RICHMOND, VA – (Tuesday, April 28, 2009) – The Richmond Kickers Youth Soccer Club is pleased to introduce a new Advanced Development Program (ADP) for U-7 and U-8 players.  Kickers ADP is a new instructional program dedicated to talented and enthusiastic youth players.  The program is offered to young U-7 and U-8 players to provide a quality and enjoyable soccer environment that will enhance their skills, coordination, and understanding of the game.  The primary objective is to introduce all ADP players to the fundamental technical skills and decision-making needed to participate on Kickers ADSL Travel teams (U-9 to U-12).  The program provides a transitional link between recreational and competitive soccer.

“ADP is the final piece of the Kickers player development system,” comments Richmond Kickers Youth Soccer Club Technical Director Ihor Dotsenko.  “We are very excited about finally initiating this program and we look forward to kicking off in the fall.”  
 
Unlike other ADP programs, the Kickers do not require players to tryout.  Alternatively, players wishing to participate must register their child in advance for the ADP program.  Space is limited and the program is expected to be in high demand so registering early is recommended. 

Sessions are held twice a week and will consist of group instruction and small-sided games.  Licensed professional soccer coaches from within the Kickers technical staff will conduct the sessions.  Players are expected to attend all training sessions and games.  In addition, the ADP program includes festivals whereby Kickers ADP players from all geographic locations will play in two Mini-World Cup style competitions per season.   

The fees for the fall 2009 ADP season are just $125.00 and includes coaching expenses, office operations, field maintenance and league fees.  The programs will be held at Ukrop Park (Chesterfield County/City of Richmond) and Collegiate – Robins Campus (West End/Goochland). 

About Richmond Kickers Youth Soccer Club
The Richmond Kickers Youth Soccer Club is a 501-C3 non-profit organization that was formed in May 2000 when Eastern FC and Richmond United youth clubs joined forces with the Richmond Kickers Pro Club.  Since then, the club has merged with programs in Midlothian, Ashland and Pocoshock.

Today over 4,000 soccer players participate in recreational programs sponsored by the Kickers and partner clubs; Midlothian Youth Soccer League, Ashland Youth Soccer League, City of Richmond Parks and Rec., Goochland United Soccer Association and Collegiate School. The Kickers travel program consists of 60 teams and over 900 players who compete in the US Soccer Academy Program, Super Y-League, VCCL and ADSL.  The club was recently named as one of only 30 adidas Sports Marketing Clubs in the U.S... The club provides opportunities for all players of all abilities and unites soccer in the Central Virginia community.  Benefits include economy of scale, consistency of coaching philosophy, professional administrative and coaching staff expertise, positive role models for youth players and a clear pathway from youth to pro for aspiring young players.