Through our Olympic Development Program (ODP), we identify elite players from across the state with the intention of supporting the development of the selected players with supplemental training in a learning environment, while also exposing them to opportunities for success at higher levels of competition.
Through regional ODP ID Events, our coaching staff select players within each age group to form ODP training pools. Pools provide the opportunity for players to continue their development by training and playing with similar level players in the same age group, and instructions from qualified coaches. ODP staff select players based on performance from within each age group to attend the Regional ID Event at the end of the ODP cycle. Regional ID Events provide the opportunity for top performers to be selected for the USYS Region and National team’s events.
STX ODP PLAYER BENEFITS
- The opportunity to represent South Texas in different events and levels.
- Supplement the club training environment and games.
- Training and playing with similar skill level players in the same age group from around the state.
- Instructions from USSF/UEFA qualified coaches with diverse education and playing backgrounds.
- Competition against ODP teams from other states.
- Annual international trips for all STX ODP players.
- Exposure to USSF, USYS, MLS and College Scouts.
US YOUTH SOCCER & ODP
The US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program was formed in 1977 and identifies and provides opportunities for high potential players, facilitates their development, and exposes them to the next level of their chosen pathway.
In most states, players are selected on the basis of open tryouts conducted by state association coaches who are recognized for their ability to identify and develop players with soccer skills. Players are evaluated on the four components that make up a soccer player:
US Youth Soccer (USYS) is divided into four regions, each of which offers a regional ID event for state association ODP players in each eligible age group.
South Texas is in the Southern Region and their ID event is designed to provide high-level training and competition for participating players. During the event, players who are top performers are identified and invited for Region Pools, teams, and events in addition to possible USYS National team participation.
Inter-regional and USYS National events are held throughout the year at various locations in the United States.
ODP Purpose & Selection Process
ODP Player Pathway
