👉 What is the Arlington Development Program (ADP) and what are the benefits?
The Arlington Development Program (ADP) is designed for players with above-average skills and a strong desire to further enhance their abilities and love for the game.
ADP offers a higher level of training and competition than Arlington Soccer’s Recreational Program by grouping players of similar abilities together for both practices and matches. Players are trained and observed by professional coaches in a structured, development-focused environment.
Key Benefits of ADP
- Advanced Skill Development – Emphasis on technical and tactical growth
- Professional Coaching – Sessions led and supported by experienced professional staff
- Appropriate Player Grouping – Training and games with players of similar ability
- Balanced Commitment – A higher level than recreational soccer with less cost, travel, and time commitment than travel soccer
- Holistic Development – Social, physical, and cognitive development are prioritized each season, along with promoting a positive style of play
ADP provides an ideal pathway for players seeking meaningful development in a professional environment while maintaining balance with other commitments.
👉 What is the tryout process?
ADP offers one (1) day tryouts for each age group. Tryout dates, details, and registration information are posted on the website when available.
Details and registration link - arlingtonsoccer.com/programs/adp/adp-tryout-info
All players are evaluated during tryouts by the ADP professional coaching staff, along with additional evaluators, to ensure a thorough and objective assessment.
Players selected for ADP participate in both the Fall and Spring seasons.
Prior to the Spring season, a March tryout may be held to fill any open roster spots created by players who do not return.
PLEASE NOTE: Only players who are not currently in ADP are required to attend these spring tryouts.
👉 How do I determine the right age group for my child?
To determine the appropriate age group for your child, please see the table below:
|
AGE GROUP
|
BORN
|
|
U9 Boys
|
2017
|
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U9 Girls
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2017
|
|
U10 Boys
|
2016
|
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U10 Girls
|
2016
|
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U11 Boys
|
2015
|
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U11 Girls
|
2015
|
|
U12 Boys
|
2014
|
|
U12 Girls
|
2014
|
👉 Can my child try out for a different age group?
In the ADP program, players must try out for the age group corresponding to their birth year. Unlike the travel program, ADP generally does not allow players to “play up” in an older age group.
This ensures that players are grouped with others of similar age and ability, supporting optimal development and a positive training environment.
👉 How many players are selected for each team?
ADP team roster sizes are designed to match the format of play:
- U9 and U10: 7v7 format, typically 10–12 players per roster
- U11 and U12: 9v9 format, typically 12–14 players per roster
Rosters may be adjusted to an 8v8 format if needed based on the number of players selected.
This ensures that all players get meaningful playing time and development opportunities.
👉 How are players evaluated and selected for ADP teams?
ADP tryouts consist of small-sided games, during which players are evaluated across several key areas. The three most important criteria are technical ability, speed, and character.
1) Technical Ability
- Can the player handle the ball under pressure and in tight spaces?
- Are passing, dribbling, and ball control skills effective in game situations?
2) Speed
- Pure Speed: Can the player move quickly from point A to B?
- Technical Speed: Can the player handle the ball effectively while moving under pressure?
- Tactical Speed: Can the player make quick, smart decisions with and without the ball?
3) Character
- Does the player enjoy competing?
- Are they a positive influence on teammates?
- Do they demonstrate a high work rate?
- Do they bring passion and energy to training and games?
Players are evaluated in these areas, along with additional factors, to create balanced teams that provide competitive, exciting matches. This approach ensures the best development environment for all players.
Players who are not selected for ADP will receive guidance on Recreational Soccer and other Arlington Soccer programs that match their interests and abilities.
👉 When and where do ADP teams practice?
ADP teams practice in Arlington County at fields allocated by the Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreation and organized by Arlington Soccer.
✅ Where Do The Teams Practice?
- Fields are located throughout Arlington County.
- Primary / Pool sessions are held on turf fields.
- Team or Secondary sessions may be held anywhere in the county, usually on grass fields.
- Teams must train at their assigned location, day, and time
✅ When Do The Teams Practice?
- 2x per week
- Seasons begin:
- Late August or early September (Fall)
- March or early April (Spring)
- The season runs 8–9 weeks, with a 7–8 game schedule.
✅ Practice Format (Depending on Structure)
ADP teams practice twice weekly in one of the following formats:
Option 1: Two Pool Sessions
- Primary pool session – 75 minutes (professional coach, turf field)
- Secondary pool session – 60 minutes (professional coach + volunteer coaches, often grass)
Option 2: One Team + One Pool Session
- Team session – 60 minutes (volunteer coach with professional oversight, often grass)
- Pool session – 75 minutes (professional coach, turf field)
PLEASE NOTE: All players must train with their assigned team at their assigned team training location and day. We suggest that you work within your team to look for carpool options
👉 Who do ADP teams play?
