DC United Academy - aa strong academy or not

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Watched match video dcu out played syc 2010, won by a cheap pk

bitter are we? a single lost doesn't break a team or club. none of the points made about the academy in this thread is a result of this match/lost.

Yea who cares if DCU lost to a non-academy team, doesn't mean anything. If DCU really wanted to win, they would bring their best 2010 squad. Unless it WAS their full squad, then SYC got something to brag about!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Watched match video dcu out played syc 2010, won by a cheap pk

bitter are we? a single lost doesn't break a team or club. none of the points made about the academy in this thread is a result of this match/lost.

Do you know how SYC? Many would argue they do not have a style of play but I would argue differently. Their style of play has always been, kick the long ball, do whatever to win force the other team to foul you in the box.

[Anonymous]

Well I did find it interesting to see 2 DCUA staffers announced as joining DC Soccer club.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Well I did find it interesting to see 2 DCUA staffers announced as joining DC Soccer club.

Then looking at LinkedIn must make your day

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

Most of the DCU Academy kids seem to come from families that can afford college without scholarships.
That also goes for Bethesda, Potomac, Alexandria, Arlington, PPA, Achilles, BA etc etc

Most of who these kids become as men is based on their family foundation.
It's not Europe where they are living full-time at academies away from family.

The last batch of DCU players to go play college ball has almost half of them going to Ivy League universities. Two going to Princeton, the best university in America.

Most of what you get out is what you put in.
Philly Union or FC Dallas or Inter Miami isn't going to make you top tier if you're not doing the major lifting or have the wrong mentality and attitude.

The only MLS Club Academy I'd say isn't a good choice is if it doesn't meet your personal needs, is damaging to your kid and if they aren't sending anyone to college or semi-pro or pro.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

"...at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US"

There isn't a single place that's best environment for everyone.
If you truly know about soccer at the top levels, you know kids have parted ways by choice or by force from every academy in the world.
The list of professional players who've been cut or left top ranked academies because it wasn't the right fit for them is long.

Best environment for Kid A isn't necessarily best environment for Kid B

When a MLS Academy makes it to the Top 20 in any International Academy rankings based on the number of players they are sending to top Professional Division 1 leagues, then you can say they are a must get into if you can environment.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

"...at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US"

There isn't a single place that's best environment for everyone.
If you truly know about soccer at the top levels, you know kids have parted ways by choice or by force from every academy in the world.
The list of professional players who've been cut or left top ranked academies because it wasn't the right fit for them is long.

Best environment for Kid A isn't necessarily best environment for Kid B

When a MLS Academy makes it to the Top 20 in any International Academy rankings based on the number of players they are sending to top Professional Division 1 leagues, then you can say they are a must get into if you can environment.

I agree with the idea that every club doesn't fit every player. That's absolutely true.

But if you're using that same rationale, that also means there are no "must get into" clubs.it all depends on your situation and needs.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

Most of the DCU Academy kids seem to come from families that can afford college without scholarships.
That also goes for Bethesda, Potomac, Alexandria, Arlington, PPA, Achilles, BA etc etc

Most of who these kids become as men is based on their family foundation.
It's not Europe where they are living full-time at academies away from family.

The last batch of DCU players to go play college ball has almost half of them going to Ivy League universities. Two going to Princeton, the best university in America.

Most of what you get out is what you put in.
Philly Union or FC Dallas or Inter Miami isn't going to make you top tier if you're not doing the major lifting or have the wrong mentality and attitude.

The only MLS Club Academy I'd say isn't a good choice is if it doesn't meet your personal needs, is damaging to your kid and if they aren't sending anyone to college or semi-pro or pro.

Agree with most of this. Kids have to work to be better. But the kids going to ivy leagues were orobs going there without DCU. Maybe soccer gave them a slight edge.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

"...at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US"

There isn't a single place that's best environment for everyone.
If you truly know about soccer at the top levels, you know kids have parted ways by choice or by force from every academy in the world.
The list of professional players who've been cut or left top ranked academies because it wasn't the right fit for them is long.

Best environment for Kid A isn't necessarily best environment for Kid B

When a MLS Academy makes it to the Top 20 in any International Academy rankings based on the number of players they are sending to top Professional Division 1 leagues, then you can say they are a must get into if you can environment.

