COUGAR UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB
PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PHILOSOPHY
U8, U9 and U10 level (Small field):
At these early stages of player development CUFC and UK Elite focus exclusively on individual technical development such as individual possession (dribbling, shielding and ‘moves’ to change direction and speed), group possession (passing and receiving the ball) and striking the ball for distance and power (shooting and longer passing). The major emphasis during this period is that our players understand they have three choices when in possession of the ball, pass, dribble or shoot and they need to be capable of performing all three.
We also introduce basic tactical elements to do with spacing on a field both on offense and defense although we DO NOT emphasize positions.
Curriculums, travel team player attainment targets and session plans are available through parent/coaches and provide more specific details for each age group.
U11, U12, U13 and U14 level (Large Field):
While we continue to develop individual technical skills CUFC and UK Elite begin to introduce functional elements to players so that they begin to use their individual skills and make the correct choice in possession more often.
We also introduce more advanced tactical elements such as the role of the first, second and third attacker and the movement of the team in general when we have possession. Also we teach the role of the first, second and third defender and movement of the team when we are defending. This leads to formations (starting points), and positions becoming more important and more clearly defined.
At this stage we try to establish a primary and secondary position for each player which they will predominantly play in games. Curriculums, travel team player attainment targets and session plans are available through parent/coaches and provide more specific details for each age group.
While the emphasis changes as players mature the overriding aim does not, and that is to develop players and teams to their fullest potential rather than a short term outlook regarding results. The fact is that the better the players we develop the more often they will ultimately be successful.