Specialization

The United States Soccer Federation's (USSF) recent mandate that ‘elite' soccer players who play for Development Academy teams will not be allowed to play for their high school soccer teams after this season simply frosts me. I've read volumes in the last few weeks, from Soccer America's initial news article and the seemingly unending comments from readers and the soccer experati to The New York Times piece this past Sunday by Sam Borden, that really brought "Soccer's New Way" into the collective consciousness across America.

Whatever your sport is, the key to developing into a competitive athlete with a possible view to playing in college is starting early!  Beginning at an early age enables athletes to sharpen their skills so they will always on top of their game.

Most soccer players begin in the diaper division and play on small fields, small- sided teams, with 5 v. 5, not the usual 11 v. 11.  This way everyone gets to touch the ball, play offense, defense and even score a goal.  The key to having younger players in sports is that it is fun, builds self-esteem, teaches them to play with others, and gets them up and moving.