First Practice

Looking like champs!

(Click on the photo to zoom)

Soccer Helpful Hints

from a helpful source:

1. Don't dribble when you can make a constructive pass or cross.

2. Move to the open spot (space) move away from your defender (opponent), you are then in a better position to receive the ball.

3. As a defender, when you are under extreme pressure (pressed), kick the ball down field or over the touch line.

4. When the ball is lost from (out of) view, all forwards must (should) think defensively.

5. Make constructive passes across the field and behind as well as in front.

6. Defenders can back pass to the goalkeeper as a safety maneuver. Pass to the outside of the goal mouth.

7. Make the easy plays. Allow the ball to work for you. Don't you work for the ball.

8. Wing forwards should stay wide and close to the touch line. This brings the defender out from the middle of the field and allows more open space for your attack.

9. Don't be afraid to talk to your teammates on the field. Let them know what is happening in the area around them which their field of vision cannot pick up.

10. As a defender faced with two or more opponents (attackers), retreat slowly (stopping or slowing down the attacker) giving more time for teammates to come back to help.

11. Forwards should switch positions at various times during the game with other members of the forward line. example, center forward with winger. This sometimes confuses the defense.

12. Never retreat with your back to the ball. Watch the ball at all times.

13. As a defender, stay between ball and goal.

14. The closer the play develops toward your own goal, the tighter the defense must (should) be.

15. As a defender challenge only when you have a good chance to obtain (getting possession of) the ball.

16. Defenders should have restraint and control. Let your opponent commit himself first.

17. Delaying principles are good tactics in defense. This means slowing down the opponent's forward line.

18. Back up teammates and help cover the space behind fellow players.

19. Always move toward the pass, don't wait for the pass to come to you.

20. A most important thing to learn is quickness off the mark. The first three or four steps are all important in soccer. Beat your opponent to the ball.

21. What you do without the ball is as important as what you do with the ball.

22. A well placed shot is more effective than a hard shot at the goal.

23. An effective player is always in good physical shape.

24. Play the ball, not the man. (You can not play the man and the ball at the some time).

25. Respect the referee's decision.

Practices are every Tuesday 5:30 pm at North Field

We will have weekly practices on Tuesdays at 5:30 pm. Practices are an important time to build camaraderie, instill basic skills and have a good time. Please be on time, have your daughter dressed appropriately (soccer shoes, shorts, socks over shin guards, no jewelry, etc.) and bring a water bottle. Let me know in advance if you cannot attend a particular practice. If it is raining at 4:30pm on Tuesday, assume practice is cancelled for that week.

intro

Welcome to AYSO Soccer, 2005! Our team, The Red Dragons, is a U8 ('under 8') team and designated 613 in Hillsborough AYSO parlance.

AYSO Soccer emphasizes active participation (‘Everyone Plays’) and good sportsmanship. I have been watching AYSO games for five years now and can see the positive effect this approach has upon the girls’ confidence and skill improvement. It is important for the coaches and parents to work together to create the right environment, and a positive attitude on everyone’s part is essential.

Team Picture and BBQ Day – Saturday, September 10^th North Field

This year, instead of the traditional Opening Day Ceremony, there will be a BBQ on the same day as our second game. The team photo will also be taken that day. More details will be forthcoming.