The "Protect College Sports Act of 2026" is a bipartisan bill currently in the Senate.  I plan to forward this petition to Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) to make them aware of this issue with the goal it will be included in their bill. 

As a passionate advocate for young American soccer players, I have witnessed firsthand how aspiring US athletes often face an uphill struggle to secure spots on NCAA college soccer teams.  This is not limited to Soccer.  Sports such as Hockey and many Olympic sports have the same problem. This is not about talent or competition; some of these positions are taken by athletes 4+ years older than our entering freshmen, often with pro or semi-pro experience in other countries.  Meanwhile, our hardworking athletes dedicate their lives to honing their skills, dreaming of representing their college on the field. Unfortunately, their opportunities are increasingly limited by the influx of foreign players occupying roster spots. It's time we address this issue and create a fair playing field for local talent.

The current landscape of NCAA college soccer teams is such that a significant number of spots are filled by foreign players. According to recent statistics, over 20% of NCAA soccer athletes come from outside the United States.  

In NCAA Division I men's soccer, about 30-40% of players are international, with some teams featuring as high as 73% of starters being international players.

While international diversity enriches the college experience, it should not come at the expense of American players who deserve the chance to develop their skills and represent their nation in collegiate competitions.

By limiting the number of foreign players on NCAA soccer rosters, we can ensure that more talented American athletes have the chance to pursue their dreams. This is not about exclusion but about fostering homegrown talent and empowering our youth to shine on a national stage.

I propose that the NCAA institutes a cap on foreign players, allowing each team to have no more than 3 to 5 international players. This policy would maintain the diversity that enriches the sport while ensuring fair opportunities for American players.

Additionally, we can introduce scholarships specifically targeted towards American players to further encourage local participation. This would not only strengthen our domestic soccer ecosystem but also sustain the growth and competitiveness of the sport nationally.

Let us come together to support a fair and balanced system where American soccer talent has a chance to flourish. Protect the dreams of young athletes across the country by signing this petition to limit the number of foreign players on NCAA college soccer teams.