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The opportunity for soccer players to compete in a semi-professional league under FIFA regulations is more than just an off-season option, it’s a game-changer for both player development and coaching growth. Here’s why merging with Thurston County FC for the UPSL Spring Season is a strategic move that benefits everyone involved:

Elite-Level Competition & Player Development

• Train & Play at a Higher Standard: The UPSL provides a professional, structured environment where players sharpen their skills against top-tier competition. This prepares them for military tournaments, professional trials, or even future coaching roles.
• Stay in Peak Condition: Military athletes know that consistent training equals top performance. The off-season is not a time to sit back, it’s a chance to stay match-fit, develop tactical awareness, and maintain sharpness for future competitions.
• Exposure to Different Playing Styles: Competing in a diverse league forces adaptability, a critical skill in soccer. Players will learn new formations, strategies, and team dynamics, making them more versatile on the field.

Coaching Development & Leadership Growth

• Enhanced Tactical Knowledge: Coaching in a UPSL team allows JBLM staff to refine their game strategies, analyze new opponents, and develop players at a semi-pro level, all of which strengthen their leadership skills within the sports community.
• Broaden Your Coaching Network: Working with experienced UPSL coaches offers an exchange of ideas, best practices, and career-building connections that can be leveraged for future opportunities in military and civilian coaching roles.

Visibility, Networking & Career Advancement

• Professional Exposure for Players: The UPSL is a recognized semi-pro league, meaning scouts, recruiters, and even professional clubs keep an eye on standout talent. This is a direct path to higher-level opportunities that players wouldn’t get in strictly military OR other local competitions.
• A Gateway to Pro & Overseas Opportunities: Many players have used semi-pro leagues as a steppingstone to professional contracts. Military or local athletes who dream of going further in soccer need this platform to showcase their skills.
• Stronger Military-Civilian Soccer Partnerships: A collaboration between Local coaches and Thurston County FC fosters military or local - community engagement, opening doors for sponsorships, funding, and future partnerships for both sports programs.

Strategic & Logistical Benefits

• Minimal Disruption, Maximum Gain: The UPSL season fits within JBLM’s or most local or colleges and high school team off-season, making it a seamless way to maintain peak form without interfering with military or other team obligations.
• Shared Costs & Resources: Thurston County FC can pool training facilities, coaching expertise. Expenses for JBLM, or local teams; there are none, reducing the financial burden while maximizing efficiency.
• More Competitive, Less Casual: Many leagues are recreational, but the UPSL offers structured, high-intensity competition under FIFA regulations, a true test of skill and endurance for serious players.

The Bottom Line: Seize the Opportunity

The chance to play in a FIFA-recognized semi-pro league doesn’t come often. This is a unique opportunity for JBLM, College, High School or other local players to elevate their game, gain exposure, and stay match ready.

If JBLM, local clubs, college or high school soccer players are serious about competing at the highest level possible, joining the UPSL for the spring or fall season isn’t just beneficial, it’s necessary.

Would the coaching staff be open to a trial partnership, such as joint training sessions & scrimmages, to see the benefits firsthand? Let’s make it happen.

For more information please contact our DOC at 360.790.2767  or via email at: Thurstoncountysocceracademy@gmail.com