To Players Who Participated in ODP Try-Outs,
The quality of play and enthusiasm of the players was unmatched this year, as over 1,400 players participated in try-outs. Your patience and your parent’s cooperation in dealing with weather and changes to the schedule were greatly appreciated.
The players who made the ODP teams have been recognized as being the elite players in their age group among the thousands of players who play soccer in Eastern Pennsylvania. Your success is quite an achievement. Our goal is to provide top level training and competition to all the players and to assist each of you in reaching the next level. Only through hard work and commitment can you expect to achieve that goal.
I continually struggle with addressing players who did not make ODP. For many of you this may be the first time you did not make a team. We as coaches sometimes overlook a player’s ability in the try-out process and that player comes back the following year as a regional player. Don’t be discouraged but understand all of us will be faced with other selection processes throughout our lives, whether it is in sports, the arts, AP classes, college and even future employment. No one is guaranteed they will not fail in an endeavor. In all honesty, the secret to future success may be failing at something you really want. If you are willing to persevere and overcome what may be perceived as shortcomings by others, you will achieve success. Maintaining optimism, when others around you look to find blame in the methods of selection or provide excuses to you, should be your goal throughout life.
Soccer probably plays a huge role in your life at this time and in many instances your parents as well; but it is still only a game and eventually will be a small part of your development as an adult. Ultimately you will not be judged by your soccer playing ability but the effort you put forth in contributing to your family, providing happiness to others and displaying perseverance in all aspects of your life.
Don’t allow not being selected to get you down. Embark on an effort to become stronger and better at soccer if that is what you really want or look for other areas to achieve success. In each of us is a hero who only needs a positive outlook and perseverance to come out and be recognized.
Click here see the list of teams.
Mike Barr
Director of Coaching