My Collegue at the Nearpost National, Eamonn Flanagan is up to his neck in local football at the Majura FC Club. Terrific Junior Club with a big playing roster across the age groups, girls and boys.
Majura FC have done something I haven't seen replicated to anywhere in the ACT to anythin like the same degree of sophistication. Its the Majura FC electronic newsletter titled "Majura Pitch". It's sensational.
Go here for the current edition:
In fact, Capital Football could take a lead from Majura FC on this one, as could all the rest of us. Hell, the FFA doesn;t come close! The standard of publication by Majura FC, in the electroinc media is the way to go.
Well done Majura FC and well done Eamonn Flanagan!
Now - everyone else - lift your game and start communicating. For those that haven't yet done it, you could start by getting your websites up to date.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Capital Football Disputes and Discipline Process - Part 1
Broadcast on Tuesday, 27 April 2010 on 2xxfm (98.3mz) through the Australian Community Radio Network
This program examines the current Discipline and Disputes process used by Capital Football and the documents that govern all who play, coach, administer or spectate at Football in competitions or fixtures sanctioned by Capital Football. It’s a big subject, complex at times and too often misunderstood.
In this interview, Alasdair Grocock, the CF mens League manager talks about the CF D&D procedure and he knows it better than most because he has to administer it for the men’s league. Alasdair is a pragmatic individual, very experienced in football administration, he’s a referee, takes the time to think about the player’s perspective and I suspect, very hard to fool. The CF D&D processes are under review.
Download the Podcast here:
This program examines the current Discipline and Disputes process used by Capital Football and the documents that govern all who play, coach, administer or spectate at Football in competitions or fixtures sanctioned by Capital Football. It’s a big subject, complex at times and too often misunderstood.
In this interview, Alasdair Grocock, the CF mens League manager talks about the CF D&D procedure and he knows it better than most because he has to administer it for the men’s league. Alasdair is a pragmatic individual, very experienced in football administration, he’s a referee, takes the time to think about the player’s perspective and I suspect, very hard to fool. The CF D&D processes are under review.
Download the Podcast here:
Monday, April 26, 2010
Give Junior Footballers A Break
The following World Game Blog by Vitor Sobral touches on a very sensitive matter and one that has meaning for us in the Capital Football region. Have a read and see what you think. For all the comments on this article go to http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/vitor-sobral/blog/991447/Give-junior-footballers-a-break
Conside these matters:
22 Apr 2010
Recently I was reminiscing with a mate about the Brisbane club we both played for.
He is still at the club and as he was telling me how it was going, he mentioned that some of the players in the lower tiers of Brisbane football are getting paid.
I was shocked. Not only that players at this level are being paid but by some of the amounts, which are beyond belief. I felt sick.
By whatever means these clubs are getting the money, the last area it should be invested in is securing the club a few meaningless minor titles.
These are community clubs that exist to give the population a place to play football, to have fun and to socialise. Not to win trophies.
Conside these matters:
- Why are charges at Junior Clubs increasing and when do we acknowledge that $150 - $180 per season per child is just too much to pay to play the game?
- If the FFA wants to "develop the game" then it really has to minimise the particpation cost impact on familes at the grass roots level.
- Does our current Premier League structure assist Junior Clubs develop players?
- Why should financial charges be made to parents in order for their children to particpate in the Capital Football High Performance Program?
- If the FFA is as serious as they say they are about the development of junior football (where else do senior players come from to play for Australia?) then why don't they underwrite the cost of the HPP in each State and Territory?
- Are we losing players from the game at a young age to others sprots or no sport at all because the cost of playing descriminates against those families without disposable income to pay?
- Why should it cost a junior player a cent to play for an ACT representative team?
- Same again for Futsal?
22 Apr 2010
Recently I was reminiscing with a mate about the Brisbane club we both played for.
He is still at the club and as he was telling me how it was going, he mentioned that some of the players in the lower tiers of Brisbane football are getting paid.
I was shocked. Not only that players at this level are being paid but by some of the amounts, which are beyond belief. I felt sick.
By whatever means these clubs are getting the money, the last area it should be invested in is securing the club a few meaningless minor titles.
These are community clubs that exist to give the population a place to play football, to have fun and to socialise. Not to win trophies.
Friday, April 23, 2010
FFA National Curriculum Road Show heads for Canberra
This a must attend!
It's the first time that the FFA Technical Director has been to the ACt to hold a public forum on the National Curriculum, since the launching of the curriculum in the ACT at the AIS.
FFA National Curriculum Road Show heads for Canberra
All coaches in the ACT are invited to attend the FFA National Curriculum Road Show to be held next Wednesday the 28th of April at Deakin Stadium.
FFA National Technical Director Han Berger and National Assistant Technical Director Alistair Edwards will present theoretical and practical sessions on the National Curriculum and the 1-4-3-3 playing structure.
The Road Show is free and all coaches are welcome to attend. No pre-registration is neccesary.
Date
Wednesday 28th April
Time
Deakin Stadium, Grose Street Deakin
It's the first time that the FFA Technical Director has been to the ACt to hold a public forum on the National Curriculum, since the launching of the curriculum in the ACT at the AIS.
FFA National Curriculum Road Show heads for Canberra
All coaches in the ACT are invited to attend the FFA National Curriculum Road Show to be held next Wednesday the 28th of April at Deakin Stadium.
Date
Wednesday 28th April
Time
- Theoretical Presentation 6pm-7pm
- Practical Presentation 7:30pm-9pm
Location
Coaching Youth Soccer - West Ham United International Academy
I reckon this is one the most useful and concise explanations of youth player development I have read .
