my biggest question is how to mange mental health of kids who are harsh on them selfs. For instance- a lot of the kids on my team are pretty skilled and athletic but we have a few kids who aren’t quite at that same level and it’s easy for them to get discouraged when they can’t keep up with the other kids. Of course we always keep things positive and we reassure them, but it doesn’t always seem to be what they need. I’m a newer coach to U8-U11 but previously a teacher. I’m great with kids but when confidence in game/practice come in, I worry I’m not offering the correct support to build their self esteem.
I love this idea. Thank you so much for your dedication in educating and equipping the rest of us. Off the top of my head here are some questions. I'll be moving to the head coach position in the Fall for our 5th grade rec team. They will going from 9v9 (4-3-1) to 11v11: 1) Do you recommend the Duktig book, Through the Thirds ? I enjoy using their notebooks, 2) Every year, we get 2-3 new players that do not have the basics down. I like the Techne Futbol videos and they have a lot of free videos on RU-vid. You've mentioned Techne before. Is there certain go-to videos you recommend to your beginners that I can have our beginners work over the summer? We take the summers off due to the heat. 3) 4-2-3-1 vs 3-5-1. I have to make a decision which way to go before the Fall. You mentioned "Pressing in a 352 is one of my favorites" in comments of the first 4-2-3-1 video. Will you be doing videos on 3-5-2 and/or the difference between the two? I'm sure I'll have more throughout the year. Thanks again so much. I'm a big fan.
How do you handle cutting players that have played on your team? Ones that just tried out and ones that that’ve been on your team for a while and now thinking of cutting?
Still anticipating the 'defending in the 4-2-3-1' video. We're moving into 11v11 this fall and I'm seriously considering this formation as opposed to a typical 4-3-3. As for a question, any tips on transitioning from 9v9 to 11v11?
Your channel is great, the practice planning videos were a game changer and I've followed ever since. P.S. I see you in the background Barry. Go Lions!
Looking forward to the comeback! We have a Top 15 Norcal team that plays in the NPL/ EA division. We're a big club and strong team but don't attract high level talent in comparison to our MLS/ ECNL neighbors. Any advice on recruiting or thoughts on league names tags? (EA, MLS, ECNL, etc). Is there a definitive ranking system that covers all leagues?
It's 2012B, so U13. Many friends have gone to MLS clubs thinking it's a better opportunity for their players but we consistently beat them at the u12 (pre-mls) and younger levels. Have multiple players playing for clubs out of the area because of the nametag but we'd be a powerhouse if they stayed home. How do we recruit better?
I have a question. On a direct kick by the offense from just outside the penalty box, say 25 yards. Can other offensive players be behind the defense, standing in front of the goal when the ball is kicked and without touching it?
Picking player of the season, what criteria do you use. Is it ever acceptable to choose your own kid even if they were objectivly the best player all around?
Hey Rory / that's great - it was more around that 50-50 ball between two players in the same time / eg the player calling for the ball takes control with the other finding space. So a game that produces this scenario is what I am looking.