Overtime

The Power of Identity: How Words Shape Who We Are and Who We Can Become

By Ryan Mendonca, Director of Player Development | Milton Magic FC

I never really thought about how much identity shapes behaviour until one day while playing with my young daughter. One moment, she’s in a princess dress, gliding around the house, fancy and full of grace and charm. Next, she’s wearing a Spiderman mask, climbing furniture, bravely chasing the bad guys and saving the day. Even as a toddler, her whole demeanor shifts entirely based on the role she’s playing.  

Then there are her “school” games. If she’s the teacher, she’s instructive, authoritative, and confident. As the student, she’s curious and engaged, asking questions and following instructions. It’s fascinating how a simple shift in role can alter her approach entirely.

This got me thinking about the athletes we coach and the way in which they behave when assigned new roles. The same transformation happens on the field. When I tell a player they are the team captain, their body language changes—they stand taller, speak louder, and take more initiative. If I move a player from out wide to a central midfielder, they adopt new habits: scanning the field more frequently, positioning themselves differently, even changing their tone of communication. When I recently moved a player from their traditional defending role to an attacking position where they are expected to score, all of a sudden, they had a nose for goal and desire to get forward.

These shifts aren’t magic; they’re the power of identity.  

The Stories We Tell Ourselves

The Role of Words and Roles

Assigning identities works because roles come with built-in scripts. When my daughter becomes Spiderman, she knows what’s expected: Spiderman is brave, agile, and selfless. On the field, the same principle applies. When I call a player “our playmaker,” I’m giving them permission to take risks, look for opportunities, and dictate the tempo of the game.  

This aligns with organizational psychologist Adam Grant’s insights Think Again. Grant highlights the importance of reframing challenges as opportunities. By assigning roles, we guide athletes toward seeing themselves as problem-solvers, leaders, or learners, shaping how they tackle adversity. Creating a role or assigning an identity for a player is not just about who they are to be in the moment, but rather, a nudge in the direction of who they could become if they adopt the associated behaviours.

Analogies in Action

I’ve noticed that athletes often “play up” to their assigned roles, my daughter does the same at home. Consider this: if you were handed a chef’s hat, and told to prepare a meal, you’d likely focus more on presentation and seasoning than if you were just throwing together a snack. The role shapes the behavior.  

Similarly, when I tell a player they’re a defensive anchor, they instinctively adjust their game. They intercept passes, organize teammates, and prioritize discipline. The act of being named for that role shifts their focus and effort.  

Think about how you can use this insight in your environment as a coach. Can you try to assign different roles from one week to the next? Or maybe one practice to the next? Change up the captains, let someone else lead the warm-up and move players into different positions during their scrimmage. Take note, what do you observe and how can you use it?

Actionable Takeaways for Coaches and Parents

4. Use Role-Playing Off the Field

Encourage players to role-play in practice: one session as a coach, another as an opposing team’s star player. These exercises develop empathy and adaptability. Try different positions and develop a further understanding of the game. Sometimes a player or coach may find their fit into a different role than we previously thought.

5. Model Growth-Oriented Language at Home

Parents can reinforce identity-building at home. If a child works hard on a science project, praise their perseverance: “You stuck with it, even when it got tough.” This language builds a foundation for future resilience.  

Final Thoughts  

Identity is a powerful tool in sport and in life. As parents and coaches, the words we use and the roles we assign can inspire players to grow into their best selves. Let’s be intentional about the stories we help them tell themselves, because those stories will shape their actions, attitudes, and futures—both on and off the field. 

The Second Score: Shifting the Focus to Growth at Milton Magic FC

By Ryan Mendonca, Director of Player Development | Milton Magic FC

The final whistle blows and the players, gasping for breath, hunch over on the sun-baked field. Beads of sweat trace paths down flushed faces as every player, parent, and coach alike, turns toward that small corner of the field. It’s almost comical how such a tiny electronic box can command so much attention, but there it is – the scoreboard, its glowing numbers seemingly more powerful than they have any right to be.

