USL ACADEMY STANDARDS
The purpose of the USL Academy Standards is to create optimal player development environments and provide local youth
prospects the best chance of reaching the professional level. All league-approved USL Academy programs will be required
to meet a set of minimum standards across a series of categories listed below. By developing these standards, USLHQ aims
to pursue the following key goals:
Build Pathways: Establish as many youth to pro player development pathways as possible, linking elite youth organizations
with USL Senior Teams in Championship, Super League, League One, League Two & W League.
Produce Players: Increase the number & quality of locally produced talents for USL Senior Teams, while striving to develop
world-class players able to compete at the highest level.
Drive Return on Investment: Provide USL ownership groups an eMicient player development model for their Senior Teams,
while increasing the likelihood of a return on that investment.
Improve Quality: Improve the standard of long-term player development programs across the United States, positively impacting
every aspect of those environments & pathways.
Purpose:
Commencing with the 2024-2025 season, Fort Lauderdale United FC (FTL UTD) will launch its USL Academy Program.
Under Academy Agreements, players will have the opportunity to be integrated into a professional setting, enabling them to fulfill their
aspirations by competing at an elite level, whilst preserving their eligibility for college sports, all without financial remuneration.
What type of players will you be fielding to represent Fort Lauderdale United FC’s USL Academy teams?
The Fort Lauderdale United FC USL Academy teams are at the heart of a premier player development initiative, uniquely designed for
the region’s most promising talents. This initiative not only aims to elevate players to the pinnacle of soccer, including collegiate
soccer, youth national teams, and professional ranks but also ensures they retain their college eligibility, nurturing their dreams
and potential to excel at a competitive level. Moreover, we proudly stand as the sole pathway in South Florida that empowers our female
athletes with the chance to train and compete within a professional setting, utilizing elite facilities. This is a testament to our commitment to
fostering inclusivity and excellence in sports.
Under the meticulous guidance of the Fort Lauderdale United FC technical staM, every facet of the program is executed with a high degree
of professionalism. This strategic approach guarantees a consistent development of play and club style, ensuring that our athletes are
well-prepped for success on and oM the field.
Selection Process?
Identification and selection for potential inclusion in the Fort Lauderdale United FC USL Academy program are conducted through a
multifaceted approach. This includes recommendations from youth clubs, direct scouting by the FTL UTD technical staM, and
referrals from various sources. Following this identification process, players deemed to possess the requisite potential for the Academy
will receive a formal invitation to partake in training sessions with the USL Academy team. Subsequent to these training sessions, those
who meet the Academy’s criteria will be formally oMered positions on the USL Academy team.
Included Benefits:
Fort Lauderdale United FC USL Academy players will receive an exclusive array of professional-level training and support designed to enhance
their development and performance on and oM the field. This comprehensive support package includes:
• First team experience: opportunities to play in games if signed to the academy agreement.
• Professional Training Sessions: Rigorous, high-quality training sessions conducted by experienced coaches, aimed at honing skills and tactical understanding.
• Access to Professional Facilities: Use of top-tier soccer facilities for training and games, ensuring an optimal environment for growth and development.
• Pro Gym Workout Plan: Customized gym workout plans tailored for soccer athletes, focusing on strength, endurance, and injury prevention.
• Home Game Access: Opportunities to attend home games, providing insights into the professional game environment and team tactics.
• Video Analysis: Detailed video analysis sessions to review performances, highlight areas for improvement, and develop a deeper understanding
of the game.
• Comprehensive Injury Prevention, Mobility, and Strength Training: A holistic approach to physical conditioning, aimed at enhancing player longevity,
mobility, and overall physical resilience.
• Physiotherapy Access: Priority access to the USL League One team’s medical staM for physical assessments, injury treatment, and rehabilitation
referrals.
• Development Pathway: A structured development program including periodization, soccer principles, and exposure to senior-level games.
• Individual Development Plan: Tailored plans focusing on each player’s unique needs and goals, facilitating personalized development.
• Individual Periodization: Custom schedules designed to optimize strength, mobility, and injury prevention for each athlete.
• Connection and Relationships with Professional StaU: Opportunities to build meaningful connections with the professional team’s staM,
enriching the player’s network and support system.
Trainings:
3-4 times per week and TBD based on invitation and selection.
Academy Education:
To ensure players achieve academic success alongside their athletic development, the Fort Lauderdale United FC USL Academy team staM
provides comprehensive academic support. This includes regular monitoring through check-ins, academic meetings, and grade evaluations.
As players explore college options, our team oMers extensive resources, including informational panels, personalized counseling, practical advice,
and valuable connections with college coaches, designed to navigate players and their families through the college selection process eMectively.