Importance of Summer Training for Soccer Players
Summer is often viewed as downtime for school soccer teams, but it is a crucial period for players to enhance their skills and prepare for the upcoming season. Whether through private training sessions, individual practice, or attending a camp, taking the off-season seriously is essential. Summer soccer camps provide a competitive environment, offering valuable reps against defenders and keeping players sharp. Here, we highlight the best soccer summer camps near Washington, DC, that cater to young athletes.
DC Way
Features, Schedule, and Cost
DC Way is a reputable soccer camp known for its professional instructors and comprehensive training programs. Catering to boys and girls aged four to thirteen, this camp runs from June 17th to August 23rd, offering week-long sessions. The camp costs $450 per week, with an option to pay $105 per day for more flexible attendance. DC Way’s schedule includes half-day payment options, making it accessible for different family schedules.
With seven locations throughout the city, DC Way emphasizes a holistic approach to soccer training. The camp focuses on various aspects of the game each day, starting with dribbling drills and moving on to speed and reaction practice, passing, vision, finishing, and teamwork. In addition to soccer skills, DC Way instills life skills such as honesty, responsibility, and emotional intelligence, making it an excellent option for beginner players looking to develop a well-rounded understanding of the game.
D.C. United Summer Camps
Professional Training and Incentives
Run by the MLS team D.C. United, these summer camps provide high-end soccer training for kids from kindergarten to eighth grade. With locations in the DC area, Bethesda, MD, and Oakton, VA, the camp offers convenient access for many families. The cost is $479 for a week of training, which includes two tickets to a D.C. United home game and a practice jersey, adding extra value to the camp experience.
The camp sessions run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with extended hours available for an additional fee. D.C. United Summer Camps aim to foster a love for soccer in young players while helping them understand all aspects of the game. The professional team ensures that only the best instructors are present, offering versatile drills to challenge players of all skill levels.
DC Soccer Club
Curriculum and Accessibility
DC Soccer Club offers a more affordable option at $350 per week, catering to players aged six to thirteen. Running through August 9th, the camp provides two convenient locations at Jelleff and Turkey Thicket Recreation Centers. The training sessions focus on 1v1 and 2v2 drills, emphasizing attacking, defense, and first touch control.
The camp’s curriculum is designed to help kids become complete players, with drills on dribbling, shooting accuracy, finishing, and creating goal-scoring chances. While the instructors may not be professional-level coaches, they bring valuable experience from coaching at the DC Soccer Club. This camp is ideal for young players looking to develop a versatile offensive skill set in a supportive environment.
Benefits of Summer Camps
Skill Development and Social Interaction
Summer soccer camps offer numerous benefits beyond skill development. They provide a structured environment for young athletes to practice and improve their game while fostering social skills and interaction with peers who share similar interests. Camps encourage teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline, contributing to the overall growth of the participants.
Complementing Camps with Private Training
Individual Attention and Skill Enhancement
While summer camps are excellent for learning new skills and competing against others, they may lack the individual attention needed to address specific areas of improvement. Complementing camp participation with private training sessions can provide the personalized guidance young players need. Platforms like Athletes Untapped offer one-on-one coaching, breaking down each movement to help athletes refine their skills and broaden their understanding of the game.
Athletes Untapped connects players with experienced coaches, providing tailored training programs that match each athlete’s needs and preferences. This personalized approach ensures that players receive the attention and support necessary for significant growth and development.
Summer soccer camps near Washington, DC, offer a variety of options for young athletes to enhance their skills and enjoy competitive play. From the professional instruction at DC Way and D.C. United Summer Camps to the accessible and focused training at DC Soccer Club, there is a camp to suit every player’s needs and budget. By embracing these opportunities and complementing them with private training sessions, young soccer players can make the most of their summer and prepare for the upcoming season.
Ready to take your game to the next level? Find the right coach and location for your development today at Athletes Untapped.
