ACADEMY LEVEL

U11-U19

Academy Level (Elite)

Overview

The Academy Program is the highest level within Sandy Spring Soccer Club’s Travel pathway, designed for the club’s most advanced players. Academy teams compete at the national level and represent the highest commitment to player development, training, and competitive play.


Commitment & Expectations

  • Practices:
  • Fall/Spring: 2-3 team sessions per week with highly licensed coaches
  • Winter: 2 team sessions per week
  • Accommodations made for high school players in fall
  • Games: Top-tier league play, showcases, and tournaments across the region
  • Season Length: 10.5-month commitment (August – June)
  • Travel: Away games across DC, MD, VA, plus competitive tournaments outside of the DMV


Player Profile

  • Club’s most elite players committed to advanced soccer opportunities
  • Strong technical skills, tactical understanding, and competitive drive
  • Families prepared for the highest level of time and travel commitment


Competition & Leagues

  • Competes in EDP (Elite Development Program)
  • High school age groups
  • Potential exposure for college recruiting
  • Regular participation in showcases and tournaments


Cost

  • $575 (Returners) – $675 (New). These fees are per season and can be paid in installments.  
  • Covers professional coaching, uniforms, league fees, tournaments, State Cup (if applicable), field costs, and club operations
  • Financial aid available for qualifying families (apply before accepting a team invite)


Tryouts

  • ID sessions held throughout the year
  • Tryouts: Early spring for the following seasonal year
  • Contact the Technical Director if interested in an ID session


Contact

  • Technical Director: Justin Reid - jreid@sandyspringsoccer.com


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2026 Spring Season

Dates: March 10 – June 21, 2026

Schedule

  • Tuesdays & Thursdays: Trainings (Times range between 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm)
  • Saturdays & Sundays: Games (Vary)


Who Can Join?

Academy Level Boys - Birth years 2008–2015

(Not all age groups have teams at the moment, so please our Technical Director with any questions)

Tournaments

Teams will participate in 1–2 tournaments during the season.