Youth Developmental League
Fun. Community. Growth.
Overview:
YDL gives players ages 2½ to 18 a fun and welcoming place to learn, play, and grow. It’s soccer at its purest, friends, teamwork, and a lot of smiles.
From our youngest Rising Stars learning their first touches to our oldest players building confidence and creativity, every player has a place to belong and grow. Designed for players fall in love with the game while supporting players and parents with their development into our Academy pathway.
No tryouts. No pressure. Just soccer.
We AR Rising.
Training Schedule:
One-hour sessions are held at least once a week and are led by volunteer coaches. Optional Private Training sessions with Rising staff are also available. Games are played on Saturday mornings.
Seasons:
- Fall: September to October (Registration opens in July)
- Spring: March to May (Registration opens in November)
Coach Support:
- Season-long lesson plans provided
- Starter kits for all new coaches
Ages 3–4
(Rising Stars – Parent Involved)
Rising Stars is for young players and their parents to learn the basics of soccer. The program is designed as a fun first step into the game. It helps build agility, balance, and coordination. Parents take part in each session to help their child get the most out of every activity. The goal is to help each child grow and get ready for the next step in our player pathway.
Ages 5–6
(4v4 Coed Teams)
Players are introduced to soccer through fun, age-appropriate sessions. Teams practice one weekday evening, chosen by the coach. Games are played on weekends, with some weeknight games instead of practice. All teams are led by volunteer coaches, with support from Rising staff.
Ages 7–8
(Gender Split)
This program helps players get ready for Academy and advanced teams. It is a good fit for beginners ages 7 and up or players who have completed 4v4 or Rising Stars. Players focus on having fun while improving Ball Mastery Skills and foundations of the game like dribbling, passing, and shooting.
Ages 9–11
(Gender Split)
This program helps players take the next step in soccer. It introduces basic tactics while continuing to build ball control. The focus is on preparing players for our Academy and giving new players a place to learn and enjoy the game. It runs alongside our Academy, helping players and parents get ready for the next level.
Ages 11–13
(Gender Split)
This program is for players ready for a more competitive game setting. Players are challenged to think faster, play with purpose, and understand how the game flows. Training focuses on applying skills in real game situations and working as a team. It runs alongside our Academy and competitive teams, giving players a steady place to develop with Rising staff until they are ready to make that move.
AGE 13+
(Gender Split)
This program puts players into the full game environment. Players learn how to compete, manage the pace of the game, and work within a team system. The focus is on consistency, decision making under pressure, and understanding how to impact the game in different moments. It gives players a place to keep developing with Rising staff while preparing for higher levels of competition.
Not for sure what program to choose for your child?
Learn more here!
Volunteer to Coach
Our coaches are parents, players, former players, family members, and friends of the community looking to provide a fun and active experience in the game of soccer. Our goal at Arkansas Rising Recreation is to create a fun, nurturing environment for our players to develop their love for the game and create lasting friendships and a lifetime of memories.
Risk Management
Coaches are required to complete a background check prior to coaching.
Coaching Education
Access to online and in-person coaching education, specifically designed for each age group you are interested in coaching with.
FAQs
Please read our frequently asked questions for a better player experience!
What size ball does my player need?
- Age 7 and under need a size 3 ball. (Rising Stars and all Grassroots players)
- Ages 8-11 need a size 4 ball. (CARL Recreational)
- Ages 13-19 need a size 5 ball. (CARL Recreational)
Who are the coaches?
Coaches are volunteers, often a parent of a participating player. All of our coaches are required to have a background check.
What does my player need for practice?
Players will need to bring shin guards, soccer shoes (cleats), a soccer ball, and a water bottle to practice and games.
Coaches will let them know what uniform to wear for each game. Athletic clothes may be worn for practices.
What is the general commitment?
Once teams are formed, there is typically one weeknight evening practice with one Saturday game. Practice days and times are determined by each coach based on availability for the majority of their team. Teams in 3rd grade and older may choose to practice twice a week.
Can I request a specific coach or teammate for my child?
Requests can be made during on-time registration only. Please note that any requests are never guaranteed.
What is the process for my child to play up one year?
Play-up requests must be made prior to team formation. Parents can make a play-up request via email to LukeLines@arkansasrising.org. Play-ups are never guaranteed.
If my child gets hurt during the season, can I request a refund?
Refund requests need to be made by the set refund request deadline which is a week after the season has started.
How do I find out about field closings due to inclement weather?
Please go to our Field Status tab under Fields to see all the closings. We normally do not make a decision until 3:00 PM to close a field.
What are the differences between recreational and competitive soccer?
Read more about the differences between competitive and recreational soccer by clicking here.
How long is the season?
Season is roughly about 7-8 weeks long with one game on Saturdays.
