A message from our Commissioner, Denise Hoffman-Cantrell
Wow, after 12 years as Commissioner, I will be retiring at the end of the Fall 2010 season. Over the past years, our soccer program has grown and matured to a strong and successful youth program – a great force in Anne Arundel County! I am proud of what we have accomplished and I know our success is due to our board, coaches and parent volunteers. While searching for my replacement as Commissioner, I uncovered a wealth of dedicated coaches and parents – all with the talent and drive to continue to grow our program. One thing I have learned over the years of recruiting volunteers, if you find talent and dedication, you have hit a gold mine.
Speaking of gold mines, Laura Bjorn has graciously stepped into the role of Commissioner. I will work with Laura throughout the summer and fall to ensure a smooth transition. Not that Laura needs the guidance – but because we are all busy expanding our program! Because of all the individuals who have stepped up to support our program, we are able to truly grow. It is a great way to end my tenure.
Many thanks and many memories,
Denise Hoffman-Cantrell
Davidsonville Soccer
Davidsonville Athletic Association has expanded its soccer program to include all ages at all levels of competition. From 4 years old to 18 years old – there is a program for everyone at every level. At the development level, we offer very small teams of 3 to 6 players up to age 15. These games provide lots of playing time in a fun low-key environment. At the beginning level of competitive play, we offer boys and girls County recreational teams. For the committed athlete, our Travel/Select teams provide an elite level of play in the top leagues in Maryland and Virginia.
Which program is best for my player?
Our program is designed to meet the needs of every soccer player at every skill level from beginner, to intermediate, to advanced. Our objective is to introduce soccer to kids as early as age 4 and to create an environment in which every child can enjoy the love of the game and to play without fear of failure. Our program builds upon the age appropriate skill-set that best suits the needs of each player. We have three distinct programs for players from age 4 to age 18. These programs provide a clear path for players to reach their individual potential.
Below, we provide a brief description of our programs to help you decide what is best for your player. The world of youth sports can be overwhelming, so if you need help in determining the best fit for your player, please contact us: PlayerDevelopment.
The Youth Development program provides an exciting soccer experience for players age 4 - 18. The season starts when school starts and typically goes until the first week of November.
Under 9 years old: Groups are based on age - Little Kickers (Under 5 years old), Jr. Strikers (6 - 7 years old) and Middies (Under 9 years old). The format will be small sided play (3v3, 4v4, and 6v6). Players will be evaluated at the beginning of the Fall season to create the most balanced teams in their age group. Teams practice twice a week but typically drop back to one practice a week after games start. The practice days and times are decided by individual coaches but typically start by 5:30.
9 years old and up: We offer our most exciting addition to our soccer program – the Dutch!¹ This program meets the needs of a wide range of kids looking for anything from purely recreational play to those players within our County and Travel programs looking for more ball touches. This is a great opportunity to advance a player’s technical skill set. The program will offer fast, high paced small sided tactics (4v4) in the simplest format of play. Players will be evaluated at the beginning of the Fall season to create the most balanced teams. This program is perfect for players who want to have a lot of touches, improve their skills, but might not be ready or want to commit to the next level of competition. Great for middle school and high school kids who just want to have fun with friends. Teams practice once a week and play games on the same night making this program a 90 minute per week commitment.
Teams are grouped by age and skill, starting at age 9 thru age 18. Davidsonville Athletic Association participates in the Anne Arundel County soccer program. Davidsonville teams are grouped by age as governed by Anne Arundel County. This league is the first step in competitive play outside of Davidsonville. Teams travel throughout Anne Arundel County to compete. County soccer groups teams in divisions typically with 1 as the highest and 5 as the lowest. Davidsonville conducts evaluations of players, forms teams, and places teams in the appropriate division. Great for kids who want to experience competitive play outside our community. The season starts when school starts and ends typically around the first week of November.
Teams are grouped by age, starting at age 9 thru age 18. For the elite athlete that is ready to commit to soccer, we offer a comprehensive and competitive program. Travel soccer requires a greater commitment both in time and money. Training is often provided by professional trainers. Most teams practice and play year-round including Fall /Spring leagues (WAGS and BBSL), winter indoor, and tournaments throughout the year. However, the level of commitment varies across each team. Tryouts are required and are held in late May or early June. Some teams hold tryouts throughout the year depending on the team's needs. Great for kids who are passionate about the sport and ready to dedicate the time and effort to reach their highest potential.
Next Steps
Our programs require registration, and in some cases, evaluations of the player's skill. To find out more about each of our programs and how to participate, click on the menus to the left or through the table below.
|
Age |
Program |
Team Size |
Name |
|
Under 5 years old |
Development |
3 v 3 (6 on roster) |
Little Kickers |
|
Age 6 – 7 |
Development |
4 v 4 (7 on roster) |
Jr. Strikers |
|
Age 8 |
Development |
6 v 6 (9 on roster) |
Middies |
|
Age 9 – 15 |
Development |
4 v 4 (7 on roster) |
Dutch Soccer |
|
Age 9 – 18 |
Beginning Level of Competition |
Varies |
County |
|
Age 10 - 18 |
Highest Level of Competition |
Varies |
Travel / Select |
¹Dutch! The Dutch determined that soccer on a full field is broken down into many smaller games between 3-4 players at a time. And by replicating these small sided games players can develop much more quickly. It's a globally recognized format for developing soccer skills at ever age.
