The Player Backpack ($31) is a very simple box bag with straps. It is large enough to hold a ball, boots, shin guards, kit, and water. The box shape makes it easy to stand on the sideline and gives a large opening to pack/remove gear.

This Umbro bag is made of mid-weight nylon with reinforced piping at the seams. The ball fits into a collapsible pocket in the front of the bag. It has a mesh flap to allow the ball to dry and for dirt to fall out. There are also pockets on each side, large enough to hold boots or shin guards. These pockets also have mesh patches to allow for drying.  The top flap opens to a large central cavity that will easily accommodate two uniform strips, socks, fluids, and a CD player or MP3 player. The ball takes up much of this space, so if it is not carried, the central pocket accommodates an additional cubic foot.

Given that the average team bag costs about $50 this backpack seems like a bargain. It isn’t. The materials are on the lighter side and may not hold up as well as heavier weight fabrics (600 denier vs.1000 denier). The straps are very flimsy with very little padding or shape. The strap buckles are also small. This bag would work well for a U10-U12 travel team player or recreation league player, but would not hold up to the abuse of a club team or high school.

For a new team/club, these bags may be included in a package with the uniforms and training suit. Otherwise, I don’t know why a team would buy this bag.