How do I know what program is best for the player
Choosing a soccer club is a difficult process, at times there are many to choose from all claiming that they can do X,Y and Z better than the others or they claim they have the area's only this or that programs, etc. So how do you know where to set roots and grow?
Here are some hints and advice from our soccer staff that will help you make the choice.
Remember soccer is a game of basics it is not a difficult sport to learn as long as the atmosphere you are in is stimulating, energetic and fun for the student. Fact is, mostly any club you choose will do a good job as long as they are providing what you expect. All clubs contain good folks trying to do what is best for the kids-- from the parent-run organization to the professionally run. Choose a club and give them a chance.
Here are some hints on how to know you are entering the correct program. If you were entering your child in a private school you would ask the same questions.
· Does the program have a history? Where are the program's players advancing to?
· Is there a Technical Director supervising each of the programs?
· What is the Technical Director's qualifications and experience? How long has he/she been educating children in the game? Did he/she play?
· Are the Technical Directors involved in the program?
· Do the Technical Directors report to a Director of Football?
· Are decisions made for popularity or for the interest of the player?
· Is there a curriculum? Ask to see it and if you don’t understand it, schedule a meeting to understand it.
· Are there clinics for the coaches assigned to teams?
· Are the staff getting continuing education? What is the policy on education?
· Are the groups large or are they small? (Would you rather have your child in a classroom of 30 or 10)?
· Is the small-sided game encouraged ages 5-12?
· Is there advancement in the program and club?
· Does the organization have a solid infrastructure?
· What are the club's affiliations with outside groups-- local and frogien?
· Can you advance in the organization? What are the different levels?
· Does the club experience high turnover with its staff? Does it change every year or do they have a staff that is loyal and helping the program grow?
· Are they available to answer your questions or does it take longer than 48 hours to get a response?
· What is the club's future? Many clubs' mission statements are similiar but their vision is not. Where is your club going and does it have a roadmap?
· Ask if you can get involved.
· Does the club have a college education program and advisor?
· For players seeking professional play, does the club have experience in guiding players through this process?
· How do coaches conduct themselves on the sideline, this is usually a result of the clubs philosophy and education practices?
These are just a few items the staff have come up with. Go through it you will find many of the items useful. This will give you some insight in choosing a club. If you still have questions, please contact Keystone Athletic at
info@keystoneathletic.com.
