In addition to each camp program information page, this FAQ provides answers to common questions related to RDS Residential Camps.  For questions related to Technical Camps, RDS Technical Camps, and RDS Tactical Camps, please read the Day Camps Program FAQ document.

To ensure you and your child are ready for an exciting camp week, RDS Residential Camp Virtual Orientations are conducted on Tuesday before each camp location’s start date. Please be sure to join us as we cover important camp preparation and schedule information.

SCHEDULE & GROUPS

How are players grouped at Residential Camp?

Players are grouped based on both age and ability levels. Group allocation is reviewed at the end of each camp day, and players may be moved accordingly to ensure they are in the correct development environment and are constantly being challenged.

What is a typical daily schedule for my child while on camp?

A typical schedule at most residential camps will be as follows:

DORMS & AMMENITIES

What is the dorm room configuration at each location?

Room configurations are set up for 2 to a room; this is the requirement of the Department of Health.

How do I choose a roommate?

• Log in to your member account at: https://www.rbnytraining.com/member-login.asp
• Click on My Programs in the top left-hand corner
• You will see any camps that need a room-mate request completed
• Click on the red INCOMPLETE button under the roommate form heading
• This allows you to request up to 3 roommates, in order of preference
• The form also allows you to provide additional information should it be required
• If unsure, you may Save Progress and return to complete it later
• Once you are happy with your selection, click Complete
• You will know you have submitted your request successfully, as the button will turn green and say COMPLETED
• Even if your child has no roommate requests, it is important to complete the form accordingly
• This function locks down 7 days in advance of camp, after which no further changes are permitted

Who can I request as a roommate?

You can request friends, siblings, or anyone who is of the same gender as you.

With our team on camp, dividing the genders by floors, we will not be able to put friends or siblings of different genders in the same room together.

Is there a snack shop or vending machines on campus?

Each campus has unique and varying amenities, and these will be shared in your pre-camp information pack.

Do the dorms have air conditioning?

Most overnight camp locations have air conditioning, but if you have any questions, feel free to email or call for more details.

Will bedding be provided, and if not, what should I bring?

The dorm room will be furnished with a twin-sized bed and mattress. Linens are not provided, nor are laundry services available. Please be sure to pack a fitted sheet, a bed sheet, a pillowcase, and a warm blanket.

SUPERVISION & COMMUNICATION

Who oversees the Red Bulls Residential Camp onsite?

Red Bull New York soccer camps are premium camps hosted throughout New York and New Jersey that are operated directly by a professional soccer team.

Each camp meets local Department of Health Standards and includes a Red Bulls-trained Camp Director and a medically trained and certified Health Director onsite at all times.

Are players supervised at all times?

Yes. On and off the field, camper health and safety is our number one priority. We follow a strict safety policy that ensures that there is always an adequate number of camper supervisors at all times. We also ensure that each camper is always checked in and signed out of camp by an approved adult.

What are the supervision arrangements at the dorm?

Red Bulls coaches are housed on each floor of each dorm. The players will be shown where the coach’s rooms are located, and they will be clearly marked so that they can be easily located by any player needing them. Boys and girls are in separate dorms or floors, with male coaches in the boys’ dorms/floors and female coaches in the girls’ dorms/floors. In addition to our staff, each location has its own campus security, which is available 24 hours a day.

How can my child contact me / I contact my child, throughout the week?

If you need to contact your child in case of emergencies, please send a text to the Camp Director (number will be provided in advance of camp start).

They will arrange for your child to call home from a coach's phone at their earliest convenience. We collect multiple phone numbers for you at the time of registration, so even if your child doesn’t know your number, we can provide it to them.

CHECK IN / CHECK OUT & PICK-UP

Do I need to check in on the first day of camp?

Yes, check-in will take place at the front of the dorms. Signs will guide you to the appropriate parking area and check-in area. A campus map is included in your welcome packet. The check-in schedule is as follows:

• 1:00pm to 3:00pm – Rolling player arrival and check-in
• 3:30pm to 4:30pm – Player Orientation and Campus Tour
• 5:00pm to 6:00pm – Dinner
• 6:00pm to 8:00pm – Opening Tournament

Players should eat lunch before arriving, as dinner is not until 5pm. Once you have dropped off your child, you are free to leave. Due to the staggering check in times, parents are not expected to stay for the opening address.

Is there a set check-out location and procedure?

Yes, check-out takes place following the tournament and graduation on the final day of camp. The players’ belongings will be packed and ready for departure prior to the beginning of the tournament. The final day’s schedule is as follows:

• 9:00am – 11:30am Training/Favorite Games
• 12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch
• 1:30pm – 3:30pm Tournament
• 3:30pm – 4:30pm Graduation
• 4:30pm – 5:00pm Check-out and pick up.
• Parents must meet with the Health Director if their child sustained an injury or illness while at camp.

