Indiana ODP proudly hosted the US Youth Soccer Midwest ODP Sub-Regional from Friday, June 13, to Sunday, June 15, at the renowned Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Indiana. The weekend delivered a true Midwest weather mix — with moments of sunshine and periods of rain — but that didn’t dampen the energy or enthusiasm of the players, coaches, and families in attendance. 

This marquee event welcomed over 200 teams and more than 3000 players from across the region. Participating states included Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky, Illinois, Ohio, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, with matches featuring both boys’ and girls’ teams across the 10U-17U ages. 

Elevating the Pathway to the Next Level 

The Midwest Sub-Regional serves as a critical opportunity for ODP players to showcase their skills in front of college coaches, state staff, and regional evaluators. The event offers a competitive and developmental platform for identifying high-potential athletes who will advance in the USYS ODP player pathway, including future Regional ID Camps and National Training Centers. 

• Over 300 games were played over the three-day event 
• Upwards of 50 college coaches were present on the sidelines, evaluating and supporting player development 

Indiana ODP Teams Shine 

Indiana’s ODP teams had some strong performances across all age groups, demonstrating technical growth, team cohesion, and a commitment to the principles of player development. Coaches praised the effort and resilience of the athletes, especially in the face of challenging weather conditions on Friday. 

“Hosting these events is truly an honor,” said Indiana ODP Director Todd Sheely.  “I am happy with the performances of our players and staff as we kept Development at the forefront of all contests.  I appreciate collegiality while being competitive amongst all the states. “ 

From the Sidelines: What They’re Saying 

Parents: 

“IN ODP Staff/admin are always super helpful and responsive which makes the experience great for newer families to the program.  Well organized event and convenient to hotels and amenities for a weekend long showcase. The level of play from other states who participated was excellent!” 
– Ross 

“Having Henry play in the ODP Subregional event hosted in Grand Park, Indiana was wonderful for our family. Henry has been part of ODP soccer for 4 years and this was the first time all of our family could watch him play for the state. We are glad to see the event rotate from host state to host state. Grand Park was an excellent venue to host, and the entire Indiana ODP staff did an amazing job facilitating a safe and inviting competition. It is rare to see such a diverse level of talent in a competitive environment such as ODP. The Indiana ODP program provides challenges and growth opportunities that are not found at the local club level. We are thankful for the time and sacrifices the ODP staff and coaches put into the program to make it the best.” – Chad 

Coaches: 

“Indiana ODP hosted eight States from the Midwest region and put on a display of high-level soccer with coaches bringing their A game for the Subregional Event. It was a great few days of soccer that brought out the best from players of all ages, even the rain couldn’t dampen their spirits. It was fun to see players get coached the ODP way, focusing on real growth and development.” – Coach Chris Potts 

“Three days of rain, sun, and soccer. What’s not to love? Our players were given the experience of how to win with humility, how to lose with grace, and how to accept the draw. The Indiana ODP Girls group is a wonderful collection of coachable soccer players with great attitudes and positive mindsets. Grand Park facilities were in fantastic shape. The Indiana ODP administrative staff were on point with organization and communication, and the opposing players and coaches from the other states in our region were a pleasure to compete with. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of this event.” – Coach Dan Sullivan

Players: 

“Playing for Indiana ODP in the Midwest Subregionals was a goal I worked very hard to achieve. I got to play with talented, hardworking girls from all over the state and competed against teams from around the Midwest.” – Madison 

Thank You 

Indiana Soccer and Indiana ODP extend heartfelt thanks to all participating players, coaches, referees, families, and volunteers who made the 2025 Sub-Regional a success. Special recognition goes to the Indiana ODP staff and the team at Grand Park for their hospitality and support. 

For more updates on the Indiana ODP program and upcoming regional or national selections, email Todd Sheely at Todd@soccerindiana.org or visit our website at Indiana Soccer on X- @IndianaODP and Instagram- indianaodp 

As part of its commitment to holistic player development, Indiana Soccer hosted a powerful College Coach Talk presentation during the 2025 USYS Midwest Sub-Regionals at Grand Park Soccer Complex in Westfield, Indiana. Aimed at ODP players ages 15–18 and their families, the event helped bridge the gap between aspiring collegiate athletes and college programs. 

Facilitated by Indiana ODP Director Todd Sheely and Indiana Soccer Director of Coaching Steve Franklin, the event featured two sessions with over 400 parents in attendance, offering direct access to insights from current college coaches: 

• Abbie Markey– NCAA 

• Emily Willeart – St. Benedict’s College 

• Jim Watts – Hanover College Women’s Soccer 

• Dave Reyelts – College of St. Scholastica 

• Tom Farrington – Franklin College Women’s Soccer 

• Rick Larson – Head Coach, Schoolcraft College Men’s Soccer (NJCAA) 

• Steve Horn – Head Coach, Cleary University Women’s Soccer (NAIA) 

Key discussion topics included how to navigate the college recruiting process, what coaches look for in a student-athlete, and the importance of academics, character, and preparation. 

