Winter Skills Academy

---

Players First Recreational Soccer - Winter Skills Academy

We are excited to offer the Players First Winter Skills Academy, an 8-week indoor program open to all recreational soccer players in Preschool through 5th Grade. 

Eligibility: Children in Preschool through 5th Grade are eligible for this program.

• Birth Date: August 1, 2015 - July 31, 2023

Program Overview: Our Winter Skills Academy provides Players First participants with the opportunity to continue practicing and getting touches on the ball over the winter. Sessions will include topics like footwork, speed and agility, skill building, dribbling, passing, 1v1s and 2v2s, and small-sided games. All sessions will be run by Empire FC's licensed coaching staff!

Dates & Times:

• Saturday Mornings in January and February
• Specific dates will be determined and shared during the Fall 2026 Season
• Times will be determined by age and gender and shared during the Fall 2026 Season.

Location:

Darien Sportsplex

451 Plainfield Rd

Darien, IL 60561

Important Details:

• This is a training program focused on developing skills and confidence on the ball during the winter season. It is not a team-based, competitive league. Participants will be grouped accordingly in each session by age/grade-level and ability level for skill work and games.

• The Winter Skills Academy is open to ALL recreational soccer players Preschool-5th Grade. 

• Sessions will be run by experienced, licensed club coaches each week.

• ADDED BENEFIT - Parent volunteer coaches are encouraged to continue their coaching development by observing, taking notes, or jumping in to support the coaches running the session if needed (to be determined by Players First Staff).

• We recommend registering for the Winter Skills Academy well in advance to guarantee your child's spot as space and time are limited indoors at the Darien Sportsplex!

Cost: 

• Winter Skills Academy - $175
• *Special Offer*
  • 15% Discount when you register for the full year: Fall 2026 Season, Winter Skills Academy, and Spring 2027 Season!