Ecnl/ecnlr

[Guest]

We switched clubs this year from one ECNL club to another one. My son was offered a spot on the A team which is ECNL, but would only play in the home games and would play games with the B team (ECNLR) to offset the lack of games with the intention of being fully rostered on the A team the following year. We signed the A team contract. The club is not following thru on what was offered. He is only rostered ECNLR and has not played in the home games on the A team (ECNL) as discussed. What would you do in this scenario?

[Guest]

I don't mean this to be rude, but is he able to handle the play? Meaning, now that he is there and working with the team, is it possible he's behind so better to train him in a controlled environment vs. in a game where limitations may be evident?

Your answer could depend on any recommendations.

[Guest]

While I may have blinders on, I don't believe so. He appears to be at least a middle of the pack player on the team. Definitely above some of the bottom players.

[Guest]

While I may have blinders on, I don't believe so. He appears to be at least a middle of the pack player on the team. Definitely above some of the bottom players.

We all have blinders on, despite our efforts. I know what my kid was trying to do, and will give a "Nice idea" vs. what some other kid is trying to do, and think "*** are they doing."....

If he is new, it could be a case where the new kid needs to be better, not equal.

I could suggest a meeting to ask on progress and see how it will go moving forward. It's also really early, and it may take some time.

One dirty secret is coaches will say anything, but won't put it in writing.

[Guest]

Also note, positional differences could mean Player A looks worse than Player B, but they are totally different players at different stages of development, playing different roles, with different responsibilities.

[Guest]

That off just seems strange (not saying you are lying). Why would a team do that? You are only going to play games close to your house and you do not have to travel long distances?

[Guest]

Club should be held to what was promised.

[Guest]

Club should be held to what was promised.

I'm pretty sure there is wiggle room in all these 'contracts' to move players around depending on performance. That works to your favor if your kid excels their level and gets more 'opportunities' to move up during the year. Getting bumped down can feel like a punishment, but in the best case scenario it happens to players who are struggling to get playing time and will (hopefully) have a better experience on the lower team.

All of that is legitimate and clubs should not be bound to keep lineups set in stone for over a year.

That said, some clubs may operate in bad faith and never give your kid a chance to prove himself. This is especially common among the more cutthroat MSLN clubs where we live.

[Guest]

Agree with pp, new kids need to be better, not equal.

[Guest]

I'm pretty sure there is wiggle room in all these 'contracts' to move players around depending on performance. That works to your favor if your kid excels their level and gets more 'opportunities' to move up during the year. Getting bumped down can feel like a punishment, but in the best case scenario it happens to players who are struggling to get playing time and will (hopefully) have a better experience on the lower team.

All of that is legitimate and clubs should not be bound to keep lineups set in stone for over a year.

That said, some clubs may operate in bad faith and never give your kid a chance to prove himself. This is especially common among the more cutthroat MSLN clubs where we live.

The last part

[Guest]

The ECNL is widely regarded as one of the premier youth soccer leagues in the U.S. It comprises clubs that meet strict criteria, ensuring a competitive environment. The league primarily focuses on player development and showcases top talent, with both boys and girls leagues.

[Guest]

The ECNL is widely regarded as one of the premier youth soccer leagues in the U.S. It comprises clubs that meet strict criteria, ensuring a competitive environment. The league primarily focuses on player development and showcases top talent, with both boys and girls leagues.

ECNL clubs often emphasize a holistic approach to player development, integrating technical, tactical, physical, and psychological aspects. The league is known for high-level coaching staff, many of whom have professional or collegiate playing experience.

[Guest]

ECNL clubs often emphasize a holistic approach to player development, integrating technical, tactical, physical, and psychological aspects. The league is known for high-level coaching staff, many of whom have professional or collegiate playing experience.

ECNL clubs generally have a track record of placing players in collegiate programs and professional environments, with many alumni moving on to play in Major League Soccer (MLS), the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), or overseas.

[Guest]

Why the hell are bots/ChatGPT taking over the forum? (not that i expect much, but this has increased a ton of late)

[Guest]

We switched clubs this year from one ECNL club to another one. My son was offered a spot on the A team which is ECNL, but would only play in the home games and would play games with the B team (ECNLR) to offset the lack of games with the intention of being fully rostered on the A team the following year. We signed the A team contract. The club is not following thru on what was offered. He is only rostered ECNLR and has not played in the home games on the A team (ECNL) as discussed. What would you do in this scenario?

According to Ask Ai www.iAsk.ai:

In the scenario you described, it is essential to approach the situation methodically and strategically. Here are steps you could take:

1. Review the Contract: Start by carefully reviewing the contract you signed for the A team. Look for any clauses that outline expectations regarding playing time, roster status, and commitments from the club. Understanding your contractual rights is crucial.
2. Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all communications with the club regarding your son’s placement and playing time. This includes emails, text messages, and notes from conversations. Documentation will be vital if you need to escalate the issue.
3. Communicate with Club Officials: Reach out to the coaching staff or club administration to discuss your concerns directly. Be clear about what was promised regarding your son’s participation in home games and his roster status on both teams. It may be helpful to have a face-to-face meeting to express your concerns more effectively.
4. Seek Clarification: Ask for clarification on why your son has not been rostered as discussed and what steps can be taken to rectify this situation. It’s important to understand if there are legitimate reasons for the changes in his playing status.
5. Consider Escalation: If discussions with club officials do not lead to a satisfactory resolution, consider escalating the matter within the organization or seeking advice from other parents who may have faced similar issues.
6. Explore Alternative Options: If it becomes clear that the club is unwilling or unable to fulfill its commitments, you may need to explore other clubs or teams where your son can receive appropriate playing time and development opportunities.
7. Consult Legal Advice: If necessary, consult with a legal professional who specializes in sports contracts or youth sports issues to understand your options regarding breach of contract.
8. Engage with Parent Associations: Many clubs have parent associations or committees that can provide support or advocacy on behalf of parents and players.

By following these steps, you can address your concerns systematically while advocating for your son’s best interests in his soccer development.

References

1. “Youth Sports Contracts.” Encyclopedia of Sports Management and Marketing, edited by Eric Cressey et al., SAGE Publications, Print.
2. “Parental Rights in Youth Sports.” The Sports Law Handbook, by Michael J. McCann, Routledge, Print.
3. “Understanding Youth Soccer Leagues.” Journal of Sport Management, vol. 32, no. 4, 2018, pp. 345-360, Web.
4. “Contractual Obligations in Amateur Sports.” International Journal of Sport Law, vol. 15, no. 2, 2020, pp. 123-145, Web.
5. “Navigating Youth Sports Organizations.” The Complete Guide to Youth Sports, by John Smithson et al., Oxford University Press, Print.

These references provide insights into youth sports contracts and parental rights within sports organizations which can help inform your approach in this situation.