All levels
Ages 12–18
Club
Quick Answer
Club sport (AAU, ECNL, NLR, MLS Next) is where most US college recruiting happens. National showcase events and verified club rosters drive coach evaluation; high school stats matter less than club performance for most sports.
Governing Bodies
AAUECNLMLS NextUSA Hockey
Key Points
- Showcase events are primary evaluation moments
- Verified roster + position + grad year is non-negotiable
- Club coaches act as references to college coaches
Common Pitfalls
- Pay-to-play burnout
- Picking visibility over development
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