I agree with the idea that every club doesn't fit every player. That's absolutely true.

But if you're using that same rationale, that also means there are no "must get into" clubs.it all depends on your situation and needs.

Barca, Ajax, Dynamo Zagreb, Arsenal, Man City, Man United, PSG
Those and others like them if doable for your kid are 'must get into' if you can, because the odds are much higher than most that your kid will end up in top tier professional football.

Not guaranteed, but more realistic than most.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

Most of the DCU Academy kids seem to come from families that can afford college without scholarships.
That also goes for Bethesda, Potomac, Alexandria, Arlington, PPA, Achilles, BA etc etc

Most of who these kids become as men is based on their family foundation.
It's not Europe where they are living full-time at academies away from family.

The last batch of DCU players to go play college ball has almost half of them going to Ivy League universities. Two going to Princeton, the best university in America.

Most of what you get out is what you put in.
Philly Union or FC Dallas or Inter Miami isn't going to make you top tier if you're not doing the major lifting or have the wrong mentality and attitude.

The only MLS Club Academy I'd say isn't a good choice is if it doesn't meet your personal needs, is damaging to your kid and if they aren't sending anyone to college or semi-pro or pro.

Agree with most of this. Kids have to work to be better. But the kids going to ivy leagues were orobs going there without DCU. Maybe soccer gave them a slight edge.

Then I assume you're saying no MLS Club Academy would have given them more than a slight edge over say a MLS Next or ECNL club

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

Right, if you're not a generational talent, just settle for mediocrity. I wonder if your kid was anywhere near making an academy team, you would think differently?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

Most of the DCU Academy kids seem to come from families that can afford college without scholarships.
That also goes for Bethesda, Potomac, Alexandria, Arlington, PPA, Achilles, BA etc etc

Most of who these kids become as men is based on their family foundation.
It's not Europe where they are living full-time at academies away from family.

The last batch of DCU players to go play college ball has almost half of them going to Ivy League universities. Two going to Princeton, the best university in America.

Most of what you get out is what you put in.
Philly Union or FC Dallas or Inter Miami isn't going to make you top tier if you're not doing the major lifting or have the wrong mentality and attitude.

The only MLS Club Academy I'd say isn't a good choice is if it doesn't meet your personal needs, is damaging to your kid and if they aren't sending anyone to college or semi-pro or pro.

Agree with most of this. Kids have to work to be better. But the kids going to ivy leagues were orobs going there without DCU. Maybe soccer gave them a slight edge.

Then I assume you're saying no MLS Club Academy would have given them more than a slight edge over say a MLS Next or ECNL club

When it comes to Ivys where the grades really do matter, that's probably right. But I'm taking that slight edge over a MLS Next or ECNL club in a game of slight edges (college entrance).

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

I think this view (while I understand it) is a common misconception in the soccer world and why mediocrity is allowed to flourish in our system. Here's why:

Given that we are actually talking about how your child is being taught and educated in something, would you say the same thing about your child and the school(s) they go to? i.e. Unless they are some crazy talented student (at that moment in time), it doesn't matter what school they go to because they will probably go to college or get some average job??? Probably not. The calculation is exactly the same in the soccer world, especially if your child is at the level of MLS Academy or on a professional trajectory.

Each club, just like each school, can position your child in a certain way for success (or not). If you go to an academy that is focused on development your child's chances of being at the level for college (or pro), when the time comes, arguably increases. If you're at an academy that doesn't focus on development or has a weak development philosophy/implementation, then your child's chances of being at the level (college or pro) start to decrease because others are developing faster than your kid. Not to mention, going to a stronger academy with a sterling reputation can position your child to go to a stronger college (just like private schools and stronger public school systems/schools do the same thing). Going to a weaker academy, might take those same schools off the table because the colleges want the best kids end of day. Its about maximizing your child's potential at every step in the very small window of time that they have in the game because you can't reverse time. So the reality is maybe in a weaker system, all the kids don't go on to play college ball and in a weaker system, absolutely no chance they are getting some sort of homegrown deal to make that 70k you mention. In stronger systems, those chances (of college and pro) increase because your kid is being taught how to be a better player in a more methodical way and that separates them from their peer group and furthermore, maybe they weren't a generational talent at 15 but developed into one at 17 (much better imo) because their talent was nurtured over time.

