NAIA/NCAA D2 & D3/ Junior College Soccer loaded with pro potential

Heading into the 2010 NAIA Men's Soccer National Championships in Orange Beach, Alabama, it was certain that the teams involved would tackle the tournament using a load of future professional players. One way to prove: the cramped pressbox overlooking the stadium field was filled with over 15 MLS/USL/NASL pro scouts and technical directors.

It is no secret the NAIA has exploded with talent nationwide with both domestic and international players. Many of these players were seen at the national championships, but scores and maybe hundreds of potential all-American or all-conference players will never be seen unless they are given the environment and showcase to exploit their skills in front of the right individuals. The Tourbeau College Soccer Showcase proves to be the answer to the question.

Entering this summer, close to 200 current NAIA and NCAA D-2/D-3 players made up roster spots throughout the USL's Premier Development League (PDL) as a way to promote their skills and continue to market their brand to other top professional organizations in the country and abroad.  This is great proof that the level in the US is growing, and is doing in other areas other than just Academy and NCAA Division 1.

So many connections on all collegiate soccer levels continue to prove the very reason why a showcase like the TCSS is a great option not only for high-level collegiate players, but a "no-brainer" for domestic pro soccer clubs to be in attendance. Here's a few interesting finds:

Futty Danso at Portland Timbers

1. Former Southern Poly Tech (NAIA) standout, Mamadou "Futty" Danso, a current starter for the Portland Timbers. 

2. 6 of the 6 final playoff teams in the USL-PRO have players who have previously played at a college level other than Division 1 level, most of which are starters for each of their clubs.

3. Steven Beattie, NCAA Division 2 All-American, led his Northern Kentucky squad to the D-2 title in 2010. He was chosen by Toronto FC in the MLS Supplemental Draft, among several other players. 

4. A staple forward in the MLS for the Columbus Crew and SJ Earthquakes, Steven Lenhart, played for NAIA-side, Asuza Pacific in college. 

Ellis on signing day at Sporting KC

5. Sporting KC recently signed Junior College All-American, Kevin Ellis (Barton Comm College), to a homegrown player contract. 

6. A D-3 soccer powerhouse, Messiah College, continues to develop players and push its program over the past several decades; inevitably giving key players the opportunity to play the PDL level in PA, with strong connections to the Philadelphia Union. 

7.  Three Californian brothers, the Fenlason's, are doing work in the college soccer world on all levels. Jared and Aaron attend(ed) Biola University (NAIA) where Aaron is a All-American returnee. While the youngest, Jacob, is a freshman on the prestigious, University of Akron's men's squad. He joins Notre Dame College (NAIA Player of the Year) transfer, Luke Holmes, this year in Ohio.

These are just a few of many interesting and revealing facts that will bring realistic dreams and goals to the forefront of potential participants in the Tourbeau College Soccer Showcase. TSG's goal at the showcase is to not only create a professional experience, but also to give YOU the attention deserved to fulfill a life-long dream. 


For more information on the showcase, click here.