This is a notice to inform you of a change for the spring soccer season. We have made the difficult decision to not run our 3rd- and 4th-grade in-town recreational league for the spring season. The spring edition of this program has traditionally been very small, and for the spring season we do not believe we will have enough players to run this program.

We remain committed to providing quality soccer opportunities for all players in our community and invite your family to join our travel soccer program, which offers divisions that provide a very similar experience to what your player has enjoyed in the in-town program:

• Age-appropriate skill development and instruction
• A welcoming environment for players of all abilities
• Comparable level of play and competition to the in-town program
• Opportunities to build friendships and develop a love for the game
• Relaxed evaluation requirements
• Ability to honor friend teammate requests

We understand that “travel soccer” may sound more involved, but each grade level has divisions that are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for recreational players. While there may be occasional travel to nearby towns for games, the commitment level and competitive atmosphere in these divisions closely mirror what you’ve experienced in our in-town program.

Any families that have already registered for the spring 3rd- and 4th-grade in-town program will be fully refunded.

Next Steps:

Registration for the spring travel program is now open.

We recognize that change can be challenging, and we’re here to support your family through this transition. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at registrar@lexingtonunited.org.

Thank you for your continued support of our soccer club. We look forward to seeing your player on the field next season!

Sincerely,

Due to the steady rain and potential of high winds moving in throughout the morning, we are cancelling the K-2nd grade and TOPS programs today.  

All other LUSC programs remain on at this time, but please check the website for updates as the day progresses.

We’ll see you next Saturday.

Brendan

Every spring LUSC conducts evaluations for travel soccer team placement for the following year’s fall and spring seasons. If your child decides to participate in the travel program in the fall OR the spring, these data are very important in the placement process. 

On evaluation day bring your child 15 minutes prior to the session start time ready to play soccer (bring ball, water, and wear shin guards).

The schedule for this year is as follows. No registration is required.

For more information regarding how LUSC forms travel soccer teams, please go to the LUSC Team Formation page at http://lexingtonunited.org/team-formation/ 

Happy Spring!

Cameron Moody

Evaluation Chair

• 9th-12th Grade BAYS Travel Soccer (Spring & Fall)
• Lexington Player Development Academy (LPDA)
• High School Mentor Program

Bays Travel Soccer – Spring 2023

• Sundays, 7 weeks (Apr 23rd – Jun 11th, 2023).
• Games will NOT be held over Memorial Day weekend.
• Cost: $125.00
• Deadline to register: Friday, Mar 10th, 2023. Uniform orders placed after Mar 12th will not arrive before the start of the season.

These teams will play in the Boston Area Youth Soccer (BAYS) league Division 3, which uses the 7v7 game format on 9v9-sized fields or the standard 11v11 format, depending on registration numbers. LUSC will field an appropriate number of teams depending on the number of registrants. There are no evaluations.

Players are required to wear the official jersey, shorts and socks to all games. They are also required to have a LUSC pinnie for practices. Please note: In Spring of 23, ALL PLAYERS will be REQUIRED to purchase a new kit.

Players who are 18 or will turn 18 during the season are required by Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association to complete the adult athlete SafeSport course in order to participate.

Like all of our LUSC BAYS offerings, we rely on volunteer coaches to make this happen. In this case, we will need a coach or two for each team. We would appreciate a volunteer for the boys and for the girls who would be willing to work with a LUSC representative to help place teams in the appropriate divisions.

Lexington Player Development Academy (LPDA)

Please see the LPDA page to learn more about the high school aged LPDA teams that are fielded in the winter and spring.

High School Mentor Program

Overview 
A LUSC player mentor is a high-school aged soccer player who assists the coaching staff of a LUSC team.

Benefits 
This program benefits multiple parties in LUSC. Mentors benefit by having a chance to give back to the soccer community, and by serving in a leadership role that instills responsibility and commitment. Players benefit by seeing the technical and tactical level of older kids, by being motivated to continue their soccer careers, and by having more fun in practice. Coaches benefit by having technically qualified players demonstrate proper technique, and having an extra player to even up numbers and raise the level of the game. Finally, LUSC itself benefits by deepening the connections within the Lexington soccer community, and planting the seeds for future volunteer coaches.

