In order to make sure you have everything you need to know about our Regional Development Schools, we've put answers to our most frequently asked questions here:
What is the RDS?
RDS is a tryout-based program, supplemental to a player’s current training environment (additional small group training). Players who are accepted into the RDS program are given the opportunity to take ownership of their own development and work on technical areas of the game with Atlanta United’s professionally licensed coaches. The curriculum is designed around the development of competitive and advanced level soccer players.
What are the benefits of the RDS program?
The RDS is focused on individual player development and is designed to complement a players existing training schedule with their teams. Players take ownership of their development by working on technical elements of their game in addition to understanding how that fits into their overall game.
Who is eligible to sign up for the RDS?
Players ages 7 – 14 (RDS Girls up to age of 16) can sign up for the tryout process. Players are then selected for the program based on performance at tryouts each season.
Does the RDS program include goalkeepers?
Yes. The RDS contains goalkeeping training at select locations. Goalkeepers train in small groups with a dedicated goalkeeper coach for an hour before joining the field groups for the end of the session scrimmages. Locations with goalkeeper training will be denoted on the registration page.
Where does the RDS train?
The RDS is located in various locations surrounding the Metro Atlanta area. While some locations may share fields with local soccer clubs, they are not club specific and are open to participants regardless of club affiliation.
When does registration open?
Registration typically opens a month before the program starts. To find out first, please consider subscribing to be notified of upcoming programs.
I’m going to miss a session; can I make it up at another location?
Unfortunately, we do not offer session make ups. If you anticipate a lot of conflicts within the current season, we ask that you consider signing up next time around instead.
What happens if a session is cancelled, how will I know?
If a session is cancelled, we will reach out via e-mail as far in advance as possible.
Who do I contact about payment / my account?
For all account and payment questions, please reach out to rds@atlutd.com and a member of our RDS Staff will be happy to help.
Do I have to try out?
Yes, players must tryout each season, regardless of whether they’ve made the program before or not. Tryouts are in place to ensure a high-level training environment.
What does my player need for tryouts?
Players should wear the athletic apparel of their choosing. All players should bring cleats/turfs, water, and shin guards. Players do not need to bring a soccer ball as coaches will provide these each session.
What should I expect at tryouts?
Players will be grouped by birthyear and compete in small-sided games. Players will rotate for adequate evaluation. While specific tryout feedback will not be sent, evaluators are looking for players to impact the game and showcase their skills on and off the ball. We kindly ask parents to stay in the designated spectator area and refrain from coaching on the sideline.
Can I sign up for multiple tryouts?
Players can sign up for multiple tryouts only if the player plans to participate at the registered locations. By attending the tryout, you are indicating a commitment to join the program(s) should the player be accepted.
Can I tryout at one location for consideration at another?
Unfortunately, you cannot try out in one location for consideration for a different location. This is due to the large volume of players we see at tryouts.
I haven’t received any follow up information after signing up – when will I hear more?
Confirmation e-mails will be sent the day 24-48 hours prior to the program start date to ensure we reach out to all those that have signed up. This e-mail will contain all necessary information for the tryout process.
What do I do if I have a tryout conflict?
We appreciate that the soccer calendar is a busy one and there are likely going to be calendar conflicts along the way. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate alternate tryout requests due to the volume of players in the program.
Will my child receive a player evaluation?
All players who participate in the RDS will receive an RDS Player Evaluation if they have attended at least 50% of the sessions that season. RDS Player Evaluations are designed to offer players insights to their sessions as well as actionable feedback to continue their development. RDS Player Evaluations are sent within four weeks of the program closing. If you have not received one within four weeks, please reach out to rds@atlutd.com.
What do the scores mean on the RDS Player Evaluation?
RDS Player Evaluations are designed to give feedback on their sessions and areas to focus on for future training. Parents are encouraged to place an emphasis on the written feedback as this is more actionable for players to put into practice and develop their game. RDS Player Evaluations are not used for Futures / ATL UTD Academy recommendations.
How does my child earn consideration for the Futures programs?
Players who are successful in making the RDS program are constantly evaluated by their coaches. At the end of each season, coaches have the ability to recommend players for the Futures Program. Please note that the Futures Program is invite-only, and all invitations will come from the ATL UTD Academy Scouting Department.
My child didn’t receive a Futures Program recommendation – should we keep doing the program?
We find that players develop at different rates and a lot changes in a short space of time at this stage in a child’s development. Players are encouraged to keep honing their craft and showcasing their ability within the RDS in order to earn a recommendation in the future. Player development doesn’t happen overnight. The RDS is available for players to focus on their individual development and technical proficiency.
What is the RDS Camps EIN?
Our EIN is 37-1755161
I’d like to sign up for an RDS Camp – where can I find registration information?
Registration for RDS Summer Camps opens January 1st. Once posted, RDS Summer Camp location information can be found on the RDS Events Page: https://atlutd.leagueapps.com/events
Who’s eligible for RDS Summer Camps?
RDS Camps are exclusive to those that have participated in this year’s eligibility window. (e.g. RDS Summer Camps 2025 window – Fall 2024, Winter I 2024, Winter II 2025, Spring 2025). Participants that meet these criteria will periodically receive RDS Camp registration information. For more information, email us at rds@atlutd.com.
