NORCO, California - There is a certain aura that defines a youth soccer showcase. It’s that freshly cut grass that stains the cleats. It’s the crowd surrounding the merchandise tent. It’s the buzz that passes through a venue when an important goal is scored. The low levels of chatter falling wayside to the enveloping yelps of joy.
It’s a trademark of every major event. The teams can change, the venue can change, everything can change, but the feeling of being at a major event is always the same.
MLS Next Fest has captured that in the second season for the league, but first with an event of this scale. Saturday’s action featured plenty of goals, noteworthy plays, and exciting moments. It also featured that this league is growing, but the leadership handled this challenge with aplomb.
TopDrawerSoccer highlights the individual standouts from the games we saw on Saturday below.
