Thunder Bolts Development Academy

THUNDER BOLTS: U5 / U6 / U7

Year-Round Program | 3 Seasons

The Thunder Bolts Development Academy is the first step in our comprehensive player development pathway, designed specifically for young athletes ages 5–7. This program runs year-round and is divided into three distinct seasons, giving players multiple entry points and consistent opportunities to grow throughout the year.  Thunder Bolts is open to all skill levels and provides an environment where every player can succeed.

Each session is led by our experienced coaching staff, who specialize in working with young players. Using a player-centered approach, our coaches ensure that every child feels supported, encouraged, and challenged at the right pace. Sessions are designed to blend structured technical instruction with fun, game-like activities, keeping kids engaged while learning the fundamentals of soccer.

Program Philosophy

The Thunder Bolts program is built around three core goals:

  • Build a Love for the Game – Through fun, game-like activities and small-sided play, players are encouraged to explore the game and develop independence on the field.
  • Develop Fundamental Skills – We emphasize technical skills such as dribbling, passing, and ball control to help young players feel comfortable and confident with the ball.
  • Encourage Creativity & Confidence – Players are taught to make natural decisions during play, allowing them to develop fluid, creative habits rather than rigid or robotic patterns.

Community & Commitment

We bring together like-minded families who share a strong interest in soccer and want a positive, engaging environment for their child’s growth. By creating a culture that values both learning and enjoyment, players are motivated to challenge themselves while still having fun.

Player Pathway

The Thunder Bolts Academy lays the foundation for long-term player development. By mastering the basics at U5–U7, players are well-prepared to transition into our U8 Crossover & Juniors Programming and beyond. This progression ensures that each child continues to grow in confidence, skill, and love for the game as they advance through more competitive levels of soccer.

Why Choose Thunder Bolts?

  • Coach-Led, Development-Focused Training

  • Year-Round Program with Three Seasons

  • Player-Centered Philosophy

  • Strong Foundation for Future Success

  • Focus on Fun, Confidence, and Skill-Building

At the heart of Thunder Bolts is the belief that soccer should inspire joy, curiosity, and confidence. Our goal is to create players who love the game, embrace challenges, and develop habits that will benefit them both on and off the field.

Thunder Bolts: Where young players take their first steps into the game—and discover a lifelong love for soccer.

Spring/Summer 2026
Winter 2025-26
Fall 2025

Spring/Summer 2026 Season

Ages Eligible U5*-U6-U7 Players • Birthyears 2019, 2020
*2021s w/ approval only
Location MTA Winter Park Training Facility
9520 Viking Drive, Eden Prairie  55344
Season Days/Times Session A:  Sundays 3:00-4:00pm
Session B:  Sundays 4:30-5:30pm
Session Dates Sundays
April 12, 16, 26
May 3, 10, 17, 31 (No 24)
June 7, 14, 21, 28
Fee
$220 ($190 before 2/16)

Winter 2025-2026 Season

Ages Eligible U5*-U6-U7 Players • Birthyears 2019, 2020
*2021 (w/ soccer experience. Complete THIS FORM for acceptance)
Location MTA Winter Park Training Complex
9520 Viking Dr, Eden Prairie MN 55344
Season Days/Times Session A: Sundays 3:00pm-4:00pm  FULL
Session B: Sundays 4:30pm-5:30pm FULL
Waitlist Join the Waitlist
Session Dates Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Dec 7, 14, 21 (No 28th)
Jan 4, 11, 18, 25
Feb 1, 15, 22 (No 8th)
Mar 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Fee $475 (will be prorated for late start in the shopping cart)

Fall 2025 Season

Ages Eligible U5*-U6-U7 Players • Birthyears 2020, 2019
*2021s w/ approval only
Location MTA Winter Park Training Complex
9520 Viking Dr, Eden Prairie 55344
Season Days/Times Session A:  Sundays 3:00-4:00pm
Session B:  Sundays 4:30-5:30pm
Session Dates September 7, 14, 21, 28
October 5, 12
Fee $120 per player
Pro-rated for late starts.

Guidelines

Birthyears 2019 & 2020 are eligible* for Fall 2025 – Summer 2026 (2021’s w/ approval only)

*2021 Players: Age exceptions may be made for 2021 players with previous soccer experience and/or a strong desire to play soccer. If it is determined by the Director to not be a good fit for your player, a pro-rated refund will be given. Complete this form for approval before registration.

*2018 Players: Age exceptions may be made for 2018 players that are not ready for the competitive level, though preference will be given to players born in the intended birth years. Complete this form for approval before registration.

Open to boys and girls of all skill levels

3 Seasons of ThunderBolts: Summer, Fall and Winter

Fall 2025 thru Summer 2026: Birthyears 2019 & 2020 (2018 move to U8)
Fall 2026 thru Summer 2027: Birthyears 2020 & 2021 (2010 move to U8)

WE ARE THUNDER

Learn more about Minnesota Thunder Academy

MTA Camps and Events take place throughout the year