Why MTA?

As a member of the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) and the Minnesota National Premier Leagues (NPL), MTA strives to be the top youth development club for soccer in Minnesota and across the country. Minnesota Thunder Academy has trained some of the brightest young players in the United States who have gone on to play college soccer, professional soccer, and represent their country’s youth and senior national teams.

The purpose of MTA is to develop successful people, not just great soccer players. Behind every successful person is a great support structure. That structure includes guidance from within the family as well as positive external influences at school and beyond. MTA provides an environment that challenges and supports each player as they are nurtured along a path towards becoming a successful person.

In addition to our core development programs, MTA invests thousands of dollars every year into scholarship programs that support our kids as they leave blood, sweat, and tears along their paths towards success. Ten percent of MTA athletes are given the opportunity to chase their dreams because of financial aid awards.

Our Values

Integrity

We Respect each other – We demonstrate Transparency and Honesty

Determination

We pursue reaching the next level thru Passion, Commitment, and Effort

Unity

We stand together as One Club united in purpose

Excellence

We strive to be the Best at what we do, on and off the field

Why USSF Coaching Experience Matters

Minnesota Thunder Academy stands out as a premier soccer institution in the State of Minnesota, boasting an exceptional coaching staff that is both highly licensed and extensively experienced. Committed to fostering excellence in soccer development, our coaches bring a wealth of expertise derived from diverse backgrounds, including playing on Division 1, national, and professional teams. This firsthand experience at the highest levels of the sport equips them with unique insights into the intricacies of elite-level play, which they passionately share with our aspiring athletes.

What sets our coaching team apart is not only their impressive playing backgrounds but also their dedication to continuous learning and improvement. Each coach at Minnesota Thunder Academy has undergone rigorous training and acquired licenses from some of the most esteemed soccer programs in the United States. This commitment to staying abreast of the latest coaching methodologies and tactics ensures that our players receive cutting-edge guidance and instruction.

Our coaching staff believes in nurturing the holistic development of each player, emphasizing not just technical skills and tactical understanding but also instilling the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. The aim is to create a comprehensive learning environment where athletes not only excel on the field but also grow as individuals.

The collective knowledge and passion of our coaching staff create an atmosphere of excellence at Minnesota Thunder Academy, providing aspiring soccer players with a unique opportunity to learn and develop under the guidance of some of the most accomplished and dedicated mentors in the state. Whether pursuing competitive play at the highest levels or honing skills for personal growth, our coaches are committed to helping every player reach their full potential in the sport they love.

4: A Licensed Coaches

An A License represents the highest level of soccer coaching experience outside of obtaining a Pro License. It is divided into two classifications that specify the age range of the players that are being coached by the individual with an A License.

A Youth License

An A Youth License is focused around developing young players (U13-U19) for high-performance play. A coach is elgible for an A Youth License by:

Having their B License for at least a full year
Having at least four years of coaching experience
Conducting at least four training sessions per week with a competitive club or academy team

A Senior License

An A Senior License is focused around coaching players yjay are 19+ years old and aiming to play at a professional level. A coach is eligible for an A Senior License by:

Having their B License for at least a full year
Effectively utilizing GPS technology and video to demonstrate coaching expertise
Conducting at least four training sessions per week with a competitive club or academy team

6: B Licensed Coaches

A B License enables individuals to coach U13 or higher level intermediate to advanced teams within a competitive landscape. A coach is eligible for a B License by:

Having their C License for at least a full year
Having at least three years of coaching experience
Conducting at least three training sessions per week
Performing video analysis throughout player development

5: C Licensed Coaches

A C License enables coaches to work with teams with players who have an age rane of U11-U19 and also display a higher level of commitment and skill. A coach is eligible for a C License by: