The 3C Player

COGNITION

Goal: Develop an intelligent player who can find and exploit space.

  1. Perceive the environment: constant surveillance/scanning 360° for options and filter to most relevant data

  2. Conceive of options: envision possibilities available (pass, dribble, shoot, hold possession etc.)

  3. Decide the best option: choose option that allows team to find or exploit space

  4. Deceive: disguise intent with “misleading data” deceptive moves (faint, look away, double movement, etc.) to opponent engaged in their own perceptive process

  5. Execute one’s choice: take action quickly by passing, shooting or dribbling with technical precision

  6. Assess the efficacy of the action immediately: evaluate the result of the action, and loop back to perception

COMPETENCE

Goal: Develop players technical, tactical and physical attributes to enable them to operate effectively and efficiently in play.

  • Ball Control: refine technical skills - passing, receiving, dribbling, shooting, heading

  • Movement: refine physical skills – running, strength, speed, power jump, agility and endurance

  • Position Play: teach players to manage space through positioning in order to manage the ball more effectively

  • Principles of Play: help young players master concepts that they will apply throughout their entire football development.

  • Systems of Play: structure that supports an intricate possession game through the midfield

CHARACTER

Goal: Cultivate an environment that encourages a positive, respectful, ambitious, dedicated, reflective and resilient mindset.

  • Positive: Approaching life’s challenges with a positive outlook. Making the most of potentially bad situations, seeing the best in others and viewing yourself and your abilities in a positive light

  • Respectful: Due regard for the feelings, wishes, rights or traditions of others – demonstrated in the way you approach the game, teammates and individuals in and around the game

  • Ambitious: Strong desire for achievement or distinction and the courage to strive for this in the most adverse situations

  • Dedicated: Show commitment and devotion to your objectives

  • Reflective: Taking time to understand and interpret events, actions and above all yourself; self-awareness

  • Resilient: The ability to navigate life, adapt to change and learn through adversity