TALENT Identification Centers
U.S. Soccer Talent ID Centers (IDCs) are free, single-day player identification opportunities for top talents to train and play games under the direction of U.S. Soccer Talent Identification Managers. IDC’s are a critical element to our Talent Identification Plan and are designed to identify and evaluate top talents for Youth National Teams, while accelerating their development in a challenging environment. IDC’s are scheduled throughout the year in key markets across the country.
U.S. Soccer Talent ID Centers are designed to replicate Youth National Team camps. The sessions are closed to parents and spectators. U.S. Soccer’s objective is to create an environment free from any distractions, where players take responsibility for their own development. IDCs are the pathway to the Youth National Teams. Club representatives (Directors, Coaches, Scouts) may attend and observe the session from designated areas away from field and players with prior approval.
As the National Governing Body of soccer in the United States, and under the auspices of the United States Olympic Committee, we are empowered and charged with developing the teams that represent the United States in all international competitions such as the Olympics and World Cup. The Talent ID Center Program is an integral part of this process.
Over 4,000 boys and girls aged 13-15 attended U.S. Soccer Talent Identification Centers in 2022.
PURPOSE
- U.S. Soccer Talent ID Centers are cost-free, single-day player identification opportunities for local top talents with the most potential to train under the direction of U.S. Soccer Talent Identification Managers.
- U.S. Soccer Talent Identification Managers lead Talent ID Centers to identify and compare the top talent for Youth National Team selection and monitoring.
PLAYER POOL
- Gender: Boys and Girls.
- Ages: 13 to 15 years old.
- Each U.S. Soccer Talent ID Center will feature a specific gender and age group.
- Top talents from any team, club or organization are eligible for selection at no cost to the player, upon invitation only.
PLAYER SELECTION
- Players are discovered through two main pathways. Talent Identification Managers lead all selections.
- Process of scouting by U.S. Soccer at games and/or events.
- Coach or Club Director Recommendation.
FACILITIES
- Local youth clubs, professional clubs, leagues, or state associations provide the facility.
- Training Centers are held in both indoor and outdoor venues depending on the time and place.
TRAINING/GAMES
- U.S. Soccer Talent ID staff leads the events with the assistance of host-site staff, the technical may include Talent ID Managers, U.S. Soccer Scouts, Youth National Team coaches, and local club coaches.
- Athletic trainers are present at every Talent ID Center.
PARENTS/VISITORS
- Like Youth National Team training environments, attendance by parents and spectators is not permitted.