WYSA Press Release on the Wisconsin Developmental Academy
Wisconsin Developmental Academy Description and Frequently Asked Questions
Email sent by WYSA to all state families on June 19th, 2012:
Some time ago, the WYSA started developing a new program that came to be known as the Wisconsin Developmental Academy (WDA). This model was approved by the WYSA Board. Since that time, there has been a fair amount of confusion, conversation and adjustments. Some of these conversations include assumptions about motivations and intent.
Allow us to be perfectly clear. These are common questions and some of the assertions being made:
What is the WDA? - The Wisconsin Developmental Academy is a different player development model. It focuses on trainings over an emphasis on just competition. The WDA model also requires a higher level of licensing for coaches and a Director of Coaching for the club and program. It will be good for many, however, not all players, parents or clubs will desire to follow the model. And that’s okay.
The WDA is an alternative form of competition; it is a different model for player development. As indicated above, the emphasis is on developing all players. The starters of the team, may not be in all the time, in order to give another player time to develop on the field.
Games will still be conducted that same as other competitions, including referees, halves, etc. There will be scores kept. The standings will not be used for team promotion or relegation. There will be some flexibility in game day rosters and player participation.
Why are there only nine clubs participating now? - The pilot group of clubs approached WYSA offered to start the program so we could learn and understand how the flexible rostering and scheduling works interacting with our other competitions, including State Cup, State League, MRL, etc. It is our plan to offer this support and model to more clubs throughout the state that wish to participate in the philosophies of the program. These teams will be able to participate in State Cup, we need to insure a smooth and complete acceptance based on rules for the entire National Championship Series. In addition, the clubs may submit non-WDA players and teams to participate in the State League. Again, we have to work out the details.
There are several clubs that were unhappy with the process to start the pilot program. Through their request, we started a second conference. After looking at the progress of the second conference a decision was made to suspend it for 8 months. Again, to give the pilot group and WYSA time to learn how this might work.
As with any new program (in soccer, business or anywhere) there will be bumps in the road and unintended consequences. It is up to each family to decide if they want to be part of that, or let others work the kinks out.
How is the Developmental Academy different from the Youth Academy? - Several years ago, WYSA started a Youth Academy Accreditation Program. Currently there are 18 Accredited Youth Academy clubs in WYSA. The Youth Academy model is for players U-10 and below. More information is available for the Youth Academy at http://www.wiyouthsoccer.com/Left_Navigation/Programs/Academies.htm. This concept of allowing players to play in pools and get better trainings was started there. The Youth Academy also reduces the emphasis on games and emphasizes trainings with the correct number and distribution of meaningful competitions.
The academy model, both Youth for under 10 years old and Developmental for 11 and older will evolve and expand. It is a concept used in many countries around the world to focus on player development and avoid excessive participation in competition.
What is the US Club Soccer League that is starting up? - The WYSA clubs that were unhappy with the suspension of the second conference contacted US Club Soccer, which is an organization that competes with WYSA in the Youth Soccer area. These clubs aligned themselves to try to offer a league to compete with the WDA. It does not appear that this league incorporates the best practices of a academy format. All indications are that they will continue to participate in the WYSA State and local leagues.
Will the 9 pilot clubs get preferential treatment for State League, Midwest Regional League or State Cup Placement? – No. All as indicated above, we are trying to figure out how the flexible rostering and game day concept interacts with traditional competition models such as State Premier League. In addition, the State Cup opportunities have to be defined and presented to the State Cup Committee for incorporation. In addition, there has to be consideration of Regional and National Championship Rules. State Cup placement for 2012 – 2013 will follow the current rules based on performance during the 2011-2012 play year.
What is the best way for my child to go for the coming year? - We cannot make that decision for you, as each family must decide what is best for them. The WDA is a different format, a new youth development model that may not be a fit for all youth soccer players and families. In the words of Bob Gansler, Former USSF Men’s National Team and Major League Soccer Coach, “The game always needs to be played for enjoyment but the process should also provide our young players the opportunities to grow and flourish. The guiding principles of practice content and game dosage administered by knowledgeable and caring individuals in this Wisconsin Developmental Academy concept …”
Is it the goal of Wisconsin Youth soccer to have few clubs with multiple teams at each age level? - No. There is no desire or intent to reduce or eliminate any member clubs. In fact, WYSA cannot do that as long as a club is in good standing (we have never placed a club in not good standing). We are constantly looking for ways to offer addition options in the sport of soccer. This includes high school age co-ed recreational, futsal, and adult soccer. We endeavor to offer a spectrum that will meet the needs of the widest audience possible.
Will all clubs be part of the WDA? - It will be up to each club. It takes a unique focus on the part of the club to participate in the academy model. Smaller clubs may be able to meet the criteria of the program, working with the WYSA Directors of Coaching.
In summary, it is surprising how much information that is incomplete or incorrect is being shared. Clubs try to present their organization in the best light to attract players. This has been happening for many years (almost forever). We hope to give you the clearest information available in this format. As always WYSA looks for ways to offer all our players the widest selection of options for participating in soccer, while maintaining the most effective support to all our members, based here in Wisconsin.
We continue to offer State Leagues, State Cup, Olympic Development Program, Coaching education throughout the state, collaboration with the Wisconsin Referee Program, TOPS Soccer, tournament sanctioning and all of the other programs you see. Our staff lives, works and supports Wisconsin members both in the office and throughout the state. The Board is made of elected representatives from throughout the state and work in your areas.