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**Unregistered** · 03-28-2013, 12:53 PM

Originally posted by Unregistered View Post

I know firsthand the parents for the Forza weren't happy with field space, but the coaching was great. We just had some of the states best players among the top 11 and those players should play with the states best. Forza's top 8 could compete and beat anyone in the league which is why they were incredible at the u10 level (8v8). Depth was an issue as "B" level players were playing with these other amazing players. I know many of the players are now starters for both Eastside and Westside which is a tough nut to crack. These top players will make these teams even better!

I always thought Forza was solid team in the Fall. A lot of losses were close. I do think that there are other factors as to why they dropped off from U10 to U11 other than your top 8 theory, however. If you look at the top 4 teams from Fall: WT, ET, WSA, THUSC, all of those teams were much, much different than at U10. In some cases, top players consolidated to those clubs and in some cases, there is just the natural growth that shoots up at these younger ages. I guess what I am saying is I saw the Forza team play and I didnt see 8 strong players with 3 weak players and a weak bench. I did see a talented group of players that could hold their own, just couldnt quite get over the hump of the top 4. That said, had they stayed together, U12, might have changed entirely. Growth or added players could have put them back in the mix. But now we will never know I guess. I for one, would have liked to see them stay together. Hey, but if fields were a problem, can't argue that.

**Unregistered** · 03-28-2013, 01:54 PM

Originally posted by Unregistered View Post

Do the academy teams go by year born January - December? Does this make it hard for the older U11s having to play mostly with U12s? I have a young U11. Should he try out for the Academy this year? Is it worth it?

Here is the advice that I have given players and their parents over the years...

If your son loves the game and you both think that he has the skills, confidence and mindset to do a tryout, then go for it. Learning to take chances and try for something of interest, develops character and decision-making skills.

Trust me. Whether or not he makes the team, be it the Academy, ODP, or a competitive club team, he is already developing skills that can help him in future interests, including college and job searches.

**Unregistered** · 04-01-2013, 09:51 AM

Originally posted by Unregistered View Post

Here is the advice that I have given players and their parents over the years...

If your son loves the game and you both think that he has the skills, confidence and mindset to do a tryout, then go for it. Learning to take chances and try for something of interest, develops character and decision-making skills.

Trust me. Whether or not he makes the team, be it the Academy, ODP, or a competitive club team, he is already developing skills that can help him in future interests, including college and job searches.

Amen. Couldn't have said it better. Some life lessons and mostly fantastic memories along the way.