NO NEED TO BE AFRAID!

The following email exchange began after James Dobbin, Co-founder at Clevernation, read my article ‘What Are We Afraid Of?’

Koach Karl,

Do you think change is a mix of extra effort in something that they don’t know what the result would be and the worry that parents will confront if the results aren’t fast enough on a new ideology that they don’t understand? After reading your article, ‘What Are We Afraid Of?’  I’ll be trying this in my training sessions.

James Dobbin

Dear James,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful response to the article!

You’ve hit the nail on the head—change often requires a leap of faith and extra effort, especially when venturing into new territory with uncertain results. However, I’m confident that the potential benefits of this approach are well worth the exploration.

It’s understandable to have concerns about how your players might react initially, but their response will reflect the excitement and enthusiasm you bring to this new approach. 😉

When it comes to parental concerns, without a background or knowledge of the 4-goal game, parents’ emotional involvement will be greatly reduced, allowing you, as their coach, to focus on coaching. Something for you to think about, eh? 🤔

I’m thrilled to hear that you’ll be trying the 4-goal game in your training sessions! Your feedback, observations, and insights are invaluable and will help me continue to refine and promote this approach. I look forward to hearing about your experiences with it.

Thanks again for your openness to trying something new. I’m eagerly anticipating hearing about your experiences with the 4-goal game and can’t wait to hear how it goes!

Your FUNdamental, Koach Karl

James Dobbin:

You’re on. I’ll keep in touch!

Dear James,

Before you begin your 1st training session, here are suggestions to boost enthusiasm and improve learning for everyone involved:

1^st, Become Familiar with the FUNdamental Practice:

2^nd Use 4-Goal Format:

• Play: Small-Sided Games (1v1, 2v2, 3v3) using four goals/targets.
• Tournament Style: Play simultaneous small-sided games in a tournament format, with each team playing against all others.
• A Scorekeeper at each game to track scores and scorers.
• Parent Scorekeepers: Involve parents (especially those skeptical of the approach) as scorekeepers. Give points/goals to the best after-goal celebration.
• Themed Rules: Introduce themed rules like “Goals must be scored with the left foot,” “No consecutive goals by the same player,” “Five passes before shooting,” or any creative rules to improve individual technique or group/team tactics.

3^rd, After the Small-Sided Tourney, SCRIMMAGE:

• Apply the same ideas/rules mentioned! 

4^th. End Practice:

• Announce the results of the tournament -Gold -Silver -Bronze.
• Congratulate the ‘scrimmage’ winners.
• Recognize the top celebrator and golden-boat player.
• Clean up the facility as a team!

Feel free to contact me with questions and I am looking forward to this FUNtastic journey with you!

Your FUNdamental, Koach Karl

• Change Requires Effort: Embracing new methods involves extra effort and a leap of faith, especially with uncertain results.
• Parental Concerns: Addressing parental concerns is crucial. Involving parents and demonstrating the benefits can mitigate their worries.
• The 4-Goal Game: This innovative approach will enhance player engagement, creativity, and overall enjoyment of the game.
• Practical Implementation: Clear guidelines and practical tips can help coaches successfully implement this new method.

I encourage you to join the conversation and share your thoughts. Have you tried the 4-Goal Game or other innovative approaches? What challenges and successes have you encountered?

Together, we can create a fun and enriching environment for our young players and keep them playing beyond their teen years. Let’s learn from each other and make a positive impact on the game we all love. Please contact me at koachkarl@fundamentalsoccer.com

The children and I “Thank You” for your support and involvement!