Raiders Junior Academy

Do you have a passion for soccer and the determination to bring your game to the next level?

The Raiders Junior Academy is ready to help you take that next step!


​Raiders Junior Academy – Fall 2026 Program Announcement


Founded in 2023, the Raiders Academy has quickly become one of the Club’s most successful programs.

Created to support our most technical players and allow them to develop their soccer skills locally, the Raiders Youth Academy has already produced outstanding results - including U14 Coliseum League Champions and Playoff Champions in the 2025–26 Indoor season.


Building on this momentum, we are excited to announce a new direction for the upcoming season!

Beginning Fall 2026, the Academy will focus on developing our youngest athletes, offering a dedicated program for U8-U11 boys (2019–2016 birth years).


Our Development Philosophy

We are committed to nurturing confident, intelligent, and technically skilled players. The Academy’s methodology is rooted in positional play, emphasizing:

  • Maintaining possession
  • Moving the ball with purpose
  • Supporting the ball carrier through smart positioning
  • Understanding how to control the rhythm of the game


By instilling these principles early, we help young athletes grow into tactically aware players who can read the game and make strong decisions under pressure.


Program Structure – Fall 2026

Age Groups

  • Group 1: U8/U9
  • Group 2: U10/U11 (Divisions may be adjusted based on registration and assessments)


The top technical players identified during our September/October open assessments will be invited to join weekly Academy sessions throughout the winter. Our experienced coaching staff will work closely with each athlete to ensure age appropriate, individualized development.


We are here to nurture the soccer stars of tomorrow!


Assessment Process

All registered players in the U8–U11 age groups are invited to attend the open assessments.

These sessions allow our coaches to evaluate each player’s technical ability, game understanding, and readiness for the Academy environment.


Are you ready for the challenge? Let your journey to greatness begin!


New for 2027: Dedicated Girls Pathway

The Junior Academy Program will now be offered primarily to our male athletes.

Our NEW PowHER Program will replace the coed Academy and provide a specialized development pathway for our female athletes.


Meet the Academy Coaching Team


Manny Svidran - Academy Technical Lead & Head Coach

(CONCACAF C Diploma – in progress) Coach Manny brings valuable experience from coaching at the Regional level in recent years, and has built strong relationships with top coaches across Ottawa. One of these collaborations led to the creation of the RSC Academy. He is passionate about developing young players and positively shaping the future of soccer in Russell.


Chris Jeggo - Coach

A highly experienced coach with a deep commitment to developing well rounded athletes. Coach Chris has been part of the Academy since day one and has played a major role in its success.

John Watson - Coach

A school teacher whose ability to connect with young athletes is unmatched. Coach John’s background as a player and referee, combined with his positive energy, makes him an exceptional mentor for our players.


Brayden Svidran - Coach

Despite his young age, Coach Brayden is an accomplished Regional level player with a strong passion for coaching. He is a fantastic role model and brings enthusiasm, technical knowledge, and leadership to our Academy environment.