Program Details:
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Training: Two practices per week, focusing on foundational technical skills, decision-making, and love for the game.
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Schedule: Mondays & Thursdays: 4:15PM - 5:30 PM
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Competition: Opportunity to participate in NorCal playdates for age-appropriate exposure to game scenarios.
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Goal: Provide a challenging and fun environment to foster player growth and prepare them for future competitive pathways.
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Starting February 20th
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Program Logistics
Practice Structure:
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Sessions will focus on technical training, small-sided games, and tactical awareness.
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Both programs will follow the Santa Cruz United curriculum, emphasizing skill development and enjoyment.
Schedule:
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Practices: Twice weekly Mondays & Thursdays.
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NorCal Playdates: Scheduled throughout the program to provide game experience.
Coaching:
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Programs will be led by Santa Cruz United’s professional, licensed coaching staff.
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Program will utilize High School and College aged support staff
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Opportunities for coaches from partner clubs to shadow sessions and develop their skills.
Fields:
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Practices and playdates will be held at Santa Cruz United facilities or partner fields.

Why Join Santa Cruz United?
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Proven Pathway to Success: Santa Cruz United is the largest competitive soccer club in Santa Cruz County, offering a structured development pathway for players at all levels, from recreational to elite competition.
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Professional Coaching: Learn from our team of licensed and experienced coaches who are committed to helping every player reach their full potential.
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Unparalleled Competition: Compete in NorCal Premier, NPL, and ECNL Regional League (ECNL-RL), ensuring players face the highest level of competition to grow and succeed.
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Player-Centered Approach: We emphasize skill development, tactical understanding, and fostering a lifelong love for the game in a fun and challenging environment.
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Community and Culture: Be part of a supportive club that values teamwork, sportsmanship, and player development both on and off the field.

Timeline & Dates for Training
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February 2025: Program Launch
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February–April 2025: Training and NorCal Playdates
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May 2025: Culmination with Santa Cruz United Competitive Tryouts
Training days: Two days a week Monday/Thursday
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between the Pathway to Competitive Soccer Program and the Grassroots Development Program?
The Pathway to Competitive Soccer Program is designed for players ready to transition from recreational to competitive soccer (2018/2017 birth years and older players looking to make the jump). It focuses on preparing players for competitive team tryouts in May 2025. The Grassroots Development Program, on the other hand, is for younger players (U6 and U7, 2019 and 2020 birth years) who want advanced training and foundational development before they are eligible for competitive soccer.
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2. Are these programs only for players interested in competitive soccer?
No, while these programs are structured to support pathways into competitive soccer, they are also ideal for players who want to improve their skills and grow their love for the game without committing to a competitive team immediately.
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3. Can my child join these programs if they’re already playing recreational soccer?
Yes, both programs are open to recreational players who want to supplement their training with more focused sessions led by professional coaches.
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4. Will my child automatically be placed on a competitive team if they participate in these programs?
Participation in the programs does not guarantee placement on a competitive team. However, it provides the training and experience needed to prepare for tryouts in May 2025.
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5. What is the time commitment for these programs?
Both programs require a commitment of two practices per week. Practices are held on Mondays and Thursdays at Cabrillo College:
Grassroots Development Program: 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM
Pathway to Competitive Soccer Program: 5:15 PM – 6:15 PM
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6. What is the cost of participating in these programs?
Please refer to our program details or contact us directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
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7. Are there any games or competitions as part of these programs?
Yes, players in both programs will participate in NorCal playdates. These provide valuable game experience in a fun and age-appropriate setting.
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8. Who will coach these programs?
All sessions are led by professional, licensed Santa Cruz United coaches, with support from high school and college-aged staff. Additionally, coaches from partner clubs may shadow sessions to enhance their own skills.
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9. What equipment does my child need?
Players should bring appropriate soccer attire, including cleats, shin guards, and a water bottle. Uniforms for playdates will be provided by the club.
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10. Where are practices and games held?
Practices and playdates will be held at Cabrillo College and other Santa Cruz United facilities or partner fields.
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11. How do I sign up for one of these programs?
You can register by filling out Sign Up for Developmental Programs. If you have any questions or need assistance with registration, please contact us at info@scunited.org.
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12. When does the program start?
The programs will launch in February 2025, with training and NorCal playdates running through April 2025. Competitive tryouts will take place in May 2025.