My dd has played u14 DA, U15 ECNL/DA Hybrid and U16 "All In" ECNL 100%. Here's the Facts that I know according to "My Three Friends."
DA Practice Commitment-
For most: come at least to 2 out of the 3 practices if you can. No lights for some clubs which makes it next to impossible to find room to keep the 4 day mandate. Encouraged to hook up with a private trainer and conditioning coach. Play some Futsol. All would be happy if it adds up to at least 4 days a week
For a few: Come when you can. Always one of the top goats for younger age groups have other activities going on. Or live far away and traffic sucks so accommodations can and will be made for top goats like AS.
DA Travel Requirements-All over the country
DA Cost- Free for a few top goats only, pay to play for most
DA Play Time- Depends on the special customized deal each goat gets. This is personal for each goat families needs and wants and desirers.
DA Roster- 18
High School Soccer: 99.5% of DA Players, Hell No!!! For a few special Private School kids, Yes!!!
DA Showcases- Cold
ECNL Practice Requirements- 2 days a week. Don't show up, don't plan on playing this weekend
ECNL Travel Requirements- All over the country
ECNL Cost- $3,000, plus fees and travel
ECNL Play Time- Practice hard and hope you start or come off the bench. All play time based on effort at practice, practice and how you performed the weeks before in the games. Everyone has played and started. Coach says things will get tougher as playoffs start to get close. No guarantee of starting or playing in the game.
ECNL Roster- 18
High School Soccer: Yes, "please don't get hurt" from the coach
ECNL Showcases- Warm. Awesome for girls in 10th grade and above. Especially with the new NCAA girls soccer college rules in place
To sum it all up: To each his own, see you all in the D1 college circuit except for a few goat pros and the true GOATs who are way too good for college. I'm sure by the time my goat get's to the college game the USSF will find away to change the rules and destroy that league too
This is what my experience has been the last two years,
"Not all clubs are built equally." Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!