It never ceases to amaze me how two simple digits can control our emotions, shape our evaluations, and even influence our self-perception especially when, in reality, we often have so little control over the final outcome. Putting a definitive numerical value on such a beautifully subjective sport as soccer feels a bit like trying to measure the tastiness of your grandma’s secret recipe with a ruler, it just doesn’t quite capture the essence of what’s truly important.

At Milton Magic FC, we believe soccer isn’t just about the numbers on that scoreboard, it’s about fostering lifelong learning and personal growth. As coaches and parents, we play pivotal roles in shaping how young athletes view themselves and their development. That’s where Adam Grant’s application of the “second score” (a concept coined by Sheila Heen) comes into play, and trust me, it’s a game-changer (pun intended).

What’s This “Second Score” Business?

Reframing Feedback: From “First Score” to “Second Score”

In sports, we are used to evaluating performance through goals, wins, or technical assessments—these are the “first scores.” However, focusing too much on these results can make players feel their worth is tied only to their performance, as if they’re nothing more than soccer-playing robots programmed for victory.

Instead, we can ask, “How did you respond?” Did a player bounce back after making a mistake? Did they show resilience after receiving constructive feedback? That’s the “second score”. It’s about celebrating the kid who helps an opponent up after a tackle, or the one who keeps their cool when a referee makes a call that seems to defy the laws of physics (and soccer).

By focusing on the “second score”, we model for players that setbacks are not failures—they’re opportunities to grow. This concept applies not only to athletes but also to coaches and parents. Whether it’s in a high-pressure game or in life, the way we react to moments of frustration, criticism, or struggle matters more than the initial result.

Practical Ways to Embrace the “Second Score” at Milton Magic FC

Here are some strategies to integrate the second score into your child’s development journey, helping them build mental toughness and confidence both on and off the field:

4. Parents: Model the “Second Score” Mindset at Home

Children learn from observing us. When parents reflect on their own behaviors, whether it’s how they respond to a tough day at work or a questionable call from the referee, they demonstrate that emotions and growth are part of life. You don’t need to be perfect, just show your kids how to keep trying, even when your “soccer mom” cheer comes out sounding more like a foghorn than encouragement.

Remember, at Milton Magic FC, our vision is to create lifelong soccer experiences that shape the character of our young players. We’re building not just athletes, but resilient, adaptable individuals who can handle life’s curveballs (or, in our case, curling free kicks) with grace and determination.

By embracing the second score, we ensure that players value how they grow rather than attaching their self-worth to fleeting results. It’s about creating an environment where kids feel safe to try, fail, learn, and thrive, all while having fun and maybe inventing a few creative goal celebrations along the way.

So, the next time you’re tempted to fixate on that glowing scoreboard, remember: the real magic happens in the moments between the numbers. It’s in the high-fives after a tough loss, the determination to master that tricky skill, and yes, even in the ability to laugh off that spectacular miss during a breakaway.

Let’s shift the conversation from just outcomes to growth. Together, we can ensure that every child knows their worth isn’t measured by a score, but by how they show up for themselves and their teammates, game after game, season after season.

Join us in embracing the second score, where every stumble is a step toward success, and every challenge is a chance to shine. After all, in the game of life, it’s not just about the goals we score, but the character we build along the way.

#SecondScore #MagicMindset #BeMagic

Preparing for College or University as a Student-Athlete

Preparing for college or university as a soccer player involves a multi-faceted approach that balances athletic development with academic readiness and personal growth. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Academic Excellence

• Maintain Strong Grades: Your academic performance is crucial for college admissions. Aim to keep a high GPA, as this is a key factor in both college acceptance and eligibility for scholarships.
• Standardized Tests: Prepare for and take standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. High scores can improve your chances of getting into your preferred schools and qualifying for academic scholarships.
• Course Selection: Enroll in challenging courses such as AP or IB classes if available. Colleges look for students who have pushed themselves academically.
• Time Management: Balance your time effectively between academics and athletics. Develop a study schedule that accommodates your training and game commitments.

