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footy4kids recommends:
For new coaches:
For experienced coaches:
For coaches who are short on time:
For coaches of kids aged 5-8:
For coaches of kids aged 9-11:
For coaches of kids aged 12-15:
For coaches of small-sided teams:
For coaches who need warm-ups:
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characteristics of soccer players aged 12 to 14
By
Dirk Diekmann for
Success in
Soccer magazine. |
Training
Boys and girls at this age ...
-
"shoot up" in
height when they enter puberty. This rapid growth creates an imbalance
between the length of their torso and legs;
-
often find it
difficult to move around in a fluid manner because of the physical
changes they are experiencing
-
on the other
hand demonstrate greatly improved strength and speed.
Consequences
-
The basic
technical principles need to be adapted to this greater swiftness.
-
Their ability
to grasp concepts means: they can be taught more demanding tactics.
-
Fitness and
stamina are improved, primarily through playing. Training should
occasionally be supplemented by simple circuits, jumping exercises,
games and exercises to improve reaction and acceleration.
Playing
Boys and girls at this age ...
-
playing in a
competitive team, i.e. in a group which shares the same objectives,
norms and interests, find the "security" which they lack or consciously
reject in other areas of their lives at this time. Psychological
insecurity is stabilized merely by belonging to a team;
-
can also
perform more specific tasks within the team because they have a better
grasp of the game.
Consequences
-
The
recognition by teammates and coaches of the importance of individuals'
performance in the team's success helps to boost young players'
self-confidence. Each player must be given tasks geared towards his
particular strengths without limiting individual initiative, creativity
and enjoyment of the game.
-
Main emphasis
during games on the use of space and the careful build-up of play.
Care
Boys and girls at this age ...
-
distance
themselves further from adults, looking to establish their own fixed
place in the world;
-
are often
prone to considerable mood swings and inconsistency in their performance
during this orientation phase;
-
receive
support from their friends and peers during this somewhat insecure
process of "finding themselves."
Consequences
-
Players at
this age must be shown how to be independent and share responsibility.
-
However,
coaches must not issue all the orders, plan and organize everything,
block out criticism. Instead, their main job is to encourage the
youngsters to find their own solutions and develop their own ideas.
-
Each player
must be allocated suitable responsibilities.
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