Welcome to the Karen FA UPSL Development Academy and NXTGEN Program. Our development program is a player pathway for kids starting at 4 years old that builds skills while keeping the love for the game.
KFA NXT GEN
Our KFA NXT GEN program is designed for players between 4 and 10 years old, as an introduction to the sport of soccer before graduating to the UPSL Development Academy program. This program will help players develop the core skills used in soccer, such as ball manipulation, coordination, and awareness, while emphasizing fun, teamwork, and respect.
UPSL Development Academy
The UPSL Development Academy program is designed for players 11 years old and up, as a way for players to build on what they learned in KFA NXT GEN through game-like activities and play, and will help players build on their core skills and prepare them for the 7v7 game.
KAREN FA ACADEMY
2025/26 SEASON SCHEDULE
Thank you for all of your continued support. You can view all of the schedule information here. We are changing sessions to 3 months and NOT 2 months starting this year.
KAREN FA ACADEMY
SUMMER 2026 SESSION
Tuesdays and Thursdays
May: 19, 21, 26, 28
June: 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25
July: 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30
John Glenn Middle School
1560 County Rd B
Maplewood, MN 55109
KAREN FA ACADEMY
TIMES & LOCATIONS
Times
6:00pm:
2018 - 2021 NXT Gen
2017 - 2018 Academy
2015 - 2016 Boys Academy
2015 - 2016 Boys Pre-Academy
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7:00pm:
2013 - 2015 Girls Academy
2013 - 2016 Girls Pre-Academy
2013 - 2014 Boys Academy
2013 - 2014 Boys Pre-Academy
2026 SUMMER SESSION
Tuesdays and Thursdays
May: 19, 21, 26, 28
June: 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25
July: 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30
TIMES & LOCATIONS
Times
6:00pm:
2018 - 2021 NXT Gen
2017 - 2018 Academy
2015 - 2016 Boys Academy
2015 - 2016 Boys Pre-Academy
-
7:00pm:
2013 - 2015 Girls Academy
2013 - 2016 Girls Pre-Academy
2013 - 2014 Boys Academy
2013 - 2014 Boys Pre-Academy
John Glenn School
1560 County Rd B E
Maplewood, MN 55109
Karen FA Youth Academy Coaching Staff
Hsinku Lay
Academy Coaching Staff
Dun Lwe Htoo
Academy Coaching Staff
Reebar Htoo
Academy Coaching Staff
Ku Gay Tha
Academy Coaching Staff
Chi Chi
Academy Coaching Staff
Mu Thoo
Academy Coaching Staff
Brendan Doyle
Director of Football Operations
Lay Lay Zan
Board of Directors
Kyle Johnson
Executive Director
Technical Staff
The Karen FA Youth Academy technical staff brings a passion for the game combined with the a genuine desire to provide more opportunities for those who sit outside of the US Youth Sports system. Their desire to help athletes achieve a top level is a goal for all.
Brendan Doyle
DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL OPERATIONS
He currently holds a United States Soccer Federation C License as well as a United Soccer Coaches Urban Soccer Diploma. He is currently an assistant coach in the Minneapolis City SC Futures Program, as well as the Community Engagement coordinator for the club. Prior to joining KFA, Brendan was a staff coach for the St Paul Blackhawks.
Active Youth Do Better In Life
Parenting in today's world is becoming increasingly complex. The widespread use of social media and its profound influence on young minds make it particularly challenging for parents to navigate. As a result, low self-esteem and mental health issues are on the rise. In addition, the prevalence of obesity, alcohol and substance abuse is alarming. Fortunately, research has shown that keeping children active and involved in sports can be an effective way to combat these issues.
Less Likely to Drink Alcohol or Smoke at an Early Age
Experience Lower Levels of Depression and Loneliness
Less Likely to Have an Early Pregnancy
Have Higher Self Esteem
Less Likely to Take or Deal Drugs
As Seen In
Thank you for the continued support from all of the media locally and around the world, sharing the stories of the Karen community and KFA. Read the articles below to learn more about the impact we are making.
Supporters
Thank you to all of the individuals, companies, and organizations supporting the Karen community.
© 2025-2026 Karen Football Association. All rights reserved.
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The Karen Football Association is a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization based in the state of Minnesota in the United States of America.
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Website Design by KFA Digital
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