ADP teams play other ADP teams within their same age group through Arlington Soccer.
Each team plays 7–8 scheduled matches in both the Fall and Spring seasons. While scores are recorded (along with game notes) to monitor competitive balance across age groups, results are not the priority. The primary focus is on player and team development.
👉 How many teams will the ADP have in my child's age group?
The number of teams in each age group varies. This depends on:
- The number of players attending tryouts
- The overall talent level within each age group’s player pool
👉 What is the ADP Curriclum?
The ADP curriculum mirrors the travel program curriculum to help accelerate player development and ensure consistency across programs.
👉 Who will be coaching an ADP game?
All ADP games are coached by the team’s volunteer coaches, with each team assigned at least two volunteer coaches.
In addition, a professional coach from Arlington Soccer will be present at each game location (some locations have multiple fields) to support volunteer coaches, players, and referees, and to ensure the club’s program philosophies are upheld.
👉 How are the coaches selected for each team?
ADP teams are coached by one professional coach and two parent volunteer coaches.
Arlington Soccer employs a licensed professional coaching staff under the supervision of the club’s Director of ADP and Technical Director. All professional pool coaches are hired and paid by the club and are assigned to training pools to best support overall player development.
Volunteer coaches are typically parents, family friends, or former/current players interested in coaching. All volunteer coaches must register with the club and complete a background check.
The coaching staff is evaluated annually by the ADP Director and may be rotated among teams to maximize player development.
👉 What is the time commitment?
ADP, offered by Arlington Soccer, competes in two seasons per year:
- Fall: 8–9 weeks (late August–early November)
- Spring: 8–9 weeks (late March–June)
Teams play approximately 7–8 games per season, with all games scheduled on Saturdays or Sundays. Players also train 2x per week throughout each season.
✅ Player Expectations
- Attendance at all practices and games is expected.
- Players may participate in Rec soccer, but ADP must be their priority.
- Players may not participate in travel soccer while in ADP.
- Families are expected to fully commit for the duration of each season.
Players who frequently miss training sessions or games may receive reduced playing time or may not be invited to return to the program.
👉 Can Teams Share Players?
Yes. If a team does not have enough players to field a full team or have substitutes, a same-age “brother” or “sister” team may loan one or two players for the match.
If possible, this should be coordinated the night before to ensure the game starts on time. The TeamSnap app can be used to communicate and arrange player sharing between teams.
👉 Can ADP players train with other teams or pool groups?
No. Players are expected to train only with their assigned team to build cohesion and develop as a true unit.
Requests to train with other teams or pool groups due to scheduling conflicts with other sports or activities will not be considered. Families should ensure they can fully commit before accepting an invitation to join ADP.
👉 What is ADP - Recreational or Travel Soccer?
ADP is a travel program, meaning it follows the same travel soccer philosophies:
- Players are placed on teams to create parity and competition, not based on friends, former rec teammates, or neighbors.
- Selected players are expected to prioritize ADP games and training over other programs.
- Proper behavior and commitment at practices and games is required. Players who are disruptive, uncommitted, or behind in development may receive less playing time or may be asked to leave and/or not return the following year.
- Training schedules are fixed; conflicts with team or pool sessions are not grounds for switching players.
Once placed on a team, players remain with that team throughout their time in ADP. Any issues should be addressed with the professional coach.
👉 How much does ADP soccer cost?
Each player pays a program fee that covers:
- Professional coaching salaries
- Referee fees
- State registration fees and player insurance
- Club administrative and staff expenses
- Other program costs
Uniforms and practice shirts are purchased separately online through the club’s supplier, Score, with families notified when it’s time to order.
Arlington Soccer also offers financial aid for families in need. Aid is funded through proceeds from camps, clinics, and parent donations, ensuring that financial status does not prevent participation.
👉 Is financial aid available, and how does one apply?
Yes. Arlington Soccer offers financial aid to ensure that all players can participate, regardless of financial status. Aid is funded through proceeds from camps, clinics, and parent donations.
To apply or learn more, contact the Arlington Soccer office at info@arlingtonsoccer.com.
👉 Are refunds available after program fees are paid?
- Before February 13: Players who withdraw in writing to info@arlingtonsoccer.com will receive a refund minus an administrative fee.
- After February 13: Refunds are only considered for documented season-ending injuries. A signed and dated letter from a doctor must be provided. Refunds for injuries will be prorated in accordance with the club’s financial aid policy.
👉 What is the ADP Fall Festival?
The ADP Fall Festival is an end-of-season event organized by Arlington Soccer. It celebrates the conclusion of the fall season, with details and scheduling shared in early November.
For additional questions, please contact info@arlingtonsoccer.com.
