Why Rotate?

Please note: We are reviewing our current practice of rotating stations. We will update this at a later date. (April 2025)

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Why Do We Rotate in the mini program?

Consistency and Quality Experience:

Our primary goal is to ensure that all players have a consistent and high-quality soccer experience. By using stations, we can standardize the drills and activities, ensuring every player receives similar levels of coaching and enjoyment. United DFC carefully selects games and drills that maximize learning and fun.

Ease for Coaches:

We recognize that our volunteer coaches are busy individuals. The station system minimizes preparation time, allowing coaches to focus on the players rather than logistics. With lesson plans and equipment set up in advance, any coach (or parent) can step in and run a station effectively. This approach reduces the need for coaches to plan, carry, or set up equipment, saving them significant time and energy. It is also more comforting for beginner coaches who may not have much soccer experience. They can leave the planning to us and just focus on bringing their positive energy.

Player Development:

People who work in youth sports know that the quality of a player's season often depends on the quality of the coach. By using stations, United DFC can ensure a minimum standard is met because we choose the activities and provide the coach with the necessary time, equipment, and instructions to run the station. This leads to a consistent player development experience across the board.

Addressing Concerns

Parental Convenience:

We understand it may be easier for parents to stay in one spot. However, the benefits of rotation for players' development and coaches' efficiency outweigh this inconvenience. As everyone becomes accustomed to the routine, it will become smoother and more manageable. 

Requests from Experienced Coaches:

Some experienced coaches have requested to run their own sessions without rotating. We are open to this but want to highlight that resources like pop-up goals are limited. Teams opting for their own sessions may not always have access to all equipment. Tall cones can be used as an alternative for goals. Coaching development is important to us too and we are happy to support coaches who want to run their own age appropriate, player centered sessions.

Commitment to Our Approach

While this may not be the answer everyone wants, our decision to continue with station rotations is based on the ease it provides for coaches and the developmental benefits it offers young players. The skill center program (ages 8-11) also uses this model and Soccer Canada includes it as a best practice for the age group.

We appreciate your understanding and support as we strive to provide the best soccer experience for your children.