HOWARD FIRE FC U8 CURRICULUM
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE U8 AGE GROUP
Although U8 children may begin to be far more physically and maturationally advanced than U6 children, we must remain patient and not try to force them to develop too quickly. Dribbling still needs to be the primary focus of our efforts, though passing and shooting should be introduced at this age as well. U8 players tend to work best when in pairs and we should allow them to work in pairs (coach selected) often. Similar to the U6 children, we need to make sure that fun is a central theme in practice. Player development will occur most appropriately and expeditiously if all players are enjoying themselves. This is the age where players can begin to understand the concept of working with a teammate. The notion, or willingness, to intentionally pass the ball to someone is just beginning to take hold. Coaches will have more success encouraging players to pass the ball in the seven to eight year old age group. In this age group, the player begins to think beyond their personal needs and actively begins to cooperate with a teammate. However, players in this age group must continue individual ball work.
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ROLE OF THE U8 COACHThe role of the coach in the U8 age group is to be a sensitive and patient teacher with an enthusiastic and imaginative approach. It is helpful if they have the ability to demonstrate and very important that they understand technique.
U8 SEASON OBJECTIVES & GOALS
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SOURCES:
- USYS PLAYER DEVELOPMENT CURRICULUM
- MASSACHUSETTES YOUTH SOCCER CURRICULUM
- US SOCCER CURRICULUM