I am sure that this will not come as a surprise to you, but it is nearly all
youth soccer players at every developmental level who consistently demonstrate poor
ball control skills. It is very hard to pinpoint why our youth players have
gone south in individual ball skills, but I truly believe that it is due to
coaches trying to advance their players too soon and without regard for the
players' need to have confidence in themselves with the ball. Maybe because the
coach is too focused on posting the 'W' or because they are unsure on how to
teach and correct ball control. But, either way the issue needs to be
addressed.
Over the past few years I have noticed that kids are always trying to out do
each other without regard for quality and consistency. What I try to instill in
my youth soccer players is that they should try to out do themselves; create their own
personal goal.
For instance, when conducting a warm-up, either CYSA 9-step Routine or something in it's
place I always institute ball control. Whether it be individual , pairs, or
groups I like to institute guidelines to create a competitive environment
amongst the players. Challenge them during warm-ups to juggle through the
figure 8, or see who can make up their own move and then name it after
themselves. For the individual, pair, or group who accomplishes the particular
task, shave off time from conditioning at the end of practice.
Give them a reason not to fail, but only one to succeed.
On a side note, it seems that youth soccer players lack ownership of their success both with
the ball and without. Remind them that we are only teachers who give them
tools, how they use those tools is solely up to them. Sometimes players forget
that we are not miracle workers, but coaches who (should) try our hardest to
create positive learning environments.
Remember, be creative and make it fun! Players will always remember and respect
the coach who challenged them and left them wanting more!
Shauna de Graef
CYSA Instructional Staff
National D License Coach
