Start Playing · Waitlist Open

ThunderBolts

First touches. First teams. Seriously fun.

Year-round, coach-led training for boys and girls U5–U7. ThunderBolts is full right now. Join the waitlist and we’ll contact you when a spot opens.

  • U5–U7
  • Boys & Girls
  • Year-Round · 3 Seasons
  • Waitlist Open
ThunderBolts players smiling at training
U5–U7Coach-led sessions every week, all year
AgesU5–U7Born Aug 2019 – Jul 2022
Training1x per week60-minute sessions
SeasonsFall · Winter · SpringJoin any season
WhereWinter ParkEden Prairie
Cost$125–$470Per season
How to JoinWaitlistProgram is full
The MTA Pathway

Where it fits.

ThunderBolts builds the foundation. Players who master the basics here are ready for U8 and the Juniors program.

Why ThunderBolts

Built for first-time players.

Licensed, Paid Coaches

Every session is led by MTA coaching staff who specialize in young players, not volunteer parents.

Love of the Game

Game-like activities and small-sided play keep kids moving, smiling and coming back for more.

Real Fundamentals

Dribbling, passing and ball control in every session, so players feel confident with the ball.

Creativity & Confidence

Players learn to make their own decisions in games, building natural, creative habits instead of robotic ones.

Seasons & Waitlist

ThunderBolts is full. Join the waitlist.

Every session is full right now. Add your player to the waitlist and we’ll contact you as spots open. Sessions are on Sundays at the MTA Winter Park Training Complex.

Days & Times
Sundays · Session A 3:00–4:00 pm · Session B 4:30–5:30 pm
Dates
Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 · Dec 6, 13, 20 (no Dec 27) · Jan 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 · Feb 7, 21, 28 (no Feb 14) · Mar 7, 14, 21
Location
MTA Winter Park Training Complex, 9520 Viking Dr, Eden Prairie
Fee
$470 per player
Ages
U5–U7 (born Aug 2019 – Jul 2022)
Status
Full · Waitlist open
Days & Times
Sundays · Session A 3:00–4:00 pm · Session B 4:30–5:30 pm
Dates
Apr 4, 11, 18, 25 · May 2, 9, 16, 23 (no Memorial Day weekend) · Jun 6, 13, 20, 27 · Join anytime
Location
MTA Winter Park Training Complex, 9520 Viking Dr, Eden Prairie
Fee
Coming soon
Registration
Opens January 15, 2027
Season
September – October 2027
Location
MTA Winter Park Training Complex, 9520 Viking Dr, Eden Prairie
Fee & Dates
Coming soon

Younger or older than U5–U7? Players with soccer experience can request an age exception. Complete the age exception form before registering.

Program Leadership

Led by people who have been there.

Matt VanBenschoten
Sparks, ThunderBolts & Juniors Director

Matt VanBenschoten

USSF B License

Matt leads MTA’s youngest players from their first touches through the Juniors years, and mentors the coaches who work with them.

See All Coaches →
“My daughter has not only improved her skills since being part of the MTA program, she has gained confidence. It is truly a safe space for her.”Amanda Jane F., MTA Parent
FAQ

Questions families ask.

Why is there a waitlist?
ThunderBolts sessions are kept small so every player gets real coaching, and right now every spot is full. Join the waitlist and we’ll contact you when a spot opens.
Can my player join mid-year?
ThunderBolts runs three seasons a year, so there are multiple entry points. While the program is full, the waitlist is the way in. We fill open spots from the waitlist first.
Which ages are eligible this year?
For Fall 2026 through Summer 2027, ThunderBolts is for U5–U7 players, born August 2019 through July 2022. Boys and girls of all skill levels are welcome.
My player is just outside the age range. Can they play?
Players with previous soccer experience can request an age exception. Complete the form for Director approval before you register.
What comes after ThunderBolts?
At U8, players move into the Juniors program, starting with the U8 training pool and TCSL Fives Fests.
Where are sessions held?
All ThunderBolts sessions are at the MTA Winter Park Training Complex, 9520 Viking Dr, Eden Prairie.
Is ThunderBolts a team?
ThunderBolts is a training program, not a league team. Players train together each week in small groups and play small-sided games during sessions.
Ready to Play?

Passion for this game has no off season.

ThunderBolts is full. Join the waitlist and we’ll contact you when a spot opens.