COMPETITIVE SOCCER
Competitive soccer offers a variety of benefits if you have aspirations of playing in college or the pros. But even if college or professional leagues are not part of your plans, competitive soccer still presents a fun and challenging environment.
A competitive soccer team's objective is to win games rather than playing for a fun social experience, as recreational teams generally do. This difference in primary objectives is reflected in the training and preparation to which a competitive soccer team commits. As a competitive soccer player, you must not only learn fundamental soccer skills and understand the rules of the game, but you must also consistently improve your skill level to progress as a player. The goal of any competitive soccer player is to continuously learn new skills to become an asset to the team.
As a player in a competitive soccer league, you play against teams of the same skill level, which are typically categorized by age groups. The chance to play against teams with the same ability or better is a test that challenges your skills, physical conditioning and composure. You are able to learn from mistakes, whether tactical or strategic. These experiences should make you a better and smarter player.
If you have a passion for soccer and are dedicated to becoming a better player, no matter your future aspirations, the competitive playing field is more suitable for you than a recreational team. Competitive soccer focuses on winning and developing your skills. You will be pushed, but also rewarded with advanced skill development.
RECREATIONAL SOCCER
Recreational soccer – Is that soccer program that is primarily devoted to the enjoyment and development of soccer players without the emphasis on travel or high level competition.
The purpose of recreational soccer is to provide an opportunity for the participants to have fun, learn the sport and develop life skills including a life long love of the game.
Recreational Player – a player who is randomly assigned to a team without regard to his/her abilities and skills.
Recreational Team – teams formed randomly to play soccer.
Recreational League – leagues composed of teams formed in a random manner.
REFEREES
The North Dakota State Referee Committee is dedicated to serving all levels of the sport of soccer in this state through the training and development of referees. In cooperation with the State Associations and with USSF, the NDSRC shall govern, coordinate and administer the referee development program within the state.
The North Dakota State Referee committee will administer referee registration, recertification, and grade management to meet the composite needs of competition throughout the state.
Dakota ODP
Dakota ODP is a part of the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program which has been in existence since 1977. The program was introduced to help identify potential national team youth players through an organized series of trials which begins at the district level, progresses through the state, region and finally the national level. The program also serves as a means of development as the players identified are brought together for a training experience and prepared for interstate, interregional and international competitions. The development of the players is taking place rapidly as talented players are brought together for training and competition at all levels. Training and playing with those of equal or greater ability is a tremendous teaching tool. The program is open to any youth player.