Ultra-5 and English Premier League Youth Soccer Training at APC

 What is ULTRA5 Youth Soccer Training?

by Richard Huxford

To give young soccer players the best development opportunities, local soccer clubs and particularly coaches, must strive to create a training environment that includes the latest techniques, technology and philosophies that embrace the modern game. Following a detailed analysis of Manchester United’s youth development program and an in-depth study of leading youth programs around the world, a model for good practice was formed. ULTRA5 is a player-centred, youth training system that is committed to identify, assess and develop the key elements of soccer performance. Ultimately, it is the development of these key elements that are crucial in providing talented young soccer players the best opportunities to reach their potential. These five areas include athleticism, skills, tactics, cognitive capability and innovation. Although each area is inter-related and of significant importance, the focus of the APC indoor camp will center around two of the five areas: athletic and skills assessment by using competition and fun games to instruct and develop your child. This comprehensive program is based on leading clubs and what they are implementing throughout the English Premier League (EPL). Distinct features of the ULTRA5 program designed to benefit your child include:

·         Strong emphasis on soccer-specific diagnosis and testing of players using the same technology and protocol as that of leading clubs. ‘We need to know where we’re at, before we decide where we would like to go’.

·         Full printout of individual athletic profile that is graded in accordance to EPL academy players.

·         Tailored recommendations based on findings in relation to the key elements/demands of the game.

·         Structured action plans to really focus development for each individual player.

·         Opportunities to learn more about what it takes to become a professional, or learn more about what it means to be a professional player.

“Talent is limited, without opportunity.”

A typical day at camp is listed below.

WEDNESDAY

Time	Activity
11.15 – 11.45	Introduction & discussion of topic – Mental Agility / Reactive Speed
11.45 – 12.15	Warm Up
12.15 – 1.15	Test 4: Decision Making Test (without ball)                     – cut left    x 2                      - straight   x 2                                - cut right  x 2                      - choice x 2                                                                                                   Decision Making Test  (with a ball)                      – cut left    x 2                       - straight   x 2                                                                                                  - cut right x 2                       - choice x 2            Test 5: Serpentine Test:              3, 6, 9, 12, 15 m   x 2 without ball              3, 6, 9, 12, 15 m   x 2 with the ball
1.30 – 1.45	Drinks Break
1.45 – 2.15	Re Visiting Movement Techniques e.g. Head UP, reacting with good technique and posture
2.15 – 3.15	Grid Work – Individual & Team games, with & without the ball. Head up, Spatial Awareness
3.15 – 4.00	2 v 2 games

Do you have a question for Richard? You can email him directly here! 

ULTRA5 English Premier League youth soccer training will be offered throughout the month of July at the Athletic Performance Center. Four 1-week sessions are designed for competitive soccer players from 8-16 years of age. 

There are some spaces left, but these sessions are limited to 25 athletes per week.

Register online NOW to reserve your spot!