House League

RECREATIONAL

Stage 1: Active Start (U4-U5)

Active Start - U4, U5

• At this introductory level, the objective is to get children moving and to keep them active. No competitive games should be played – the objective is for adults and children to play together informally. The physical curriculum provides for learning basic fundamental movement skills such as: running- jumping- twisting- throwing- catching.

• The technical requirements are not about teaching the techniques of soccer and are nothing more than encouraging children to enjoy becoming friends with the ball and experiencing the following through fun and imaginative games; running with the ball, stopping and changing direction with the ball, dribbling, kicking, shooting.

• At this stage, players should participate in a variety of additional activities. Swimming and well-structured gymnastics programs are recommended to enhance the full range of basic movement skills and physical literacy.

 

• Stage 2: FUNdamentals (U6-U8)

FUNdamentals

• At this stage, individual player development is paramount. Coaches and teachers should create a stimulating learning environment where the atmosphere is “Freedom and Fun.”

• The emphasis is movement exercises and games that promote a feel for the ball while teaching basic principles of play within a fun but structured setting. Mini game formats are used and a basic league schedule is created but no standings are kept. All players should play equal time and try all team positions, including goalkeeper, and equal time should be allotted to practices and games.

 

Stage 3: Learning to Train (U9- U12)

Learning to Train

• The effect of the role-model is very important at this stage. Children begin to identify with famous players and successful teams, and they want to learn imaginative skills.   Skill demonstration is very important, and the players learn best by “doing.” Players move from self-centered to self-critical, and they have a high stimulation level during basic skills training. This is also an important time to teach basic principles of play and to establish a training ethic and discipline. Repetitions are important to develop technical excellence, but creating a fun and challenging environment is still essential for stimulating learning.

• Repetitions are important to develop technical proficiency, but creating a fun and challenging environment is still paramount to stimulate learning and promote a love of the game. Game formats can range from 7v7 to 9v9 as players advance through this stage.  Simple league schedule are created, but no standings are kept – the emphasis is still FUN. All players play equal time and try all team positions, including goalkeeping.