“It allowed for a relaxed environment for prospective student athletes to engage with college coaches and learn how to navigate the recruiting process,” stated Franklin. “They learned how to make the first contact, what the coaches look for, and how important transparency is.” 

This event plays a vital role in creating alignment between college soccer programs and the evolving needs of student-athletes. By connecting families directly with college coaches, Indiana Soccer helps demystify the recruiting process and ensures players are better equipped to pursue opportunities that fit both their athletic and academic goals. It also allows college coaches to understand the aspirations and concerns of players at the youth level, promoting a more transparent and meaningful recruitment environment. 

Indiana Soccer extends a heartfelt thank you to the college coaches who generously shared their time and expertise, and to the parents and families who continue to support their athletes’ journeys. 

Together, we are building a stronger soccer community—one that champions opportunity, understanding, and long-term success both on and off the field. 

“Providing these opportunities is a great value add for the players within ODP,” said Indiana ODP Director Todd Sheely.  We look forward to offering more sessions in the future.” 

April 2025 – The Indiana Olympic Development Program (ODP) recently returned from an exciting international adventure to Portugal — a trip led by WorldStrides packed with competitive matches, world-class stadiums, historic landmarks, and unforgettable memories.  

The tour brought together youth players from Indiana for an immersive week of soccer, sightseeing, and cultural exchange in one of Europe’s most soccer-rich nations.  

Competing on the International Stage  

Soccer was front and center as Indiana ODP teams squared off against top Portuguese youth clubs, including Leoes de Porto Salvo, Seixal 1925, Real SC, CF Belenenses, and others. These matchups tested the Indiana teams’ technical skill, tactical understanding, and composure under pressure.  

“I really enjoyed competing against the Portugues teams”.  – ODP Player Leo Aziminia  

“When we played the Portuguese teams, I felt excited, accomplished, and nervous all at the same time. It was cool to hear the other kids speaking their language while we were playing the same game. It was a cool trip, and I am glad I got to go.” – ODP Player Boden Pugh  

Touring the Home of Football Royalty  

Beyond the competition, players and staff enjoyed behind-the-scenes access to some of Portugal’s most iconic football venues. Highlights included a tour of Estádio da Luz, home of SL Benfica, one of Europe’s most historic clubs.  

Adding to the excitement, the group attended two professional matches: SC Braga vs Sporting CP, and FC Porto vs Casa Pia. Witnessing the electric atmosphere in these packed stadiums gave players a taste of what football means in Portugal — more than just a game, it’s a way of life.  

“The Sporting game was incredible. The atmosphere was both crazy and amazing!” -Indiana ODP Parent  

Exploring Portugal’s Rich Culture  

The group explored Portugal’s beautiful landscapes and historic landmarks off the pitch. The itinerary included:  

• A scenic visit to the Palace of Pena in Sintra, perched high above the clouds with fairy-tale views.  

• A walking tour of Downtown Lisbon and the historic São Jorge Castle.  

• An educational visit to the Jerónimos Monastery and the surrounding area of Belém.  

• A relaxing afternoon in the charming town and beaches of Cascais.  

Food, Friendship, and Memories  

And of course, there was the food. Players enjoyed traditional Portuguese cuisine throughout the trip — from fresh seafood to pastries — giving them a literal taste of the local culture.  

“One of my favorite moments was playing soccer tennis with the entire girls’ team and parents at the hotel”. -Player Mia Frink  

“My favorite moment of the trip was walking through the streets of Cascais and watching the players interact with one another while taking in the new sights”. – Parent Jared Baier  

A Lasting Impact  

For Indiana ODP players, the Portugal trip was more than a soccer tour — it was a journey of growth, learning, and inspiration.   

“This trip was about stepping outside of our comfort zones,” said Indiana ODP coach, Andy Rolinson.  

“Whether it was on the field or exploring a new city, the players embraced every moment.”  

“It was a once in a lifetime experience that helped me grow as a player on and off the field.”-Player Oliver Andres  

“I am proud of the dedication and developmental focus demonstrated by Todd Sheely, Steve Franklin, and his ODP staff. An experience like this trip to Portugal will set an upward trajectory for each of these young players—offering value far beyond soccer itself.”- Indiana Soccer Executive Director Dave Guthrie  

“Offering these trips is a great value add for our ODP players, families and staff, said ODP Director Todd Sheely. We look forward to our next trip.”  

As Indiana ODP continues to develop talent for the next level, experiences like this prove that the global game has no limits — and that sometimes the biggest growth happens far from home.