Travel Soccer teams around NOVA let's discuss

[Anonymous]

Much of what you said is true, which is more the reason why those results don't matter at those ages. It is easy to win games with athleticism and tactics that work at U10. Hell, long ball will continue to be effective Ayer on as well, but those kids aren't developing. So looking at NCSL division and Goals against and everything else tells you nothing about how the wind or losses where achieved. How many teams lose while the coach is trying to enforce playing out of the back? That is pretty easy to crush as a fast athletic team but a few of those kids will develop and show up at a DA tryout and demonstrate higher soccer IQ for it. They may also grow in those 3-4 years.

So knowing all of these same things that you mention still proves that speculating about the divisions and worrying about them before they are even posted really doesn't matter.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

This whole post is the reason why talking about NCSL divisions is stupid. The problem is you don't see it. "Vendetta against Eddie Lima"? Oh my god how stupid. Lol and then this: "I'm frankly amazed at SYC. They had one team that went 9-0-0 a"

WOW!! "Frankly amazed". You realize that just two years ago half those kids couldn't tie their own shoes and you are saying things like, "At U9 last year, where we would've seen many of the same players, they weren't getting those results -- ". Shocking, just shocking that U11s don't play the same as they did at U9.

I was wrong keep posting because you are comedy gold.

Not the poster you are responding too, but I'm curious to hear why you are so bothered by the NCSL posts that you have to keep attacking that poster? As many of us have mentioned, we too find the information about the division structures interesting, in part because it's the first time the teams that play in NCSL get a sense of how they stack up generally against the competition. If you don't care about that fine, but it's a perfectly legitimate topic.

With respect to the notion that the only thing people should care about is their own child's development, I'm glad that wasn't the culture when my kid was a U11 back in the good old days when all the top teams had a chance to play each other in league games as well as tournaments. It was considered perfectly acceptable to talk about which teams or kids were really good. And a surprising number of the kids who were really good at 10 and 11 are still really good as U18 DA players. I think those of us who have been discussing the progress and outcomes for specific teams and kids over almost a decade have gained some perspective on factors that help kids develop.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

This whole post is the reason why talking about NCSL divisions is stupid. The problem is you don't see it. "Vendetta against Eddie Lima"? Oh my god how stupid. Lol and then this: "I'm frankly amazed at SYC. They had one team that went 9-0-0 a"

WOW!! "Frankly amazed". You realize that just two years ago half those kids couldn't tie their own shoes and you are saying things like, "At U9 last year, where we would've seen many of the same players, they weren't getting those results -- ". Shocking, just shocking that U11s don't play the same as they did at U9.

I was wrong keep posting because you are comedy gold.

Not the poster you are responding too, but I'm curious to hear why you are so bothered by the NCSL posts that you have to keep attacking that poster? As many of us have mentioned, we too find the information about the division structures interesting, in part because it's the first time the teams that play in NCSL get a sense of how they stack up generally against the competition. If you don't care about that fine, but it's a perfectly legitimate topic.

With respect to the notion that the only thing people should care about is their own child's development, I'm glad that wasn't the culture when my kid was a U11 back in the good old days when all the top teams had a chance to play each other in league games as well as tournaments. It was considered perfectly acceptable to talk about which teams or kids were really good. And a surprising number of the kids who were really good at 10 and 11 are still really good as U18 DA players. I think those of us who have been discussing the progress and outcomes for specific teams and kids over almost a decade have gained some perspective on factors that help kids develop.

I'm not bothered by it, I'm amused by it. I've stayed my reasons why I think it is pointless but by all means, please talk about these mighty 10 year old teams as if it matters. Sure, U16-U18 you have a good idea who is who, and who developed but talking about division rankings at U11? Please it is absurd and laughable. I'm not bothered by it but I do think it is ridiculous. Sorry if I'm not impressed by the soccer "achievements" of some ten year olds as you are.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

This whole post is the reason why talking about NCSL divisions is stupid. The problem is you don't see it. "Vendetta against Eddie Lima"? Oh my god how stupid. Lol and then this: "I'm frankly amazed at SYC. They had one team that went 9-0-0 a"

WOW!! "Frankly amazed". You realize that just two years ago half those kids couldn't tie their own shoes and you are saying things like, "At U9 last year, where we would've seen many of the same players, they weren't getting those results -- ". Shocking, just shocking that U11s don't play the same as they did at U9.

I was wrong keep posting because you are comedy gold.

Not the poster you are responding too, but I'm curious to hear why you are so bothered by the NCSL posts that you have to keep attacking that poster? As many of us have mentioned, we too find the information about the division structures interesting, in part because it's the first time the teams that play in NCSL get a sense of how they stack up generally against the competition. If you don't care about that fine, but it's a perfectly legitimate topic.

With respect to the notion that the only thing people should care about is their own child's development, I'm glad that wasn't the culture when my kid was a U11 back in the good old days when all the top teams had a chance to play each other in league games as well as tournaments. It was considered perfectly acceptable to talk about which teams or kids were really good. And a surprising number of the kids who were really good at 10 and 11 are still really good as U18 DA players. I think those of us who have been discussing the progress and outcomes for specific teams and kids over almost a decade have gained some perspective on factors that help kids develop.

