• Provide opportunities in practice for technique development
• Provide well organised and enjoyable practices and games
• Motivate and stimulate confidence in children to develop skills and game sense
• Challenge by setting basic goals, valuing effort and persistence and reinforcing improvement by providing objective and constructive feedback
• Help the player develop both self-esteem and the ability to realistically evaluate their performance

PHILOSOPHY: LEARNING TO PLAY

These ages are the skill hungry years. Motivationally, children are geared to learn skills at this time, therefore, this is an ideal opportunity for focusing on building the skills of the game onto the movement skills of the children. Competition opportunities should reflecting developmental principles (e.g equal playing time for all) through small-sided games (Developmental 4's, Soccer 7's): Key physical qualities to develop in every training session are speed and agility. Coaches should focus on developing confidence, through fostering and reinforcing success in achieving basic goals for each player. Parents and players need to be educated on the lifestyle factors (nutrution, hydration, recovery, support) that underpin player development. The basis of commitment to future training is formed at this stage. Coaches should encourage 'homework' and independent practice, as well as participation in a wide range of sports.