Growth thrives in the right environment, but it’s hard to develop when you’re surrounded by the same ideas, values, and principles. We’ve all heard the saying, you’re the average of the five people closest to you. While there’s truth to this, it’s more a cautionary tale: your closest friends influence your habits, for better or worse. Studies even suggest teams tend to default to the lowest performer, highlighting just how important your surroundings are.
That’s why choosing the right environment—club, team, and coach—matters so much. But “right” isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many players assume joining the “top” club guarantees success. Yet if you’re not getting minutes on the field, you’re missing opportunities to build confidence and develop under game-like conditions. Sometimes, the “right” environment is where you can improve areas of your game that aren’t being addressed elsewhere.
Broadening your environment also means stepping outside your comfort zone. Experiencing different playing styles, skill levels, and personalities forces you to adapt and grow.
"So the eagle lived and died a chicken, for that's what he thought he was."
- Source: Song of the Bird
ODP (Olympic Development Program) used to offer this kind of exposure, letting players compete with and against talent from other clubs, states, and environments. You’d go from being the star on your team to fighting for minutes—learning how others train, take coaching feedback, handle mistakes, and approach the game. While ODP isn’t as prominent today, there are still ways to get outside your bubble.
This exercise in self-awareness is vital, especially for players entering the college recruiting process. Many think they’re D1 material without ever watching a D1 game or competing against D1-level players. Until they experience that level firsthand, it’s hard to know where they truly stand—or what they need to improve to get there.
Choosing the right environment is critical for growth. But it starts with understanding your priorities and what you hope to gain from your youth soccer experience. With self-awareness, courage, and some guidance, you can choose what’s truly right for you—not just the path others say you should follow. That decision can make all the difference in your development and overall experience.
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