The 3C Player
COGNITION
Goal: Develop an intelligent player who can find and exploit space.
Perceive the environment: constant surveillance/scanning 360° for options and filter to most relevant data
Conceive of options: envision possibilities available (pass, dribble, shoot, hold possession etc.)
Decide the best option: choose option that allows team to find or exploit space
Deceive: disguise intent with “misleading data” deceptive moves (faint, look away, double movement, etc.) to opponent engaged in their own perceptive process
Execute one’s choice: take action quickly by passing, shooting or dribbling with technical precision
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