US Youth Soccer National League Boys Kicks Off
The US Youth Soccer National League Boys kicked off on Thursday as the top clubs in the country began their quest for a berth to the US Youth Soccer National Championships. Top college coaches are in North Carolina for a weekend of soccer action as the second day of matches are set for Friday.
Related Article: US Youth Soccer National League Girls Concludes
Youth Soccer News: The top teams in the United States showcased their talent Thursday as the opening matchups got the 10th season of US Youth Soccer National League Boys play underway in North Carolina. All of the squads in each of the U15-U19/20 Boys age groups began their 2016-17 National League season at the Wilson Gillette Soccer Complex and Rocky Mount Sports Complex.
National League teams qualify for the league based on a track record of success in US Youth Soccer regional and national competitions. Competing for a league title and a spot in the US Youth Soccer National Championships, each match will play into who represents the National League this summer in Frisco, Texas.
More than 125 college coaches made an appearance on Thursday and many more are expected to attend this National League weekend to scout some of the top teams and players in the nation.
“Our game was fought between two really good teams,” U15 Michigan Wolves coach Dennis Darnoi said. “We expect that when we’re at the National League. All the teams are top-of-their-state quality. The level of play puts on display what youth soccer in America is all about.”
Four of the five defending National Champions fell in their opening match, as the lone 2016 National Champion to come away with a victory was U17 McLean 00 Green (VA).
McLean coach Jamil Walker acknowledged the importance of a good start in league play, especially with his team being among the top teams to beat as defending champions.
“Our experience from playing in the National League — this is our third year playing in it in a row — we know how difficult it is to get results,” Walker said. “You want to start off on the right foot, so the momentum and attitude is the way you want it to be and you can move to the next game a little more confident.”
National League action will continue Friday, December 9, as the boys teams play their second match of the season.
Complete standings, scores and schedules can be found at the results page here.
Photo Credit: US Youth Soccer
