The Pressure to Play in Specific Leagues is Out of Control
There’s a growing trend I’ve seen in the last few years. Players are feeling so much pressure to play in specific youth soccer leagues.
From MLS NEXT to ECNL to Girls Academy, and everything in between, you are not good if you don’t play in the top league.
No, no, no. Hold up one sec!
This shouldn’t be the system but – unfortunately – it is.
Here’s how we get here…
- Players are influenced by social media and their peers.
- Parents get pressured by other players. Many also live through their kids so it magnifies it all.
- Clubs are promoting their top youth leagues to get more talented players into their pathway.
What do we need to do instead? Forge your own path.
It’s okay to aim to play in the best league you can. But, don’t make it life or death. It isn’t.
It’s just youth soccer. You’ll be wasting precious time, moments, and head space fighting a losing battle.
No matter what league you are in, do your best. Don’t be influenced by anyone else. Embrace the league you are in and continue to develop your game.
The funny thing is…players will maximize their potential as soon as they stop caring. And, this is when better opportunities start to arise. In a weird way, it’s the universe starting to work for you!
Written By: Beau Bridges
Founder of SoccerNovo
I’m Beau 👋 a proud dad of an MLS NEXT player, former soccer coach, soccer enthusiast, and board member of our local youth sports program. I created soccernovo.com to share my knowledge of the game and help parents learn more about youth soccer in the U.S. I also authored an eBook ‘Soccer Coach Made Simple‘. Learn more about Beau.
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