Why You Should Play Summer League Soccer in the US
How Playing in the Summer League Can Boost Your College Soccer Season
The Summer League is in full swing with matches and tournaments all over the US. But what is the Summer League and what are the benefits of participating as a college soccer player? Melker Anshelm, Recruitment Associate at Keystone Sports Nordics, guides you through the Summer League and its benefits for college soccer players.Â
What is the Summer League?
The Summer League consists of various semi-professional or amateur soccer leagues that take place during the summer months. College soccer is primarily a fall sport, with the season running from August to December. Since these leagues are scheduled between the fall and spring seasons, they provide college soccer players with an opportunity to remain competitive, enhance their skills, and gain exposure during the off-season.Â
Why Play in the Summer League as a College Soccer Player?
Every summer, several summer leagues are held across the country, with USL League Two being the most prominent. Previously known as the Premier Development League (PDL), USL League Two is an amateur/semi-professional soccer league in the United States under the United Soccer League (USL).Â
This summer, there are 128 teams in 18 divisions across 4 conferences in USL League Two. The competition is fierce, featuring players from all college divisions. For ambitious student-athletes, it’s an excellent opportunity to showcase their talents in front of numerous coaches and scouts from across the country, paving the way for life after college.Â
I spent two summers playing Summer League Soccer. Between my junior and senior years, I played for Kings Hammer FC in Cincinnati, Ohio. Between my senior and redshirt senior years, I played for South Carolina United Bantams in Columbia, South Carolina.Â
Preparing for the College Soccer Season Ahead
Playing in a college soccer summer league is an ideal way to prepare for the upcoming college soccer season. You’ll be in top form when it’s time to report for preseason at your school. Instead of merely running all summer, you will engage in competitive games on a weekly basis. It’s a win-win situation!Â
Maintaining Fitness During the Off-Season
Spring training for college soccer players is typically rigorous, with a strong focus on fitness and strength training. However, there is a gap of about three months between the spring and fall seasons. It’s easy to lose your training rhythm over the summer, but by playing in a summer league, you stay fit and ready for the fall.Â
The Experience of Playing Summer League Soccer
Summer League is not just about competition and fitness; it’s also about the overall experience. You get to live in a different part of the US, immerse yourself in a new culture, and make new friends. I have countless memories from my two summers in the US that I will cherish for the rest of my life. For example, spending the 4th of July at a lake house in South Carolina, visiting Myrtle Beach for a few days with my roommates, or exploring the nightlife in Cincinnati!Â
Showcasing Yourself in a Different Environment
College soccer Summer League provides an excellent platform to showcase your skills in a new environment. The main reason players choose to participate in summer league is to be seen by coaches and scouts from across the country.Â
Additionally, while you cannot be paid directly to maintain your amateur status and eligibility to compete in college, most summer teams cover your housing, living, and food expenses. I highly recommend that everyone try playing summer league soccer at least once. Seize the opportunity and make the most of it! Â
Do you want to become a college soccer player? Fill out Keystone Sports’ free assessment to evaluate your chances of playing soccer while studying in the US with a scholarship! A soccer scholarship can help cover the costs of both your sport and your college education. Apply now!
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About the author
Melker Anshelm
Melker Anshelm, Recruitment Associate at Keystone Sports Nordics, earned his Bachelor’s degree with a double major in Communications and Advertising while captaining James Madison University’s soccer team. Melker wants to inspire and inform young Scandinavian athletes about the great opportunity of going to college in the US to become a Student-Athlete. Â
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