We recently came across a good article that shares the philosphy and importance of Academy Developmental soccer and the importance of technical training on the recreational side. The article is by SoccerU.com and is entitled "The Golden Years of Youth Soccer Technical Training."

While we definitely encourage you to click on the above link and read the article, we wanted to highlight a couple of items:  1)  "Technical training should be the heart of youth soccer development"; (2) When you take a look at the very best soccer players in the world, you will see very refined technical skills combined with all their other attributes, core training skills and footwork form the basic fundamentals needed for a player to excel at soccer; (3) We start trying to play for the team and winning versus development too early and (4) Technical skills are slowly built and refined over several years.

The article also references a great quote former U.S. Men's National Team captain Claudio Reyna, "It's possible at any time during a players career to get into top physical shape or try to win every game! But you can't teach skills to an old player. Youth coaches should keep in mind that individual skills need to be nurtured at an early age. PLayers who haven't mastered the fundamental skills become frustrated because the game gets too difficult for them as they move into higher levels."

So as your kids join in the Southlakes Academy Program remember that the heart of this program is about development. Be willing to sacrifice winning at these tender ages in lieu of development. This philosphy will pay off in competitive soccer by allowing Southlakes to have well rounded, technical and smart soccer playes who can compete at the highest levels while maintaining their love of the game.