TLDR - What happens differently is that your kid has a higher chance of being a better player because they are in a better development environment and that in turn, gives him more opportunities overall.

I won't even get deep into the differences between just playing college soccer and getting a full ride to play college soccer. Very different calculations. In short, most of the top D1 programs are giving the majority (not all) of their scholarships to overseas players because the level is higher and many of those players were on a pro trajectory and just didn't make it (at say clubs like Chelsea or Bayern etc). So, if you are not coming from overseas, your chances of getting a full ride to a top soccer program in our country (boys side) as an American dramatically decrease. If you are an American and want a full ride soccer scholarship at a top program, you need to be one of the best. Much harder to achieve that in a mediocre youth academy/system.

And look at all of the pro leagues in the world and the players in them. Not many generational talents. Why they are called generational talents. Many of the players start the same way as many of our kids, but they are just in better environments to learn the game. If kids don't have access to Europe/South American or elsewhere and are serious about soccer, at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US. Can't buy into an argument that it just doesn't matter at all.

You can draw your own conclusions about how all of this relates to DCU.

"...at least put them in the best environments they can be in the US"

There isn't a single place that's best environment for everyone.
If you truly know about soccer at the top levels, you know kids have parted ways by choice or by force from every academy in the world.
The list of professional players who've been cut or left top ranked academies because it wasn't the right fit for them is long.

Best environment for Kid A isn't necessarily best environment for Kid B

When a MLS Academy makes it to the Top 20 in any International Academy rankings based on the number of players they are sending to top Professional Division 1 leagues, then you can say they are a must get into if you can environment.

I agree with the idea that every club doesn't fit every player. That's absolutely true.

But if you're using that same rationale, that also means there are no "must get into" clubs.it all depends on your situation and needs.

Barca, Ajax, Dynamo Zagreb, Arsenal, Man City, Man United, PSG
Those and others like them if doable for your kid are 'must get into' if you can, because the odds are much higher than most that your kid will end up in top tier professional football.

Not guaranteed, but more realistic than most.

It's a fair point

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In conclusion after all the experts have weighed in.

DCU Academy is the worst place for your kid
Send them to Philly Union or Red Bulls (open door policy)

What is the Red Bulls open door policy?

If we're all being encouraged to go there, I'm just assuming all DMV ballers can just head up the turnpike and sign-up

They both have webpages where you can sign up and put your info, with highlights and schedule, but I wonder how often they look at that or actually scout that way.

I imagine they screen these submissions and at minimum, look into those who are already coming from another academy or can say they are a baller on an MLSNext/ECNL team. Or your coach/club has connections and reach out to them.

I don’t know and would love to hear what other families have done to be seen by other academies.

Stop listening to the pied piper who's more interested in settling scores and getting you away from DCU versus getting you to a destination better for you.

How many kids do you seriously think can leave our DMV area and get into Philly Union and Red Bulls when they have a huge talent pool in their areas?
smdh

Again, all we're saying is that if your kid is good enough to be watched by DCU, reach out to other academies and have them take a look as well. If your kid gets multiple offers, take a good look at each program and their resources. Of course DCU is a no brainer if you get no other interest.

This is not France, Spain, Brazil, Holland etc...
What's the big difference between your kid at DCU at home versus another academy 8 states away for a 13 year old alone?

Unless kid is a Cavan Sullivan or other generational talent.

The big difference is that it is a significant commitment for the child and the family for a organization that isn't making the same type of commitment to your son.

If your kid goes to Columbus or Nashville or LA or Philly instead of DC and they aren't a Cavan Sullivan or have a EU or UK passport, what happens differently?
Nothing.

They'll go play college ball or end up in MLS making $70K just like DCU kids who aren't generational level talent.

Someone make a liar out of me.

Right, if you're not a generational talent, just settle for mediocrity. I wonder if your kid was anywhere near making an academy team, you would think differently?

Mediocrity is more about you, not the club nor job nor school