Every point hits the mark. If you coach in this zone in football you will recognise the simple distilled truth of it all.
Here's one except that may interest you and if you recall our interview qith the Head Coach of the Mens Football Program at ACTAS, it is a matter that is of vital interest to him - he must spend time fixing what others have not. What does the Head Coach of any Premier League club in the ACT do when his best player options have serious technical deficiencies?
"Once they move into secondary school (age 11+), the basic skills of control and passing should be strongly embedded. Unfortunately, that is mostly not the case and too much time is spent rectifying the problems that should have been taken care of much earlier."
This really is worth a read.
Coaching Youth Soccer
Tony Carr
Academy Director, West Ham United Football Club
Although individuals can be born with natural skills, it is only regular practice that provides the necessary technique to play the game well.
The years from ages 5 to 8 are absolutely vital because youngsters are totally receptive to everything you tell them, and they have not developed any bad habits. Up to the age of 11, is another crucial period. Throughout this time the emphasis should be placed on having fun and enjoy playing. Too much emphasis is placed on winning at all costs.
Every point hits the mark. If you coach in this zone in football you will recognise the simple distilled truth of it all.
Here's one except that may interest you and if you recall our interview qith the Head Coach of the Mens Football Program at ACTAS, it is a matter that is of vital interest to him - he must spend time fixing what others have not. What does the Head Coach of any Premier League club in the ACT do when his best player options have serious technical deficiencies?
"Once they move into secondary school (age 11+), the basic skills of control and passing should be strongly embedded. Unfortunately, that is mostly not the case and too much time is spent rectifying the problems that should have been taken care of much earlier."
This really is worth a read.
Coaching Youth Soccer
Tony Carr
Academy Director, West Ham United Football Club
Although individuals can be born with natural skills, it is only regular practice that provides the necessary technique to play the game well.
The years from ages 5 to 8 are absolutely vital because youngsters are totally receptive to everything you tell them, and they have not developed any bad habits. Up to the age of 11, is another crucial period. Throughout this time the emphasis should be placed on having fun and enjoy playing. Too much emphasis is placed on winning at all costs.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
The Craft of Coaching
This is an excellent article by the National Coaches Assocition of America.
If you Coach, use the article as a template for self reflection. If you are a supporter or parent of a player who goes to games, use it too reflect upon your team's Coach, then figure out a way to help the Coach. But don't dump on the Coach becuase things may not being going well.
The Craft of Coaching
Many qualities and attributes are needed in moving players to new levels
Bill Beswick, renowned sports psychologist formerly of Manchester United and now with Middlesborough FC, has a saying which should inspire all coaches:
“A good coach is able to take a player where they have never been before and will not get to on their own.”
This in many ways gives meaning to what it is to coach and encapsulates the primary purpose of the coaching profession. This article explores coaching as a craft, a professional endeavor which requires pride of performance, acquisition of highly-valued skills and has an objective which is both enormously satisfying and develops an insatiable appetite for more.
At an NSCAA Academy a few years ago, a disgruntled graduate from a highly successful Division I college program said, “I didn’t learn one thing in four years of college; I haven’t improved since I left high school.” It was astonishing to discover how disenchanted this player had been with his college experience. He had played in several Final Fours, one of which his team won. It is clear that serious players want more from a coach than winning trophies. They want to prepare for the next level. They want to get better.
Many would argue that the ultimate acid test of a player is “What impact did you have on the game?” Surely the ultimate acid test of a coach is “What impact did you have on your players?”
If you Coach, use the article as a template for self reflection. If you are a supporter or parent of a player who goes to games, use it too reflect upon your team's Coach, then figure out a way to help the Coach. But don't dump on the Coach becuase things may not being going well.
The Craft of Coaching
Many qualities and attributes are needed in moving players to new levels
Bill Beswick, renowned sports psychologist formerly of Manchester United and now with Middlesborough FC, has a saying which should inspire all coaches:
“A good coach is able to take a player where they have never been before and will not get to on their own.”
This in many ways gives meaning to what it is to coach and encapsulates the primary purpose of the coaching profession. This article explores coaching as a craft, a professional endeavor which requires pride of performance, acquisition of highly-valued skills and has an objective which is both enormously satisfying and develops an insatiable appetite for more.
At an NSCAA Academy a few years ago, a disgruntled graduate from a highly successful Division I college program said, “I didn’t learn one thing in four years of college; I haven’t improved since I left high school.” It was astonishing to discover how disenchanted this player had been with his college experience. He had played in several Final Fours, one of which his team won. It is clear that serious players want more from a coach than winning trophies. They want to prepare for the next level. They want to get better.
Many would argue that the ultimate acid test of a player is “What impact did you have on the game?” Surely the ultimate acid test of a coach is “What impact did you have on your players?”
Observation - Match Analysis
I watch a lot of Football matches, sometimes I see what's happenning, other times the pattern is harder to identify. I know I have got a lot better at analysing the game, simply by watching a lot of games and forcing myself to look away from the ball during play and focus on aspects of play for periods of time. Patterns and habits emerge.
I watched a couple of PL games from Round 2 and the variation in opinions following each game were amazing - they ranged from the emotionally affected to unfathomable. Players play and they are always cetral to performance, just as they must always be first in line to take responsibility. Few opinions seeemed to be supported by any vestige of game analysis based a recording and recounting of elements of play acroos the game. Most were based instead on a mish mash of the old player not playing well, the odd massive error, criticism of coaching decisions and an unfounded bias against the playing system employed during the game. As though one thing is ever the answer - about as credible as the "lone gunman'" on Delaley Plaza!
