ECNL Florida National Event kicks off with all games being live streamed

New year, new goals, new resolutions, new competition.

The calendar has flipped to 2021 and across the ECNL teams are itching to get back on the field. Lucky for them, the ECNL Florida National Event kicks off Friday, ushering the league back into action for the second half of the season.

For some teams, ECNL Florida means continuing to pursue goals set out at the beginning of the year and chasing down a playoff spot in the path to a championship. For others, it’s the start of a season they’ll never forget.

More than 130 teams will be in central Florida to play in the event at the U-16, U-17 and U-18/19 age groups this weekend. With the support of Orlando North, Seminole County and Orlando Youth Soccer, the three-day competition will feature more than 200 contests across all age groups with teams spanning five different conferences. The full team list can be viewed here.

ECNL National events give teams the opportunities to face opponents outside their conferences, and provide a great measuring stick of national competition ahead of the post-season playoffs.  For two teams specifically, this weekend will truly be an important test.

In the U-16 age group, 10-0-1 GSA will face two unbeaten teams in SLSG – Navy (6-0-1) and Richmond United (7-0-0), while also facing off against Tennessee Soccer Club, giving the club three very tough matches in three days. Similarly in the U-17 division, Solar SC (12-0-1) will battle Concorde Fire Platinum (12-0-0), SLSG – Navy (6-0-2), and FC Stars Blue, who will be playing their first games of the season.  Results and performances in these games will be telling as players consider postseason possibilities.

With an event of this magnitude, plenty of eyes will be watching these games. Every game will be live-streamed for fans to watch at home, along with more than 600 college coaches and scouts from Division I, Division II, Division III and NAIA schools. All games can be viewed here.

On and off the field, the ECNL has taken measures to make sure everyone is safe while enjoying the game. Masks are recommended at all times off the field, all participants must do daily temperature checks, and clear reporting protocols and processes have been communicated across all teams. Hand sanitizing stations are located throughout both complexes, and local social distancing guidelines will be reinforced. For more information on ECNL Florida’s COVID protocols, click here.

The fog is lifting and the sun rising on what is going to be a gorgeous day for the beautiful game. ☀️?⚽️

Players are primed and ready to do battle. Day 1 of #ECNLFL is here. pic.twitter.com/ZWFcjByUYE

— ECNL Girls (@theECNL) January 8, 2021