Academy Level (Elite)
2026 Spring Season

March 10 – June 7

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

• $600 (Returners) – $700 (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)

Payment Structure Update – Fall 2026 Season

Starting with the Fall 2026 season, there will be a slight fee increase. In addition, our program will move to a 10-month payment plan, giving families the option to pay monthly.

Families will still have the option to pay seasonally, divided into three payments, if they prefer.

Annual Fees (includes tournaments)

• New Players: $2,275 + $150 uniform fee
• Returning Players: $2,175
• Both the monthly plan and the 3-payment seasonal option will cover the full annual fee.

*Fee increase explanation - The cost of youth soccer continues to rise, including expenses such as tournaments, league fees, referee fees, and overall operational costs. While our club does receive sponsorship support to help offset these increases, it is not enough to fully absorb them without adjusting fees. Even with this change, our club remains among the most affordable options compared to neighboring programs, and families continue to receive exceptional value and quality for their investment.

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