FineSoccer Kids Newsletter 62

Welcome to the FineSoccer Kids Newsletter.  Today’s subject deals with being a total soccer player.

I have worked with young players in three different states in the past couple of weeks and too many, when I ask them what position they play, respond by saying “offense” or “defense”

Players have to realize that regardless of their position (forward, striker, midfielder, halfback, marking back, fullback, sweeper, keeper etc) when their team has the ball, they are on offense and when the other team has the ball, they are on defense.  This means when their team has the ball, even the fullbacks have to think about supporting and getting into the attack at all times.  This also means that when the opponent has the ball, the forwards have to think about defending right away.

Part of this problem comes from coaches who will separate a team into two by putting attacking players in one group and defending players in the other group.  This is counterproductive to the team and the individuals since each player is only learning to play half the game. 

As a basic rule of thumb, backs might be further back then forwards in the attack and if a back does go forward, it might be necessary for a forward or midfielder to come back into her spot and this is all part of being a soccer player.

When your team has the ball, think “attack” and when the other team has the ball think, “defend” and you will be on your way to being a complete soccer player.

Any questions, comments or suggestions should be sent to Lawrence@finesoccer.com or they can be posted on the FineSoccer Forum at http://finesoccer.net

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Have a great day!

Lawrence