SWM Kickers Formation of Teams Policy

SWM SC offers boys and girls, ages U6 to U19, the chance to train and play within our Academy Program and Kickers Competitive Teams. The Academy Program is designed for boys and girls ages U6, U7, and U8, providing a fun and engaging introduction to soccer with training sessions and game play opportunities through Jamborees. As players grow, they can progress into more competitive training with our Kickers teams, building skills and experience to take their game to the next level.

At the younger ages, SWM Kickers teams are designed to focus on developing players’ technical skills. The formation of these teams will be guided by the SWM Kickers Director of Coaching (DOC) and Director of Player Development (DPD) to ensure the maximum development of each player selected for all teams.

Typically, teams are formed by age group, with most being single age group teams. Based on tryout numbers when more than one team is formed in a specific age group, players will divide into multiple teams. The “Blue” teams are typically made up of players who are better prepared to compete physically, mentally, and in terms of skill development. The “White, Gray, or Black” teams are varying degrees of ability to compete physically, mentally, and in terms of skill development. These developmental teams provide growth opportunities for the remaining players. 

When two or more teams are formed, academy-style training will be encouraged, allowing multiple teams to train together for collaborative development. This method leverages varying coaching skill levels.

In situations where there are insufficient players to form a single birth-year team, age groups may be combined to form a team. Team placement will be guided by SWM DOC within the WMYSA and MSPSP rules.