Policies 
The program runs formally only in spring seasons, as high school players are too busy in the fall with their own teams. However, they can mentor in the fall through private arrangement with individual coaches, but the same guidelines apply. Mentors commit to attend at least one team practice a week. This would usually be the individual team practice, and not the pro clinic. In addition, the mentor is encouraged to attend home games. Mentors are for teams U9 to U14. In order to maintain an age gap between mentor and players, 9th graders may mentor U9 to U11 teams, 10th graders may mentor U9 to U12 teams, and 11th and 12th graders may mentor U9 to U14 teams. Only girls can mentor girl’s teams, and only boys can mentor boy’s teams. LPDA teams can also have mentors, but priority goes to non-LPDA teams. Mentors are not allowed to serve on a team which has a player as a family member, or is coached by a family member. Mentors 18 or older need to be CORIed (contact Registrar). There are no special insurance requirements. Mentors do not receive BAYS coaching cards, nor should they be listed as assistant coaches on rosters. If they are present at a game on the coaches’ sideline and are asked to leave the sideline for not having a card, they should obey. In no circumstances should mentors be the only team official present on game day, or asked to run a practice without other adults present. Mentors must notify the coach before the season if they wish to obtain Community Service hours. It is the responsibility of the mentor to provide the necessary form to the coach to sign.

Guidelines 
Mentors should behave in a responsible, adult manner. They should see their role more as a coach, and not as a player. They should instill respect for the game in the players. Mentors are recommended to attend our Introduction to Coaching Course taught by LUSC DOC Brendan Donahue.   Coaches should not rely on mentors to formulate practice plans or lead practices. Mentors are there to assist coaches, not to do the job of the coach.

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All LUSC Programs will adhere to all facility and town protocols.

LUSC Clinics are:

• Professionally staffed
• Age appropriate
• Fun
• Open to players of all abilities

LUSC Skills Clinic Focus: Player Development

• Ball Mastery
• Individual Footwork
• 1 st Touch Training
• Decision Making on and off the Ball.

LUSC Offerings for Winter 2022/2023

The registration deadline is December 15th. All registrations received after that date will be put on a waitlist. Any programs that reach capacity, even if prior to the deadline, will be closed and any further registrations received will be placed on a waitlist. LUSC reserves the right to fill excess capacity in programs after the deadline with players outside the age parameters of a specific program, as it deems appropriate.

See descriptions below for more information on each program.

New Program: K – 5th Friday Afternoon Skills Clinics at The Edge

This will be a 16-hour/8-week program that will mirror a LUSC April Vacation/Summer Clinic.

Each Friday is a 2-hour session that will begin with a street soccer (free play) arrival, followed by stations that will focus on Ball Mastery, Passing and Receiving, Speed and Agility, and Exercises to Goal. The day will conclude with a 30-minute controlled scrimmage led by a professional coach.

This program will be gender specific if registration numbers allow.

Dates: Fridays, January 6, 13, 20, 27; February 3, 10, 17; March 3
Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm
Cost: $265
Location: The Edge in Bedford
Capacity:

• K-2: 25 participants
• 3-5: 75 participants

CLOSED

Refund Policy

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5^th through 8^th Grade Girls Advanced Skills Clinic

For 5th through 8th grade soccer players.  This is a 9-week program for the committed soccer player! 

Dates: Wednesdays, January 4, 11, 18, 25; February 1, 8, 15; March 1, 15
Time: 7:30 – 9:00pm
Cost: $195
Location: Lexington Christian Academy
Capacity: 40 participants

CLOSED

Refund Policy

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5^th through 8^th Grade Boys Advanced Skills Clinic

For 5th through 8th grade soccer players.  This is a 9-week program for the committed soccer player! 

Dates: Mondays, January 9, 16, 23, 30; February 6, 13, 27; March 13, 20
Time: 7:30 – 9:00pm
Cost: $195
Location: Lexington Christian Academy
Capacity: 40 participants

CLOSED

Refund Policy

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Note: Registration priority is given to Lexington residents. Please review the Late Fee & Refund Policy.

Please register here in advance for this meeting so we can get a sense of attendance.

The meeting will cover:

• Player Development
• Why Partner with the Bolts?
• League Play
• Schedules and Commitment
• Linking Travel and LPDA
• LPDA Bolts Team Formation
• Calendar Year vs Grade
• Development Pathway
• Testimonials

Please see this flyer for more information.

I wanted to take a moment to announce the upcoming LPDA Bolts U11-U15 tryout dates.  The LPDA Bolts will play in the New England Premiership (NEP) along with other top clubs throughout New England.  

What is the LPDA Bolts?

