Not meaning to take the discussion in a different direction.
The basic reason that us soccer has pushed the academy system is to become better on the world stage. correct? This causes the conflict with HS soccer.
I contend that to be better on the world stage we need our best athletes. We dont have that. And as long as soccer continues to be an expensive sport, we will not get those players. I found out recently that a DOC of a small area club was making $25 K for that position. And he was seldom at the fields! Way to much.
US Soccer should create urban clubs with little or no cost. Follow a more European system where training is not that expensive at the young ages.
Sorry for the rant, I realize it doesnt help in the HS v. academy issue. But, in my own twisted mind, it is related.