2. Athletic Development

• Enhance Soccer Skills: Regularly work on improving your technical skills (e.g., dribbling, passing, shooting) and tactical understanding of the game. Attend extra training sessions, camps, and clinics to refine your abilities.
• Physical Conditioning: Prioritize your physical fitness by engaging in strength training, cardiovascular workouts, and agility drills. Injury prevention and recovery are also critical; include flexibility and recovery routines in your regimen.
• Game Experience: Play in as many competitive matches as possible, whether through your high school team, club team, or regional leagues. The more high-level experience you have, the better prepared you’ll be for college soccer.
• Create a Highlight Reel: Compile footage of your best performances into a highlight video. Make sure it showcases your versatility, soccer IQ, and standout moments. This video is an essential tool for getting noticed by college coaches.

4. Balancing Academics and Athletics

• Develop Strong Study Habits: Learn to balance your academic workload with your training and competition schedule. Time management is key—consider using planners, apps, or other tools to keep track of assignments and practice times.
• Seek Academic Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re struggling with schoolwork. Many schools offer tutoring services, and teachers are often willing to provide extra support.
• Understand NCAA Eligibility Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the NCAA Eligibility Center’s academic requirements, including the minimum GPA and standardized test scores. Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center if you plan to play at an NCAA school.

5. Financial Planning

• Explore Scholarship Opportunities: Research athletic and academic scholarships offered by the schools you’re interested in. Some schools may offer full or partial athletic scholarships, while others might offer merit-based financial aid.
• Complete the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is necessary for determining your eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs.
• Budgeting Skills: Learn basic budgeting skills to manage your finances during college. Consider the costs of tuition, books, housing, meals, and other living expenses.

7. Planning for the Transition

• Adapting to College Life: Be prepared for the transition to college life, which includes living away from home, managing your time independently, and balancing new responsibilities.
• Building a Support Network: Connect with your future teammates, coaches, and other student-athletes at your prospective college. Having a support system in place can help ease the transition.
• Embrace the Student-Athlete Lifestyle: Understand that being a student-athlete requires dedication and discipline. You’ll need to balance your academic workload with rigorous training, travel for games, and other commitments.

9. Decision-Making Process

• Evaluate Offers: If you receive multiple offers from colleges, take the time to evaluate each one carefully. Consider factors such as the soccer program’s competitiveness, academic opportunities, campus culture, and financial aid packages.
• Consult with Mentors: Discuss your options with trusted mentors, coaches, and family members. Their insights can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and values.
• Commitment: Once you’ve made your decision, communicate your commitment to the college coach and complete any necessary paperwork. Keep your focus on preparing for the next chapter in your soccer and academic career.

10. Prepare for Challenges

• Handling Pressure: College soccer comes with heightened competition and expectations. Develop strategies to manage stress and maintain focus, such as mindfulness, meditation, or speaking with a sports psychologist.
• Overcoming Setbacks: Injuries, tough losses, or academic challenges can be part of the college experience. Cultivate a resilient mindset that allows you to bounce back and keep pushing forward.

By following these steps, you can effectively prepare for the demands and opportunities of being a college or university-bound soccer player.

Handling Anxiety and Pressure During Competitive Soccer Tryouts

As the annual tryouts for competitive soccer teams, including Milton Magic, commence, many young athletes face a significant transition. For some, it’s the leap from recreational soccer to a more competitive environment. For others, it’s the return to Milton Magic from other competitive teams. Regardless of the scenario, showcasing abilities during tryouts can be an overwhelming experience for young players.

For parents, navigating the pathway of competitive soccer and processing the influx of information can be equally daunting. Competitive soccer tryouts in Ontario are inherently stressful, with the pressure to perform well and secure a spot on the team often leading to significant anxiety. However, with the right strategies, players can manage their stress and perform at their best.

Tryouts in soccer are now referred to as Open Trials, where anyone can register online by the child’s birth year and attend. At Milton, we have rebranded our approach with the term #TRYUSOUT. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment for every player, making them feel comfortable while allowing our club coaches and staff to showcase their ability to interact and connect with players. This approach emphasizes why our player development pathway is effective, provided parents trust the process.