But its a tricky business and people see the game differently and have different playing preferences and prejudices. Removing the subjectivity is linked very precisely to the careful observation and recording of match statistics. At the very serious end of Football, game analysis is an intergral part of coaching, team and player development, aided as it is now by technology.
I'm not sure how many clubs in our Premier League conduct game analysis in a coherent fashion, but it must surely be a development that's time has arrived.
Game analysis assits in bringing clarity to the game just played and informs the next.
This item (extract) is sourced from:
http://www.nscaa.com/
Observation - Match Analysis
To discover what the players need to practice, the coach must observe them play in a game. The game tells us what the players need. The observations the coach makes during a game will give the practice session a focus. Consequently, the soccer coaching model on game day is quite different from football, basketball or lacrosse, which encourages a high degree of interaction between players and coaches. Possibly baseball or ice hockey are better models for soccer, wherein the coach quietly observes the game, writes notes and occasionally exhorts players to perform.
I watched a couple of PL games from Round 2 and the variation in opinions following each game were amazing - they ranged from the emotionally affected to unfathomable. Players play and they are always cetral to performance, just as they must always be first in line to take responsibility. Few opinions seeemed to be supported by any vestige of game analysis based a recording and recounting of elements of play acroos the game. Most were based instead on a mish mash of the old player not playing well, the odd massive error, criticism of coaching decisions and an unfounded bias against the playing system employed during the game. As though one thing is ever the answer - about as credible as the "lone gunman'" on Delaley Plaza!
But its a tricky business and people see the game differently and have different playing preferences and prejudices. Removing the subjectivity is linked very precisely to the careful observation and recording of match statistics. At the very serious end of Football, game analysis is an intergral part of coaching, team and player development, aided as it is now by technology.
I'm not sure how many clubs in our Premier League conduct game analysis in a coherent fashion, but it must surely be a development that's time has arrived.
Game analysis assits in bringing clarity to the game just played and informs the next.
This item (extract) is sourced from:
http://www.nscaa.com/
Observation - Match Analysis
To discover what the players need to practice, the coach must observe them play in a game. The game tells us what the players need. The observations the coach makes during a game will give the practice session a focus. Consequently, the soccer coaching model on game day is quite different from football, basketball or lacrosse, which encourages a high degree of interaction between players and coaches. Possibly baseball or ice hockey are better models for soccer, wherein the coach quietly observes the game, writes notes and occasionally exhorts players to perform.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Womens Premier League - Round 3 Fixtures
The next round of the Capital Football Womens Premier League is as follows:
- 2 May 10 2:00PM Belwest Foxes v Woden Valley Kaleen Enclosed 1
- 2 May 10 2:00PM Belconnen Utd v Brindabella Blues Kaleen Enclosed 2
- 2 May 10 2:00PM ANU WFC v Canberra FC ANU Willows 1
- 2 May 10 2:00PM Weston Creek v Tuggeranong Utd WFC ANU Willows 2
Mens Premier League - Round 3 Fixtures
The next round of the Capital Football Mens Premier League is as follows:
- 30 Apr 10 8:00PM Monaro Panthers v Canberra City Hawker Football Centre
- 1 May 10 6:00PM Belconnen Utd v Cooma Tigers McKellar Park
- 2 May 10 3:00PM Woden Valley v Tuggeranong Utd Woden Park Enclosed
- 2 May 10 3:00PM Canberra FC v ANU FC Deakin Stadium
- 2 May 10 5:00PM Canberra Olympic v Goulburn Strikers Hawker Football Centre
Kanga Cup - Be Part Of It!
We are incredibly lucky in the ACT Region when it come to Football. We have some absolutely top class junior / youth Football to look at free of charge - in any year - the NTC Challenge, Under 13 Boys and Under 13 Girls Nationals, Canberra United home games, AIS home games and various other fixtures, ACTAS fixtures and visiting international teams.
But top of the list for national and international community based involvement is the KANGA CUP. Any team can enter. Capital Football Clubs are mad if they get themseleves to enter teams at the various age groups. Just watch how your team improves by exposure to teams from places they will get to play again.
Who can forget the Singot Primary School (Sth Korea) Under 12 Boys teams hosted by Monaro Panthers. They are just sensational. When they participate they get bigger crowds than some Premier League games - and so they should - its better football! Then there is the US Girls team from some private school (name escapes me at the moment) and their nickname was the "silver stealers, because the school organises for the them to compete at various tournaments around the world and they usually win the silverware. It's a world game!
Don't let your son or daughter pass through the age groups in football without at least one shot at the Kanga Cup.
Russ Gibbs, Media & Public Relations Officer, Capital Football has asked the NPL to pass on the following information:
Have you nominated your team for the McDonald's Kanga Cup yet?
The McDonald's Kanga Cup is the most prestigious youth tournament of its kind to be currently operating within Australia, is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere and one of the biggest tournaments in the world. Winning a McDonald's Kanga Cup is the most coveted prize in Australian youth football. The tournament is open to club, school, association or community based teams that are part of the International Football Family. It caters for male and female youth ranging from 9 years to 18 years of age.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
NPL Report to the Farpost on the Goulburn Strikers FCv Woden Valley FC Round 2 Fixture
When we can the Nearpost Local provides a sideline report on the PL games being played by Woden Valley FC. Only fair, its the Club I follow.
