TAMPA, Fla. - Throughout the world, clubs set up youth systems to develop talent that they hope can one day bolster the first team. The philosophy is no different on Long Island.

The Rough Riders of the PDL made a trip to the PDL Championships this year and their team was made up of a core of players who came up through their youth system. This success started with the Rough Riders’ youth teams, four of which qualified for the Super Y-League North American Finals this year.

The first priority of the Rough Riders is player development. It doesn’t hurt that their youth, PDL and W-League teams win a lot of matches too, but the focus primarily on fostering talent.

“We are a proud franchise with a history of winning,” Rough Riders Vice President Flavio Ferri said. “However, we believe that player development is the priority at the younger ages. We feel that if players are developed properly the results will show in the long term. We have seen this with our PDL team this year. Nearly 50 percent of the players on our PDL team this year previously played for the Rough Riders in the SYL.”

Long Island’s focus on player development has translated into success on the USL scene. In addition to their great PDL and W-League franchises, every year the Rough Riders send a crop of teams to the Super Y-League North American Finals. This year their U12 boys, U13 boys, U12 girls and undefeated U16 girls will make the trip to Tampa, Florida.

The Long Island teams will be able to test their mettle against North America’s best in December when the Super Y-League North American Finals kick off. While each of teams will be aiming to snag some silverware at the event, the players will look to continue to improve their game.

“The SYL Finals offers players an opportunity to complete with some of the best players from around the country,” Ferri said. “Very few events are able to provide this. In addition, it a great setting for college coaches to observe players in a competitive environment. It also provides players the opportunity to play for a National Championship, which is something every competitive player dreams about.”

Story Courtesy of: United Soccer Leagues