U8 Crossover
U8 (2018) Crossover Program to Our Juniors Academy
U8 Developmental Crossover Program
(Open to players born in 2018)
All U8 players (birth year 2018) seeking a head start into the competitive soccer pathway have the opportunity to join our U8 Developmental Crossover Program.
This program is designed to give young players a strong foundation in technical skills, teamwork, and game understanding. Unlike many recreational programs that rely on volunteer parent coaches, our U8 teams are led by licensed, paid coaches who use professional training methods, age-appropriate activities, and a consistent coaching philosophy.
This structure ensures every player benefits from a high-quality, player-centered environment that prioritizes long-term growth over short-term results. With experienced coaches leading each session, players build confidence, learn the game the right way, and prepare for the next level of competitive play.
Training Details
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Average of 2 training contacts per week
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Season runs mid-August through mid-July
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Typical training days: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday
Training Locations
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Primary: Winter Park
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Secondary: Academy of Holy Angels (as needed)
Player Fee Includes
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2x/week training sessions
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Field rental & equipment
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Licensed coach salary
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MTA club fee
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League fees
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Coach education & licensing
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Secondary insurance
➡️ Learn more about the league structure on the TCSL website [HERE].
| Season | U8 Details |
| Fall ~Aug 10-Oct 19 |
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| Winter ~Oct 20-April 19 |
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| Spring/Summer ~April 20-July 15 |
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| Fees |
U8 Programming $1550 *U8 Team Playing U9 $2340 |
| Addt. Team Fees | $0 – $200 (may be incurred) |
| Tryouts | Held in July. $65 (includes 2 t-shirts). |
| Post Tryouts | Join anytime. Email admin@mnthunderacademy.org to set up a tryout/evaluation. |
If your player is interested in participating in the U8 Crossover program, please attend Tryouts in July. If you miss Tryouts or would like to join after August, email admin@mnthunderacademy.org.
Teams
The MTA Junior Academy attracts players from within the Twin Cities metro area. Teams are typically formed for each gender age group (U8-U12).
Players ages 5-6-7 are encouraged to train in our year-round ThunderBolts Development Program.
MTA U8 Crossover teams compete in the Twin Cities Soccer League (TCSL) Fives Fests in Fall, Winter and Summer. If appliciable, a U8 may be created to participate in U9 league play, TBD at tryouts each season.
Tryouts
Tryouts for the MTA U8 program will be held in mid July. For more detail, please visit the Tryouts Information page.
Training
Training Frequency: Average 2 times per week.
- MTA Winter Park Training Complex, Eden Prairie.
- Academy of Holy Angels, Richfield.
Fees
Please see the information for the upcoming season here:
Tournaments
MTA U8 Crossover typically participate in 2 Fall Fests, 3 Winter Fests and 3 Spring/Summer Fests.

