Kevin Jameson Braintree, Mass. Are there any plans in the works for the MLS teams to start their own youth programs? Ultimately, I feel that this is the long-term answer to developing
players. What do you think?
Ridge Mahoney: Kevin, it's the best way to develop players, but until more MLS teams can generate significant revenues, or unless some big sponsor comes in to
underwrite such a program, the league have to rely on the current system. (Project-40, which is a combination U.S. Soccer Federation-MLS program that so far has signed 36 young players over 3 1/2
years. They are placed with MLS clubs and also see A-League time on the Pro-40 Select team.) One idea I like is for MLS rosters to be expanded to 25 players, with the additional five slots designed
for young players (under 21 or something similar). They would receive full-time professional coaching and training, but the catch would be how they would play in enough games.
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