The Juniors Developmental Program is defined in our club as the younger stages of the youth soccer experience, specifically U8-U12 age groups. Players/families who are a part of the JDP have usually spent time in a recreational program and their player loves the sport and 'wants more'.
What 'More' starts with is more time on the field. At the JDP level our players have a minimum of 2 practice nights per week with a 3rd weekly, optional practice introduced at the U9 level of our programming. At the JDP level we have age building age-based curriculum focused on the technical skills necessary for long term enjoyment of the sport. The long-term goal of the JDP program is to build up all of a player's necessary skills to allow them to progress to higher levels of the game.
JDP begins at the U8 level where these young players are still focused on the basic skill sets needed to have long-term success in the sport. Players are still participating in a co-ed environment and are put on teams for an in-house JDP local league. The U8s program includes 2x a week practices.
U7/U8 (2017 & 2016 born)
At the U9 and U10 age groups, boys teams and girls teams are created to compete in the JDP in-house league. This level continues to be the main piece of competitive programming. We do identify players who are advanced for their age and build programming for this select group of players. The players at U9 and 10 have three practice days/experiences per week.
U9/10 (2015 & 2014 born)
There is significant change within the JDP program at the U11 and U12 age groups. At these age groups, teams are eligible for the NCYSA (North Carolina Youth Soccer Association) league and/or equivalent. A large majority of JDP players at these age groups will be playing on WHYFC teams in these state-wide leagues. These JDP teams will also be in a 3x per week training environment.
U11 (2013 born)
U12 (2012 born)
A short Google Slide on the FAQ's about our JDP Programing and Structure.
For Information on try out and player evaluation info, please email:
JDP Director Kyle Hussey: kyle@wilmingtonhammerheadsyouth.com