The Olympic Development Program (ODP) was created by U.S. Soccer with two objectives:

• to identify next level and national team players at the youth level via state and regional programs
• to provide developmental opportunities through unique experiences

The core principles of TALENT IDENTIFICATION and PLAYER DEVELOPMENT are primary pillars of ODP under The U.S. Way for the development of the youth national team and have not changed over the years but with improved opportunities for playing collegiate soccer since college coaches consider a player’s participation in ODP an indicator of talent and ambition.