NC Courage

Academy

Elite Development Pathway • Ages 11–19
NC Courage Academy is the premier development pathway for elite female players ages 11–19, providing a professional-level training environment designed to prepare athletes for collegiate, professional, and international success.
About the Program
NC Courage Academy

NC Courage Academy is the premier development pathway for elite female players ages 11–19, providing a professional-level training environment designed to prepare athletes for collegiate, professional, and international success.

North Carolina Courage ECNL Academy is the highest level of soccer for youth female soccer players. The ECNL Academy is a 10-month program; players begin their season in August and conclude in July.

Ages 11–19 • ECNL National • 10-Month Program (Aug–Jul)
NC Courage Academy Graduates Have Moved On To
100+ Play Collegiately
50+ Rep National Teams
10+ Play Professionally
Program Overview
  • Professional-level training environment for elite female players
  • 10-month season, August through July
  • Year-round commitment — players are expected at every training and match
  • Trained medical personnel on-site
  • College recruitment guidance and support
  • Uniform provided; Nike boots required for U16 and older per club sponsorship agreement
Contact Us
Academy Inquiries — Erwin van Bennekom Erwin.vanBennekom@NCFCYouth.com
Pre-Academy Inquiries — Amanda Aldridge Amanda.Aldridge@NCFCYouth.com
Program Details & Costs
Age League Participation Location Uniform Cost Payment Plan
U19 ECNL National x4 p/w min WRAL Provided $3,100 $430 + 6 x $445
U17 ECNL National x4 p/w min WRAL Provided $3,800 10 x $380
U16 ECNL National x4 p/w min WRAL Provided $3,800 10 x $380
U15 ECNL National x4 p/w min WRAL Provided $3,800 10 x $380
U14 ECNL National x4 p/w min WRAL Provided $3,800 10 x $380
U13 ECNL National x4 p/w min WRAL Provided $3,800 10 x $380
U12 NCFC In-House (Pre-Academy) x3 p/w min WRAL Provided $2,425 5 x $245 + 5 x $240
U11 NCFC In-House (Pre-Academy) x3 p/w min WRAL Provided $2,425 5 x $245 + 5 x $240
Training sessions are typically scheduled between 4:15 PM and 8:00 PM, depending on age group.
FAQs
Q. Where can I find more information about the training locations?

A. Click here 👈

Q. Is there financial aid available to help with the program cost?

A. Yes. We offer financial aid to players from families that demonstrate a clear financial need. Click here 👈 to learn more about the application process. Regardless of your situation, we will do everything we can to help in some way.

Q. Do you provide medical/athletic training help for injuries?

A. Yes. There is always trained medical personnel on-site.

Q. Do you provide footwear?

A. No.

Q. Do I have to wear a specific brand of footwear?

A. Academy players from U16 and older are required to wear Nike boots as part of our club sponsorship agreement.

Q. Am I allowed to play for my high school team?

A. No. Academy players are committed to a year-round program and are expected to be at every training and match.

Q. Will the Academy help me with college recruitment?

A. Yes. This is a top priority of ours. Whilst we will not do the work for you, we will provide as much assistance and guidance as we can.

NC Courage Academy Sponsors

NC Courage Academy Staff

For Academy inquiries, please contact Erwin van Bennekom

NC Courage Academy Director
Pre-Academy Director
NC Courage Academy Coaching Staff
NC Courage Academy Coaching Staff
NC Courage Academy Coaching Staff
NC Courage Academy Coaching Staff
Goalkeeper Coach
To Be Determined
Athletic Trainer