Sounders FC Academy teams eye Winter Showcase as crucial litmus test

Both the U-16 and U-18 Sounders FC Academy teams will look to translate their impressive league form into strong showings at the annual USSDA Winter Showcase on Dec.

After a full preseason and three months of league play, both teams have had ample time to train and progress through the curriculum.

Since the U-18’s will play three vastly different teams over the span of four days, it is incredibly difficult to prepare for each opponent.

While Seattle FC’s Academy does not have a lot of experience playing against the clubs they will face at the showcase, they have enjoyed success against clubs who employ a similar strategy centered on physicality.

For example, the older Academy teams’ matches against San Jose in league play served as good preparation for the USSDA sides in Florida.

For both the U-16 and U-18 Sounders Academy teams, the tournament in Florida is about maintaining momentum.