ODP for Rookies (FAQ's)
ODP (FAQ's)
This page is designed to give you insight into the process and goals of the US Youth Soccer New Mexico Olympic Development Program!
Along with a brief description of the program and its processes, we have collected a series of questions commonly asked by players, parents and coaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ODP Phase 1?
This is the start and opportunity for players who are interested in wanting to be selected for Phase 2 to be identified. There is no tryout and players will train and play small- and/or full-sided games. During this process, the ODP coaching staff will evaluate the players and select those they feel should be invited to advance to Phase 2 to represent respective state team.
Do we need to attend Phase 1 if we went to Region Camp Last year or made the team last year?
This is a new year and all players who would like to be considered for State Team in 2020-21 as well as be considered for Regional Camp are required to participate in Phase 1. Returning players will need to earn their spots back on the team as the coaching staff has changed.
Do we need to attend all 6 sessions?
Players can attend some or all of the sessions that fits their schedule. Keep in mind that there will be new coaches in all age groups and will be going to both locations.
Can we only go to the Albuquerque or Las Cruces Sessions?
If a player is confident that they only need to one location we would recommend that it is passed on to the coaching staff so they can make note of it.
What are Phase 2 and ODP pool training sessions?
Selected players to Phase 2 are placed in age group pools and participate in ODP pool training sessions. These training sessions are competitive environments where players will be challenged beyond their comfort zones. The teams travel to various events, including the ODP Regional Championships where they can be identified and invited to join a Region IV team or pool.
What is Regional Championships?
The Regional Championships for US Youth Soccer’s Olympic Development Program spotlights the future stars of United States soccer. State teams compete against one another at a location within Region IV to determine which teams are the best in the region. The winners, in some age groups, will compete for the right to be crowned US Youth Soccer ODP National Champion.
What is Regional Camp?
US Youth Soccer is divided into four regions, each region offers a regional camp for state association ODP teams in each eligible age group. The camps are designed to provide high-level competition and training for participating players. During this training and competition, players who are capable of performing at a higher level of play are identified for possible national team camp, pool, or team participation. Only those players who participated in Phase 1 will be eligible as well as recommendation from State Technical Director.
Can we get a list of players going to camp?
No. Region IV handles all things related to Regional Camp, including invitations to players going to camp.
What is a National Camp?
National Camps and Interregional events are held throughout the year at various locations in the United States. The National Team Coach or a National Staff Coach is present at these events to observe, train, and identify players for placement in the national pool or on a national team.
Can a YOP join ODP?
At the discretion of the ODP Director and New Mexico Technical Director, a player in YOP may be asked to join the ODP pool, however this is very rare.
Can a player tryout for an older age group?
No, unless a member of the US Soccer National Teams coaching staff specifically requests a member to the National pool. Each state association does have some flexibility at the younger age groups, but we have adopted a policy, which makes it difficult to move a player up an age group.