The Lexington Player Development Academy (LPDA) was established in the fall of 2008 to offer enthusiastic Lexington United Soccer players the opportunity to get top professional training and a high level of team play often associated with ‘club’ teams, but at a reduced cost and without the long commute to practice. After a decade of successfully meeting this mission, and with the club soccer landscape evolving, the LPDA joined in a partnership with the Boston Bolts in the fall of 2018.  The Boston Bolts have a long tradition of excellence, with a player development focus, which made it an ideal partner as the LPDA continues to evolve and search for the best development paths for our Lexington players. The LPDA Bolts is available only to a limited number of the most committed and talented soccer players in Lexington. The LPDA Bolts is directed by LUSC Director of Coaching, Brendan Donahue.  

GU11-12 LPDA tryout                                           Calendar Years 2010, 2011
Tuesday June 1st @ Lincoln Field 2
5:30pm to 6:50pm

BU11 and BU12 LPDA tryouts                              Calendar Years 2010, 2011
Thursday June 3rd @ Lincoln Field 2
5:30pm to 7:00pm

* There will be two Boys and Girls LPDA Bolts teams between the U11 and U12 age groups.  They may be strictly calendar year or mixed ages with a tiered approach (1st and 2nd team).  We will assess our player pool and make the decision we feel is best for the development of all of our players in the program

GU13-14 LPDA tryout                                           Calendar Years 2008, 2009
Tuesday June 1st @ Lincoln Field 2
7:10pm to 8:30pm

BU13-14 LPDA tryout                                           Calendar Years 2008, 2009
Thursday June 3rd @ Lincoln Field 2
7:10pm to 8:30pm

* There will be two Boys LPDA Bolts teams between the U13 and U14 age groups.  They may be strictly calendar year or mixed ages with a tiered approach (1st and 2nd team).  We will assess our player pool and make the decision we feel is best for the development of all of our players in the program.

BU15 LPDA tryout                                                  Calendar Year 2007
Thursday June 10th @ Lincoln Field 2
7:10pm to 8:30pm

Note:  The U15 LPDA Bolts primary seasons will be winter and spring with the vast majority of players participating in HS soccer.  There is no formal Fall U15 LPDA program for that reason. For High School Aged players there is no longer the dual commitment of LPDA Bolts and LUSC Travel.  For our 8th Grade LPDA Bolts U15 players, we still encourage remaining with our LUSC travel program and will find ways to supplement travel soccer in the fall with professional training from our LPDA staff.  
 
All Players MUST pre-register on Teamsnap.

LPDA Bolts Coaching

The LPDA is committed to providing the players in the program with top flight coaching from professionally licensed staff.  Below is the 2021-2022 LPDA Bolts Staff.  

BU11 (2011) Miguel Chavez, LUSC Senior Pro Coach, LUSC Skills Academy Staff, NSCAA Director of Coaching Diploma, National Diploma (NSCAA), 9v9 USSF Grassroots Diploma Level 4 US Futsal Coach

BU12 (2010) Brendan Donahue, LUSC Director of Coaching, Region 1 Olympic Development Staff, USSF A license, NSCAA Premier Diploma, US Youth Soccer National Youth License, Coerver Coaching Diploma, Former MYSA ODP Staff, Former DI-III Collegiate Coach (1995-2005)

BU14 (2008, 2009) Tom Heimreid, LUSC Assistant Director of Coaching, NSCAA Director of Coaching Diploma, NSCAA Premier Diploma, Norwegian Football Federation C license, currently pursuing UEFA License through the Scottish FA, 9v9 USSF Grassroots Diploma

BU15 (2007) Thomas Ballenthin LUSC Pro Coach, DI Final Four Participant & Big East Champion at Providence College, All-New England & All-State at Lexington HS, 9v9 USSF Grassroots Diploma

GU11 TBD

GU12 (2010) Tom Heimreid, LUSC Assistant Director of Coaching, NSCAA Director of Coaching Diploma, NSCAA Premier Diploma, Norwegian Football Federation C license, currently pursuing UEFA License through the Scottish FA, 9v9 USSF Grassroots Diploma

GU13-14 (2008, 2009) Brendan Donahue, LUSC Director of Coaching, Former Region 1 Olympic Development Staff, USSF A license, NSCAA Premier Diploma, US Youth Soccer National Youth License, Coerver Coaching Diploma, Former MYSA ODP Staff, Former DI-III Collegiate Coach (1995-2005)

What is the LPDA Bolts?
The LPDA Bolts is exactly as the title suggests: a player development academy.  The entire focus of the coaching staff will be to train players to play the game of soccer at a high level while promoting development and enjoyment.

