The Berky Edge: Built on Grit, Fueled by Fun

What Makes Berky So Special?

There’s something truly unique about the Berkshire Soccer Academy—but what is it exactly? Is it the training? The friendships? Larkum Lake? It’s all of that—and more.

What sets Berky apart is our top priority: creating a holistic, well-rounded environment that balances focus and fun, work and play. Players train at a high level while being seen as more than just athletes. At Berky, both their soccer self (performer self) and personal self (real self) are nurtured.

Recognizing that these identities not only coexist but must coexist is key—not just for a great summer, but for success in soccer. Because to excel, you need technical skills and mental ones, such as:

These are not soccer skills—they’re human skills. They shape how you handle challenges, like a team conflict, limited playing time, or a coaching change. In those moments, it’s not your passing or defending that helps you—it’s your mental game.

This is why Berky is transformative. Here, players train their minds and their bodies. These mental skills are the real key to unlocking greatness.

Mental Skills, Explained

Mental Wellness & Mental Performance

Mental skills work includes two essential elements:

• Mental Wellness: how players feel about themselves as athletes and individuals
• Mental Performance: tools and strategies that improve play on the field

Mental wellness is crucial, especially in a world where young women face limiting messages and unrealistic expectations (e.g., win every game, never make mistakes). This pressure can impact their confidence, performance, and love for the game.

Mental performance is just as vital. It amplifies all the work players already do—technical, tactical, and physical. The best athletes use it because it gives them an edge: they can stay focused, manage emotions, and lock in under pressure. That’s what true high-level performance requires.

Mental Skills at Berky

At Berky, players engage in daily group sessions that introduce on-field mental performance skills. Off the field, they’re immersed in an environment that promotes personal growth, leadership, authenticity, and creativity—all contributing to mental wellness.

This full-circle approach is what makes Berky special. Mental skills aren’t an add-on; they’re woven into the fabric of camp. Players grow as athletes, evolve as individuals, and enjoy just being themselves—all while having fun.

Mental Skills Beyond Berky

Because mental training is essential, we partner with Expand Your Game, creators of the Mindset Mastery Academy—a 12-week mentorship program designed specifically for girls aged 9–17. The Academy blends proven mental skills curriculum with pro-player mentorship tailored to the unique pressures young female athletes face. Players receive personalized support, and 100% report increased confidence. There’s even a results guarantee. Over 150 players—including many from Berky—have completed the program. Space is limited for upcoming sessions. Visit www.expandyourgame.com to learn more—and be sure to tell them Berky sent you!