Parents are invited to come and watch the tournament play on the final day. Following the tournament and graduation, which will take place at the field, the players, STILL WITH THEIR GROUPS, will proceed back to the dorms to gather their bags. Upon gathering their belongings, they should proceed to the check-out tent with their parent/guardian(s) to officially check out from the camp.

What if I need to check in my child late?

It is important that players check in on the first day of camp. A required camp orientation is conducted on the first day shortly after check-in. If you cannot arrive on the first day of camp for check-in, please call our office at 1.888.370.7287

What do I do if I need to pick up my child early?

We expect all players to attend all sessions through the last day of camp. This provides the highest quality experience for every player at camp and in the training group.

We understand there may be unavoidable circumstances, and it would be necessary to check out your child before the last day. If a player needs to be picked up early, please notify the Camp Director at check-in and provide a note stating such. If it is an unscheduled pick up, you can always call 888.370.7287. Additionally, a specific contact list with contact numbers directly to personnel on site will be provided to the parent or guardian checking in the player on the first day of camp.

What if I need someone other than myself to pick my child up at check-out?

Please provide a signed note with the full name of the person you authorize to pick up your child at check-in. If the change occurs during the camp week, please contact us at training@newyorkredbulls.com, and we will communicate with the camp staff.  Those individuals picking up the player will need to bring identification.

Please be aware that our staff will not allow any child to be picked up by someone that the child does not recognize or without prior parent/guardian permission. If there is someone or people NOT permitted to pick your child up, please contact our office at 1.888.370.7287 or training@newyorkredbulls.com to request the required form to complete. This form must be given to the Camp Director at check-in.

HEALTH & MEDICATION

What will happen in cases of injury or illness?

At all our Residential Camps, the Camp Director holds an American Red Cross certificate in responding to emergencies and CPR for professional rescuers. There will also be a qualified athletic trainer or EMT present during the week to provide on-field treatment. However, the usual course of action once any serious injury is stabilized is to contact the parents and, if necessary, the local emergency services. In the registration process, we also ask important medical-related questions so that we are always aware of any pre-existing injury or illness.

Do I need to bring my child’s immunization records to Residential Camp?

Yes. State Health and Safety regulations require that your child be up to date with age-appropriate vaccinations as listed below. Campers who aren’t vaccinated won’t be permitted on camp unless there is a bona fide medical or religious exception*.

Vaccination requirements to attend Camp:

• Diphtheria/Tetanus
• Haemophilus Influenza type B
• Hepatitis B
• Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
• Poliomyelitis
• Varicella (chicken pox)

Following online registration, you will be directed to complete an online immunization record or attestation for religious or medical waivers. If you are attending multiple camp weeks, only one completed form is required for the camp season.

For more information on state vaccination requirements, visit:

• NJ Vaccination Guide
• NY Vaccination Guide

*Mercy University - Immunization Records

To be eligible to attend the RDS Residential Camp at Mercy University, you will need to provide documentation noting one of the following circumstances related to your child’s immunization:

• Immunization Record signed by a medical professional or immunization receipt from an immunization clinic
• Religious Exemption / Declination (must be a signed affidavit by a religious leader on official letterhead)
• Medical Exemption (must be a medical statement signed by a medical professional)
• Medical Documentation of having had the disease or a blood test indicating immunity

This documentation will need to be provided at Sunday check-in to camp for your child to attend.

If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact us: training@newyorkredbulls.com | 888.370.7287

Medical Forms (must be printed and submitted at check-in):

The medical forms listed below are required for each child to attend a RDS Residential Camp, as required by State Health regulations.  These forms must be submitted at check-in to attend camp.  The forms are available for download here: **Medical Forms Pack**

Medication Form (Prescription and Over-The-Counter):

• If your child will be taking medication while at camp, it is state law to secure your consent for medication distribution and for the use of medical devices.
• In addition to your consent, the prescribing physician must provide a sign-off on all medications, including over-the-counter medications, to be used at camp. Campers are not allowed to hold onto medication while at camp.
• All medications must be submitted with this accompanying document to the Health Director of the camp for proper storage and administration.
• Prescription medications must be in their original containers bearing the pharmacy label and have specific instructions for use (child’s name, dosage, # pills inside, prescribing practitioner, pharmacy name & address, filler's initials, serial #).
• If your child will not be taking medication, you are still required to complete and sign page 1 of this form.
• Due to Department of Health regulations, we cannot accept completed forms that read “as needed”. They must have a specific dosage

Initial Health Screening Form:

• As the health history or medication needs of a camper may have changed from when the online registration form was completed, we do a follow-up check to see if there are any new health concerns, injuries, or illnesses that we should be aware of.
• Please complete the attached Health History form and submit it to the Health Director at check-in. To expedite Sunday check-in, please complete the form prior to arrival.

