High-level soccer games are a great way for young players to learn about the game and develop role models. So many times I have coached young players who have never seen a professional game. Think about that.

How hard must it be to play a game you've never really seen played? A young player that is exposed to high-level soccer games consistently will learn how to play the game better, develop a passion for the game and understand more of how the game is played. They may even learn a thing or two that we coaches couldn't teach them!

Posted by Jim Buchanan at 07:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

There are lots of things to consider before joining a team, possibly one of the most important being the level of commitment, both time and financial. Travel teams vary widely in number of practices, games and tournaments scheduled, training hours and budget required. It's important to establish why you are exactly committing to and decide whether it's suitable for your child.

The distance the team plans to travel for away games may also impact your decision. The level of the team (flight) is something to consider and whether your child is above or below that level. The coach's philosophy can also help make your mind up -- questions such as does he/she allow players to play multiple positions or do players get equal playing time can provide reassurances for you.

Posted by Jim Buchanan at 09:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I'm always an advocate of inswinging corners. This means left-footed players taking corners from the right side and right-footed players taking them from the left. The delivery of the cross should be bent in towards the goal, aimed at starting the ball at around the penalty spot and curling it in to someone's head in between the six-yard box and penalty spot.

This area is often called "the second six-yard box" and is where good corners should be aimed at. A good corner just needs the merest of touches from oncoming attackers to be highly effective.

Posted by Jim Buchanan at 10:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I think it depends on the age of the players involved. For elite-level players and professionals, it is highly important, and often the difference between winning and losing.

The younger the player, however, the less the emphasis on fitness. Much, much more important in these formative years are skill development and creating an understanding of the game. Besides, running around at practice is a good conditioning activity!

Posted by Jim Buchanan at 10:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)