NEW YORK RED BULLS REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT SCHOOLS 07/08

The New York Red Bulls set the pace for player development in Major League Soccer, as the only professional team to boast a European style pre-academy program, the Regional Development School ( watch video »)

The RDS offers boys and girls aged 8 - 14 an opportunity to receive supplementary training from New York Red Bull professional trainers. Intended solely for competitive and elite travel players, the advanced curriculum is specially designed to target the technical and functional aspects of the game.

"Over the past 2 years, the RDS has proved to be an invaluable program for scouting and training some of the areas most exciting talents," said Technical Director Jeff Agoos. He continues: "With so many prospects graduating to our full academy, we are very excited to be growing this unique program, and it will not be long before the academy, reserve and first teams begin to see the full benefit."

As the RDS continues to attract some of the most dedicated and talented soccer players around, registration to each of the schools is now strictly subject to try-out. An open try out is held for each location a week prior to the start date, with successful participants being invited back to join the training program on a regular basis.

The strict coaching ratio of 1:12 allows players to receive excellent individual attention and coach interaction, all leading to a comprehensive electronic evaluation at the end of the program. These evaluations provide qualitative feedback that provides parents and coaches with an invaluable tool to aid their player's development.

An exciting feature of the program is that the highest level players from within the Development Schools will be selected to represent the New York Red Bulls RDS in showcase tournaments across the area. Those who truly excel will earn the opportunity to try out for the Academy Team, and begin their journey towards a career as a professional player.

With each RDS location now offering a goalkeeper-specific curriculum, high level keepers are now able to focus on the position specific aspects of their game, such as footwork, handling, shot-stopping and distribution.

With a brand new online registration system, signing up for your free RDS try out has never been easier! Check out this year's programs by clicking on the table below: