The Ajax Soccer Academy: From Boys to Pros

The famed Dutch soccer academy Ajax operates similar to a big-league baseball team's minor-league system — but one that reaches into early childhood. About 200 players, ranging in age from 7 to 19, train at its facilities in Amsterdam at any given time. (All are male; Ajax has no girls' program.) Left, under-10 players at work. (New York Times Image)

Few turn down an invitation from Ajax, where players then compete to retain their spots over the years. (New York Times Image)

Younger players, like the under-12 team, may practice only three days a week, with a game on the weekend. (New York Times Image)

Ajax puts young players into a competitive caldron, a culture of constant improvement in which they either survive and advance or are discarded. (New York Times Image)

With consideration for school, home life and personal time, the Ajax program focuses on quality practice instead of endless games. (New York Times Image)

Older groups, like the under-15 squad, play fuller schedules. (New York Times Image)

Five-year-old Délano van der Heyden has already caught scouts' eyes for not just his skill but also for his demeanor. (New York Times Image)

Gregory van der Weil, 22, was once “sent away” for disciplinary reasons, but he returned and may be the program's next star product. (New York Times Image)