The Long Island Junior Soccer League (LIJSL), which oversees organized youth soccer for over 70,000 children in Long Island's 101 community-based clubs, will host its annual soccer convention March 7 through March 9 at the Huntington Hilton in Melville. This free weekend-long event, sponsored by adidas and Eurosport, is open to all LIJSL families and the general public March 8 to March 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Coaches, parents and players are encouraged to visit the exhibition hall that will be filled with a variety of vendors offering the latest information and products. The weekend will be highlighted by free seminars and workshops covering various topics including a college forum and info-session for all student athletes and their parents who want to know more about playing sports in college.

The LIJSL college forum and info-sessions will cover various topics such as: how to find the right school, improving SAT scores, what coaches are looking for in players, what is expected of a college athlete and what it is like to play on a college team. The seminar will also answer many questions about financial aid packages, LIJSL scholarships and admissions. Lectures will be given by college coaches, professors, college players and soccer experts including Werner Roth, former captain of the Cosmos and "movie star" of the soccer film Victory. Students and parents will also have the opportunity to ask questions about college level sports and academics. Coaches are encouraged to attend and learn what they can do to assist their players with college admissions. This forum will separately be held in Spanish.

"The LIJSL is thrilled we can continue to bring one of the country's largest conventions dedicated to youth soccer to the Long Island soccer community for free, thanks to the support of adidas and Eurosport," said LIJSL President Addie Mattei-Iaia. "For 26 years now, we are able to provide an event for the entire family that is not only enjoyable, but educational. The LIJSL convention is a great opportunity to meet and network with coaches, parents and other soccer fans, where individuals can learn how to get involved and see what's new in the world of soccer."

The celebration will begin on Friday night with the Annual LIJSL Volunteers Awards Dinner, where select individuals will be recognized for their dedication to youth soccer on Long Island. The league will also induct several members into their prestigious Hall of Fame and name "Coaches of the Year" as nominated by their players.

Workshops and seminars will take place all day Saturday and Sunday: the LIJSL College Q & A will take place on Sunday March 9 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Wildwood Room at the Huntington Hilton and the College forum will be held on Sunday from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Savoy room.

For more details and a complete schedule of all convention events visit www.LIJsoccer.com or call the league office at 756-9696. For specific questions regarding the college forums you may also email Bill Roller, LIJSL Chairman of the College Bound Player program at Wtroller@msn.com.