It was a good day at Cookbundoon and Goulburn Strikers are fine hosts. Pleasure to travel to play them. The place has a real good feel to it.
Woden Valley FC played Goulburn Strikers FC at Cookbundoon on Sunday 18 April 2010. Not a happy day for the Woden Valler PL team, they got thumped, 6:0. The Woden Valley PL16, PL18 were triumphant with utterley dominant performances (14:0 and 12:0 respectively). The Woden Valley PPL came home comfortably with a 3-1 win.
So the Championship points went to Woden Valley, but as we all know, its importnant to have a successful PL team. Given the strong performance against a formidable Belconnen United the week before, there was every reason to anticipate a strong performance by Woden Valley againt the Strikers. Alas, Woden got struck!
Download the Podcast here:
It was a good day at Cookbundoon and Goulburn Strikers are fine hosts. Pleasure to travel to play them. The place has a real good feel to it.
Woden Valley FC played Goulburn Strikers FC at Cookbundoon on Sunday 18 April 2010. Not a happy day for the Woden Valler PL team, they got thumped, 6:0. The Woden Valley PL16, PL18 were triumphant with utterley dominant performances (14:0 and 12:0 respectively). The Woden Valley PPL came home comfortably with a 3-1 win.
So the Championship points went to Woden Valley, but as we all know, its importnant to have a successful PL team. Given the strong performance against a formidable Belconnen United the week before, there was every reason to anticipate a strong performance by Woden Valley againt the Strikers. Alas, Woden got struck!
Download the Podcast here:
Tuggeranong United FC and Monaro Panthers FC Tell Their Stories and Pinoy Football Aid
This program is broadcast on 20 April 2010 at 7:00PM on 2xxfm, Australian Community Radio Network.
Pinoy Football Aid
This is a fair dinkum local story that gives life to the notion of the "world game"! One Australian in Football, Sorin Clenci, decided he would make a difference for others less fortunate than ourselves. He collects football boots and any other used football gear, packs it up and sends it to the Phillipines to young players. He makes sure it gets to the players in impoverished locations. Recycled football gear. Terrific idea and a good bloke. Get involved or drop your used gear off at Sportman's Warehouse stores, who collect items for Pinoy Football Aid. For all the details go to:
http://pinoyfootball.blogspot.com/
Tuggeranong United FC
The 2009 season was one that gave the club a lot to be pleased about across the PL grades. The 2010 season sees them starting all over again. Players lured away with a fistfull of dollars and others deciding either to take a rest fromt hegame or play on a more social basis. The Club has a good coach, a thinking player's coach, willing workers, lots of young players and not much money. This is a Club that produces players from Rooball to Premier League and they are so often the sort of Club that get's a bad deal at the hands of other PL Clubs who rely on others to produce the talent - then raid it! In today's fast food world, where everything is seemingly negotiable. where instant gratification is too often at teh top of the list of plaer and parent requirements, genuine Community Based Football Clubs are under threat. Let's hope that at the end of this season, after doing all the hard work, the players stay with the club and other clubs keep thier sticky fingers off the Tuggeranong roster. The Head Coach of Tuggeranong has a few things to say that should be noticed by other clubs with little cash to waste on player payments, and Capital Football, when it comes to reviewing the playing rules around the PL Pathways comnpetition. If Clubs like Tuggernanong cannot prosper, the Capital Football Premier League structure will collapse. Simple as that!
Monaro Panthers FC
This is one club that started with the gun at its head! It has been awarded a one year licence to participate in the Capital Football Premier League. Options to follow. So for Monaro Panthers there is no time to waste and they had to get competitive as soon as praciticable and by any reasonable means available to them. That usually means spending money on players. Monaro Panthers are a smart bunch, they have a plan. The most obvious reason for placing them under this pressure is that Monaro Panthers have not fielded senior teams (eg SL1 etc) for a long time and needed to recruit, train and sustain two new senior teams - Pathway and Premier League. Its the obvious safe bet for the Captial Football Board but its not necessarily the best way forward for Monaro Panthers, unless you spend money and make sure every aspect of the "plan" hits the mark. That's a lot of pressure with a lot less than a year to find the players. Their start to the season through the Fed Cup was awful, but they kept their nerve, got the players necessary to do the job on the paddock and now sit top of the table after two rounds. I know, two games do not make make a season, but you have to admit, this is a pretty impressive start and tells you a lot about how this Club will see the season going forward. They are their to win, the luxury (or refuge) of "develop" is not in the "one year" plan. Good luck to them! They deserve it.
Download the Podcast here:
Pinoy Football Aid
This is a fair dinkum local story that gives life to the notion of the "world game"! One Australian in Football, Sorin Clenci, decided he would make a difference for others less fortunate than ourselves. He collects football boots and any other used football gear, packs it up and sends it to the Phillipines to young players. He makes sure it gets to the players in impoverished locations. Recycled football gear. Terrific idea and a good bloke. Get involved or drop your used gear off at Sportman's Warehouse stores, who collect items for Pinoy Football Aid. For all the details go to:
http://pinoyfootball.blogspot.com/
Tuggeranong United FC
The 2009 season was one that gave the club a lot to be pleased about across the PL grades. The 2010 season sees them starting all over again. Players lured away with a fistfull of dollars and others deciding either to take a rest fromt hegame or play on a more social basis. The Club has a good coach, a thinking player's coach, willing workers, lots of young players and not much money. This is a Club that produces players from Rooball to Premier League and they are so often the sort of Club that get's a bad deal at the hands of other PL Clubs who rely on others to produce the talent - then raid it! In today's fast food world, where everything is seemingly negotiable. where instant gratification is too often at teh top of the list of plaer and parent requirements, genuine Community Based Football Clubs are under threat. Let's hope that at the end of this season, after doing all the hard work, the players stay with the club and other clubs keep thier sticky fingers off the Tuggeranong roster. The Head Coach of Tuggeranong has a few things to say that should be noticed by other clubs with little cash to waste on player payments, and Capital Football, when it comes to reviewing the playing rules around the PL Pathways comnpetition. If Clubs like Tuggernanong cannot prosper, the Capital Football Premier League structure will collapse. Simple as that!
