More than physical

In soccer, several factors combine to influence the performance of a team. However, the outstanding aspect that is obvious to a casual observer is the physical aspect, which is expressed in the fight for possession of the ball, running off the ball, dribbling, tackling etc...

All these demand a high level of fitness. On average, a soccer player covers a distance ranging between 8 to 14 kilometers during a match. That is why, I can't play anymore!

Apart from physical and techinal dimensions, the phychosocial dimension is vital in achieving good performance. Last night, I addressed them about responsability to bring their ball at practice, to be ready to train and learn, to master an effort as a team and stopped critized their teammates. The crying has to stop! I had too many kids crying these days.

The abilities of different players have to be molded together as well as their spirit. Of course, I am pushing dribbling and beat an opponent which does not help! And I am taking evaluation!

Maybe a party will help! Any volonteer?

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Rush Soccer Club

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Good Bulbs or Bad?

When Fox News ran a story claiming that compact fluorescent light bulbs are too dangerous because of their mercury content, some folks were understandably confused. Well, Sierra magazine's Mr. Green has plenty to say about that. Check out his latest Mailbag for the straight dope on CFLs -- including the one time it actually does make sense to leave your lights on.

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Instruction

Coaching is not a science, but a craft!

Coaches must develop a familiarity with functional training if they are going to help players progress and advance in the game.

I have been involved in different teams, where I am helping to coach. What is too bad for the kids is that there are some parents who are still coaching but they don't know how to help the player make progress. They are trying very hard and give their time. And we are grateful for their help. But should we have a different organization for our players?

The problem comes from the past. Parents involved in football, basketball and baseball grew up with it. With soccer, they did not play and grow up with it. So how can they teach something that they don’t really know? I will never try to teach football or baseball! I don’t know anything about it!

Today we are seeing parents who played soccer during college and are coaching. So it is coming…

But even with experience, you have to learn how to teach. You need to have a methodology to help you to introduce the techniques …

That is why I took several training sessions in order to improve myself. So I am trying to become a better coach!

But it all comes back to the player! It is all about them first!

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Humble

I survived! I just finished my training at Parkville. I am certified NSCAA National Diploma. Five days running on the field with younger kids was a BIG challenge. It was hot, humid and they were faster than me! I am sore...

But most of it, it was a great learning experience. I thought, I knew some about soccer but really I did not! You could see some young coaches with great knowledge and great communication skills. One particulary, Andy. He is good. I just told him to smile a little more but compliment him a lot!

Anyway, I am glad I went to this training. I feel more confident about the game and how to communicate to our kids.

Coaching is not a science but a craft.

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