The dreams we have as young players are usually consistent throughout everyone who plays the game.
"I want to be a professional soccer player"
While this is an amazing dream, we must continue to understand the principles of this journey for ourselves as well as those around us. The remaining 99.99% of players must be cared for and looked after. That .01% will be found no matter what. Their talent level and determination will carry them to the next level. As coaches, we must recognize the opportunity that we are given to make sure that the player's character along with their development is focused on during our time with them.
What is the actual goal for the players around you? What do you really want to get out of them? We have to be realistic with the group that we have. Players who have college aspirations should be on a different track than players who may have soccer as their 2nd or 3rd sport. Or if we are dealing with zone 1 players, our goal is to make sure we are making them enjoy the game regardless of the results. Making training sessions educational with a mix of enjoyment. We still hold each player to a standard while helping them with life lessons. Players want to become consistent with their game and feel success throughout this process. Let's make sure that we give them an experience that prepares them for life. Remember, not everyone is going to be going pro. Let’s develop the youth to become great people
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