The ODP Goalkeeper Academy is designed to develop skilled, confident, and knowledgeable goalkeepers by providing specialized, age-appropriate training that enhances their technical abilities, tactical awareness, and mental resilience. The program aims to create a positive and supportive learning environment, allowing participants to improve their shot-stopping techniques, positioning, distribution, and communication skills while fostering a passion for the game. Ultimately, the academy seeks to prepare young goalkeepers for success on the field and confidence to excel in their positions.
2025-2026 Season
The goalkeeper specific training sessions are open to all players registered for the 2025-2026 ODP Winter Training. The program consist of multiple training opportunities. There will be 6 goalkeeper only training dates, with each training being 1.25 hours long. Goalkeepers are also asked to attend the 6 training dates listed for their age group. If you have any questions, please email Rico at odp@illinoisyouthsoccer.org
Important Dates
August – Winter Training Dates Posted
September 1 – Registration Opens
September 24 – ODP Uniform Store Open
October 27 – Uniform Order Deadline (NEW players only)
October 31 – Registration Deadline (unless age group fills)
November 10 – ODP Introductory Webinar
November 15 & 16 – First weekend of Indoor Training starts
Eligibility
ODP Goalkeeper Academy is open to all soccer players in Illinois born in 2008-2015 regardless of club or competition platform. Our program focuses on the specialized training needed to excel between the posts. Participants will receive tailored instruction aimed at developing essential skills, techniques, and game awareness.
Registration
Registration will open September 1 and the deadline will be October 31 or until age group is full. Registrations links will be published below.
Goalkeeper Registration
Goalkeeper Only Training Schedule – Boys
Winter Training Schedule – Boys
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, November 15 | 3:30pm-4:45pm | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Saturday, November 22 | 3:30pm-4:45pm | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Saturday, December 13 | 3:30pm-4:45pm | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Saturday, January 10 | 3:30pm-4:45pm | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Saturday, January 24 | 3:30pm-4:45pm | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Saturday, January 31 | 3:30pm-4:45pm | Schaumburg Sport Center |
Goalkeeper Only Training Schedule – Girls
Winter Training Schedule – Girls
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, November 16 | 8am-9:15am | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Sunday, November 23 | 8am-9:15am | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Sunday, December 14 | 8am-9:15am | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Sunday, January 11 | 8am-9:15am | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Sunday, January 25 | 8am-9:15am | Schaumburg Sport Center |
| Sunday, February 1 | 8am-9:15am | Schaumburg Sport Center |
Locations
2009-2015 Girls & Boys Age Groups
MercyHealth Sportscore Two
8800 E. Riverside Blvd
Loves Park, IL 61111
2008 Girls & Boys Age Groups
Schaumburg Sport Center
1141 W. Irving Park Rd.
Schaumburg, IL 60193
Goalkeeper Only Training
Schaumburg Sport Center
1141 W. Irving Park Rd.
Schaumburg, IL 60193
Uniform
The ODP training uniform is required for all participants. Players retuning from the 2024/2025 season do NOT need to purchase a new uniform. All NEW players must order the training uniform. Orders can be placed starting September 24. Deadline to order October 27
Goalkeeper Uniform
Coaching Staff
Overview
Illinois Youth Soccer’s ODP coaching staff is comprised of the state’s most skilled and experienced coaches. Every Head Coach holds at least a US Soccer Federation National “C” License, with many also possessing “A” and “B” licenses or serving as Coach Educators for the U.S. Soccer Federation. Assistant coaches are required to have a minimum of a US Soccer Federation National “D” License. Additionally, our ODP staff includes talented local college coaches from all divisions, ensuring a comprehensive and highly qualified coaching team dedicated to player development.
Forms
Financial Assistance Application
Illinois Youth Soccer Association provides an application for financial assistance for those interested in participating in ODP. The application form can be found below. Please make sure to complete the form and provide the additional required documents to be considered.
Training Absence Form
If you are going to miss a training session, please complete the absence form.
Contact Us
| Position | Name | |
| ODP Director | Marek Radziszewski | marekr@illinoisyouthsoccer.org |
| ODP Administrator | Ivan Rico | odp@illinoisyouthsoccer.org |