SC Soccer Forums SCSoccer.com Forums Club Soccer & ODP Player Dev't vs. Visibility at Tournaments

Let's see if I can get this question phrased correctly...
When a player is not quite of recruiting age (junior/senior) and wants to play college, is s/he better to choose a club team that can significantly advance his/her soccer skills but may not provide much visibility via tournaments? Or should the player choose a club team with a history of winning records so visibility comes via top-level tournaments and club reputation, perhaps at some expense of personal soccer development? From what I have seen, most top-level clubs focus on winning games and tourneys to establish or preserve club reputation and are less interested in player development beyond the U-13 age. Seeking opinions.

I think you pretty much hit the nail on the head. Established club will attract players who already possess adequate skills. When skill level is equal, athleticism will win out.

When you have players of this calibre you concentrate on tactics and winning games...which serves two purposes: getting the kids exposure and enhancing your club's reputation.

Got it. So, if a player's development is pretty much complete, the more competitive club may be appropriate. But if a player still has more "room to grow", what then?

Personal training.

There's always a good "hired gun" out there who specializes in skill development and can help the player along.

H66 - personal training is a good idea and makes a lot of sense in that situation. Thx for your opinion!