Summer Travel Program
Summer Travel Program Overview
The Summer Travel Soccer Program is designed for players who are passionate about competitive soccer and are ready to take their skills to the next level. This program provides an opportunity for athletes to play in a more structured and challenging team environment.
Practice Sessions: Teams practice multiple times a week under the guidance of experienced coaches, focusing on technical skills, tactical understanding, physical fitness, and mental preparedness.
Games: Teams compete in a regional league against other clubs, fostering competitive spirit and teamwork.
Tournaments: Teams participate in local and regional tournaments, providing a higher level of competition and exposure. Teams will play in at least two tournaments each season.
Player Development: Emphasis on developing well-rounded players by enhancing their soccer IQ, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Season Details
The season typically runs from late spring through early summer, including practices, league games, and tournament play. Winter training begins in January with regular season practices typically starting in March/April. Winter training is provided for all players to foster skill development and give opportunities for off-season play.
Travel requirements vary by team and may include destinations ranging from nearby cities to locations up to 90+ miles away.
Players and families should be prepared for a higher level of commitment, including travel and regular attendance at practices and games.
The Summer Travel Soccer Program is an excellent opportunity for players to grow their skills, build lasting friendships, and experience the excitement of competitive soccer in a team-focused environment.
Please contact the Sartell Soccer Association Travel Program Coordinator with any questions.
Nicole Rykhus
Travel Program Coordinator
travel.sartellsoccer@gmail.com
Summer Travel Program Q & A
How is travel different than recreational soccer?
Travel soccer stresses player development and a competitive playing environment. We recommend recreational soccer for less competitive players who desire equal playing time.
Are there any additional costs families should anticipate beyond the standard registration fees?
The registration fee does not include the cost of a uniform. A complete uniform kit—consisting of two jerseys (home and away), shorts, and socks—typically costs around $90 plus shipping.
Families are also responsible for providing necessary equipment, such as cleats and shin guards, and may incur additional expenses related to travel, including meals and lodging.
In some cases, teams may opt to participate in additional tournaments beyond the standard two per team allocation. Any such costs are the responsibility of participating families.
Are there payment plans available?
Yes, payment plans are available through registration. Upon sign-up, there's a required non-refundable deposit.
Is there a discount available for families registering multiple players?
Yes, the first child will pay their entire registration fee, and each subsequent registration afterward is eligible for a $25 family discount.
What is the practice and game schedule for players?
Winter indoor training starts in January and moves outdoors in April. Once outside, teams independently schedule their practices.
League games occur weekly in the evenings during the spring/summer season and on weekends in the fall league. Division 1 and Premier Teams players may also have weekend games in the spring. Games begin in April or May, depending on level play, and run through mid-July. Teams may also participate in weekend tournaments.
What training guidelines should families be aware of for their child's age group and team level?
Sartell Soccer Association provides age-appropriate training recommendations to support player development. While exact practice schedules may vary by team, the suggested training frequency and session lengths are as follows:
- U9–U10: 1–2 practices per week, 1:1 or 2:1 practice-to-game ratio, 60–75 minutes per session
- U11–U12: 2–3 practices per week, 2:1 or 3:1 ratio, 75–90 minutes per session
- U13–U14 (Div 3): 2–3 practices per week, 2:1 or 3:1 ratio, 90 minutes per session
- U13–U14 (Div 2): 3 practices per week, 3:1 ratio, 90 minutes per session
- U15+ & Premier: 3–4 practices per week, minimum 3:1 ratio, 90–120 minutes per session
- Premier & U17+ (Preferred): 4–5 practices per week, 4:1 ratio, 90–120 minutes per session
Training sessions are tailored to the team’s age, competitive level, and seasonal needs.
Where are games played?
Home games take place at Pinecone Central Park in Sartell. Away games and tournaments are generally played within 75 miles +/- radius of Sartell.
Occasionally, some teams may play out-of-state tournaments based on their skill and level of competition. Teams will make that decision individually.
How many players are on a team?
Per MYSA rules:
- Age 9U - 7v7, roster size: 7 - 12 players
- Age 10U - 7v7, roster size: 7 - 12 players
- Age 11U - 9v9, roster size: 9 - 16 players
- Age 12U - 9v9, roster size: 9 - 16 players
- Age 13U - 11v11, roster size: 11 - 18 players
- Age 14U - 11v11, roster size: 11 - 18 players
- Age 15U - 11v11, roster size: 11 - 18 players
- Age 16U - 11v11, roster size: 11 - 18 players
- Age 17U - 11v11, roster size: 11 - 18 players
- Age 18U - 11v11, roster size: 11 - 18 players
- Age 19U - 11v11, roster size: 11 - 18 players
*MYSA does allow teams to be "over rostered" under some circumstances, which is why your player may be on a team with more athletes than permitted in this chart.
Does the Sartell Soccer Association have liability insurance?
Yes, the club has insurance through the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association (MYSA).
Can I try out for a SSA travel team and a team from another club?
Yes, a tryout is not a commitment to play. However, once you register (commit) with one club for the season, you can't play with another MYSA club until after the competitive season ends.