Do local clubs prepare girls for elite college programs?

[Anonymous]

I don't have a DD in the recruiting age group but I know several coaches in that age group and I hear that the stronger you are as a player (ECNL, YNT, etc.) the more likely you are to get money.

[Anonymous]

Back to the original question: the truthful answer is “it is what it is”. I do not know about the professional level at all and my kid is a girl s the guys could be very different. In our experience there was a huge difference between high level club and college. And - if you don’t know that with a 16,17 year old looking at schools you need to catch up very quickly.

College play jumps your kid into a team where there are 4-5 years of players; all good and all looking to get on the field. Most of those players will have nothing to do with a freshman off the field. They have their own friends and classes, and their own social life. None of that involves a freshman. If your kid can immediately help the team that’s good. She will get to play some, but she will also be taking up playing time from others. Thus, the old saying, there’s no I team, but there are two in playing time.

Your kid will also find that the coach is not their friend, and will be stand-offish at best. Why? Because once your kid is on the team your kid is there to help the team. If your kid does not help the team, immediately or look likes in the near future, the coach wants your kid to be off the team. Your kid will be taking up scholarship funds the coach can use if your kid is gone. Coaches will not make your kid quit, but not playing does that for them. It is way too much time and effort if you are not on the field.

If your kid sticks with it - and typically half do not — it can be a great experience. My kid played a decent amount her freshman year, but then only played in 12 games her sophomore season. That was a tough year. Very early in her junior year she subbed in for an injured player because she was warmed up and ready to go in when the player got hurt. She did well and kept that position until graduation. Like all bench kids she was sorry to see anyone hurt, but happy to get on the field.

Every kid thinks they will play. Half won’t. They will quit. It is not the end of the world.

[Anonymous]

Great insights!