Here are some tips to help handle the anxiety and pressure of competitive tryouts:

1. Preparation is Key

One of the best ways to reduce anxiety is to be well-prepared. This means not only honing your soccer skills but also ensuring you are physically fit. Regular practice, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep are crucial. Familiarize yourself with the tryout process and what is expected of you. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel.

2. Mental Conditioning

Mental preparation is just as important as physical preparation. Techniques such as visualization, where you imagine yourself succeeding in the tryouts, can be very effective. Positive self-talk is another powerful tool. Remind yourself of your strengths and past successes. This can help build your confidence and reduce negative thoughts.

7. Professional Help

If anxiety becomes overwhelming, it might be helpful to seek professional help. Sports psychologists can provide strategies and techniques to manage anxiety and improve performance.

Conclusion

Handling the anxiety and pressure of competitive soccer tryouts is challenging, but with the right approach, it is manageable. Preparation, mental conditioning, staying present, developing a routine, seeking support, embracing the experience, and professional help are all effective strategies. Remember, the goal is to perform at your best and enjoy the game.

David Benning is the Director of Soccer Operations for Milton Magic, having joined the organization in August 2023 from Pickering FC where he revamped their entire club infrastructure. Over the past year, David has been responsible for overseeing all aspects of the club’s technical programs, including recreational and competitive teams, the skills centre, camps, supplementary programs, and the education and improvement of our coaches. David brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served as the Director of the National Training Centres for Canada Soccer. He has also held positions as Head Coach of the Canadian National U15 Women’s Team and Assistant Coach of the U17 Women’s Team.

Takeaways from the 2024 Euro Cup

The 2024 Euro Tournament has been exciting to watch for the past week. It can be a fantastic educational opportunity for children, not just in appreciating the sport but also in learning valuable life skills. Here are some key takeaways from the tournament that can help young players aspire to reach the next level:

Dedication and Teamwork: The tournament showcases the result of years of dedication and teamwork. Children can learn the importance of working together towards a common goal and the commitment required to excel in any field. Each player needs to understand they need to run their race and enjoy the journey and more importantly the process to reach their goals.

Health and Fitness: Professional players maintain a high level of physical fitness, which is essential for peak performance. exercise. Players can learn to see and learn how strict the player’s nutrition intake and their desire to eat appropriately to supply the right energy to their muscles. Players can hear stories how regimented their daily lives are which includes regularly sleeping eight hours of sleep.

Cultural and Language Exposure: The Euro Tournament brings together teams from different countries, offering a chance for children to learn about various cultures and languages.

Fair Play and Respect: Respect for opponents, officials, and the rules of the game is always emphasized, highlighting the importance of fair play and sportsmanship.

By discussing these aspects while watching the games, parents can turn the excitement of the tournament into a learning experience that goes beyond soccer and helps children develop into well-rounded individuals.

In the next issue of Overtime, we will discuss the performances in the Euro 2024 and who my final four were.

At the Heartbeat of Milton Magic, What Drives Winning?

Recently, I had the privilege of addressing influential individuals in Ontario’s soccer landscape. Among the questions posed, one resonated deeply: How has Milton Magic orchestrated such rapid transformation? It’s a question that delves beyond strategies and tactics, into the very soul of our club—a journey defined by values that illuminate our path to success.

At Milton Magic, we’ve realized that cultivating a winning culture begins with a deliberate commitment to shaping not just a team, but a community—a community anchored by principles that guide our every endeavor. Addressing this culture by crafting values to operate by has been instrumental in our progress.

Legendary basketball coach Pat Riley once noted, “If we do everything everyone else is doing, we will be like everyone else.” This wisdom underpins our ethos; conformity is the adversary of innovation. To truly distinguish ourselves, we’ve forged our own path, rooted in a unique set of values.

