In the summer of 2011 SASA restructured its U8 Academy program by splitting the age group into U7 and U8. The program, run by SASA’s General Manager Barry Hill, brought the concept of group training to the age groups. Group training allows all players to get advanced training within the program to focus on player development and the ability to practice and play with and against different players each week.
“When players come in for practice or games we break them down into smaller groups so a coach can work with 8 or 10 players,” said Hill. “This allows players to get different coaching styles while all of the coaches are working off one, identical session plan”
U7 Academy Boys and Girls (fall 2011)
The change in the program is to try and improve the fundamental aspects of the game.
“We are trying to improve the basics of the game.” remarked Hill. “If the kids understand and can demonstrate the correct techniques on how to pass, dribble, shoot and control the ball it will help them become a better soccer player. Although we still have to remember that the kids are 7 and 8 years old we have made the sessions age-specific and fun”.
U8 Academy Girls (fall 2011)
The program has also received very positive comments by parents. The group-training design allows for a greater number of options to car pool rather than the typical 10 players on team-programs. It also allows coaches to still run a positive and productive session if some kids miss a session. “We all know these kids have very busy schedules and sometimes kids miss a session for any number of reasons. We are able to adjust the player-to-coach ratio depending upon the kids who show up,” remarked Hill.
U8 Academy Boys (fall 2011)
The program has also restructured the game set up. Players now play in a 4v4 game on a smaller field with no goalkeeper. The smaller numbers allow players to have more touches on the soccer ball and more involvement in the game. “The way we play games allows the players to play and not worry about which team is winning or losing. If a team is dominating, as coaches we can switch players around to make a more even and challenging game,” said Hill. “It takes the pressure off the kids during game day. The focus on winning at all costs has caused players to leave the game at young ages. We want players to love the game and have a passion about it. Players can try new things without the burden of worrying about results or the pressure of winning.”
So far we have seen an improvement in both games and skill since the sessions started at the beginning of the fall season. It is not unusual now in games where 4 or 5 passes are being made. That’s a huge step for U7 and U8 players. From the prospective of coaching as well as learning the game, the program has been excellent so far and continues to improve.
