Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey ODP teams came together for a weekend of friendlies the last week of January. The event was held at In The Net for all teams under 14 and at The Proving Grounds for all teams older than 15. The U14 and below teams enjoyed full sided 9v9 and 11v11 matches indoors, while the U15 and above competed in full length games outside.

“We were ecstatic to host New Jersey for this round of friendlies and offer an environment to our U14 and below players different from most game experiences. There are not many opportunities to play full sided games indoors during the Winter months, and it was great to see the players really enjoy playing in the facility. For the older teams, we were happy to have mild weather, a great playing surface, and an opportunity to film the games using Veo for in depth player and team analysis.” -Bree Benedict, ODP Manager 

*Veo is a video recording camera and analytics software that will be used with our U15 and above teams. It is providing coaches and players an opportunity to review game footage and analyze performance to further develop as teams and individuals.

An enjoyable, competitive environment was created by both Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey ODP teams, coaches, parents, spectators, and officials. The calm nature of both the spectator and coaching sidelines enabled players to drive the competitiveness of the games and learn and grow through autonomous decision making on the field. Players were able to effectively communicate with teammates, listen to instructions from coaches, and enjoy the games.

“It was great to see the high level of play from our players and teams throughout the day. Additionally, it was a great opportunity for the referees, whether young and just getting started or highly experienced college referees, to hone their craft without pressure from the coaching or spectator sidelines. It really shows their passion for the game and the necessity to respect our officials who dedicate just as much time as the players in pursuit of great game days. Well done to everyone involved, everyone showed great pride for their state programs”  -Gary Stephenson, Technical Director

Eastern Pennsylvania ODP teams will look to build on the experiences of this weekend as they compete at the Maryland Invitational in mid-February.

“Friendlies are a great opportunity for our teams to play against other states and build team chemistry from event to event. We use these games as learning opportunities that will help our players and teams perform well at the East Region Event in June with the goal of being identified for Regional Camp.” -Gary Stephenson, Technical Director

Thank you to New Jersey for joining us for a great weekend of ODP soccer!