MOBILE, Ala. - University of Mobile freshman Stephen Shirley flew out to Ft. Lauderdale, FL, on Jan. 12, to compete for a spot on the U.S. National U-20 Men’s Soccer Team. Also vying for a spot at his position are players from the MLS, including Justin Mapp of the Chicago Fire and Jordan Stone of the Dallas Burn.

“I’m the lone person carrying the flag for the NAIA,” Shirley said.

A 13-day training camp held January 12-24, Shirley will be gunning for a spot on the team that will play in the World Youth Championships that are being held in the United Arab Emirates in March.

Together for the first time since qualifying for a U.S. Soccer record fourth consecutive FIFA World Youth Championship in November, the 21-man roster will play their first three games against MLS Combine Teams and then after an eight-day training camp, will conclude with a game against Mexico’s U-20 Team. Under-20 Men’s National Team head coach Thomas Rongen will use the series of games to make his final decision on the final 18-man roster.

The son of an American oil worker, Shirley was born in Aberdeen, Scotland and had spent time playing for the Scottish U-14 and U-15 teams. In addition, he has apprenticed with the Scottish Premier Celtic and Hybernia clubs. In 2003, Shirley finished with 12 assists, and 2 goals in 21 appearances in helping the Mobile Rams win a national championship.

“I feel fit,” Shirley said, commenting on his chances at making the U.S. roster. “If I have a good camp, I’ll make the team. But I’ll be going up against some very talented guys.”