If you are not looking at DA or ECNL and can get to SYA easily it's a great choice for girls.

For high level players, the best clubs for girls are FCV and McLean. If you are in Maryland, Bethesda is worth a try. For big, athletic, fast players with somewhat limited skills, Arlington or Loudoun would be a good fit (Arlington would be more skillful than Loudoun, but both clubs play direct style that relies on speed and physicality). For lower level players, if you care about the playing style, Alexandria or Barca would be a good choice, because both clubs try to play possession style. I also heard good things about FPYC girls teams, but I have not seen them play enough to form an opinion.

Anonymous wrote:how about where NOT to go?

DON’T go to Alexandria they mostly focus on boys development not girls.

DD didn’t make the cut? The girls compete in CCL which is one of the highest leagues in the area

god this forum has some real assholes

Look for the best coach, not the best club (as there is no such thing). It is all about the coach and to a good degree the players.

1) Coach that focuses on player development (teaching the game, not just winning ... which funny enough usually leads to winning anyhow).
2) Players that are interested in learning and getting better and putting in hard work (yes, they want to have fun too, but they aren't arrogantly lazy and/or goof offs).
3) Logistically short drive times to practices.

That's it. You'll need to watch some games, ask around, and have kid go to some practices. Good luck!

Some clubs are more insular. Would be difficult for a new player to make top team coming as an outsider unless player has strong pedigree and or skills that are over the top.

how about where NOT to go?

DON’T go to Alexandria they mostly focus on boys development not girls.

These posts are annoying, go watch some games.

If you are just starting, the best team (in order) is:

a) the one you can get to easily in rush hour for practices
b) the one where your DD has friends playing
c) best records, coaching, facilities, tactics, etc.

Anonymous wrote:VDA

That is really funny as VDA only has ECNL teams. Are you suggesting they are not a top club? Or are you saying they are good environment?

VDA

It's really going to depend on your DD. All these kids respond differently. Go to practices and talk to the other parents. Pick a club close to your home.

Anonymous wrote:All-

Looking for a club for my DD for travel. Not looking for the "top team" but looking for a club that's respected and most importantly with positive coaches and a more positive environment. Don't need a war in this thread. Just trying to gauge the landscape.

Not looking for a war? Then dont start and inflammatory post. Sheesh!
I'm begging everyone to leave this one alone. The entire lead-in is juuuuust stupid.. "best girls club but not top team, no war"

Why not just look up the websites of the clubs and do your own hw?

Geography matters in this area... can you share where you live (town or at least county)/ Also, what age group and level of play?

All-

Looking for a club for my DD for travel. Not looking for the "top team" but looking for a club that's respected and most importantly with positive coaches and a more positive environment. Don't need a war in this thread. Just trying to gauge the landscape.