Until this year, Rye had never been represented on the U.S. Soccer Federation’s Under-15 Boys’ National Team.

Until this year, Rye had never been represented on the U.S. Soccer Federation’s Under-15 Boys’ National Team. Last month, James and Will Sands, twin brothers who got their start with Rye Youth Soccer, were named to the team and competed against their counterparts in England.

“To be selected on the national team is a tribute to the dedication of the boys and their family,” said Bill Whiston, longtime coach and former president of Rye Youth Soccer. The Sands brothers’ selection is even more creditable in a selection process that draws the players from all over the country, most playing for teams in the USSF Development Academies, and with some playing abroad, he explained.

James and Will trained throughout their nine-day trip, attended one professional event, and played friendly matches against England at St George’s Park, the National Training Center in Staffordshire. James is a midfielder and Will plays left wing.

The Sands brothers began playing intramural soccer in kindergarten with Rye Youth Soccer and started their competive soccer experience as members of the Rye Rockets.  They both now play with Armonk-based New York Soccer Club, an affiliate of the New York City Football Club, a major league soccer team.