U8 PROGRAM Overview
U8 Program General Information
Items needed by each player
- Soccer Ball: Size 3
- Soccer Cleats: Cleats specifically designed for soccer; Baseball & Football cleats are not allowed.
- Shin guards: Every player MUST wear shin-guards fully covered by their socks.
- Water: Every player should bring water for hydration during practices and games.
Practice Schedule
- Day/Time: Wednesdays, 6:00–7:30 PM (only)
- Start Date: Practices begin in October
- Led By: Competitive Academy Director with support from U8 Team Facilitators
Practice Format (90 Minutes)
- 40-45 minutes – Instruction led by Academy Director
- 15-20 minutes – Individual Team Time
- 20-30 minutes – Mini Games to apply skills learned that night.
Team Formation
- Teams will be created using the Blind Draw system (per GYSA rules).
- Maximum of 8 players per team/facilitator.
League Format
- If registrations allow us to form 6 teams in a gender, all games will remain in-house (no travel).
- If registrations do not allow us to form a minimum of 6 teams, teams will participate in the GYSA U-8 Travel Program.
- Game Days: Saturdays, starting the first week of November through end of February.