Immunization Records:

• Online account:
  • Parents can log into their registration account, select "Participants and Immunization Forms," and complete the immunization form online. This method is the most convenient and removes the need to submit a hard copy of the immunization record at camp check-in. Additionally, when using the online option, for campers who are attending multiple camp weeks, one form is valid for the whole summer. Click here to log in to your account and complete or update your child’s immunization form.
• Offline at check-in (Red Bulls’ Form)\: Parents can download and complete a copy of the standard Red Bulls immunization template (**Medical Forms Pack**).
• Offline at check-in (Doctor’s Form)\: If you prefer, a copy of your child’s doctor-issued immunization record is also acceptable.
• Please note that if you use option 2 or 3 and attend multiple camp weeks, you will need to submit a copy at each camp week check-in.

What if my child needs to bring medication to an overnight camp?

If your child will be taking medication while at an overnight camp, the prescribing physician must provide a sign-off on all medications, including over-the-counter medications. Campers are NOT ALLOWED to hold onto medication while at camp. ALL medications must be submitted to the Health Director of the camp for proper storage and administration. If your child is found in possession of medication, either prescription or over-the-counter medication, parents will be called for immediate pick up from camp. At camp check-in, ALL prescription and over-the-counter medications along with a completed MEDICATION FORM must be submitted to the Health Director (A medication form will be emailed to you following registration, or can be downloaded **here**. Prescription medications must be in their original containers bearing the pharmacy label and have specific instructions for use (Child’s name, dosage, # pills inside, prescribing practitioner, pharmacy name & address, filler's initials, serial #).

Important: Due to Department of Health Regulations, “as needed” medication must include a dosage and frequency and will only be given “as needed” with parental approval, which will be obtained via a phone call. If the parent does not provide approval, the camper will not be permitted to take the medication.

A self-administration process is used at overnight camps. Self-administration of medications will only be allowed for those individuals determined to be "self-directed". Determination as to whether a camper should be considered for self-administration will be conducted by the Health Director or designee and will be based on the camper's ability to correctly identify the medication, dosage, and reason for need. Additionally, we do not keep supplies of over-the-counter medication at camp.

WEATHER

What happens if there is inclement weather?

As with all our camps, if it is just raining, we play! However, if the weather presents a safety concern on the field, there are opportunities for indoor activities. The common areas will be set up for usage during potential rain delays with cards, quizzes, games, and other activities.

Facility amenities vary depending on location. As available, a gym space may be used to continue training sessions. Indoor shoes or sneakers are required for most gym floors. Please pack accordingly. The health and safety of our players is our number one concern.

What happens if there is extreme heat?

Our camp management team carefully monitors local weather forecasts each day.  Heat impact for outdoor activities is measured using the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT). This calculation measures heat stress in direct sunlight, which takes into account: temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle, and cloud cover (solar radiation). This differs from the heat index, which takes into consideration temperature and humidity and is calculated for shady areas. The following heat impact levels are actioned for RBYP programs taking place outdoors:

• Orange = modified activities
• Red = shorten sessions, frequent breaks, move indoors if possible
• Black = move indoors or cancel

As stated previously, the health and safety of our players is our number one concern.

WHAT TO PACK

Can my child bring cell phones, iPads, Kindles, or smart watches to a residential camp?

Residential camps offer a digital-free camp week.  We ask parents to leave cell phones, iPads, and smart watches at home so that campers can engage with each other during downtime. All types of digital devices are prohibited.

Campers found with prohibited devices breach camp policy and will have them confiscated for the duration of camp and returned at checkout.

Please note that prior to the child's device being taken, we will notify the parents and receive their consent to confiscate the device.

What clothing should my child wear at a Residential Camp?

A complete recommended packing list is included in each facility's welcome pack. In general, players should be able to make one set of soccer clothing work per day. However, please have your player prepared for up to one full charge per day in case of inclement weather. In addition, players should also pack casual clothes for rest and non-soccer activities.

What should my child refrain from bringing to Residential Camp?

Please be sure that your player refrains from bringing the following items:

• Expensive or cherished items (jewelry, clothing, etc.)
• Unnecessary electronics (iPads, laptops, handheld game systems, etc.)
• Refrigerators, air conditioners, or other large electronics / small appliances
• Extension cords (surge protectors are allowed but must have a trip switch)
• Excessive food
• Junk food, soda, and/or candy
• Dangerous items

What will my child receive at a Residential Camp?

