No Guarantee

The development of a soccer player is a long process in which players progress gradually from a simple to a more complex involvement in the game. This progression requires proper guidance and direction from quality, knowledgeable, licensed coaches. This process cannot be rushed, but players should always compete at a level that is both challenging and demanding. I believe that there are eight elements that are essential for proper player development.

1) Competitive Training Environment that is demanding, challenging, varied, motivating and stimulating on a regular consistent basis.

2) Quality Coaching to help, guide, direct and assist players through their youth careers. Coaches must continue with their on going education.

3) Competitive Matches against teams that will push the players to their maximum capabilities.

4) Quality Referees who understand and can interpret the laws of the game.

5) Facilities that are numerous and of a high quality.

6) Proper Equipment - Boots, Shin Guards, Balls, Proper Dress, Inflated Soccer Ball.

7) Political Pipeline of Administrators, Politicians, Coaches and Referees that when making decisions and policies consider if it enhances the development of the player.

8) Player Identification System that can find the top players and place them in the appropriate level and program.

There is no guarantee that a player will reach his or her potential, but at least we must give him or her the opportunity to become "The Best They Can Be".

In the words of Bobby Howe, US Soccer National Director of Coaching Education, "soccer is an art not a science and the game should be played attractively as well as effectively. Soccer is a game of skill, imagination, creativity and decision-making. Coaching should not stifle, but enhance those elements".

"There is no magic formula or short cut to successful development, coaching at youth levels is all about working with players to improve performance, not about recruiting players to build teams to win championships. Soccer is a player's game and the players should be considered first when political, administrative and coaching decisions are made".