OF course not too long ago this was no issue at all. There was no pro league in the U.S. and the handful of players who did play professionally, usually in lower divisions overseas, went after college, with no thought of it before.

Now people are more aware of the international norm, and inroads have been made to showing European teams that American players can be a great asset.

But it's a big decision. What are some of the factors that players and families go through in making up their minds?

I think one factor has got to be, "What if it doesn't pan out as planned, then what?" Soccer is perhaps the only major sport left where playing in college is not required and post college is often viewed as "too late" by European standards. And skipping that college education, at least for many U.S. families is a big taboo should soccer or sports not work out.

Bottom Line: Education is important! Education is something you will have with you your whole life.

BUT...The realty of elite players pursuing a soccer career in the US and in Europe has become a reality. Europeans are welcoming Americans with open arms. Choosing to pursue a career at 18 is what needs to happen to America's top talents in order to see our nation as a whole continue to make strides in International Competition. The other aspect people often forget is that Europeans also have Universities. Online education is also possible. The soccer model throughout the world is that a player who turns 18 years old becomes a professional, not at the age of 22.

Agreed...however, as in the last post, paying professional soccer at a younger age, especially in Europe is the only way to go. Aside from the MLS, other pro leagues are looking to sign players that are younger, players they can mold and shape into superstars. Case in point - three of the top players in the world right now - Ronaldo, Rooney, and Tevez - are all sub 24 years old and have been playing in in the top tiers of professional soccer their whole lives. Same goes for women - all our women play college soccer, while more and more women internationally are playing professionally - hence our fall from dominance in women's international soccer.

Education is very important also. Doesn't one sacrifice their education if they turn pro too early? I am aware that there are universities in Europe and other countries where professional youth academies exist, but what if a professional career doesn't pan out? Are there programs that provide the tools and opportunities for such an experience - education and a chance to play professionally?

I think that playing professionally is a once in a lifetime opportunity. If you get the chance, you should take it. College and higher levels of learning are always available to those who wish to pursue them, and i see no problem with continuing ones education after their playing career is over. With the money they make playing, they could also pay for their college expenses.