Monaro Panthers FC
This is one club that started with the gun at its head! It has been awarded a one year licence to participate in the Capital Football Premier League. Options to follow. So for Monaro Panthers there is no time to waste and they had to get competitive as soon as praciticable and by any reasonable means available to them. That usually means spending money on players. Monaro Panthers are a smart bunch, they have a plan. The most obvious reason for placing them under this pressure is that Monaro Panthers have not fielded senior teams (eg SL1 etc) for a long time and needed to recruit, train and sustain two new senior teams - Pathway and Premier League. Its the obvious safe bet for the Captial Football Board but its not necessarily the best way forward for Monaro Panthers, unless you spend money and make sure every aspect of the "plan" hits the mark. That's a lot of pressure with a lot less than a year to find the players. Their start to the season through the Fed Cup was awful, but they kept their nerve, got the players necessary to do the job on the paddock and now sit top of the table after two rounds. I know, two games do not make make a season, but you have to admit, this is a pretty impressive start and tells you a lot about how this Club will see the season going forward. They are their to win, the luxury (or refuge) of "develop" is not in the "one year" plan. Good luck to them! They deserve it.
Download the Podcast here:
Monday, April 19, 2010
Mens Premier League Round 2 Results
The results for Round 2 are as follows:
Canberra Olympic 0 v Belconnen United 0
Tuggeranong United 1 (Alex Weber 4’) Monaro Panthers 5 (Nathan Walker 18’, 42’, Ante Ruskan 37’, Goran Veljanovski 51’, 84’)
Canberra FC 4 (Stephen Lee 21’, 40’, Adam Spaleta 44’, Ivan Pavlak 54’) Canberra City 1 (David Dexter 39’)
Goulburn Strikers 6 (Brody Willis 21’, 65’, Daniel Aliffi 25’, Nicky Rogers 44’, Sam Taylor 51’, 80’) Woden Valley 0
Cooma Tigers 2 (Jair Wilk 70’, Jean-Pierre D’Ambrosio 75’) ANU FC 0
Canberra Olympic 0 v Belconnen United 0
Tuggeranong United 1 (Alex Weber 4’) Monaro Panthers 5 (Nathan Walker 18’, 42’, Ante Ruskan 37’, Goran Veljanovski 51’, 84’)
Canberra FC 4 (Stephen Lee 21’, 40’, Adam Spaleta 44’, Ivan Pavlak 54’) Canberra City 1 (David Dexter 39’)
Goulburn Strikers 6 (Brody Willis 21’, 65’, Daniel Aliffi 25’, Nicky Rogers 44’, Sam Taylor 51’, 80’) Woden Valley 0
Cooma Tigers 2 (Jair Wilk 70’, Jean-Pierre D’Ambrosio 75’) ANU FC 0
Womens Premier League Round 2 Results
The Round 2 results are as follows:
Belwest Foxes 11 (Cian Maciejewski (2), Hope Wilkins (2), Snez Veljanovska, Kim Crocker, Tahlia Stanley, Lucy Hanrahan, Alice Nicola, Melanie Luksa (pen), Nicole Somi (own goal)) Canberra FC 1 (Aurelia Bullot)
Weston Creek 3 (Sarah Crittenden (2), Kelly Donnelly) ANU WFC 0
Tuggeranong United 1 (Freyja Jacobsen) Belconnen United 1 (Maja Blasch)
Brindabella Blues 0 v Woden Valley 8 (Catherine Brown (3), Erin Clout (2), Grace Field, Meg McLaughlin, Jaline Hoek)
Belwest Foxes 11 (Cian Maciejewski (2), Hope Wilkins (2), Snez Veljanovska, Kim Crocker, Tahlia Stanley, Lucy Hanrahan, Alice Nicola, Melanie Luksa (pen), Nicole Somi (own goal)) Canberra FC 1 (Aurelia Bullot)
Weston Creek 3 (Sarah Crittenden (2), Kelly Donnelly) ANU WFC 0
Tuggeranong United 1 (Freyja Jacobsen) Belconnen United 1 (Maja Blasch)
Brindabella Blues 0 v Woden Valley 8 (Catherine Brown (3), Erin Clout (2), Grace Field, Meg McLaughlin, Jaline Hoek)
Australian Under 13 Girls Training Camp Squad
Congratulations - One ACT Under 13 Girls has made it through to the inaugural Australian Under13 Traning Camp Squad:
Siena SENATORE
Sourced from:
http://www.a-league.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=33418
Under 13 Girls Training Camp
Friday, 16 April 2010
Westfield Australian Under 13 Girls National Team Head Coach, Nicola Williams, has selected a squad of thirty (30) players to attend a training camp at the Australian Institute of Sport, Canberra from Thursday 13 May to Sunday 16 May.
Williams selected the squad from the recent 2010 Westfield FFA National Junior Championships for Girls which were held in Canberra.
