The following is a list that will hopefully answer your questions about the transition to U8 to U9.
Team Formation:
Teams will remain intact from the U8 season; some players may be added depending on need. Roster will be around 10-12. Players will be placed according to interest level and location. U9 teams will be playing in the 6v6 format, consisting of five field players and one goalkeeper.
Time Commitment:
Teams will have 7-8 games per season (Fall/Spring). They will train two times a week for 60-75 minutes.
Financial Commitment:
$185.00 for the year (Fall/Spring)
$140.00 for a single season
$60.00 for the club mandatory uniform
$350.00 for the year playing on Cross Quadrant teams (includes Adidas Predator Program and CYS League fee)
Coach Training Provided:
Coaches need to attend pre-season meetings to pick up team packets. The club will announce coaching clinics for Academy coaches.
Previous Playing experience:
Some players have been playing since U5, for others this may be their first year. Option 1 teams require advanced skills and commitment
Competition Level:
For this age group there are 2 levels:
- Fusion In-House leagues. This is where you were playing last season. Teams will be divided into strength based leagues (A Flight and B Flight) and play games in Denver and Aurora.
- Cross Quadrant: This is a front-range league where you will play the best teams from the front-range area. This league is the most demanding one and has Gold, Silver and Bronze flights. It offers the best preparation for competitive soccer at U11 and requires participation in the Adidas Predator Program. Travel is required.
Adidas Predator Program
Predator 1: At this age the U9 players have the option to sign up for the Adidas Predator Program. This program is for players that are looking for additional skills training and preparation for competitive soccer. Fusion staff coaches run the sessions. These sessions take place on Friday nights at Lowry. The program consists of 16 sessions per year, 8 per season. The Cost is $150.00 per year
Predator 2: Predator 2 requires whole team sign up. A Fusion staff coach will be assigned to the team and conduct 16 sessions per year, 8 per season in accordance with the team’s schedule. The Cost is $1,200.00 per team per year.
FAQs Here are some frequently asked questions about our U10 program:
- What is the main difference between U8 and U9 soccer?
The team format changes from 4 a-side to 6 a-side; the field size goes to
55 x 35 yards and the teams play with two lines (defenders and attackers). U9 represents the first year where teams may elect to participate in the intermediate program (Cross Quadrant) and play out-of-house in a league that includes other clubs.
- How are players assigned to U9 teams?
Teams remain intact from U8. If needed, players will be added to form 10-12 player rosters. Players are generally assigned to neighborhood teams to allow players to play with their friends and share rides to practices and games. Returning players are re-assigned to their previous team unless the player requests a team change, or registration form is not received by the posted deadline. Requests to play on a specific team (including Cross Quadrant teams) will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with club guidelines. All player movements require program director’s approval. Team coaches may not add, transfer or remove players without club approval.
- What additional training opportunities are available for U9 players?
The Adidas Predator Program consists of a combination of technical and tactical topics with emphasis on technical development of the players. The curriculum will cover important topics such as dribbling, finishing, passing, receiving, shielding, 1v1s, headings, combination play and individual and small group defending.
The F.I.T. Program offers customized training sessions for individual players and small groups (up to four). Our Fusion Camps throughout the year offer a variety of technical and tactical skills training. Please check our website for details.
- Are there any guidelines for playing time?
All players should at least play half a game as long as they are participating in all training sessions. Coaches may adjust playing time due to behavior issues.
- Are club uniforms required?
Yes, Fusion club uniforms are required for U9 and older teams. They are available for $60 at Soccer Stop in Aurora, I-225 and Parker