I'm not bothered by it, I'm amused by it. I've stayed my reasons why I think it is pointless but by all means, please talk about these mighty 10 year old teams as if it matters. Sure, U16-U18 you have a good idea who is who, and who developed but talking about division rankings at U11? Please it is absurd and laughable. I'm not bothered by it but I do think it is ridiculous. Sorry if I'm not impressed by the soccer "achievements" of some ten year olds as you are.

I read the reasons you stated, but none of them seemed at all responsive to the points several posters were making about why they found the NCSL information interesting. You seem to be attacking a straw man of your own creation. But at least you are amusing yourself in the process!

[Anonymous]

1. A U11 team will barely resemble the same team at U13 or U14.

Kids leave, kids come. Kids quit the sport. Kids get better, some don't. Some kids grow others don't.

Yes, some these teams have great kids but how does a teams success now predict anything? They are not even playing a full field with a compliment of 18 kids yet?

So please do tell me how a random top flight U11 NCSL team means anything past this spring.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:1. A U11 team will barely resemble the same team at U13 or U14.

Kids leave, kids come. Kids quit the sport. Kids get better, some don't. Some kids grow others don't.

Yes, some these teams have great kids but how does a teams success now predict anything? They are not even playing a full field with a compliment of 18 kids yet?

So please do tell me how a random top flight U11 NCSL team means anything past this spring.

Probably not much, though I wonder if some of those teams will go to EDP in the fall. (Maybe even spring.)

But thinking about the spring isn't such a terrible thing. Given the geopolitics of the moment, is anyone really planning anything beyond a few weeks out at this point, anyway?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1. A U11 team will barely resemble the same team at U13 or U14.

Kids leave, kids come. Kids quit the sport. Kids get better, some don't. Some kids grow others don't.

Yes, some these teams have great kids but how does a teams success now predict anything? They are not even playing a full field with a compliment of 18 kids yet?

So please do tell me how a random top flight U11 NCSL team means anything past this spring.

Probably not much, though I wonder if some of those teams will go to EDP in the fall. (Maybe even spring.)

But thinking about the spring isn't such a terrible thing. Given the geopolitics of the moment, is anyone really planning anything beyond a few weeks out at this point, anyway?

The point is how much of a team at U13-14 will resemble the team at U11. That is the point, not what league the team ends up in. That is why it isn't really worth worrying about beyond what is best for your kid at this point in time.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1. A U11 team will barely resemble the same team at U13 or U14.

Kids leave, kids come. Kids quit the sport. Kids get better, some don't. Some kids grow others don't.

Yes, some these teams have great kids but how does a teams success now predict anything? They are not even playing a full field with a compliment of 18 kids yet?

So please do tell me how a random top flight U11 NCSL team means anything past this spring.

Probably not much, though I wonder if some of those teams will go to EDP in the fall. (Maybe even spring.)

But thinking about the spring isn't such a terrible thing. Given the geopolitics of the moment, is anyone really planning anything beyond a few weeks out at this point, anyway?

Not trying to state whether going to EDP is better or not but why would that be the next step for any of those teams. Is EDP better? What does it offer that NCSL doesn't. Looking at EDP U11, most teams are from MD, DE, PA which would seem a bit of a stretch for VA teams for better competition. I've been curious for some time on EDP but no one has been able to explain what its pros and cons are.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1. A U11 team will barely resemble the same team at U13 or U14.

Kids leave, kids come. Kids quit the sport. Kids get better, some don't. Some kids grow others don't.

Yes, some these teams have great kids but how does a teams success now predict anything? They are not even playing a full field with a compliment of 18 kids yet?

So please do tell me how a random top flight U11 NCSL team means anything past this spring.

Probably not much, though I wonder if some of those teams will go to EDP in the fall. (Maybe even spring.)

But thinking about the spring isn't such a terrible thing. Given the geopolitics of the moment, is anyone really planning anything beyond a few weeks out at this point, anyway?

Not trying to state whether going to EDP is better or not but why would that be the next step for any of those teams. Is EDP better? What does it offer that NCSL doesn't. Looking at EDP U11, most teams are from MD, DE, PA which would seem a bit of a stretch for VA teams for better competition. I've been curious for some time on EDP but no one has been able to explain what its pros and cons are.

EDP can be a good option but it is really the best option if you want to play NY, NJ and some PA teams. There are some more southern divisions but many ECNL clubs use it as a way of playing some other ECNL clubs at younger ages.

It is just a league, like many others and the Pros and Cons, like any league are in the strength of schedule and of course how much travel is involved. You can get into a more local division where teams are comprised of MD, VA and DE and that isn't so bad. Competition is good and it has the benefit of involving clubs that you normally may only occasionally see at some tournaments.

But buyer beware, there are some weaker divisions too.

In general, it is a good league to participate in if you have grown out of NCSL a bit, and that cold just be bored of seeing the same teams, or the club is not in CCL, VPL, DA or ECNL and you want some good competition.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1. A U11 team will barely resemble the same team at U13 or U14.

