U13-U14 (Advanced Stage)

This becomes the transitional age into the adult game.  There begins to be a greater focus on how ball skill and decisions influence success on the field.

At this point, there is a clear difference between the emotional and physical maturity of a 13 year old and 18 year old.  While there is not a big difference between the way a 13 year old or an 18 year old processes information (thinking and problem solving), keep in mind that the 13 year old is just beginning to think at this level. 

13 year old children are now less certain about themselves, less communicative, and somewhat more vulnerable.  They are now more focused on their friends and begin to view themselves as begin somewhat separate from their parents.  They are also stronger physically and are more aware of what bodies can do (speed, strength, appearance). 

The goal at this point in a player’s development is to begin expanding his or her understanding of the game as their technical and game maturity allows.  Again, this is accomplished through the small-sided game model for practice and the full-sided game for matches.  The ideas and principles that apply to the smaller game models continue to apply to the bigger game.  The outcome of the game at this age is still largely determined by ball skill and game insight.

THE ONSET OF PUBERTY

Between the ages of 12 and 14, children often experience a physical growth spurt that affects their balance and coordination.  Oftentimes, they gain physical strength and power, but temporarily lose agility and suppleness.  As soccer players, this means potentially losing some control over the ball.  If the technical foundation is not strong, soccer is no longer fluid and fun for the players. 

It is at this point that these players may move toward sports where it is easier for them to achieve some level of success – more traditionally American sports that demand “hand-eye” coordination such as baseball, basketball, and football.  It is critical that we ensure that the players are getting the necessary technical foundation at the younger ages.  This may prevent the loss of players during their middle school years who are capable and athletic, yet lack the foundation to pull them through their temporary physical awkwardness.

GOALS FOR PRACTICE, GAMES, AND SEASON

At these ages, ball skills, enjoyment, and insight into the game, with a gradual introduction to fitness, mental toughness, and results are the keys.  Success in winning matches should begin to be the product of a consistent and systematic approach to the game that focuses moreon player development than team building.  The players should be developing an understanding and familiarity with each other on the field, but the desire to get a result on Saturday should not hamper their instincts for the game, or their desire to experiment and explore the game.  These players are a long way from being “complete.”  Encourage them to play in different positions

DURATION, RATIO OF BALL: CHILD

Practice should be 75 to 90 minutes long

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WHAT SHOULD BE HAPPENING DURING PRACTICE

At this point, most of the exercises and games that the players play in practice should be competitive, with a winning and losing team.  Their focus should be on how their decisions and their ball skill help or hinder their team’s ability to win at whatever game or exercise that they play. 

Two critical and interrelated themes in every practice should be recognizing when and how to get the ball out of pressure with the goal of getting forward and recognizing when and how to win the ball back, both as an individual and as a group.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WHAT SHOULD BE HAPPENING IN MATCHES

Although the 13 and 14 year old begin to resemble adults, they are still far from a complete player.  Players must continue to focus on individual and small group ideas.  Find themes on which to focus that – when taken together and accomplished with skill – add up to successful soccer. 

BEST QUALITIES OF A COACH FOR THIS AGE PLAYER

The U14 coach should have a firm grasp of both the youth game and the junior game.  He or she should have an appreciation for creativity and independent thinking.  At the same time, he or she should be able to communicate group and team themes to the players in a clear and simple manner.