United Soccer Academy is back for its 13th year at the Lewiston-Auburn Youth Soccer Association fields located behind the Auburn Middle School on 38 Falcon Drive, Auburn, Maine. The Academy welcomes back Eric Wagner — the Swarthmore College men’s soccer coach. He brings a wealth of knowledge and skills along with the winning tradition he has established for his collegiate program.

This year’s academy session will begin July 22 and end July 26. Players from 5 to 7 years old will participate from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Players 8 and up will train from 9 a..m.  until 2:00 p.m. The Academy prides itself on teaching fundamental skills in a fun and competitive environment. The staff is composed of varsity-level coaches and players from around the area. They are picked for their ability to relate to the game and the players’ respective age levels. Any one who would like to have a brochure for the United Soccer Academy can contact Mike McGraw, USA Director, at mmcgraw@lewistonpublicschools.org or visit Lewiston High School’s main office during normal business hours of 7:30 a.m. unti 3:30 p.m. McGraw can also be reached at 782-4339 for any questions about the program.

Also returning is Butch Dow, goalkeeping coach for the boys’ and girls’ program at Lewiston High School and Bates College. He is the present varsity girls’ coach for the Blue Devils. Dow’s goalkeeping duties don’t stop there. Butch’s résumé includes learning and training under the legendary keeper coach and World Cup and Olympic champion Tony DiCicco of SoccerPlus. Dow will be training high school varsity level goalkeepers at the academy. For a special brochure for this session, contact Dow by e-mail fdow@bates.edu or McGraw.

Special Note to high school age players. There is a major discount for five players or more from the same high school when they register together either by mail or when they register in person. High school coaches or the players/parents may contact McGraw for the brochure or with any questions.