At a Residential Camp, players will receive the following items:

• Adidas Soccer Ball
• Four (4) Red Bulls training shirts
• One pair of red Adidas shorts
• One pair of white Adidas socks
• Red Bulls cinch bag
• Discounted tickets to a Red Bulls home match

How much money should my child bring for the week?

Approximately $25-$30 (in small bills) for the week should be plenty. Players must keep money in their rooms, but are responsible for it themselves. We strongly advise not bringing more money than is necessary. Please do not bring other valuable items to camp as Red Bull New York is not responsible for the loss of any personal belongings. iPhones / iPads / other portable electronic devices are prohibited.

ACTIVITIES

Are the parents allowed to come and watch during the week?

The only time parents may attend to watch sessions is the morning training session, from 9:00am - 11:30am. No visits are allowed outside these hours. We no longer allow parents to attend the evening sessions, as if we have a young player who is homesick, seeing their parents in the evening (closer to bedtime) exacerbates the problem further.

The more you allow your child to immerse themselves in the soccer environment, the more they will enjoy the experience. Although we encourage our players to call home periodically, calling them several times a day is entirely counterproductive. Quite often, a text message is better. Please bear this in mind when communicating with your child. For child protection reasons, when visiting, parents are not allowed to enter the dormitories. If you are bringing extra clothing/equipment for players, please meet them outside the dorms.

What non-soccer activities are available throughout the week?

Time is allocated each day for players to spend time socializing with other campers and to spend time engaged in other activities. Each camp has a common room with a television and video games. Team activities will be prepared throughout the week, featuring activities such as quiz nights, Red Bulls viewing parties, and other team competitions.

Will swimming be offered at overnight camp locations?

Some overnight camp locations have access to a swimming pool, which we can use. The school/location makes the decisions on whether pools are available for use during our week on-site. If we can use the pool facility, parental permission is required for all swimming activities and will be asked during the online registration process. Additionally, all campers who are given parental permission for swimming will be required to take a swim test as administered by the facility's Aquatics Director or Progressive Swim Instructor. Following the swim test, campers will be classified as swimmers or non-swimmers; only swimmers will be allowed in the pool area.

FOOD

Does each Residential Camp location cater to special dietary needs?

The menu flexibility varies at each location. Our goal at every facility is to offer a healthy and varied food option. There are times, however, when the host facility can’t accommodate all special dietary needs. To view each facility's ability to accommodate special dietary needs, please read the location-specific information pack. A link can be found at the bottom of this page.

If the dietary need isn’t addressed, prior to registering for any residential camp location, please contact our office to see if the dietary request can be accommodated. Call: 1-888-370-7287 or email training@newyorkredbulls.com. Additionally, where available, weekly menus for each location will be included in the pre-camp information pack.

Can I provide my child with food for their dorms?

Yes, limited food is allowed in the dorms. However, the food must be in sealed containers and be nonperishable. There is no refrigeration available.

TEAM CAMP OPTION

What is the minimum number of required players to schedule a team camp?

A minimum of 10 players is required. Some clubs often combine teams or recruit additional players. If a team is short by 1-2 players, it is possible the Red Bulls can allocate a few external registered campers to the team.

Does the team train together?

Yes, the team trains together throughout the whole week. One of the biggest benefits of the camp is the team bonding experience that comes with working as a group.

Does the team room together?

The team will be placed in the same dorm area. Typically, most dorm rooms accommodate 2-3 players, and we will ask you for a rooming list.

What is the camp duration?

Players check in on Sunday afternoon and check out on Thursday around 5 pm. A full breakdown of the weekly and daily schedule can be found at the link at the bottom of this page.

How is the curriculum developed?

Red Bulls Residential curriculum is designed to improve skills in a short period of time by maximizing players’ time on the ball. Additionally, prior to the camp, we will discuss the strengths and areas of development for your team and tailor sessions accordingly.

Will my team play against other teams?

Yes. If there are other age-appropriate teams, each evening the players scrimmage to apply what they have learned during the day. If there aren’t other age-appropriate teams, internal scrimmage opportunities are created.

Is there a team discount?

Yes, provided there are at least 10 players, each player receives an additional 10% discount.

How do I register the team?

• All registrations and payments are completed online
• Once the details of the camp are confirmed, we require a roster list with parent contact details.
• Each parent will be sent a specific team registration link; all players can complete their registration online.
• One of our Client Services Reps will help navigate parents through the process.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS AND SUPPORT?

Can't find what you are looking for?

Give us a call at 1-888-370-7287 or email us at training@newyorkredbulls.com!