LPDA Bolts Team Formation
The LPDA Bolts is a select team.  Players will be chosen through an evaluation session and through invitation.  Players’ selection will be based on a number of criteria: ability, potential, commitment level, and coachability.

Why the LPDA Bolts?

• To provide elite training under professional supervision for the serious player.
• Give players an alternative for continued development beyond travel soccer, while remaining true to the LUSC philosophy.
• Provide Lexington families with a local alternative to Premier Soccer Clubs.
• Continue to develop Lexington players within our soccer community.

The LPDA Bolts is intended for serious, committed soccer players, and it is expected that LPDA families and players will manage their schedules to ensure their commitment is fulfilled.  A U14 and below LPDA players’ schedule will include 5 events per week during the fall and spring seasons (including LUSC events), and 1-2 events per week in the winter.  It is expected that LPDA players will attend most, if not all, of those events.  The LPDA invitation will provide specifics regarding minimum attendance.  

For a more complete overview of the LPDA Bolts program as presently structured, please visit the Lexington United website.

LPDA 2021/2022 Full Roster (U14 and below) Academy Requirement

• One weeknight team practice throughout the fall. Girls will train on Tuesday Night; Boys will train on Thursday night.
• Wednesday evening 5:30 to 7:00pm Functional Technical Training Session (description below)
• One Sunday morning/afternoon game in the New England Premiership (NEP) during the fall and spring (typically 8-week season).
• Weekly Yoga/Core zoom sessions throughout November through March (optional)
• 12-15 winter training sessions. (January-March)
• An Ice Breaker Tournament (March)
• A Memorial Day weekend tournament or similar season ending tournament
• An optional Futsal offering during the November/December bridge season (not included in the cost)

Wednesday Afternoon Functional Technical Training

Each Wednesday afternoon during the fall and spring seasons (approximately 20 sessions b/n the fall & spring), Lexington United Director of Coaching, Brendan Donahue and LUSC Assistant Director of Coaching Tom Heimreid along with other LPDA Bolts Coaches will conduct a functional technical training/injury prevention training session for 75 minutes. The goal of these sessions will be to help our academy players “prepare for the demands of the game”.  These sessions will be highly focused on improving the functional skill level of our academy players.  The Wednesday afternoon pool training will be done in a quality controlled environment since it is restricted to just LPDA players.  These sessions are a required part of the LPDA Bolts commitment.  

Note:  LPDA Bolts Players will be excused from their LUSC pro clinic session. By excusing the academy players we remain consistent in keeping academy players to 5 soccer sessions a week.
The LPDA Bolts is a supplement to, not a replacement for, LUSC Travel/In-town Soccer. Academy players are required to play with their travel or in-town team on Saturdays and attend the individual team practice.  Lack of commitment to your LUSC team can result in dismissal from the LPDA program.    

We look forward to hopefully seeing you at the tryouts in June.

All the Best,
Brendan

We hope that you and yours are well during these difficult times.

This will be the 11th time that LUSC has so generously partnered with our family to collect and distribute personal soccer gear in Nicaragua. Nicaragua has been hard hit by COVID-19 and needs our support more than ever!

We ask that you please consider donating your used but still usable soccer equipment to disadvantaged children in Nicaragua. Your donations will support a local Nicaraguan soccer academy (Academia de Fútbol Cocibolca on Facebook) that works with disadvantaged boys between the ages of 6 to 18. The Academy seeks to provide these at-risk youth with a positive sports experience to enrich and improve their lives.

Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and both recent political events and the pandemic have made life there even more difficult. Your donation allows these children to play organized soccer in a supportive environment and to experience all the positive benefits of a team sport.

Words cannot express our gratitude to the LUSC community for its incredible support of these past efforts. Every piece of soccer related clothing or equipment that you see in the photo above came from a generous LUSC family. Your generosity has a direct and powerful impact on the lives of these boys.

This year we are looking for donations of:

• Soccer cleats (smaller sizes prioritized)
• Soccer balls, all sizes
• Shin guards
• Soccer socks
• Soccer shorts
• LUSC and LPDA uniforms only
• Goalie gloves

Our deadline for the donation drive this year is SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2020 .

Please drop off your items in the receptacle on the front porch at 66 Ledgelawn Avenue in Lexington. If you have any questions, please e-mail thomasboreiko@gmail.com or call 617 283 0090 (Tom’s cell phone).

Thank you very much.
Sincerely,

Tom Boreiko and Alison Coolidge