Progress in Four Areas

What to Expect

In these two years teams play against other clubs for the first time and experience a higher level of competition. Travel to away games is generally 20 to 60 minutes and becomes a good bonding opportunity for teams.

Based on the US Youth Soccer Development Model and SOTH's experience over the years here is what you can expect across four areas through these years:

Technical

A higher emphasis on the quality of the pass being at the right pace and direction to pass into space. Controlling the ball in the air takes the next step with control of goalkicks, long passes, and throw-ins.

Tactical

An understanding of many of the different aspects of the game from attacking and defending in threes or fours, general work on restarts, advantage of playing diagonal and wall passes. Goalkeepers start to understand angles, positioning, and being commanding in the penalty box.

Physical

A higher level of stamina is needed and gained through some dedicated drills in practice alongside relay sprint races with and without the ball.

Mental

Self-motivation still the biggest factor in play. All involved should remain positive and building confidence as kids overcome challenges individually and as a team.