SUMMER 2026 INFORMATION
We will be offering an 8 week summer Grassroots session that will begin on Friday, June 17, 2026 and conclude on Friday, August 5, 2026. The registration for the program is now open. The program is in high demand so please make sure you register early to secure your spot. The Grassroots program is the foundation of our entire Academy model and, under the guidance of Rich Hackenberg and our staff, will continue to focus on the development of our youngest players
PROGRAM FEATURES
The Riverhounds Academy places a heavy focus on building its overall foundation and structure as well as instilling its top coaches and technical trainers into the grassroots phase of the developmental model. This will provide quality in all sessions and provide a positive experience for the youngest players.
The Pittsburgh Riverhounds Academy Grassroots Vision: To create a fun, safe and sustainable environment for everyone to enjoy and participate in the sport of soccer. By focusing on grassroots development, we are investing in the future of players by laying the foundation to increase participation in soccer for young children.
The Grassroots Program’s goals and emphasis are the following:
- Technical development – ball mastery
- Building good habits in all our players
- 1v1, 2v2, 3v3, 4v4 training
- High-energy sessions
- Providing an emotional connection with the player and giving them confidence
- A platform where young children can fall in love with the game and have fun
- Stimulates a greater interest in the game of soccer
Summer 2026 – GRASSROOTS DETAILS
Birth Years:
2021 / 2020 / 2019 / 2018 / 2017 Boys and Girls
Dates and Times:
Summer Grassroots Program – 8 weeks (Friday) – 1hr sessions
Fridays (8 Week Program)
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Location:
Shallenberger Sportsplex Indoor
686 Englishman Hill Road
Connellsville PA, 15425
Price $225
Location:
Shallenberger Sportsplex Indoor
686 Englishman Hill Road, Connellsville PA, 15425
New Grassroots participants are required to purchase a Grassroots Training kit which includes Shorts, Socks and a Jersey. Click HERE to order yours today!
GRASSROOTS STAFF
Rich Hackenberg – Program Director
rhackenberg@riverhounds.com
James Meara – RDA Connellsville Director
jmeara@riverhounds.com
Ben Wilson – Uniforms
bwilson@highmarkstadium.com
