Two Goals for the Academy

1. Produce 33 players by u11
2. Promote and develop individual personal character

Six Academy Training Objectives for 2010-11 for u9/u10

1. Implementation of Footability training method.
   1. Support the development of the ball/player relationship.
   2. Players develop the ability to solve problems individually if needed
2. Every team plays the same system of play.
   1. 2-2-1 system. 5 Field positions to be learned by each player.
   2. Each position is numbered 1 through 5 (1 – forward, 2 – left mid, 3 – right mid, 4 – left back, 5 – right back).
      1. Numbering of positions is to bridge the “abstract thinking” gap in play with many academy-aged players
      2. Will remove words that call for an abstract interpretation such as “left and right” or “back and mid and forward”
      3. Regular Shadow Training will help players learn the positions
   3. Allows for free interchanging of players from team to team, age to age
   4. Facilitates vertical integration of the Academy
3. Dutch 4v4 to be implemented into regular practice
   1. Diamond 4v4 shape comes right out of the 2-2-1 system
   2. Uneven numbers method used where needed to facilitate possession
   3. Focus on an organized buildup rather than “kickball”
   4. Begin with 1v1, work through 2v2, 3v3, and up to 4v4 teaching all roles
4. Basic functional technical training by position and situation
5. Identification, training, and nurturing of those that show an interest in goalkeeping.
   1. The “everyone takes a turn in goal” philosophy unrealistic, unnecessary, and at times counter-productive.
   2. Those that have an attitude and aptitude toward the position deserve to be recognized and trained.
   3. If no one wants to play goal it is treated as a “fairness” issue.
   4. Academy Goalkeeper Coach hired for this purpose.
6. Continued emphasis on Character Development.
   1. Older-younger mentoring opportunities.
   2. The Spirit Award.