Most would argue that England’s greatest technical player was Paul Gascoigne. For the United States, perhaps John O'Brien before injuries ruined a very promising career at Ajax. One thing for sure, however, is that neither country has produced a Messi or Ronaldo.
One of the big initiatives sweeping through these countries and more is this obsession of producing a Messi. We want to produce confident, technical dribblers who attack and attack. Yet, just like many initiatives, it's extremely short sighted. Ultimately we've traded one end of the extreme, "the win at all costs/kick it long" mentality for the other extreme end of the spectrum: the "dribble at all costs" mentality.
24 Comments
Fitness.
It’s a favorite word for coaches who want to punish players. A dogmatic cry for those who want their players to be in the best shape of their life, especially at the U10 level. It is one of the most misunderstood concepts of the game and the proof lies in visiting any park around the country to watch some practices going on. How often do you have to question whether or not what you’re watching is a soccer practice or a CrossFit session? Soccer balls are hidden from sight, running shoes are on, and a group of nine year old boys or girls are sweating as their coach puts them through an intense suicide sprint activity followed by some push-ups. How often do you see the last ten minutes of the twice-a-week session turn into a triathlon to ensure that the players “improve their fitness,” as if twenty minutes over the course of the entire week will inspire the development of Olympic athletes. Ultimately, the issue lies in the fact that more often than not, fitness is implemented incorrectly at the younger ages. |