-- There is no goalkeeping/static defending in front of the goal. Please remember to coach your player to “go to the ball” rather than standing in the goal.

 

-- The idea of new ball is not only to keep the game moving, it is also designed to allow for the most TOUCHES by all the players as possible. So, it is encouraged to roll the ball directly to players who have been denied the ball by other players on the field. It is also encouraged for both coaches to work together to help EVERY child on both teams score in the game, if at all possible. Please also pass this information along to parents who are helping with new ball during the game.

 

In the spirit of new ball, it is also acceptable for coaches to be on the field with the players, as long as we are not in their way. Doing this allows us to place well the new ball and to give encouragement without having to yell so far across the field.

 

-- The philosophy of a league (such as Macon SC) that focuses on skill development over simply winning and losing is that we should coach during practice and let them play during the games. When we do coach and guide them during the game it should primarily be to ENCOURAGE rather than to INSTRUCT. Of course, the little tips here and there during quarter and half-time breaks help to reinforce the learning process. Guideline: “When the kids are playing, we should be cheering.”

 

-- We will play 3 v 3, with subs. Teams can loan players to another team to even the game out, either for numbers or to balance the level of skill on teams. As a rule of thumb, move the older players or those that are less likely to be distracted by playing against their team mates.

 

-- Switching goals at half-time: It is up to the coaches at each game to decide whether teams should switch goal at half-time. The primary reason to switch would be to avoid having one team playing “into” the sun the entire game. Otherwise, it is acceptable to keep the same goal the whole game; this allows for parents to sit on the “scoring” end of their child’s field as well as prevent confusing players about which goals they should be defending or attacking.

 

-- The primary objectives for 4 and 5 year old players should be:

            -- To learn to dribble and shoot on the opponents goal, rather than their own.

           

            -- To learn not to steal the ball from their own team mates.

 

            -- To learn to hustle back on defense and “go to the ball” rather than standing in the goal.

 

            -- To learn to take the ball away from opposing players without trying to push them down

 

-- Please encourage the parents of your players to cheer for all players on the field ON BOTH TEAMS!!!