Kids leave, kids come. Kids quit the sport. Kids get better, some don't. Some kids grow others don't.

Yes, some these teams have great kids but how does a teams success now predict anything? They are not even playing a full field with a compliment of 18 kids yet?

So please do tell me how a random top flight U11 NCSL team means anything past this spring.

Probably not much, though I wonder if some of those teams will go to EDP in the fall. (Maybe even spring.)

But thinking about the spring isn't such a terrible thing. Given the geopolitics of the moment, is anyone really planning anything beyond a few weeks out at this point, anyway?

Not trying to state whether going to EDP is better or not but why would that be the next step for any of those teams. Is EDP better? What does it offer that NCSL doesn't. Looking at EDP U11, most teams are from MD, DE, PA which would seem a bit of a stretch for VA teams for better competition. I've been curious for some time on EDP but no one has been able to explain what its pros and cons are.

EDP can be a good option but it is really the best option if you want to play NY, NJ and some PA teams. There are some more southern divisions but many ECNL clubs use it as a way of playing some other ECNL clubs at younger ages.

It is just a league, like many others and the Pros and Cons, like any league are in the strength of schedule and of course how much travel is involved. You can get into a more local division where teams are comprised of MD, VA and DE and that isn't so bad. Competition is good and it has the benefit of involving clubs that you normally may only occasionally see at some tournaments.

But buyer beware, there are some weaker divisions too.

In general, it is a good league to participate in if you have grown out of NCSL a bit, and that cold just be bored of seeing the same teams, or the club is not in CCL, VPL, DA or ECNL and you want some good competition.

thanks,

[Anonymous]

DS plays for an NCSL team that is moving to EDP in the spring. NCSL did not offer the kids competitive matches, which became a problem as the fall season progressed. The best sides we've seen are the EDP teams (Pipeline, FC USA, etc.) and they will offer the best competitive atmosphere in matches to supplement the training. I think the coach and club feel that EDP will give us these type of matches every single week, even if we have to drive a little further. CCL and NPL would certainly provide this against a handful of teams, but not every week. The best of those leagues can be sought out at tournaments and friendlies.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:DS plays for an NCSL team that is moving to EDP in the spring. NCSL did not offer the kids competitive matches, which became a problem as the fall season progressed. The best sides we've seen are the EDP teams (Pipeline, FC USA, etc.) and they will offer the best competitive atmosphere in matches to supplement the training. I think the coach and club feel that EDP will give us these type of matches every single week, even if we have to drive a little further. CCL and NPL would certainly provide this against a handful of teams, but not every week. The best of those leagues can be sought out at tournaments and friendlies.

If this is a U11 team, bear in mind that the divisions were more or less random in the fall and will be tiered in the spring. So you'll get more competitive games.

If you're U12 and up, and you're blowing everyone out in Division 1, then yeah, you'll want to move on. The Bethesda Green team at U12 would fall into that category. U13-U15 divisions each have 1-2 teams that don't seem to be getting many competitive games.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:DS plays for an NCSL team that is moving to EDP in the spring. NCSL did not offer the kids competitive matches, which became a problem as the fall season progressed. The best sides we've seen are the EDP teams (Pipeline, FC USA, etc.) and they will offer the best competitive atmosphere in matches to supplement the training. I think the coach and club feel that EDP will give us these type of matches every single week, even if we have to drive a little further. CCL and NPL would certainly provide this against a handful of teams, but not every week. The best of those leagues can be sought out at tournaments and friendlies.

Annnnnd this is the Con of EDP.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:DS plays for an NCSL team that is moving to EDP in the spring. NCSL did not offer the kids competitive matches, which became a problem as the fall season progressed. The best sides we've seen are the EDP teams (Pipeline, FC USA, etc.) and they will offer the best competitive atmosphere in matches to supplement the training. I think the coach and club feel that EDP will give us these type of matches every single week, even if we have to drive a little further. CCL and NPL would certainly provide this against a handful of teams, but not every week. The best of those leagues can be sought out at tournaments and friendlies.

If this is a U11 team, bear in mind that the divisions were more or less random in the fall and will be tiered in the spring. So you'll get more competitive games.

If you're U12 and up, and you're blowing everyone out in Division 1, then yeah, you'll want to move on. The Bethesda Green team at U12 would fall into that category. U13-U15 divisions each have 1-2 teams that don't seem to be getting many competitive games.

If U11 it's possible that their team saw some of those better teams in tournament play and thought that the best competition would still be moving to EDP.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:DS plays for an NCSL team that is moving to EDP in the spring. NCSL did not offer the kids competitive matches, which became a problem as the fall season progressed. The best sides we've seen are the EDP teams (Pipeline, FC USA, etc.) and they will offer the best competitive atmosphere in matches to supplement the training. I think the coach and club feel that EDP will give us these type of matches every single week, even if we have to drive a little further. CCL and NPL would certainly provide this against a handful of teams, but not every week. The best of those leagues can be sought out at tournaments and friendlies.

Annnnnd this is the Con of EDP.

Which part? The driving? judging the competition too early at U11? Maybe club is not in CCL or NPL.