Marcos: We have always wanted to be a part of the US Youth Soccer family and we still feel that way. However, it was impossible for us to bring together the differing opinions of 55 USYSA state associations. They all have different rules and regulations and, given the time available, it would be unrealistic of us to gain assurance that we could control the product in every state. We tried our best to get everyone onboard, but every state youth association has its own philosophy.

US Youth Soccer was essentially born to be a recreational organization charged with spreading the gospel of the sport and encouraging kids to play soccer. Its initial charter was not to develop World Cup quality players. However, over the last 15 years, it has been painfully evident that this type of elite player development is necessary.

U.S. Soccer has learned through the years that this process is something that must be done from the ground up, not the top down. It is only in the medium to long-term development of players that the USA will see quality players emerge to lead America to more success at the highest international levels.

Weibe: There is a lot that USL can provide to US Youth Soccer state associations and AYSO at the SYL and other levels within USL. We hope that USYSA and AYSO will partner with the USL family to nurture the game of soccer in the United States. Ultimately, all the members of U.S. Soccer are responsible for the outcome of our senior National Team Programs. I'm sure that US Soccer would like to see our teams win every FIFA event that exist at the youth and senior levels. If there is some way for us to bring the best of our resources together and work on projects together, there will be significant improvement at all levels in the country. I think a start is with the SYL. There is something here that can only get better and better. Our doors are open to any member of U.S. Soccer that has interest and questions about becoming involved in the SYL or USL program.

How is the Super Y-League structured?

Marcos: Other than to play by the Laws of the Game, and to play with other common rules across the board, we want to operate the league free from restrictions on the competition. This includes expanded rosters and no limits on recruiting, where you can get players or when you can look for players. The restrictive rules and regulations that are appropriate for rec-level soccer are detrimental to player development when applied for youth super leagues. This is about week-in, week-out hardcore competition between youth players who aspire to be professional players.

Weibe: Over the course of the SYL's growth the last three years, shifts in the structure were necessary. Although we are now where we feel comfortable, we are prepared for the inevitable changes soccer brings in this country. One of the advantages of the SYL is its flexibility and proficiency in adjustment.