AboutStuart Young Expertise I can answer questions to do with all aspects of English football, Spanish football and International football. My strongest area in football is current news. I also have a great knowledge of tactics and strategies.
Experience I have played football from a very early age. School teams, youth club level progressing to semi-professional level and playing at county level.
Question hello i live in the united states, southern new jersey. i have always longed to play soccer but my dad kept pushing me into other sports. this year i will be a 17 year old senior in high school and i finally have my opportunity to play for my school. i have a burning desire to become very good and try to become a professional soccer player. i have played when i was ages 7-10 and was very good. when i practice with the team they tell me i am pretty good with alot of natural ability. do you think it is too late for me to began my training to become a professional soccer player?
Answer Hi Rocky,
Thanks for the question.
You seem to have a lot of passion for soccer and that is a very good start to becoming a very good player.
17-years-old is still young when you think about when players turn pro. On average just over half of pro-players do not make their professional debut until they are 21. So you have 4 years to get to that stage if you are serious about making it.
Dedication is the key to making it Rocky. The more time and effort you put into the game the more you will get out of it.
I have never seen you play so I can't make the judgement whether you're good enough or not to make it, but your school soccer coach can make that decision or a club coach.
My suggestion to you now is to work hard off the pitch - you're at an age now where your body should be fully developed. Increase your strength and power. You MUST be quick on the pitch if you want to make it at a high level.
Join a club outside of school. I've just checked a list of senior and U18 clubs in New Jersey. It seems there is lots of choice. I suggest not aiming too high to start off and try to adapt your game for a season whilst you begin to get comfortable with your game.
I hope this has helped you Rocky. It would be cool to let me know how you get on. You could always email me if you need anything else answered.
