Being the Best Player For 3 Years in a Row – Time to Move On?

Being the best player on your team is great! There’s something to be said for leading your team in goals or spearheading the defense. 

The team relies on you to lead them to a dub. All the while, you get compliments after the game. The confidence continues to grow.

I know it’s pretty subjective in soccer but coaches and parents can tell if a player is “elite. 

Elite players simply get noticed. 

These players will be invited to various national teams or play up during the season. They may also get scouted by other clubs in the area. 

But, with all the success, it can become a hindrance to your development as a player.

This is more the case for kids twelve and under.

It starts becoming a negative thing when you continue to be the best player on the same team year after year.

If a player continues to stand out among the same teammates for multiple years, it may be time to consider jumping ship. 

Hear me out…

Yes, it’s fun to dominate in games. For parents, they may feel super proud. They should! But, are you getting better? 

Being a very good player on a great team is better than being a great player on a mediocre team. 

The former will put you in a better position to develop quicker. You will be surrounded by others who will push you to be better.

So, just food for thought, take the time to re-evaluate your situation if you find lots of success early on. 

If you have the means, don’t be afraid to go to a bigger club if they have a better pathway. 

If a player’s ambition is to continue playing at the next level (college or professional), find an organization that has MLS NEXT, ECNL, or Girls Academy teams.

Remember, you are on your own journey. Sometimes it takes leaving your friends to start a new chapter. Long-term development requires short-term sacrifices.

Oh, and use caution when jumping from club to club. Putting yourself in a better position to succeed is great. Changing clubs every year is not. The grass is rarely greener on the other side.