What Should I Do If I Don’t Make a Top Youth Soccer League (MLS NEXT or ECNL

Not making MLS NEXT or ECNL doesn’t close the door to success in soccer.

Many players find success in alternative pathways. If you want to succeed, you’ll find a way.

You can improve your situation by consistently improving, working hard, and being open to new opportunities. It sounds cliche but don’t overcomplicate it!

No matter where you are in your journey, there’s a lot of soccer to be played. It just might not be on the team or in the league that you want it to be. And, that should be okay (for now).

What Should You Do If You REALLY Want to Play in a Top League?

Your game should speak for itself. You need to bring something to the table.

Just because you want to doesn’t mean you can. A coach won’t take a player only because they have the desire. You need to show them your talent on the field.

As a player, you need to get better. Improve your foot skills, speed, toughness, and game IQ. You will be competing against the best players in your area. You need to act and show that you belong.

Trust me, a lot can happen in one year. I’ve seen kids fall off and improve dramatically in 365 days.

If you feel like you are in a good position to make a team, do everything you can to trial with the club. This means that they will bring you into their practices to see how well you do. This typically happens in the spring. If they like you, they’ll offer you a spot for next fall.

During the entire process, remain optimistic. It’s never easy being the “outsider” trying to make a team but the effort you put in will be worth it.

Now, it’s time to get off Fortnite and work your butt off!