Jordan Rideout trains with Southampton

Like father, like son. Paul Rideout, the former Southampton starter, returned to the Staplewood Training Ground this past week with his family, more than 20 years after playing there professionally. The reason? His son, Jordan Rideout, a current Sporting Kansas City U18 Junior, was training with the Southampton Academy squad for three days.

It was quite the opportunity for the younger Rideout, while also getting feedback from the coaches after his time on the pitch. Jordan noted, "It went well, it's a lot faster and a very different style of play over there, so that was fun to participate in. I also got a chance to watch the first team train which was a good experience."

In addition to his Southampton trip, Jordan also trained with the SKC reserves over the weekend. He went on, "It's always good to play in an environment with faster and more skilled players. It makes me pick up my game."

The U18s will play in a few friendlies this weekend in Ohio against other MLS Academy sides. Rideout is looking forward to the matches, but also to the spring campaign of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy League which starts in a couple of weeks.

He has a positive outlook toward the season, "We lost a couple of players, but some also moved in from the younger squad. I think we're stronger and bigger than we have been and now we're starting to gel and are hoping to make it into the playoffs."

Stay tuned for a preview of the U-17 SUM Cup later this week.