Soccer Leagues

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Soccer Leagues—-
By David Kelley—-
Park and Rec, Town, Pioneer Valley, Travel, MAPLE, New England Premiership (NEP), Olympic Development Program (ODP)…. I want to sign my child up for soccer, but there are all these different leagues, what are they?  Or perhaps, this may be the first time hearing that there are other options. If you are in either camp, this article is for you.
There are multiple differences that separate the various leagues. For purposes of space, I will stick to three:  First, the level of competition; second, the level of coaching; and third, the exposure to college coaches. First, the level of competition is a major difference between the various leagues. This is not intended to be condescending of town leagues or the teams in them. I simply wish to argue that in order for continued player/team development, growth in competition is a must. In the lower to middle grouping (Park and Rec, Town, Pioneer Valley), the competition is restricted to the local or regional teams. For example, Springfield Park and Rec teams only play those teams within the city lines. This level of competition certainly has its place. However, restricting a player to continually compete within the boundaries of the city or town and playing the same opposition restricts development in challenging the player to reach their fullest potential at higher levels. Premier leagues (MAPLE, NEP, ODP) offer a higher level of competition and play statewide and nationally. Training is generally year round, which means training of this nature demands a knowledgeable coaching staff so that the players can perform at this level. Which brings me to my next key difference, coaching.
Second, the level of coaching varies amongst the leagues. Again, I wish to reiterate my intent is not to devalue coaches within the park or town leagues. To the contrary, I commend those coaches for the work they do with our youth. This is strictly to point out the factual key differences between the leagues.  Premier level leagues mandate that coaches become licensed and frequent training seminars. This is to ensure accountability that the youth player is receiving the highest level of training. There are those coaches at the town level who have obtained licensing. However, it is not mandated or regulated by the governing body.  Further, the premier governing body supports and informs the coaches of up-to-date information, college recruitment being one.
Last, exposure to college coaches increases in the premier leagues. College coaches are more apt to attend a premier league game or tournament than a town or even high school game. Because the level of competition and, in many cases, the coaching level is more technical and tactical, college coaches are seeking this caliber of player. College Showcase Tournaments are organized for the premier teams to compete in and allow the players to showcase their abilities in a match as well as offer video to send out to college coaches.
There are other differences separating the various leagues. Again, my intention is only to introduce this topic to those with questions or those who never knew of other leagues. If there are any questions, I would be happy to entertain them. ■

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