Opening up last weekend at 157 First Street, was , catering to fans & players in Northern New Jersey. I had a chance to stop by and speak to the owners, who told me that they will be the place to shop for everything soccer. Premier Soccer Shop. They have videos/DVDs, soccer balls, turf shoes, bags, referee equipment, shorts, t-shirts, shinguards, outerwear, socks and any other accessories you may need. Featuring such brands as Adidas, Nike, Puma, Diadora, Lotto, Sells, Sondico, Umbro, and more. Premier Soccer Shop have team jerseys from the American to European leagues. Are you jonesing for that new Barcelona Thierry Henry jersey? Sorry Arsenal fans!

When I spoke to the owners, asking why open a soccer shop - it was simple really. While in college, studying for an MBA, they felt the demand was strong in our area for such a store. The owners played in the Hoboken Adult Soccer Leage, which has 800 people alone, and doesn't include all the various schools, NJ leagues and enthusiasts who love soccer - and concluded that Hoboken was ready for such a store. They pointed out how far someone from our area had to travel to find a good soccer store.

Where else would you build but next to the best soccer bar in Hoboken - Mulligan's, which has plenty of fans watching various American and International Soccer. The owners of Premier Soccer Shop are partnered with the New York Red Bulls, and plan on having player appearances and cross promotions in the coming months.

The store is very large, bright and has a beautiful plasma TV showing GoalTV all the time. When I walked in I was greeted by employees wearing soccer jerseys, and asked a few questions, to which they were very helpful and interested in answering. I have to say that one of the grestest strengths of the success of any business are the owners AND the employees, and Premier Soccer Shop certainly will make you feel welcome no matter what skill or knowledge level you may have.

They have also partnered with Sound Soccer Academy, which develops soccer players of all skill levels, from recreational/intermural to ODP, College and perhaps even the future professional. The owners stressed that they really want to develop and encourage the love of the sport and hope that their store will become the one stop shop for everything soccer related. They can discuss team & league packages, and you can also inquire about how Premier Soccer Shop can be your club's official sponsor. They are always open for suggestions and comments, and can be contacted at info@premsoccershop.com.

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