Success exacts a price—a price paid in sweat, sacrifice, and steadfast dedication. Riley’s insight resonates profoundly: the challenge isn’t merely paying the price once, but committing to pay it anew each day. The journey to victory is marked by fluidity, demanding fresh resolve and resilience with every dawn.

To instill a winning mindset within our teams, we’ve distilled nine principles that breathe life into our club’s ethos:

4. Lead by Example: Actions speak louder than words. Lead by example on and off the field, embodying the values of hard work, discipline, and sportsmanship that define our club.
5. Bring Positive Energy: A positive attitude is contagious and can uplift the entire team. Approach challenges with optimism and enthusiasm, inspiring confidence and resilience in your teammates.
6. Be a Great Teammate: Success is a collective effort. Support and encourage your teammates, celebrating their victories as passionately as your own and lifting them up in moments of difficulty.

7. Be a Gatekeeper of the Culture: Uphold the standards and values of our club at all times. Act with integrity, respect, and humility, ensuring that our culture remains a source of strength and unity for all.
8. Make Preparation Your Separation: Champions are made long before they step onto the field. Dedicate yourself to thorough preparation, both physically and mentally, setting yourself apart through meticulous attention to detail and relentless commitment to excellence.
9. Be the Hardest Worker in the Room: In the pursuit of success, there are no shortcuts. Embrace the grind, outwork your opponents, and never settle for anything less than your best effort in every endeavor.

These principles encapsulate our belief system—a belief system anchored in the acronym H.E.A.R.T: Humble, Effort, Accountable, Respect, and Trust.

Humble – We is greater than Me: Unity propels us forward; humility is the bedrock upon which true greatness is built. It’s the recognition that no individual is greater than the collective, and that our strength lies in our unity. As Vince Lombardi once said, “Humility is the only thing that makes it possible to maintain a degree of vigilance which is essential for consistency.” It’s this humility that keeps us grounded, reminding us that past achievements may earn recognition but not entitlement.

Effort – Giving Your Personal Best: Mediocrity is antithetical to our ethos; excellence is the standard, not the exception. At Milton Magic, mediocrity has no place. We demand excellence in, not just in games, but in every training session, every drill, and every action. There should be no excuse for being outworked by another; each member of our club is expected to give nothing less than their personal best, day in and day out.

Trust – A Belief in One Another: Trust is the currency of champions. It’s the unwavering belief that each member of our team will do their part, putting the collective success above individual glory. As we stand shoulder to shoulder on the field, we surrender the “me” for the “we,” knowing that our collective strength is greater than the sum of our parts.

In embodying these values, we forge a legacy of excellence—not just on the field, but in every facet of our lives. Together, let’s embrace the H.E.A.R.T. of Milton Magic, inspiring greatness within ourselves and each other, today and beyond.

Do Coaches Have Favourites?

As I survey the sidelines, discreetly observing impassioned discussions among parents, attend obligatory parent-coach meetings, and or have 1 on 1 discussions with parents who have a concern with their child’s development or playing time, the perennial topic of whether coaches have favourites never fails to captivate. Do Coaches Have Favourites?

This age-old inquiry looms large, enticing speculation and conjecture amongst players and onlookers. The verdict is unequivocal, yet the rationale behind this phenomenon remains as intriguing as an unexpected goal in overtime.

David Benning is our Club’s Director of Soccer Operations responsible for the new direction, curriculum, and player and coach development while also setting the new standards and expectations for Milton Magic. David is well respected throughout Canada having been a Canadian National Team Staff Coach coaching at the u17 World Cup for a Quarter Final as well as an instructor of the National ‘A’ and ‘B’ License. Most recently he has been appointed as the Bu16 Ontario Provincial Team Staff, and to a special advisory group for the Canadian National Technical Directors Diploma as a result of his experience and knowledge being recognized as the first club technical director in Ontario.

Road to Europe as a Professional Player

Since my last contribution I was approached about understanding the pathway to the professional world of soccer in Europe. First and foremost parents need to understand that FIFA decided in 2009 to ban the transfer of players under the age of 18, with three exceptions (as laid down in Article 19 of FIFA’s International Transfer Regulations); that the child’s parents change countries for reasons unrelated to football; that the transfer takes place between countries of the EU or the European Economic Area, the player being between 16 and 18 years of age; or that the player and the club of destination belong to countries no more than 50 kilometers from the border.

