In watching youth soccer at all levels, in many cases, the desire to win preceeds everything else. Unfortunately, we (parents & coaches) do the players a dis-service and emphasize the result of a competition rather than the opportunity to learn. We think that "because we win, we're better." Sometimes the players earn the result, but many times, we rob the kids of the learning experience just for the thrill of victory.
I thought this quote was fitting.
''The emphasis on winning is a detriment to young players because it prevents us from developing technically proficient players. And we're not giving them the ability to make decisions. You can't find a youth soccer game where the coaches aren't screaming the whole time, telling kids what they should do and how they should do it.''
-- U.S. U-17 national team coach John Hackworth.
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It has been particularly challenging to create a true game setting during a practice session. Admittedly, I am far from quiet on the sidelines, yet game day offers a unique opportunity to highlight valuable skills in real time. Many parents have expressed support and appreciation for the words of encouragement and instruction. Is there a good method of utilizing 2v2 or 3v3 formats during practice that provide a great educational opportunity, without hindering the flow of the session?
ReplyDeleteThanks very much!
Donald,
ReplyDeleteBefore I comment on game-like training situations, please make a majority of your training sessions for 7 & 8 yr olds technique based. We, as coaches, are so anxious to rush children into the adult version of 11v11 without preparing young players with the technique to thrive at the higher levels. Technical proficiency is paramount at the youngest ages when the "learning door" is wide open. But we can discuss those ideas in another blog.
As for training games, start off in 1v1 situations where the players can develop the courage to take players on. Encourage them to dribble, fake and try to score clever goals. (On another note, incorporate various tag and get away games in warmups).
You can progress into 2v2 games where teamwork and problem solving become the added dimension. Attacking players need to now determine "Do I pass or do I dribble?" The 2nd player needs to question whether to move in front of or behind the ball.
The games can then progress to 3v3 where the concept of team shape gets introduced. This is where both verbal and non-verbal communication become so very important.
Let the game be the teacher! Let the players begin to problem solve without too much commentary from the coach. You will be amazed what they sort out on their own. Question why they made certain decisions in an effort to further the education process. Encourage players to ask questions. Listen to what they have to say.....they will probably have some good ideas.
Good luck.
How much direction during a game is appropriate, especially for the U8s? I try to stick to just instructing them to spread out and making sure the defender is up and involved in the play. It doesn't stifle them, but I also want to make sure they are learning what they need to.
ReplyDeleteLamps,
ReplyDeleteI agree. There doesn't need to be much commentary/direction from the coach during a U8 game. As stated, let the game be the teacher (see Silent Saturday)and allow the kids to experiment with their own ideas. Mistakes will happen. Let them learn from them.