Because young players need special
consideration. Little research or attention has been given to this critical period in the
development of the Under 12 year old players, but most educators agree the early learning
experiences are the most important and result in the most retention.
Traditionally,
youth soccer programs are viewed from an adult perspective, using the 11-a-side game as a
reference. But we need to remember these important points about young players:
- Children must be treated as children, not as mini-adults.
- Children are essentially self-oriented and only relate naturally to a friend or two, not
to groups of six or more.
- Children cannot sustain prolonged activity and function best with frequent rest periods.
- Children have a limited span of attention, so frequent activity changes are necessary.
- Children focus best when learning activities are fun.
Almost 70 percent of WSA coaches are first-time coaches--parents with little free time.
Short-sided soccer is a way to ease adults into coaching as well as to ease children into
playing. Be creative and remember: children play games to have fun. Short-sided games help
ensure children have fun and at the same time, maximize their learning opportunities.
