Each college soccer camps has its own distinguishing characteristics, but it’s hard to imagine a camp as uniquely appealing as that of the United States Military Academy.

Army men’s coach Russell Payne agrees that the camp is a tremendous opportunity to see what life at West Point is really like.

“It’s a first-hand glimpse at life at the academy. Even if a player is not interested in going to West Point, it’s such a unique experience for a camper to have, whether it is seeing the Cadets, taking part in events on campus or just being in one of the most picturesque environments in the country as far as college campuses go.”

Army has a day camp July 5-8, an advanced residential camp July 24-27 and Team/Elite camp July 28-31.

Army campus at night.

Payne noted that West Point also provides additional peace of mind for parents sending their young sons away for a week of soccer.

“In this day and age, safety and security are huge factors for parents, so in deciding where to send their kids, there’s probably not a safer place in country to send them in terms of dorm spaces, the campus not being open to strangers and all of those factors,” Payne said. “Even as we fill out our camp staff, there is a process of making sure everyone meets the qualifications like nothing I’ve ever seen.”

The day camp ages range from 6 to 14, while the residential overnight camps are for age groups 10 to 18. Payne says along with the facilities and setting, the coaching staff he’s put together will be an attraction to prospective campers. The program is in three daily parts.

“We’ll do comprehensive technical work for in the first session, starting a theme for that day,” he said. “Then in the 2nd we’ll do small-sided work. We don’t just put then in a huge game and stand around and watch. We allow them to work on their creativity.”

The third session will be 11v11 matches under the lights at the Army facility.

“A lot of parents within an hour’s drive come back and watch those games,” Payne said. “It’s under the lights on the practice facilities, with the Cadets around. It feels like a real game atmosphere.”

Payne said his goal is help campers emulate what college players go through.

“For the older age groups we bring in all college or U.S. Soccer Academy coaches to staff. It’s the quintessential college experience. We don’t reinvent the wheel, but we give them a first-hand look at how a coach would coach their college team. We don’t want to tailor it to a typical camp, but tailor it to them getting an authentic college soccer experience, whether it’s keeping a schedule or whatever, parents really appreciate that in the long run.”

The last day of the camp also afford the campers an opportunity to get a fuller look at the West Point campus and take in the history so prevalent in the place. After the final game that evening, college coaches talk with players about the recruiting process, college admissions and the demands of being a DI, II or III player.

Payne also thinks the camp provides a good opportunity for young men to understand the mission of the academy.

“We also like to put the campers in front of some of the older student-athletes on campus who can speak to why they chose this way of life, not from recruiting standpoint but to open their eyes to all the things that are out there,” he said. “Not every kid is going to be a professional player, but they will be a professional in something. Hopefully the camp will shed some light about their ability in soccer, but also shed light on the choices they have out there. Serving your country is a calling that’s not for everybody, but it can be a tremendous opportunity and that’s something specific here that we offer.”

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