• Base Level (Ages 6-12) “The ball is your best friend” – Dynamics • Introduction to the game; huge participation numbers from age 6 to 10 • Limited knowledge base from most coaches • Players who develop physically at an early age are typically the “stars” • Current environment places too much emphasis on winning v. developing a passion for the game and the fundamentals of the game – Assessment Summary • Need more free play, less structure – futsal, playground, etc. • Encourage passion and experimentation • Encourage technical training and the most basic building blocks of the game (1 v. 1, 2.v. 1, 2 v. 2, etc.) vs. positional training
• Growth Level (Ages 13-18) “The developmental years” – Dynamics • Players start to take the game more seriously; participation numbers drop off • Still an emphasis on those who stand out physically • Over-emphasis on winning in this age group • For many, the end objective is college – Assessment Summary • Need to eliminate clutter in the environment – elite players are stretched too thin • Clubs drive this age group due to everyday interaction • Meaningful training is important
• Elite Level (Above the age of 18) “The lost years” – Dynamics • Players now “ending” their careers/numbers drop off even further • The most talented players are professionals (very small numbers) • Others go to college • Players are still not fully formed – physically and technically – Assessment Summary • Key time period to refine and advance skills for the elite level player • # of opportunities for elite players drops substantially • There is a gap between pro environment and college option
