It’s a Player’s Game
“Let’s not be fooled, the game belongs to the player, it’s as simple as that”, as stated by Arsene Wenger, former Arsenal Football Manager. “A player has to always perceive a situation, make a decision, and execute.”
The team – player relationship was shared by a Barcelona legend.
“Teams don’t learn. Individuals within the team learn. Development is a personal process even when conducted in a team environment” Johan Cruyff.
Is It About Player Development, or the Outcome
I coached competitively at different levels – high school, club, and Olympic Development Program. My objectives focused on the outcome of the team…wins, losses, standings, and trophies. This has been a measure of a youth coach’s value.
The better players started more, played more minutes, and played in positions that would help the team achieve the best result. I gave the team the best chance to win by having those players end the games.
‘Me & My Ball’
You can reset how a player developments now. During this ‘pause’ we only have the ability to connect with players individually. You can create an environment of belonging, value and appreciation.
Recognize their limitations, challenge their abilities, and focus on making them belong. You can create the ‘me and my ball’ training.
You can connect with your players, by tailoring training to each person versus team goals. Although it’s a virtual group session, you can tailor training for each individual, correcting and coaching to their needs.
You can create challenges, where players compete against themself, you reward their efforts, and then set new benchmarks. Create an environment for them to feel safe and belong.
When your players spend more time with the ball, you are developing a better soccer player. This will elevate the quality of the game at the club, high school, and college level.
The better players become, the more likely they will stay in the game
Virtual Coaching
- Connect online
- Share videos
- Engage players – let them demonstrate
- Create activities, not drills
- Challenge individually
- Praise and reward
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