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The world's most talented young players converge in England each May at soccer tryouts for England's extremely competitive Premiership teams.
Challenging the world's finest players
soccer at the international level, particularly in England, is played and followed with ferocious intensity. The speed and agility seen in English games is legendary and proves challenging even for young prodigies, like 15-year-old Jordan Kotsopoulos. A provincial player from Ontario, Canada, Jordan is currently being considered for the Canadian National team.
"The pace and technical ability in England at the professional academy level is sharp and faster than North America," said Jordan in an interview after his successful Premiership audition. "I learned a lot and look forward to returning next year at 16 years old to sign and stay there."
Soccer academy serves as gateway for professional soccer
Jordan secured the professional soccer trials after impressing his teachers and trainers at the EduKick soccer boarding school in Bolton, England. He also impressed scouts from Bolton Wanderers FC, Blackburn Rovers FC and Preston North End, earning an invitation to return by both the Blackburn and Preston clubs.
Train-abroad programs, like the camps and schools offered through EduKick, develop players who can live up to the high expectations of Premiership soccer. Aoi Kushige, a 19-year-old female player from Japan, came to EduKick England's soccer academy to pursue her dream of playing professionally. Kushige's six months in England paid off, rewarding her with her first professional soccer contract with the Lady Rovers.
"I am from England and understand how difficult it is for young players to get with Premiership clubs," said Jon Morgan, EduKick Inc.'s general manager. "Aoi paid her dues by participating in a football development program with us. She did well and we are all very proud of her."
Strict standards for England's premiership
According to Joey Bilotta, VP of EduKick Inc., it takes more than soccer skills to get noticed by Premiership teams like the Blackburn Rovers or Bolton Wanderers.
"It's not enough to be very talented and have great potential," said Bilotta. "Young soccer players must also have the right attitude and character to even be considered for professional soccer tryouts with our affiliated teams in Europe."
While there are no guarantees, professional level training in England is a powerful catalyst for motivated, talented young players interested in Premiership careers.
How to score on the international pro soccer scene
When asked to give advice to other young players longing for professional soccer glory, Jordan Kotsopoulos said, "It doesn't matter how good you are. You can always be better, so keep on training."
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