Schedules for the Coed age groups include an intentional team training period at the beginning of each session that will be facilitated by our Master Coaches*. [*Professional Staff employed to lead and support coaches and players in the age group]
The purpose of our "Master Coach" program is to afford every player in the coed age group an opportunity to develop and improve their skills in a fun and age appropriate environment. The program is also designed to provide coaching support and education to each of our volunteer coaches. By training and playing together we achieve both aims.
Our Master Coaches (with support from our WSSC volunteer coaches) will introduce a new practice session each week that includes 2 skill-developing activities. The sessions are posted on our website so that coaches and parents can utilize the material for future practices.
Every Master Coach training session culminates in a match between the teams assigned to each field.
The weekly timeline for each Group is included below. Please arrive at least 5 minutes before your session time ready-to-play. Soccer balls have been supplied to the coach for every player. Always dress your player for the elements (we play soccer in the rain) and be certain to bring along a water bottle for your player (athletes need to stay hydrated).
Match Schedules are posted on the Coed Program page of our website. You can also view your player's schedule and communicate with your player's coach and team via TeamConnect (formerly Bonzi Team)
Session #1 - Hiawatha Playfield - (8) U-06 Fields (Fields 1-8) - 12:30 to 1:45pm
12:30pm - Teams gather for a brief introduction and the demonstration of the first activity and progression.
12:35pm - Coaches lead their individual teams and training partners through Activity #1.
12:50pm - Teams gather for a brief introduction and the demonstration of the second activity and progression.
12.55pm - Coaches lead their teams through Activity #2
1:10pm - HORN SOUNDS - Game Time (2-16 minute halves with a 3 minute half time).
1:45pm - Handshakes and farewell.
Session #2 - Hiawatha Playfield - (8) U-07 Fields (Fields 1-8) - 2:00 to 3:15pm
2:00pm - Teams gather for a brief introduction and the demonstration of the first activity and progression.
2:05pm - Coaches lead their indiviual teams and training partners through Activity #1.
2:20pm - Teams gather for a brief introduction and the demonstration of the second activity and progression.
2:25pm - Coaches lead their teams through Activity #2
3:40pm - HORN SOUNDS - Game Time (2-16 minute halves with a 3 minute half time).
3:15pm - Handshakes and farewell.
Session #3 - Hiawatha Playfield - (8) U-07 Fields (Fields 1-8) - 3:30 - 4:45pm
3:30pm - Teams gather for a brief introduction and the demonstration of the first activity.
3:35pm - Coaches lead their indiviual teams and training partners through Activity #1.
3:50pm - Teams gather for a brief introduction and the demonstration of the second activity and progression.
3:55pm - Coaches lead their teams through Activity #2
4:10pm - HORN SOUNDS - Game Time (2-16 minute halves with a 3 minute half time).
4:45pm - Handshakes and farewell.
Total time: 75 minutes
Train and Play Format vs. Games Only Format
In the past, teams played two 20-minute halves with a 5-minute half time. Teams that had a motivated and prepared coach found a place to practice during the week, but most players in the U-06 and U-07 age group received little or no technical instruction except corrections from coaches and parents on the sidelines during their actual match.
We're convinced that our Master Coach program will improve the player experience and foster coaching development that will pay dividends for many years to come. Please arrive on time and provide your full support for your volunteer coach and this important Club effort. GO WSSC!!