The good news is some European countries are more friendly for various reasons to Canadians such as such as Holland, Belgium, and Germany. With Alphonso Davies now with Bayern Munich there is a big demand by German Clubs to find the next Canadian talent and therefore the following is an opportunity to understand the German Soccer landscape. In Germany there are 2 main U19 boys’ leagues the U19 Bundesliga (highest youth level) and the U19 Regional league.

The three Bu19 Regional Leagues are the second-best soccer league for young dedicated and professionally oriented soccer players in Germany. This an ideal level of play for many players to enter and showcase their abilities, strengths, coachability, Soccer IQ and the ability to retain the information being coached. This level will allow the entire coaching staff to assess if you really want and can be a professional player. It’s a job not a sport in such an environment.

• The regional league is one level below the Bu19 Bundesliga
• The player with potential and having already proven their quality in their first year in the u19 Regional League do get approached by professional u19 scouts, representing the Bu19 Bundesliga clubs or are recommended by licensed professional coaches, scouts and agents. (Licensed is key here – very strict rules)

International players at age u17 & u18 trying to make it into the u19 clubs in the regional league is extremely difficult as 1000’s of players are trying to secure themselves a roster position. Trials usually take place before the pre-season training when the final squads even come together. Players on trials are given 1-to-2-week max timeline to showcase their potential.

To provide you with more in depth of the structure of soccer in Germany and the difficulty of making the level necessary, here are some major facts to compare it against North America.

1. In 2023 7.36 million soccer players in Germany
2. 475,075 youth players between the ages of U15-u18
3. 13,658 clubs in Germany

So, what can a u17 or u18 player do to increase their chances of being selected into a professional German Club.

1. Ensure your development skills and fitness levels are at the appropriate level for competition.
2. Develop a mindset to understand you are interviewing for a job as a soccer professional and attempting to earn a roster position by outperforming another.
3. Create a video of 3 full games to be sent to German Clubs or agents who can represent and open doors.
4. Gain German practical experience by going on trials with German Clubs (Training and Game Time).
   • Your first 3 trials might not work out. Some players have gone to 10 different clubs before being given an opportunity.
5. To become acquainted with the soccer culture, physically and mentally.
6. Using opportunities available for extra training with individuals who have played at the professional level not people who are just going to train you. (Ex. U19 Bundesliga)
7. Learning the language of any country even at the introductory level.
   • Coaching staff do not take into consideration the fact that international youth players have a language barrier.
   • It is always advisable for all foreign players to visit a language course before going on trials.

Playing Professional in the Men’s League

Signing a contract in Germany as a professional soccer player begins in the 4^th division which is the Regional Men’s League. This is above the Bu19 level of competition.

Regional Men’s League is divided into five main regions in Germany with over 100 semi-professional clubs.

The Regional Men’s League is considered a professional development league for young adult soccer players between the ages of 19 and 22, which allows them to compete against men. This includes attributes in Physical, Tactical, Technical, Fundamentals and most importantly game time experience to showcase what you are learning.

International players playing in a 2^nd division club outside of Germany also use the Regional Men’s League as a platform to showcase their quality with an expectation to be scouted, recruited, and signed into the higher divisions such as the Bundesliga 3^rd division all the way to the Bundesliga 1^st division.

The objective of playing in the 4^th division is to:

• Create an identity for yourself to be observed and scouted in real competitive meaningful games.
• Gain practical professional experience both in a training and game environment.
• Develop a thorough understanding of how to play the game against men which is a completely different game than playing youth soccer at u18.
• Becoming acquainted in the soccer culture, physically and mentally in the region you are playing
• Use the opportunity to train harder in a semi-professional environment so the jump to a full-time professional environment is easier to do. Every level up is more demanding than the last as the difference between the quality of the players becomes marginal and it is the will to train which allows you to stay on the roster let alone to start which is another level to attain.

The obstacles playing in Germany’s 4^th Division Regional League is that you’re playing against seasoned ex-professionals (30-35) who have played at the 2^nd and 3^rd divisions of the Bundesliga. Scouts and coaches from the Bundesliga teams watch 100% of the games every week trying to discover young talented players from the Regional Men’s League. 

The interesting fact of the 4^th division all Clubs from the Bundesliga 1^st and 2^nd divisions have their own 2^nd team (called the reserves) playing in the same league. E.g. German Clubs such as FC Bayern Muchen have their 2^nd team called FC Bayern Muchen u23 consisting of players who are 19 to 22 years of age. They are not the only club doing this. This is why the games are all scouted by the 1^st and 2^nd division clubs as they are competing for the same championships with their reserve teams.

What are the salaries in the 4^th division?

Each team has its own budget. The total amount allocated to each club’s budget depends on the ownership, investors, and sponsorship deals in place. Obviously, the more money invested the higher the salaries are. Player salaries vary in net income from 500 Euros to a maximum of 4,000 Euros per month (Approx $5,845/month) = $70K /year). Bonuses such as wins, minutes played, goals, and clean sheets are not included. These are all extras added to the basic monthly salary.

Navigating the Path to NCAA Soccer Scholarships

Often, I am approached with inquiries about the steps a player can take to optimize their chances of securing a student-athlete scholarship for soccer. It’s a question that resonates with many parents seeking the best guidance for their aspiring athletes.

In navigating this journey, it’s crucial to address common misconceptions. A staggering 98% of club coaches, while well-intentioned, may not have the direct capacity to secure scholarships. The truth is, only about 2%— comprising university/college head coaches or assistant coaches—hold the keys to such opportunities.

“My goal is to provide the opportunity which was given to me.”

David Benning

In the newsletters to follow, I will delve into the nuanced path toward earning student-athlete scholarships, providing insights and dispelling myths. As we embark on this journey together, rest assured that your child’s aspirations are at the forefront of our collective mission.

A key point to bear in mind is that only the Head Coach of a college or university in the USA or Canada has the authority to award a student-athlete scholarship. Limited connections may exist due to unique player development skills for that specific level of play.

Exercise caution when considering guidance from individuals. Inquire about their personal experience as a student-athlete who received a scholarship at the college/university level. Ask about their track record and confirm it. It’s surprising how many may lack insight into the level of play and the diverse conferences within the college/university system. Your aspirations are important, and navigating this path requires thoughtful consideration.

Your aspirations are important, and navigating this path requires thoughtful consideration. Choose your sources of guidance with care.

As my senior technical staff and I endeavour to empower our young players to become student-athletes and achieve their aspirations, attaining soccer scholarships at NCAA universities and colleges is a notable accomplishment. To enhance your understanding of this path, I have crafted a comprehensive guide designed to navigate every stage of a player’s high school journey.

The paramount message I want to convey is the necessity of having the academic credentials to gain university admission. This is precisely why it’s referred to as a Student-Athlete Scholarship and not solely a Soccer Scholarship. Your achievements on the field take a secondary role to your proficiency in the classroom.

Grade 9: Building the Foundation

• Register at the NCAA Clearinghouse (eligibility centre – FREE) https://web3.ncaa.org/ecwr3/
• Educate yourself on the requirements for eligibility. https://cdn1.sportngin.com/attachments/document/0108/0775/NCAA ClearinghouseBasics.doc.pdf
• Prioritize academics: Establish strong study habits from the start.
• Get involved: Participate in school and community activities to showcase a well-rounded lifestyle.

Grade 10: Gaining Exposure

• Maintain academic excellence: Continue excelling academically for NCAA eligibility.
• Refine highlight video and player profile: Update the soccer highlight reel and player profile with recent accomplishments.
• Attend college showcases: Participate in events where college scouts may be present for exposure.
• Train your body to be able to compete at a more demanding training and competitive level. University athletes train 4 days a week and compete 2x/week with 1 day off.

Grade 11: Active Engagement

• Take standardized tests: Register for and take the SAT for college admissions and scholarship considerations. The primary standardized tests accepted by the NCAA for eligibility purposes are the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and the ACT (American College Testing)
• Attend college ID camps: Participate in clinics for direct interaction with college coaches.
• Research colleges and initiate visits: Explore programs of interest and make official visits to potential institutions.

Grade 12: Finalizing the Journey

• Complete NCAA eligibility requirements: Ensure all criteria for the NCAA Eligibility Center are met.
• Submit college applications: Submit applications on time and be proactive in the admission process.
• Continue communication with coaches: Maintain regular updates with college coaches on achievements and interests.

Understanding NCAA Scholarship Limits

• NCAA Division I: Men’s soccer – maximum of 9.9 scholarships; Women’s soccer – maximum of 14 scholarships.
• NCAA Division II: Men’s soccer – maximum of 9 scholarships; Women’s soccer – maximum of 9.9 scholarships.
• NCAA Division III: No athletic scholarships offered; financial aid may be available based on academic criteria.

Key Tips for Success:

• Actively network and build relationships with university/college coaches.
• Stay informed on NCAA rules and regulations.
• Encourage early engagement in the recruitment process.

Adhering to these guidelines will enable our players to strategically position themselves for student-athlete soccer scholarships at NCAA universities and colleges. For personalized advice and assistance, I encourage you to reach out to the Milton Magic senior technical coaching staff or myself. Your proactive engagement in this process is vital to your success, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

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David Benning, a former NCAA D1 player, has personally assisted over 100 players in realizing their dreams of attending university or college in both Canada and the USA as student-athletes, achieving soccer scholarships. Importantly, David extends his support without any financial charges. In his words, “My goal is to provide the opportunity which was given to me.” This personal commitment underscores the dedication to guiding athletes toward their academic and athletic aspirations, reflecting the generosity of someone who has experienced the transformative power of such opportunities firsthand.

Beyond the Final Whistle and in Overtime:  Nurturing Character and Growth at Milton Magic 

In the fast-paced world of youth sports, the influence of parents and coaches extends well beyond the confines of the soccer field. As we navigate the intricacies of developing our young athletes, it is essential to recognize and embrace the profound life lessons that soccer imparts. In this edition of Overtime, we delve into three powerful quotes that encapsulate the ethos of Milton Youth Soccer Club and the valuable journey our players embark upon. 

“The best sports parents give their kids the freedom to fail…” 

At Milton Magic, we believe in creating an environment where young players are not shielded from failure but encouraged to embrace it as a stepping stone to success. Soccer is more than a game; it’s a dynamic teacher, instilling resilience, determination, and the ability to rise after a fall. Our parents understand that the journey of a young athlete is a profound life experience that extends beyond the boundaries of the soccer field. 

“If a coach holds your kid accountable for cutting up, being disruptive, not following directions, and being lazy…” 

Accountability is a cornerstone of character development. Our coaches at Milton are committed to nurturing not only skilled players but also responsible individuals. We encourage parents to view the accountability instilled by our coaches as a valuable life lesson. It is through these experiences that children learn the importance of discipline, commitment, and personal responsibility. 

“Don’t like that coach who works your child too hard, always on them to do better? Wait till you play for a coach who doesn’t care…” 

The pursuit of excellence demands effort, dedication, and sometimes, pushing beyond comfort zones. Our coaches are dedicated to unlocking the full potential of every player. Embracing challenges on the field prepares our young athletes for the challenges they’ll encounter in life. The lessons of hard work, perseverance, and striving for improvement extend far beyond the soccer field. 

As we come together to celebrate the achievements of our youth in soccer, let’s also celebrate the invaluable life lessons being imparted. The journey at Milton Youth Soccer Club is not just about winning games; it’s about shaping resilient, accountable, and compassionate individuals who will thrive both on and off the field on their way to being impactful citizens of our community. 

Thank you for being part of our club dedicated to the holistic growth of all our young athletes.