As Youth Soccer Month comes to a close, it is important to take note of the U.S. Soccer Player Development Initiatives and the improvements to be made in the youth soccer world.
U.S. Soccer Current Landscape
- The coaching and playing environment needs to be improved for 6-12 year olds
- Too much emphasis placed on the result of the game
- The priority should be to develop skills and abilities
- There is a need to educate and empower parents and coaches
Structural Change
- We can’t keep doing the same thing and expect to get different results
- Long-term development of players is the top priority
- Kids under the age of 12 don’t win World Cups so we should not treat them like adults or professional players
- Players need to be put in the best possible environment to succeed
- There are no shortcuts
- Success requires a long-term approach and commitment
Small-Sided Games Objectives
- Develop improved skills with the ball
- Improve confidence and comfort
- Develop intelligence with and without the ball
- Promote faster decisions and better awareness
- Develop partnerships within the team
- Provide an age appropriate environment
- Standards align with physiological needs of players
- Uniformity across the country and across membership
- Having consistent standards allows U.S. Soccer, and the programs of our members, to provide more meaningful messaging and education for parents, players, coaches and referees
4v4 Player Development Philosophy
- Results and standings should not be recorded
- Travel should be limited as much as possible
- Players should not be participating in events (tournaments, showcases, festivals, etc.)
- Remember that safety and fun are the top priorities so make adjustments as needed to ensure both are being promoted
Full Information on the U.S. Soccer Player Development Initiatives