The Young Olympians Program (YOP) is a high-level training program designed for aspiring soccer players in the 2012 and 2013 age groups. The program is hosted by New Jersey Youth Soccer and is conducted in four regions of the state: north, south, central, and shore.

The goal of the YOP is to provide players with an introduction to the Olympic Development Program (ODP) and facilitate a high-level training environment. Players will focus during the training sessions upon developing technical skills and participating within small-sided and micro-games. The program will conclude with 4v4 and 9v9 tournaments, offering players the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of our coaching staff.

The YOP is open to aspiring players that have ambitions of being selected in the future for our Olympic Development Program. The program is staffed by experienced, licensed coaches who are dedicated to helping players develop their skills and reach their full potential.

The online registration form and payment must be completed for each player. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended that to secure a spot.

Curriculum Outline  

Technical Skills: Participation in drills and exercises focused on improving ball control, passing, shooting, and other technical skills.

Tactical Awareness: Play tactical small-sided and micro-games, to enhance tactical decisions.

Competition: Tournament play, where players can put their skills to the test and enjoy the excitement and competitive environment at YOP.

More information and registration below.

YOP FAQ's

What is the cost of the Young Olympians Program?

The program fee is $150 (unchanged from past years) and this will cover all training sessions, tournaments and includes a program t-shirt.  Financial assistance is not available for the YOP.

What should players wear to the training sessions?

Players should wear soccer shoes (cleats) and shin guards to all training sessions. They should also bring a water bottle and a soccer ball (if they have one). Players should dress in appropriate soccer attire, such as shorts, t-shirts, and socks.

What should players bring to the tournaments?

Players should bring their soccer shoes (cleats), shin guards, and a water bottle to the tournaments. They should also bring a light and a dark-colored shirt in case their team is required to change jerseys.

Is there a coach for each team at the tournament?

Yes, each team will have a coach who will be responsible for coaching and leading the team during the tournament.

What is the format of the tournaments?

The 4v4 tournament will be played upon small-sided fields with modified rules. 

The 9v9 tournament will be played upon a regular 9v9 field with standard rules. The specific format of the tournament is round robin and will be determined based upon the number of teams registered.

 Central Location for 4v4 and 9v9 Tournaments:
Notre Dame High School (601 Lawrence Rd Lawrenceville, NJ 08648) Click here to view map.

North Location for 4v4 and 9v9 Tournaments:
 West Hudson Park in Kearny (Schuyler Ave & Davis Ave Kearny, NJ 07032)
Click hereto view map. Parking can be found throughout the park.

Shore/Shore Location for 4v4 and 9v9 Tournaments:
Vista Fields Jackson Mills Soccer Complex
(334 Jackson Mills Rd Jackson, NJ 08527) Click here to view map

North YOP Boys and Girls Schedules: Click Here

Central YOP Boys and Girls Schedules: Click Here

South YOP Boys and Girls Schedules: Click Here

Shore YOP Boys and Girls Schedules: Click Here

(North and Central YOP schedules have been updated after the session cancelations due to inclement weather)

Please reference below regarding recommended training locations by county.

North (Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic and Sussex)

Central (Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset, Union and Warren)

Shore (Monmouth and Ocean)

South (Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem)