Welland U18 Boys. Introduction to adult soccer; learning the hard way.

This past weekend we were in Erie, PA for a tournament with our 1995 boys.  The age classification was U18/U19, so there were many players born in 1993 already playing college/university soccer on the field.

I help with this team at training on occasion, but they have a head coach and long time assistant.  My middle son plays here.

Our boys are in Grade 12 and will be off to school in the fall.   Some are interested in trying out for their new schools while others want to play in competitive men's leagues.  The jump in speed, technical demands and physical play are noticeable and, for some, extremely intimidating.

This weekend our team was thrown into the firepit, covered in oil and cooked until well-done.