PERSPECTIVE CHECK (Part 2) Solutions
We established in Perspective Check (Part 1) that the very nature of our soccer culture produces more losers than winners. Let’s reverse this trend by understanding… There are two ways we eliminate youth soccer players. The first is cutting players. Cutting includes either cutting the player from the sport totally or cutting the player from […]
PERSPECTIVE CHECK (Part 1)
Are we creating a nation of kids who can win but cannot play the game? Let’s take a look… Here we go again. As soccer coaches and educators, it seems that we must teach each new generation of youth coaches about the overemphasis on winning in this country. One need not look further than […]
The Game Is the Greatest Revealer
The phrase “the game is the greatest teacher” holds many truths. It has been a common refrain of many coaching schools over the past decade. Still, it can also create a false impression that kids always learn best by playing “the game.” If we acknowledge that the game itself is the most complex environment to […]
Start With the End in Mind
Any instructional program for a youth soccer player must meet the athlete’s needs in two FUNdamental respects: 1. The player must have the opportunity to learn The Game in a manner that enables continued enjoyment of soccer for as long as they wish to play. This includes: Developing a solid foundation in the game’s skills, […]
For Coaches to Consider
Here are some thoughts you should consider as you plan a training session: Make a plan and write it down. Carry it on the field with you and use it as a guide. Do not “Wing It”! Instead of running to promote fitness, use small-sided games. You will increase fitness, technique and tactics with SSG!!! […]
ARE Soccer ‘SYSTEMS of PLAY’ OUTDATED?
Before the pandemic, many soccer coaches were convinced that a specific ‘System of Play’ was the secret recipe that would guarantee victory and success. Are you still one of them? If you are a ‘Systems-Supporter,’ then you may want to heed the advice of some very successful coaches who believe that soccer cannot be evaluated […]
Coaching from Strength
I just finished the summer “College ID Camps” circuit. I saw hundreds of players who want to play in college and talked to scores of coaches. One topic repeatedly came up with the college coaches…the lack of intensity of the players. When the players were tired they stopped running; when it was hot they stopped […]
The Motivation Enigma
At one time or another every coach has faced the Motivation Enigma!! Why do these kids play? What makes them tick? How can I get them to play at a higher level? Why don’t they want to get better? Why can’t we be consistent? These questions and more are asked on soccer fields across America […]
Intensity
I just finished the summer “College ID Camps” circuit. I saw hundreds of players who want to play in college and talked to scores of coaches. One topic repeatedly came up with the college coaches…the lack of intensity of the players. When the players were tired they stopped running; when it was hot they stopped […]
