In 2015, Seattle Sounders FC began investing heavily in player development, with the hope being that the club could consistently churn out hyper-talented prospects capable of contributing significant minutes to the First Team in MLS.
There are several ways to evaluate the success of financial outlays on youth development. One of the key initial indicators, players receiving a significant number of U.S. youth national team call-ups, clearly demonstrates substantial early returns on the club’s investment.
“There are a few barometers on how you measure success,” said Sounders FC Director of Player Development and Academy Director Marc Nicholls.