Regional Development School FAQ's
What is the Regional Development School (RDS)?
The Regional Development School (RDS) is a supplemental training program for advanced-level soccer players. Players are required to try out and earn a place in the program each season. Upon acceptance into the program, players train on a weekly basis with D.C. United’s professional coaching staff.
What are the benefits of the RDS program?
The RDS supplements a player's existing training schedule with their club team. The curricula focus on individual technical development and progress to group and team tactics.
Players use the environment to take ownership of their development by working on technical elements of their game in addition to understanding how that fits into their overall impact on the field.
Who is eligible to sign up for the RDS?
Any player aged 8-14 years old is welcome to sign up for the tryout process. Players are then selected (and grouped) for the program each season based on ability. Training is meant to be supplemental to a player's team training, which should come first in the event of a conflict.
Does the RDS program include goalkeepers?
No. The RDS program does not currently offer goalkeeper-specific training. This will be added at a later time. Please subscribe here for updates regarding our programs.
Where does the RDS train?
The RDS is located in various locations around the DMV. While some locations may share fields with local soccer clubs, they are not club-specific and are open for registration regardless of club affiliation.
Can I sign up for multiple tryouts?
Yes, but only if you plan to participate at multiple locations. Upon acceptance, billing is processed automatically.
Can I try out at one location for consideration at another?
Unfortunately, you cannot try out in one location in consideration for a different location. This is due to the large volume of players we see at tryouts.
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. If a particular tryout doesn’t work, we encourage players to pick an alternate location for the season or try out the following season with us. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate alternate tryout requests due to the volume of players in the program
When does registration open?
Registration typically opens up a month before the program starts. To find out first, please sign up for our mailing list.
I haven’t received any follow-up information after signing up – when will I hear more?
Confirmation emails will be sent the day before the program start date to ensure we reach out to all those who have signed up. This e-mail will contain all the necessary information for the tryout process.
Do I have to try out?
Yes. Players must try out each season, regardless of whether they’ve made the program before or not. Tryouts are in place to ensure a competitive training environment every season.
I’m going to miss a session, can I make it up at another location?
No. Unfortunately, we do not offer makeup sessions. 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.
How does my child earn consideration for a D.C. United Academy trial?
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 our D.C. United Academy.
