http://www.dailysoccerfix.com/2011/2/1/1968139/zach-loyd-reminds-us-that-premature-specialization-is-bad-idea

...and what is your opinion on your post?

interesting?

Right. I just don't believe life is a cookie-cutter. Certainly, specialization is good for some and not the preferred path of others. I once talked to a dad whose son went pro. Rather than extolling the years of toiling the fields and personal sacrifices. The elder defined his success an accidental pro. Never really dedicated, he was more of a goof than a goon. Then, one day in college, something clicked and he took off. Who knew? Btw-I like Zach's style as an attacking defender. He can launch the far post as well as any Yank in the MLS.

I'd say he is the exception... not the rule.

finish1 wrote:Right. I just don't believe life is a cookie-cutter. Certainly, specialization is good for some and not the preferred path of others. I once talked to a dad whose son went pro. Rather than extolling the years of toiling the fields and personal sacrifices. The elder defined his success an accidental pro. Never really dedicated, he was more of a goof than a goon. Then, one day in college, something clicked and he took off. Who knew? Btw-I like Zach's style as an attacking defender. He can launch the far post as well as any Yank in the MLS.

This is a great lesson for parents and it made me rethink about the academy programs in the US. From my limited experience watching my BB practicing and playing in the local U7-9 academy teams, it is very hard not to specialize at an early age unless you don't mind losing your spot in the team. They practice 2 times a week, some players participate in an additional skills training, plus the games in the weekends (most play for both academy and rec teams). These add up to 6 or more hours a week at ages 7 or 8. Seems to be a lot of training for such young ages. I am not sure this is a norm or not comparing to other soccer power houses, although I can see the business aspect of the academy programs.