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Minnesota United plans a new academy system for top-end teenage soccer players that would become the third such entity accredited by the U.S. Soccer Federation in Minnesota. Here is a look at the other two:

Minnesota Thunder Academy: Its Elite Development Program includes teams from U-13 to U-19, with focus on technical, tactical, physical, and psychological development. The academy’s roots trace back to 2007 when it was formed by the now-defunct soccer team with the same name. Teams train two to three times per week throughout the year, focusing on regional and national level competition.

Shattuck-St. Mary’s: A residency-based program in Faribault in which boys and girls train and compete on a daily basis from September through May while attending school. The soccer component provides a competition program that integrates tournament play, friendly games and exhibitions.

David La Vaque