New league in Columbus starts 2021.
MAINEVILLE, OH (March 10, 2021) – Ohio Soccer Association (OSA) is pleased to announce the launch of the OSA Developmental League Columbus (OSDL Columbus), in partnership with Nike, to begin play in Fall 2021.
The new league will be a program of OSA, operated and administered out of the OSA office, and will be under the direction of OSA’s Technical Staff. In addition, the league will have an integrated Technical Advisory Group composed of area coaches to assist in direction and philosophy.
“When we made the decision to partner with Nike, this was one of the areas that we discussed together; how do we impact the game at the local level?”, said Bill Glaze, OSA Chief Technical Officer. “This pilot program will focus on not only the development of the player, but also how the parent and coach experience can impact that development. The league will be seeking like-minded clubs and teams that share these common values.”
In partnership with Nike, the league will be focused on the total player experience and all aspects of the game that impact player enjoyment, player development and coach mentorship. The league will seek clubs and teams that share that common focus.
Gordon Henderson, OSA Chief Executive Officer, adds “The goal here is to offer an opportunity for teams to be involved in a pilot program guided by OSA, and supported by Nike, that will look to create a playing experience that fosters growth, love of the game, and a common set of values around the player experience. In addition to the educational support that Nike can provide, OSA is very fortunate to have four National License Instructors on staff. The mentorship opportunities to coaches will be significant. If this pilot program is a success, we see this model becoming available for any OSA member league in future years.”
Catering to the requests from area clubs, the league will offer roster flexibility, both year-long and seasonal divisions (fall/spring) for the U8 – U15 age groups, one price point per team, and one all-inclusive registration fee.
“The OSA Nike Developmental League concept is a glowing example of the limitless promise and potential of OSA. With Nike working together with OSA to help motivated, progressive clubs improve their environment, every player and coach benefits”, said Dr. Tom Turner, OSA Director of Member Development.
All OSA leagues in the Columbus area will continue to operate as they have in the past, offering a valued playing environment for the local player.
Stay tuned in the coming weeks for registration dates and additional details.