“What we saw last week was a new way of playing implementing the FFA curriculum which saw a high standard of play throughout the tournament culminating in an exciting All-Star game,” said Head Coach Nicola Williams.
“The new curriculum gives players more time with the ball and gives them the chance to play which made it easier to identify a promising selection of players with some standouts in the central midfield and attacking positions.
“There are a lot of players trialing for positions and it will be tough to make a final selection of players as there are a lot of players performing at a high level from a very early age.”
This squad will be reduced to twenty two (22) players after the selection camp in May, and will represent Australia at the upcoming AFC Under 13 Girls – Festival of Football.
The AFC Under 13 – Festival of Football is scheduled to be held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from the 20h June to 3rd July 2010.
Siena SENATORE
Sourced from:
http://www.a-league.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=33418
Under 13 Girls Training Camp
Friday, 16 April 2010
Westfield Australian Under 13 Girls National Team Head Coach, Nicola Williams, has selected a squad of thirty (30) players to attend a training camp at the Australian Institute of Sport, Canberra from Thursday 13 May to Sunday 16 May.
Williams selected the squad from the recent 2010 Westfield FFA National Junior Championships for Girls which were held in Canberra.
“What we saw last week was a new way of playing implementing the FFA curriculum which saw a high standard of play throughout the tournament culminating in an exciting All-Star game,” said Head Coach Nicola Williams.
“The new curriculum gives players more time with the ball and gives them the chance to play which made it easier to identify a promising selection of players with some standouts in the central midfield and attacking positions.
“There are a lot of players trialing for positions and it will be tough to make a final selection of players as there are a lot of players performing at a high level from a very early age.”
This squad will be reduced to twenty two (22) players after the selection camp in May, and will represent Australia at the upcoming AFC Under 13 Girls – Festival of Football.
The AFC Under 13 – Festival of Football is scheduled to be held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from the 20h June to 3rd July 2010.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Concussions 101
The Club I support had a couple of concussions during games in recent weeks. Did we handle them well or did we just get lucky? What about your Club?
So you know about concussion do you? Then explain to me why far too many coaches and parents allow players (all ages) to return to the field of play just becuase they say "I'm OK"? If you let them go back out to play after they reported symptoms of concussion (or you observed them), then you were a complete goose, no, you were bloody irresponsible and just failed Concussions 101. If nothing further happened you and the injured player probably got lucky - I say probably, because who knows what the future brings?
This is a simple guide sourced from http://kidshealth.org/ to get us started.
Concussions
Jake banged his head hard when he was tackled, and he felt kind of weird afterward. He thought it was just another hit that he could shake off — and he wanted to stay on the field. After the game, though, he felt pretty sick. Should Jake have kept on playing?
Definitely not. Jake may have had a concussion, and it was actually a bad idea for him to stay in the game.
So you know about concussion do you? Then explain to me why far too many coaches and parents allow players (all ages) to return to the field of play just becuase they say "I'm OK"? If you let them go back out to play after they reported symptoms of concussion (or you observed them), then you were a complete goose, no, you were bloody irresponsible and just failed Concussions 101. If nothing further happened you and the injured player probably got lucky - I say probably, because who knows what the future brings?
This is a simple guide sourced from http://kidshealth.org/ to get us started.
Concussions
Jake banged his head hard when he was tackled, and he felt kind of weird afterward. He thought it was just another hit that he could shake off — and he wanted to stay on the field. After the game, though, he felt pretty sick. Should Jake have kept on playing?
Definitely not. Jake may have had a concussion, and it was actually a bad idea for him to stay in the game.
Mens Premier League - Round 2
You would be very hard to please if there wasn't a game in this round that didn;t take your fancy! Get there!
Friday 16th April
Canberra Olympic v Belconnen United - (Hawker Football Centre), kick off 20:00
Saturday 17th April
Tuggeranong United v Monaro Panthers - (Kambah 2-1), kick off 15:00
Sunday 18th April
Canberra FC v Canberra City - (Deakin Stadium), kick off 15:00
Goulburn Strikers v Woden Valley - (Cookbundoon), kick off 15:00
Cooma Tigers v ANU FC - (Nijong Oval), kick off 15:00
Friday 16th April
Canberra Olympic v Belconnen United - (Hawker Football Centre), kick off 20:00
Saturday 17th April
Tuggeranong United v Monaro Panthers - (Kambah 2-1), kick off 15:00
Sunday 18th April
Canberra FC v Canberra City - (Deakin Stadium), kick off 15:00
Goulburn Strikers v Woden Valley - (Cookbundoon), kick off 15:00
Cooma Tigers v ANU FC - (Nijong Oval), kick off 15:00
Women's Premier League - Round 2
Some terrific games this weekend - get there!
Sunday 18th April 2010
Sunday 18th April 2010
- Brindabella Blues v Woden Valley - (Calwell 2-3), kick off 14:00
- Canberra FC v Belwest Foxes - (ANU Willows 1), kick off 14:00
- Tuggeranong United v Belconnen United - (Kambah 2-1), kick off 14:00
- Weston Creek v ANU WFC - (Woden Park), kick off 14:00
Thursday, April 15, 2010
An Issue That Requires Careful Thought - Playing Up
Nearly every Club I've encountered allows young players to "play up" an age group, on the basis that they can handle the higher level of resistance inherit in company of more physically able (if not more technically competent) players. Why, it happens in ACT Representative teams. But what's wrong with being good at age? Parents more often than many would like to admit, bask in the reflected glory associated with their child appearing to be rewarded for superior talent at age. The odd few Clubs cynically move young children forward to cover playing roster gaps at the higher age. No thought for "development". As the children grow, their performance in effected, usually adversely, until nature takes its course and they are back on track. Push them too hard at these times and you risk injuring them or pushing them into another sport - or back to their Playstation! But try telling some parents (and the odd Coach) that this year the boy or girl should go back to their age group. "Development" and "Fun" are two words frequently used most inappropriately in junior football. Tread carefully around "playing up"!
