Sweet,
I have four daughters as well, none as committed and talented as your daughter, but all are decent players. I knew right from the start that, on the girls side, they wouldn't make a significant living playing professional soccer (Hamm, Foudy, Chastain, Marta....there are very very few exceptions).
On the boys side, there is a great opportunity to make huge money playing at the highest level overseas. More than just the money, the thrill of playing at the top level in front of tons of passionate people who care.
The question I ask is this. For 15-year old boys playing Academy (or whatever the highest level of US club soccer is), do they dream to play for ManU and Real Madrid, or is it OK if the ride ends at USC, Notre Dame or Boston College?
As a parent, I certainly value education. If the college scholarship is the goal, fine. US private colleges cost over $40K per year. A $160K education is significant and if R3PL, NL and Academy helped you get there.....fantastic.
Or, is college a "hedge". You made the investment, the boy did well, became a good player. If he's good enough at 21 he can drafted by MLS and continue pursuing the dream. At least he has the college education.
Now if college is not the primary goal, and the young man really wants to play professional soccer in Europe, would you consider an opportunity, if offered, to your 15 or 16 year old son? If Leeds United, or Millwall, or Charlton Athletic offered to take him across the pond and put him on their U-16's (or their reserve team), and ensure that he completes his secondary education, would you take them up on it?
How about it if it would cost you between $3,500 and $5,000 to have this experience happen, would you consider it?
My intention is not to argue, or prove anyone "wrong", I simply want to know what runs through the head of parents of high-level boys club soccer players (and what the player might be thinking as well). I've got girls who play, I'm not exposed to this.
Manchester & Daddy, I've seen both of your boys train and play and they have done very well. Curious to hear your thoughts on this matter.
