Coaches

Volunteer coaches may be one of the most important jobs in any soccer organization. They can develop a very special bond with players and have a chance to role model some very important life lessons. While not all coaches have the same knowledge, all coaches should have the same intent. That intent should be to make the game of soccer safe and fun for ALL players. For the most part this is a summer game for players, and the goal is to create an enjoyable atmosphere while teaching some age-appropriate soccer skills along the way.

Many communities across Ontario have adopted the philosophy of "Possession of the Ball."

What would help the game of soccer the most? Whether you think it may be familiarity of the game, or just talent the simple fact is that many Canadian soccer players (with exception) have major problems controlling and maintaining possession of the ball in game situations. This philosophy encompasses more than striking a 40 yard ball into a striker or passing a 15 yard ball out of the back. It accounts for more than executing a 1 yard take-over in midfield. Possession soccer is a combination of all three and a great deal more because it incorporates a positive attitude! Coaches and individuals in charge must remain positive and open-minded when educating our players. The enjoyment and learning in the game of soccer is best demonstrated through maintaining possession of the ball. The end result of being able to maintain possession is obviously scoring a goal and the only way to do this is to keep the ball and move in a positive direction towards the opponent's goal through a combination of basic individual and team maneuvers. This requires an understanding that if we possess the ability to play we should possess the ability to play with possession. We can not be happy with playing the ball wide, playing the ball long, or having the ball crossed into target areas where the battle is on to score. The game itself is the best teacher of all. If we play "what we rehearse" all the time we become predictable. Encourage players to initiate how the team plays. Let them show that their individual ability to attack is their best defense. When players have possession of the ball they can enjoy the challenges, by expressing their enjoyment by playing a composed passing game and as a result, the confidence of the player and the team grows.

At the younger age levels (U8 and under), the kids must be given as many chances as possible to touch the ball while educating them to make game-like decisions, understanding their role and letting them enjoy learning this very enjoyable game. Basically, this means fewer players on a smaller pitch which should support as many ‘triangles’ as the basic shape for all passing and support movements. This will help with the transition to the 11 vs. 11 game.inks of interest for referees

CHALLENGER SPORTS