I am now a huge fan of the program. The game allows the players to do naturally, the same things I tried in vain to teach my players at weekly practices held at the local school playground. The key benefits I see for my son are having fun, learning ball skills and being comfortable with the ball during competitive play. Seeing the kids change the direction of play because there’s a goal somewhere else on the field, not because a parent-coach is yelling at them to, is brilliant. To my son, he’s simply scoring goals and participating on a team with friendly faces.
My son has the luxury of watching his older siblings play in countless soccer matches. Not once has he questioned why he doesn’t get to play “real soccer”. Soccer to him is getting the ball and scoring goals. I am thrilled that he gets to try many of the skills his trainers teach before the game.
What I’ve witnessed is that while more advanced players still have lots of chance to use their skill, all of the players have more of an opportunity to participate. The non-stop action begins where one player dribbles the ball to the goal, shoots and celebrates his accomplishments. Immediately, one of the perimeter coaches has restarted play in another direction. Another player who wasn’t previously involved, now has a quality chance with the ball. Thus, more players are engaged during the time they are playing. With OFC’s YDP, the 4 goal game is non-stop, simple and simply more fun.
In contrast, the North-South game is usually dominated by 1 or 2 players, usually the fastest kids, and they get the most touches. After a goal or out of bounds, restarts take a few minutes as the ball is collected and players are momentarily realigned by coaches. The interest by the other players who are continually left chasing the fastest players, (where the ball is) wanes until they stop chasing and/or sit down. Parents wonder why their son/daughter isn’t engaged.
Finally, let me add that it’s great having a club-defined training plan with quality trainers that work on age-appropriate drills. The training sessions by the YDP staff are fun, clear and complementary. The staff is well prepared so kids listen and learn. I love having my 6 year old teach me what skill the trainer showed them that day. Finally, the fields we use are great. Playing on a well groomed surface makes a huge difference in giving the players immediate feedback on whether they are controlling the ball or if the bumps, divots, and long grass are in control.
In conclusion, my son is having a great time. YDP is a winner!
Thanks John, Alex & YDP Staff.
Sincerely,
Doug Fehr
