NEW PROGRAMING EACH SEASON!

The ‘Rec Cadets’ program was created to provide additional time working on the technical fundamentals for development for young players while increasing the “fall-in-love” factor. After all, to grow a players love for the game and the very process of learning is the greatest gift we can give our players.

This 6 week program runs alongside our recreational season, allowing players chosen to participate to still play with friends in our rec teams. We are looking for players who show a strong interest in learning and that like to “Practice with Purpose”. This program will run each season for a limited number of participants both boys and girls. Players MUST also be registered with our Recreational Program in their appropriate age groups and applicants should fill out the application form below.

The Rec Cadets program will return in Fall 2026. We will be forming two age bands. (Max of 24 players in each age band)

Cost - $50 Per Player Payment Link Will be Sent upon acceptance to the program.

U8 Rec Cadets | Players no younger than 6 years old and no older than 8 by March 1st 2026.

U10 Rec Cadets | Players no younger than 8 years old and no older than 10 by March 1st 2026.

REGISTRATION PACKAGES WILL BE LINKED HERE SOON!

During the first weeks session we will observe the groups and determine group placements* for the remaining weeks. We will continue to evaluate and ensure all players stay engaged!

*Subject to Directors & Coaches Evaluation.

Attendance is crucial to consistent development if you are unable to attend a session please notify us at the earliest possible time so that we can make adjustments.

If you accept a place in the Rec Cadets program but fail to attend without prior notice, your player may lose their place and someone from the waitlist will be contacted.

What to Expect

A high paced, fun, energetic hour long* class with lots of fun activities. Participants are expected to come ready to jump straight into learning and must be able to remain attentive and prepared. We encourage parents or guardians observing to do so but from a distance, so that players can benefit from the independence and empowerment that will be promoted during this time. The players will be challenged but they will be motivated and uplifted as we seek to inspire them to grow with all the traits and characteristics we are looking for in our soccer community right here in Gallatin!

How it Works

Players are divided into 4 small groups and of no more than 6. Over the course of the program groups may be adjusted for a variety of reasons but we ask that you allow us to monitor players and refrain from discussing groupings or other players with your Cadet. The purpose of our sessions will place the focus on the individual player to commit to their development and actions every week.

With color coded stations each group of player takes to the field, after mentors warm the cadets up the session begins with players in the matching activity station (Red Team in the Red Station etc..) they are guided through an activity based around that sessions “Theme” it could be Defending.. Control… body movement or one of many subjects from the game that night. Every 10-12 minutes players will rotate the stations, keeping them moving, thinking and adapting to the variations in player actions being used.

Hydration breaks will be taken of course and the Cadets are given clear instructions on expectations and the ground rules. This is an introduction towards building a deeper relationship with the next phases of development for our young players. We will engage them in new thoughts, treat them with warmth and maturity with our environment centered around making the most of our time together and respect for the privilege of being able to learn together.

At the close of each night players will gather to answer a few questions and get them excited to return for the next session!

REC CADET PARENTS WILL BE EMAILED DIRECTLY TO INFORM YOU OF YOUR PLAYERS ADMISSION STATUS. AT THIS TIME THE SCHEDULE WILL ALSO BE GIVEN OUT. WE ESTIMATE THE FALL PROGRAM TO BEGIN ON SEPT 25th 2026 AND RUN THROUGH NOVEMBER 6TH . WITH OCTOBER 9TH OFF FOR FALL BREAK. TYPICALLY THIS PROGRAM RUNS FROM 6PM TO 7PM WITH PLAYERS ASKED TO ARRIVE AND CHECK IN BETWEEN 5:45 PM - 5:55 PM.

PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CHILD EARLIER WHILE STAFF ARE BUSY SETTING UP.

WE DO EXPECT ALL PARENTS TO REMAIN IN THE DESIGNATED OBSERVATION AREA AT ALL TIMES.

- THANK YOU

The Format

• Cadet Lineup & Check-In 5:50PM

•  Activity Stations rotating (with appropriate breaks to hydrate/recover)

•  Cadet Quiz time! (Question and Answers breakdown!)

• Cadet Dismissal

What you will need to take part!  

• Rec Cadets Shirt (Will be handed out) (Bring your favorite shirt to arrive in week 1).

•  Wear your rec shorts/socks.

• Shin guards (Worn correctly underneath the sock!).

• Firm ground soccer cleats.

• Size 3 ball inflated correctly for U8 / Size 4 for U10 players.

•  Water bottle / Sun cream if needed.

•  Long hair must be tied back or secured safely with no beads *Per GSC State of play rules

• No chains, bracelets, watches or jewelry of any kind should be worn.

• NO HOODED SWEATSHIRTS WORN ON FIELD OF PLAY. (non-negotiable) If temperatures require, please wear other layers underneath your cadet shirt.

• Come with positive energy, listening ears & learning feet on!  

• A big smile on your face is always nice too! We are all here to have fun!