Relatively speaking, the Boys Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) is still in its infancy. In just its second year of existence, varying opinions surface on its overall quality, platform and impact on the youth soccer scene.
Nonetheless, solid players call the Boys ECNL home, even if it hasn't yet equalled the stature of its girls' counterpart. Players move onto the collegiate ranks with regularity and recruiting interest is strong at national events.
To preview what's in store, New England Soccer Journal presents its top players to watch for at the four clubs in the region this spring. League games don't resume until mid March, so it's largely been a routine of practice and scrimmages since the national event in Sanford, Fla., was held Dec. 29-31.
Without further ado, here's our preview of FC Stars, Boston Bolts, FSA FC and Connecticut FC.