Currently, overzealous administrators, coaches, and parents find ‘new’ ways to destroy our children’s -childhood.
“Did you have a happy childhood?” Is a false question
As a child, I did not know what happiness was,
and whether I was happy or not.
I was too busy being.” Alistair Reid.
Adults have manipulated the American youth soccer system -so that our children are not given a chance to Just Be! These children, if you are not aware, are being separated into a class system through try-outs. If you are not aware, these children are being told that ‘they are not good enough’ before twelve. If you are not aware, these children have no one who speaks out for them — I thought! Then I received the following…
“I would like to thank you for the opportunity to participate in your FUNdamental SOCCER coaching course. On the drive back home, mile after mile, I felt that your program had significantly impacted me. As I collected my thoughts reflecting on the previous days at your course, I realized your objectives. I was thankful to be involved in those few days, which I considered a growing experience.
First of all, your coaching course exceeded far beyond my expectations. Before the course, I did not have faith in the possibility of soccer permeating American society. However, your professionalism, the program’s accuracy, and, nonetheless, your kind hospitality have made me realize that there is hope. It is now clear that a lot of effort has been directed to develop soccer in America.
Your FUNdamental philosophy is apparent to me: ‘Let’s Learn to Love the Game Altogether.’ As I mentioned to you, your unique approach to the game will be more than helpful in promoting the growth of soccer. Several coaches do not think that the above is true. As probably you are aware, when an individual attempts to break tradition or introduces a novel idea, that person risks the chance of being exposed to criticism, if not ostracism.
To reinforce my last point, I conditioned myself to attend your course with an open mind void of any preconceived notions or prejudices regarding soccer in America. If I did not do so, I might not have gained a more enlightened insight as well as reinforced my prior belief that ‘American soccer is incompetent.” However, this time I observed, took notes, and eagerly learned how to be a better soccer teacher (not a ‘coach’ – although I think it is the same…’)
I opened my eyes to the reality that most people ignore: Children under 12 years of age are abused by the arrogant structure of soccer in this country!” M. Urbani,
Coach Urbani loves my motto, “The Outcome of Our Children is Infinitely More Important Than The Outcome of Any Game They Will Ever Play!”
It is correspondence like this and the support of thousands of Kontributors (You know who you are!) That has kept FUNdamental SOCCER at the forefront of youth soccer development for 40+ years. And for that, I am incredibly THANKFUL!
MAY YOU & YOURS HAVE a HEALTHY…
Your FUNdamental,
Koach Karl (Karl Dewazien)
Emeritus State Director of Coaching for the California Youth Soccer Association (CYSA)
Author of the Internationally Published FUNdamental SOCCER Books Series
Producer of the highly acclaimed ‘9-Step Practice Routine’ DVD.
Reach me at koachkarl@fundamentalsoccer.com