The coronavirus pandemic has put high school and college soccer into a state of uncertainty, so the Ocean City Nor'easters are offering players an opportunity to keep their skills sharp during this unprecedented time.

The Nor'easters are extending their Under-20 and Under-23 team seasons to give players a chance to experience high-level training and competitive games.

Two-hour training sessions will take place in Ocean City, N.J. on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning Aug. 11 and running through Sept. 3. In addition, a minimum of three competitive games will be scheduled. So far, the Nor'easters have already participated in games with Reading United, A.C. Shore, and the South Jersey Elite Barons.

The existing teams are open to new players who are entering their junior and senior high school years and college-aged players.

All necessary COVID-19-related safety precautions will be strictly enforced to make this experience as safe as possible for the players and coaches who will be taking part. In order to achieve this goal, no fans will be allowed to attend the games. 

"Despite these unprecedented circumstances, the players have really enjoyed our Under-20 / Under-23 program this summer," said Nor'easters general manager Giancarlo Granese Jr. "We've had to adjust and follow all the COVID-19 return to play protocols and the coaches and players have really embraced it. Therefore, with all the uncertainty with soccer at the high school and college level, we thought we should continue the program for another month. 

The cost to participate is $240.00. Any interested players should email coaching@oceancityfc.com for details.

Depending on the demand and popularity of the program, there is a possibility of expanding the program further into the fall.