Kyle Davies Skips College...goes straight to the pros...

Soccer America reported earlier this month that California high school student, Kyle Davies, has signed a professional contract with Southampton Football Club of the English League Championship. Davies, 17, of Ballistic United in the SF Bay Area spent time in the Bradenton residency program and was one of my favorites to go to college a year and then sign with MLS. Davies has earned All-American Youth honors in 2005 and became an instant fixture with the US Youth setup. His mother is English and his father Welsh so soccer is in their blood and a work permit is not an issue.

Southampton's youth system is well known for developing solid professionals and with Theo Walcott's move to Arsenal last year they have proven to be a link to the big time. Southampton are currently trying to earn promotion back to the Premier League so we could see another American in the top flight in another year or two.

This is great move for Davies as it will continue his development in a top system. We all know that the US has a long way to go to catch up to the level of coaching in England. While I would have preferred to see the young player give the US system a go, I can appreciate the desire to test skills at the highest level. Having another young prospect in England will only help the American National set up.

Good luck Kyle!