Last January, at the United Soccer Coaches Convention, I was invited to take part in a one day Summit of coaches from various levels and geographies of the United States. We were charged with "developing a framework of fundamental beliefs that coaches could collectively support to build a positive soccer playing culture in America." It was a very thorough process and the result provided the … [Read more...]
A Discussion About Playing Surfaces
Wednesday, September 19 8:30 am I arrived to Boulder, Colorado yesterday for the Brock USA Summit: Protect the Player, Protect the Game: Creating the Optimal Sports Environment for the Athlete. While most of the traveling I do for the Soccer Parenting Association involves speaking and coach/parent education – this is a conference I was invited to attend as an observer. I am looking forward to … [Read more...]
Youth Soccer Inspires Players When This Happens
Christian Lavers, president of the ECNL used the term: “Collaboration is a force multiplier” recently on a 3four3 podcast interview. While Christian was referencing the collaborative efforts amongst coaches in the ECNL – I couldn’t help but relate this “Force Multiplier” concept to the collaboration that should exist between coaches and parents when youth soccer is working well. The paths of a … [Read more...]
7 Ways for Parents to Inspire their Youth Soccer Player
When it comes to youth soccer, the term “parent engagement” needs some clarification. Understandably there is some confusion around this currently popular and trending term. I've heard from parents saying they feel like they are receiving mixed messages: “Let your child lead the way” on one hand, and “Be more involved in their soccer journey” on the other. The confusion is understandable. In … [Read more...]
Remembering Tony DiCicco: A Leader U.S. Soccer Must Emulate
A year ago today the most winning coach in U.S. Soccer history, a soccer legend who positively influenced the lives of thousands and thousands of players, coaches, and fans - Tony DiCicco – left this world. I was lucky enough to have worked for Tony’s SoccerPlus Camps as a Staff Coach and Director for over 10 years. One of my life’s greatest honors was being asked to speak at Tony’s Memorial … [Read more...]
Who You Use as Examples and Role Models Matters
What coach or parent has not used the talents of a famous player as an example? How they trained, their work ethic, stories of their youth and their skills on the field. These are all used by coaches and parents to motivate young players. These examples not only show them skills to aspire to, they also serve to provide role models and as examples of their potential. Young players who watch and … [Read more...]
Why BOOT IT is a Four Letter Word
...And not necessarily the safe option It’s something you hear at soccer games at all ages and levels in the United States all too often: A player wins possession of a ball deep in their own half and immediately the call rings out from at least one parent on the sideline, and often from the coach and team mates as well…. “BOOT IT!” Or “SEND IT!” or “GET RID OF IT!” And every time … [Read more...]
Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse with the Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017
The following press release regarding “Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017,” which is new federal legislation signed into law effective Feb. 14, 2018 has been widely distributed this past week via various soccer organizations such as US Club Soccer, United Soccer Coaches and others. United Soccer Coaches has been working via a grant with Raliance to … [Read more...]
The Importance of Small Sided Soccer Games, Equal Playing Time for All, and Not Forgetting the Late Bloomers!
One of my "must-listen to" Podcasts is from my good friend John O'Sullivan - the Way of Champions. Each week John interviews experts in sports, coaching , leadership and building championship programs and this past week did not disappoint! After listening to his spectacular interview with Kris van der Haegen, the Belgian FA Director of Coaching, I immediately reached out to John to ask if I … [Read more...]
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