National Sports Center | Blaine, Minnesota

A GK role on a soccer team goes beyond staying under the post and trying to save shots. As a player that sees the whole field, goalkeepers need foot skills to assist defenders in the buildup phase, tactical knowledge to organize and communicate with the defensive line, and technical skills to act during the most important phases of the game.

GK Training Focus: 1v1 situations, diving, crosses, positioning, and distribution, low ball, high balls, and technique

Central and outside defenders need excellent game understanding to anticipate the opponent’s movement, cover the midfielders, and position during crosses and set pieces. Modern defenders are hardly fooled by attackers and have great game understanding to make precise runs and execute tackles.

Defenders Training Focus: Positioning, 1v1 defending, tackling, shielding, crossing, communication, heading, and building up from the back.

The times when striker stayed in between the defenders and only participate in balls inside the box have past. Modern strikers and outside midfielders have great tactical knowledge to position for infiltration, through balls and crossing; technical skills for shooting, heading, dribbling, and turning, and great decision making to maximize scoring opportunities

Striker Training Focus: Placement shooting, 1v1 attacking, diagonal runs, crosses, volleying, heading, turning, and positioning

*Modern offensive and outside midfielders get in the box to score and participate closely in attacking opportunities, so this camp is applicable to these positions

• Registration Fee
  • Half-Day (9:00am - 12:00pm): $220
  • Full-Day (9:00am - 3:00pm): $285
  • Each participant receives:
    • Headshot for club or recruiting profile
    • T-Shirt
• Camp Dates
  • June 16-18
  • August 6-8
• Age Group
  • U12 - U17
  • Groups will be divided according to age

REFUND POLICY

Please click HERE for the NSC Officials refund policy.

What should I bring to camp?

Participants should bring the following items:

• Water bottles or sports drinks
• Sunscreen
• Shin guards
• Lunch and snacks
• Soccer ball
• White T-shirt, black shorts and soccer preferred, but not necessary

What if I play as midfielder?

Midfielders are welcome to attend either the defenders or strikers camp. Defensive midfielders will find the defenders camp valuable and offensive and outside midfielders will find the strikers camp very beneficial.

Do I need to play in development academy and higher level teams?

No. Coaches will adapt to each player according to the specific position and needs. Players are only required to be striving to improve in a specific position.

What's the player-coach ratio?

As our drive to provide one on one coaching, which lacks on club training sessions, we will try to keep a 1-8 coach and player ratio.

Who are the coaches?

The camp will be conducted by coaches that work on college or DA level and have both coaching and playing experience on either pro, semi-pro, and college level in the specific position. You can find more information under the "Meet the Coaches" section.

The NSC Fund For Play is the contribution and donation arm of the National Sports Center Foundation. We are dedicated to improving the lives of Minnesota residents by creating programs and initiatives that support a diverse and engaged community. If you would like to make a donation to improve the health, well-being, and outlook of participants through access to sports and healthy, safe environments, please click HERE.

Thank you for considering!