STAGES of DEVELOPMENT
TO UNDERSTAND THE OUTCOMES, YOU MUST UNDERSTAND THE STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT.
TO UNDERSTAND THE STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT YOU MUST UNDERSTAND THE DIMENSIONS OF THE PLAYER.
TO UNDERSTAND THE STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT YOU MUST UNDERSTAND THE DIMENSIONS OF THE PLAYER.
THE 4 DIMENSIONS OF THE PLAYER
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TACTICAL Vertical Divider
Understanding and processing of functional roles, spatial relationships, game situations: score, conditions, territory, outcome consequence, opponent and team strengths and weaknesses. Soccer "I.Q." Capacity to direct and lead on the field and in training.
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TECHNICAL Vertical Divider
The mechanics required to execute soccer movements, passing, dribbling, shooting, defending, goalkeeping, receiving, clearing, tackling, and more. Capacity to advance technique to "skill" which is technique executed at speed or under pressure or with creativity and innovation.
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PHYSICAL Vertical Divider
Running, balance, leaping, recovery capacity, aerobic fitness, flexibility, strength, power, quickness, speed, stop-go capacity, and variations of each. Capacity to be prepared to compete and perform. Overall availability, and energy output.
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PSYCHOSOCIAL Vertical Divider
Mentality, mindfulness, emotional IQ, teammate and leadership capacity, coachability, communication skills in listening, capacity to follow and abide, empathy, attentiveness, relatability, attitude, self confidence, innate motivation, capacity to interact with, collaborate with others.
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STAGES of DEVELOPMENTAL FOCUS
DEVELOPMENT STAGE 1: 6U-8U
Vertical Divider
DEVELOPMENT STAGE 3: 11U-12U
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DEVELOPMENT STAGE 2: 9U-10U
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DEVELOPMENT STAGE 4: 13U+
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WSA WAY DEVELOPMENT ZONES
The WSA Way Zones of Development are a more granular perspective of the Development Pathway.
The detail within all of the various Zones should not mask that the key is to "find the best fit" for the player along her/his development pathway. We should be reminded that development pathways are not regular constant upward curves, and will include peaks and valleys along an often irregular upward curve.
This "best fit" is one that is offering the best socialization through sport, while balancing an equal measure of perceived success and perceived challenge. While the "ideal" is not normally possible, the "ideal" should still remain in our lens of vision when aiming to serve the athlete.
The detail within all of the various Zones should not mask that the key is to "find the best fit" for the player along her/his development pathway. We should be reminded that development pathways are not regular constant upward curves, and will include peaks and valleys along an often irregular upward curve.
This "best fit" is one that is offering the best socialization through sport, while balancing an equal measure of perceived success and perceived challenge. While the "ideal" is not normally possible, the "ideal" should still remain in our lens of vision when aiming to serve the athlete.