The Richmond Kickers Academy Teams will play DC United for the first time in US Soccer Developmental Academy League History later this week. This will mark an important milestone for the Kickers Youth Development program as the Kickers will face another US professional clubs youth team. Both the U16 and U18 games are scheduled to kick-off at 2:00 pm on Tuesday June 24th at Bryan Park. 

Ihor Dotsenko, Youth Club Technical Director comments, “Our coaching staff have always envisioned a day when professional clubs would be involved in the day to day development of youth player in their community. We have always strived to create an environment whereby young Richmond players have the ambition to play for the Kickers. I know our Academy players love the added ingredient of competing against other professional clubs and especially MLS Clubs. 

He adds, “Worldwide Professional clubs have played an important and active role in youth development and it’s great that is now happening across the US and especially in Richmond.”

Launched in the fall of 2007 after a detailed review of player development systems in the U.S. and across the world, the US Soccer Development Academy has provided over 3,000 players, 400 coaches and 500 referees with a nationally-coordinated program designed to enhance their development environment. Focusing on all aspects of player development, the Academy has improved the training environment, provided relevant, high-level matches on a consistent basis, increased the level and efficiency of scouting for the national teams and provided players, coaches and referees with structured programming.