The Importance of International Travel for Youth Soccer Player
excerpt from Youth Soccer News: The Benefits of International Travel for Youth Soccer Players By: Diane Scavuzzo
As Mark Twain once said, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
Discover … how it feels to be immersed in soccer when you experience soccer abroad. The world is made up of individuals united by a shared passion and love for the game of soccer. All travel has its advantages … All Travel makes the mind work, but soccer travel makes the heart soar.
For a youth soccer player seeking to develop to his or her highest potential on the field, as well as off the field, the experience of traveling internationally is invaluable. Playing against teams from different countries provides special opportunities for player development. Watching and participating in youth soccer abroad where soccer is (almost) a religion provides a real learning experience on the world’s most popular game. Whether you travel purely for the soccer training or can take advantage of turning it into a family holiday, playing youth soccer in Europe creates a lasting impression that develops a player’s awareness of his or her place as a global citizen.
Are American youth players able to compete abroad? Are we good enough? This is the silent question floating in the air. The answer is yes.
