Carr optimistic ahead of U17 World Cup

When the U.S. Under-17 Women’s National Team takes the field on November 14, it marks both the end of a lengthy process and the start of something new.

The U17s kick off the 2018 World Cup against Cameroon (12 p.m., FS2) aiming to survive a tough Group C.

MORE: U.S. Under-17 World Cup roster

Looking to win the first U17 title in program history, head coach Mark Carr is hopeful that a journey that started four years ago will showcase an evolving American player and program.

“It’s the first age group that went deeply through the Training Centers and through our scouting process and I think you’re going to see an improved American youth player,” he told topdrawersoccer.com. “I think in the past it’s always been about athleticism and mentality, and while those are core traits of who we are, you’re going to see creativity, soccer intelligence. I think it’s a new brand of U.S. player.”