07/27/2016
Topic of the Day: Young players that want to chase a winning team.
Young players ages 13 and under… This is the time where it’s very crucial for players to continue to develop individual soccer skills. Because these young players still have flexibility and bad habits that can be broken and adjust if need be. I understand the need and want to be a part of winning team. However, that may not be necessarily be a good fit for your child. I have never been one to follow a winning team, even if they wanted my child to play for them. I always say. Go where you know you will be challenged, if it works out, it’s a bonus. If not, work harder. I want every young player to gain as much individual skills as possible so that their interaction with the ball is natural to them. Everything should be natural, their instincts, touches on and off the ball… I always tell my players… Be unique. Be individual.
Everyone can trap and pass. But that’s not going to make you stand out of a crowd at a showcase, etc. As these players get older and compete for a particular position, the reality is going to set in real quick as to why the coach is not selecting the player when he/she has the best first touch on the ball or can trap perfectly each and every time. It’s that one or two percent that coaches are looking for. Now, my perspective is just that… My opinion and every coach is different based on their experiences, likes and dislikes. But I am a technical player and I expect each of my player(s) to be technical. They must have three foot skill/moves that will help them get out of any danger scenarios in the game.
Don’t sacrifice for a winning team if their playing style and tactics doesn’t align with your wants and needs. Assess your individual needs. And ask yourself how you’re going to reach those goals, should you want to pursue soccer.
Please let me know what your thoughts are on this. I'd like to hear from you.
