DFW Tornados

	The Objectives and Aims of the Academy...

	The academy has a number of aims which are inter-related and cannot be reached independently.

	The ultimate aim of producing highly skilled and motivated players cannot be reached unless the primary aim of making soccer fun is maintained along the way. Without enjoyment of the game, producing players/young adults with “high personal standards” cannot be reached (another major aim of the academy).

	The Academy Coaches believe that without the vital ingredient of enjoyment, players will not progress. We will increase the player’s enjoyment and nurture the player’s love of the game.

	The DFW Tornados Youth Academy helps produce a player’s “high personal standard” by emphasizing discipline. Disciplined behavior, both on and off the field, is expected. Since players are representing the Academy, they are expected to show respect to officials, opponents, spectators and hosts at all times.

	-	disciplined in punctuality and practice/game attire
	-	disciplined and open to receiving instruction and following instructions at
		Academy practices, listening to coaches
	-	disciplined in accepting the responsibility of their own development by hours of
		repetition at home of all the techniques learned in Academy
	-	disciplined in working within a team by playing different roles within the team
		when needed
	-	disciplined in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and learning the proper levels of
		training, nutrition and rest for player’s personal, individual well-being


	Balance between Training and Proper Rest - We stress the importance that all players have a balance between training and rest. It is vital that parents support the Academy’s position in achieving this balance.

	During part of the summer we intentionally give breaks to our players to eliminate “over-training.” Year-round play is not in the best interest of the child. We know that other organizations continue from outdoor play straight into indoor play in an attempt to keep the players from going elsewhere. This tactic is well known. However, these children will soon burn out and quit soccer. We make our decisions on what is best for the player, not what is best for recruitment. This is why the majority of the players in our Club, stay with the Club and even continue to play as adults.

	We continue to offer quality instruction in the summer by providing camps from June through August, mornings and afternoons, indoors and out. This allows families flexibility at vacation time without the pressure of missing games or being replaced on a team. Not only do the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer Associations back our position, but the European and South American models of Academies also support it.