NEXT GEN USA 04’s win their bracket to advance
Palamos, Spain
Next Gen USA 04’s Select Squad entered the MIC CUP knowing they had a talented group of young players. The question was how would they match up with the best professional youth academies in the world. Today, that question is partially answered. Not only did the Americans survive the opening round of bracket play, they won their bracket and advance as the #1 seed in their round 2 bracket. Currently, they have compiled an impressive 2-0-1 record entering today’s match. While the results of the tournament are important to the group, Next Gen USA was created to be a platform to improve the quality of play in American youth soccer. Additionally, through their Character of Champions program, they are not only developing quality players on the field, they are molding these young players to be positive, productive students and members of the community. The philosophy is that building successful players off the field equates to successful players on the field. The players are challenged to be the very best they can be in every facet of their life.
When asked about their participation in the MIC CUP 16 here in Spain, Tony Williams, Next Gen USA Director of Youth Development commented ” This is a great development opportunity for our boys to match their ability and professionalism against top international academies.” Goran Vasic, former International professional player and current Next Gen USA coach also added “What a great experience to take away all that they have learned from this tournament. To be able to see and experience the professional lifestyle as a top level youth player and to compete against the best teams in the world is a lifetime achievement for these kids.” The Americans take the field again in Palamos, Spain at 12:00.
