GLASTONBURY HARTWELL

TRAVEL SOCCER  

Mission Statement, Vision, Philosophy

To provide structured and developmentally appropriate coaching for all. The long term development of our players is paramount, with the program focusing on creating competitive, technically sound, tactically aware, physically able and psychologically alert players whilst in a safe, positive and fun environment within the travel level soccer community.

To provide structured and developmentally appropriate professional coaching. The long term development of our players is paramount, with the program focusing on creating competitive, technically sound, tactically aware, physically able and psychologically alert players whilst in a safe, positive and fun environment within the premier soccer community.

• Develop well rounded soccer players in an appropriate environment which teaches the GHSC core values.
• Create an environment for all players to play with expression, creativity and to play the correct way rather than impose restrictions and strict tactics on our players.
• Focus on the longevity of a players' development, as opposed to short-term results and performances.
• Encourage and emphasize the core soccer attributes of technique and ball mastery above physical attributes.
• Provide a learning environment where all levels of players will enjoy their soccer experience.

• Apply a style of soccer which is based on sound technique and tactical understanding by playing the 'correct' way. The 'correct' way does not include a kick and run or a win at all cost style. The children should be taught to play with the soccer ball in all areas of the field. To play from the back and play through the thirds of the field. From the goalkeeper and defense to the midfield then moved forward by linking up with the strikers.
• A possession style with emphasis of comfort on the ball, playing in all directions to retain possession and go forward to attack when possible. The children should have a clear decision making process on the ball, where we play with control and thought. A 'boot' or kick away should not be cheered as this play is not promoted by our coaches and goes against the clubs style of play.
• Encourage creativity around the whole team where children are promoted to express themselves without fear of failure. This allows children to try moves/turns and individual skill without the coach scolding or quashing creative play. The players should have the freedom to play and learn from their experiences both positive and negative.

U9 - U12

• Emphasize the importance of individual techniques and ball mastery.
• Make each player aware of tactical aspects of the game appropriate to their age and ability.
• Allow each player to experience all positions on the field to aid the individual's development.
• Measure success in the development of the individual not team results.
• Provide education to enhance coaches and parents' soccer knowledge and understanding.

U13 - U14/15

• Continue the progress of the individual's technique, ball mastery and team tactical awareness.
• Implement tactical training aspects of the game.
• Semi -specialize in player positions at U13 and U14/15
• Measure success in player and team development and not in team results.
• Offer continued education to enhance coaches and parents' soccer knowledge and understanding.