There is one exception to the "playing up" trend - it was the ACT teams at the Futsal Nationals. Bravo! It works!
This article is courtesy of http://www.usyouthsoccer.org/
by Sam Snow
Sam Snow is the Senior Assistant Technical Director for US Youth Soccer.
Playing Up?
Fairly often we are asked about players moving up in age group or level of competition. So here first is a check list of questions to be asked by the coaches, parents, administrators and the player to make a decision on whether to move up or stay put. The check list is followed by several of the Position Statements pertinent to this topic from the state association Technical Directors.
There is one exception to the "playing up" trend - it was the ACT teams at the Futsal Nationals. Bravo! It works!
This article is courtesy of http://www.usyouthsoccer.org/
by Sam Snow
Sam Snow is the Senior Assistant Technical Director for US Youth Soccer.
Playing Up?
Fairly often we are asked about players moving up in age group or level of competition. So here first is a check list of questions to be asked by the coaches, parents, administrators and the player to make a decision on whether to move up or stay put. The check list is followed by several of the Position Statements pertinent to this topic from the state association Technical Directors.
Sometimes Training is Just Like This!
Courtesy of http://www.footy4kids.co.uk/
A training session I'd rather forget
This is the sorry story:
Most of my team of U10 girls would have difficulty shooting their way out of a paper bag. When they do get a chance to shoot they often delay for so long, the opportunity is missed.
So during a recent session, I decided to work on basic shooting technique and then move onto an activity that would help them spot chances to score and take the chances more quickly. The two games I planned to use, Quick Fire Shooting and Three BIG Goals are tried and tested.
A training session I'd rather forget
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
A Common Problem Among Junior Players - Sever's Disease
Sourced from: http://www.physioworks.com.au/_webapp_42520/Sever's_Disease
Sever's Disease
A Common Cause of Children's Heel Pain
Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in active children. It occurs when the growth plate of the heel is injured by excessive forces during early adolescence.
Sever's Disease
A Common Cause of Children's Heel Pain
What is Sever's Disease?
Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in active children. It occurs when the growth plate of the heel is injured by excessive forces during early adolescence.
A Common Problem Among Junior Players - Osgood Schlatters Disease
Sourced from:
http://www.physioworks.com.au/_webapp_42631/Osgood_Schlatters_Disease
Osgood Schlatters Disease
What is Osgood Schlatter Disease?
Osgood Schlatter’s Disease is far less frightful than it’s name suggests. Rather than being a disease, it's better described as an overuse injury.
Osgood Schlatter’s Disease is an inflammation of the bone at the top of the shin (tibia) where the tendon from the kneecap (patella) attaches.
Who Suffers Osgood Schlatter's Disease?
http://www.physioworks.com.au/_webapp_42631/Osgood_Schlatters_Disease
Osgood Schlatters Disease
What is Osgood Schlatter Disease?
Osgood Schlatter’s Disease is far less frightful than it’s name suggests. Rather than being a disease, it's better described as an overuse injury.
Osgood Schlatter’s Disease is an inflammation of the bone at the top of the shin (tibia) where the tendon from the kneecap (patella) attaches.
FFA National Curriculum in commercial academies, development programs and clinics - or is it????
This item is osurced from Football NSW website:
http://www.footballnsw.com/index.php?id=17&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=3573&tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=6&cHash=1f76cd93e3
Have a read of this interesting article. Then ask yourself - why is it so expensive to have child placed in a High Performance Program, is it really "high performance" or simply community development and why is the FFA intending to spend lots of money propping up A League financial disasters rather than underwriting game development all the way down to your child. You get to choose whether you spend your disposable income and if you should engage a private provider for football development, no problem. But the FFA and State Federations exist to service the game and are they doing their job? This article sparked more questions for me than it answered and the FFA (and by extension CF) are well and truly on the hook.
And what a retrograde step it is to have the U12's move to 11v11 and full field, when we in the ACT had the answer in small sided games. Talk about curriculum!!!
FFA National Curriculum in commercial academies, development programs and clinics
08.04.10 12:19
“It has come to the attention of Football Federation Australia that several Member Federations and Hyundai A-League Clubs are conducting a number of elite academies, development programs and coaching clinics.
Some of these academies, programs and clinics mention that the content will follow the FFA National Curriculum. ..."
http://www.footballnsw.com/index.php?id=17&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=3573&tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=6&cHash=1f76cd93e3
Have a read of this interesting article. Then ask yourself - why is it so expensive to have child placed in a High Performance Program, is it really "high performance" or simply community development and why is the FFA intending to spend lots of money propping up A League financial disasters rather than underwriting game development all the way down to your child. You get to choose whether you spend your disposable income and if you should engage a private provider for football development, no problem. But the FFA and State Federations exist to service the game and are they doing their job? This article sparked more questions for me than it answered and the FFA (and by extension CF) are well and truly on the hook.
And what a retrograde step it is to have the U12's move to 11v11 and full field, when we in the ACT had the answer in small sided games. Talk about curriculum!!!
