W-League to Host National Guard Clinic

The W-League will host a free grassroots soccer clinic in conjunction with the National Guard on Friday, July 25 at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

The event, open to the first 72 boys and girls ages 16-18 who register online, will take place from 1-5 p.m. and focuses on college recruiting, individual technical development and team-based tactical training. The clinic offers players the opportunity to hone their skills in a fun atmosphere with direction from top youth, college and national team coaches.

“With the W-League Championship being held at IMG Academy for the second consecutive season, hosting a National Guard soccer clinic is a great opportunity for the W-League to give back to the local soccer community,” said Amanda Duffy, Senior Director of the W-League. “The clinic will feature top-level coaches who are well known throughout the domestic and international soccer communities, and provide players of all skill levels the opportunity to learn in a fun atmosphere.”

Players may register online for the free National Guard grassroots soccer clinic at http://www.formstack.com/forms/uslsoccer-ngclinic.

Immediately following the clinic the W-League will host its two semifinal matches, with the winners of each match advancing to the 2014 W-League Championship presented by Nike on Sunday at IMG Academy.

United Soccer Leagues and the National Guard have teamed for the second consecutive year to offer a series of free development clinics for youth soccer players throughout the nation. The clinic curriculum focuses on individual foot skills, technical drills, tactical practices, small-sided games and coached scrimmages, all presented in a fun, positive learning environment.

“Players, parents and college coaches who attend a grassroots soccer clinic are excited to learn all the benefits the Guard offers to help their children succeed in life,” said Master Sgt. Shawn Stone, program manager for the National Guard’s soccer program.  “In addition to college tuition assistance for every Guard member, we offer exciting career skills for more than 150 jobs.

“Both coaches and parents get excited to hear there is alternative financial assistance for college available through Guard membership,” Stone said.

The 2014 W-League Championship presented by Nike will feature four conference champions from throughout North America, with the semifinals held Friday, July 25 and the final set for Sunday, July 27 at IMG Academy Stadium. Admission for all 2014 W-League Championship matches is free.

W-LEAGUE: The W-League is the first and longest-standing women’s soccer league in North America. The 2014 W-League campaign features 25 teams in four regional conferences playing 10-12 regular season matches. Featuring current and former international and professional stars, the W-League also provides elite amateurs the opportunity to compete while maintaining their eligibility as college student-athletes.  The league is recognized throughout the world for providing superior competition for female players, while offering affordable family entertainment for fans throughout North America.