RDA Connellsville was founded in 2017 as the Riverhounds Development Academy’s first satellite location. Led by James Meara, the program fields boys’ and girls’ teams ranging from U8 through U19. RDA Connellsville participates in the competitive Great Lakes Alliance (GLA), a US Club Soccer regional league serving clubs from Ohio, Western Pennsylvania and Western New York. Additionally, teams compete in the Ohio River League (ORL), which offers local competition with reduced travel.
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Satellite Director
James Meara has spent eight years with the Riverhounds Development Academy, where he serves as Director of RDA Connellsville. He holds a U.S. Soccer Federation B License and boasts professional playing experience with Watford FC Academy, Watford FC’s First Team, Doncaster Rovers FC, and the Pittsburgh Riverhounds professional team. His coaching résumé includes serving as Regional Director for MLS Camps, Director of Coaching for multiple youth clubs, leading high school programs at Riverview, Shaler, and Shady Side Academy, and working with both the Olympic Development Program (ODP) and Premier Development League (PDL) teams. He is also co-founder and co-president of Pittsburgh Soccer in the Community, a nonprofit providing free and low-cost soccer programs to underserved youth across the region. In addition, he serves as an assistant coach for Riverhounds 2, the organization’s second team competing in USL League Two.
Shallenberger Sports Complex is home to RDA Connellsville. The complex features an indoor 7v7 synthetic turf field and two outdoor natural grass fields.
677 Englishmen Hill Road, Connellsville, PA 15425
Shallenberger Sports Complex is home to RDA Connellsville. The complex features an indoor 7v7 synthetic turf field and two outdoor natural grass fields.
677 Englishmen Hill Road, Connellsville, PA 15425
Shallenberger Sports Complex is home to RDA Connellsville. The complex features an indoor 7v7 synthetic turf field and two outdoor natural grass fields.
677 Englishmen Hill Road, Connellsville, PA 15425
AGES 4-8
The vision of Grassroots is to provide every child with a fun, safe, and engaging introduction to soccer that inspires a lifelong love of the game. Through positive first experiences for children ages 4–8, we build the foundation for lifelong participation, personal growth, and future player development.
Ages 9+
Technical Training Academy is where it all began. Offered year-round at multiple locations, the program provides players with the opportunity to refine their skills and build confidence on the ball.
Ages 9+
The Riverhounds Goalkeeper Academy provides aspiring goalkeepers with a premier development environment. Led by experienced Riverhounds Academy coaches, the program focuses on building strong fundamentals including positioning, movement, handling, shot stopping and distribution.
Ages 9+
Riverhounds Speed & Strength is designed to improve players' overall athleticism through a structured approach focused on soccer-specific speed, strength and conditioning. Delivered by expert coaches across all stages of development, the program helps players build the physical tools needed to perform at their best.
Riverhounds Training Programs
Riverhounds Private & Small Group Training provides players with a focused, personalized development environment. Led by Riverhounds Development Academy coaches, sessions are designed to improve technical ability, build confidence and support continued growth.