FFA National Curriculum in commercial academies, development programs and clinics
08.04.10 12:19
“It has come to the attention of Football Federation Australia that several Member Federations and Hyundai A-League Clubs are conducting a number of elite academies, development programs and coaching clinics.
Some of these academies, programs and clinics mention that the content will follow the FFA National Curriculum. ..."
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Head Coach ACTAS Men's Football Program Talks About Player Development.
This program is broadcast on 2xxfm, 98.3mhz through the Australian Community radio network on Tuesday, 13 April 2010.
The Head Coach of ACTAS Men's Football Program, Mike Milovanovic, reflects on the performance of the Nara Ichijo High School team that played recently in the ACT, the player technical standards set by Japan, the amount of training required to achieve the standards of a Japanese High School team and his general expectations of the individual player technical abilties on arrival at teh ACTAS Men's program.
It's very important to see it from the perspective of the Head Coach of ACTAS for the Men's Program. His role is pivotal to the development and future opportunities of those teenage boys who aspire to higher honours, perhaps a professional career in football. ACTAS concerns itself with the preparation of these young players for competition / selection for and AIS scolarship. It's serious business.
It goes without saying that the ACTAS program must be first rate, but what about all the development that preceeds selection for ACTAS? That's Club and Capital Football core business. In truth, one cannot work without the other if we are to be as good as we can be in football.
ACTAS Coach is a firm believer in having his players engaged in as much football as possible - properly selected and constructed. If a young player is fortunate enough to be selected for ACTAS Men's Football, here are two facts that illustrate the level of committment:
The challenge is in front of us.
Download the Podcast here:
The Head Coach of ACTAS Men's Football Program, Mike Milovanovic, reflects on the performance of the Nara Ichijo High School team that played recently in the ACT, the player technical standards set by Japan, the amount of training required to achieve the standards of a Japanese High School team and his general expectations of the individual player technical abilties on arrival at teh ACTAS Men's program.
It's very important to see it from the perspective of the Head Coach of ACTAS for the Men's Program. His role is pivotal to the development and future opportunities of those teenage boys who aspire to higher honours, perhaps a professional career in football. ACTAS concerns itself with the preparation of these young players for competition / selection for and AIS scolarship. It's serious business.
It goes without saying that the ACTAS program must be first rate, but what about all the development that preceeds selection for ACTAS? That's Club and Capital Football core business. In truth, one cannot work without the other if we are to be as good as we can be in football.
ACTAS Coach is a firm believer in having his players engaged in as much football as possible - properly selected and constructed. If a young player is fortunate enough to be selected for ACTAS Men's Football, here are two facts that illustrate the level of committment:
- The ACTAS program is a 46 week program
- ACTAS play 44 scheduled games per full program
The challenge is in front of us.
Download the Podcast here:
Monday, April 12, 2010
ACT Under 13 Boys Nationals Campaign Finished - Where To From Here?
The FFA's Under 13 Boy's Nationals finished on Saturday.
The good news for the ACT team is that most who observed the ACT team this year concluded that by comparison to last year's efforts by the ACT, there had been substantial improvement. The boys gave their best. It was not an easy tournament.
Here is the final position in Group B (which included the ACT team):
Group B P W D L F A GD BP Pts
1. NSW Metropolitan 5 5 0 0 14 3 +11 5 20
4. ACT 5 2 1 2 5 7 -2 nil 7
5. Victoria Country 5 1 0 4 7 8 -1 nil 3
6. Northern Territory 5 0 0 5 4 24 -20 nil 0
Three ACT boys were selected to play in the All Stars exhibition match against the winner of Group B:
The good news for the ACT team is that most who observed the ACT team this year concluded that by comparison to last year's efforts by the ACT, there had been substantial improvement. The boys gave their best. It was not an easy tournament.
Here is the final position in Group B (which included the ACT team):
Group B P W D L F A GD BP Pts
1. NSW Metropolitan 5 5 0 0 14 3 +11 5 20
2. NSW Country 5 3 1 1 9 4 +5 3 13
3. Tasmania 5 3 0 2 18 11 +7 1 104. ACT 5 2 1 2 5 7 -2 nil 7
5. Victoria Country 5 1 0 4 7 8 -1 nil 3
6. Northern Territory 5 0 0 5 4 24 -20 nil 0
Three ACT boys were selected to play in the All Stars exhibition match against the winner of Group B:
- Nathan Alfernik (gk)
- George Timopheou
- Thomas Milicevic
It's time to reflect on the way ahead to next year's Nationals!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Womens Premier League Round One Results
The Women's Premier League got off to a flying start, with new Clubs Tuggeranong and Brindabella making commendable starts to the season. Whilst they did not win, the scores were close. Experience in the Federation Cup has done neither team any harm.
Woden Valley is off to good start, Belwest Foxes are running smoothly, Canberra FC have steeped out on the right foot this season after some rebuilding and ANU by all accounts were very competitive.
The draw between Belconnen and Weston Creek (defending premiers) is a clear indication of how hard fought season 2010 is likely to be for all clubs.
The participation of ACTAS and W League Players in the Premier League (when judged best for the player by Coach Juna) is just the ingredient needed to lift the competitiveness of all teams. It works for Clubs and players - and spectators.
Women’s Premier League
Round One
Canberra FC 3 (Grace Gill (2, 1 pen), Aurelia Bullot) Brindabella Blues 1 (Laura Johnson)
ANU WFC 0 Woden Valley 3 (Sally Rojahn, Emma Thornton (pen), Isabella Boag-Taylor)
Weston Creek 0 Belconnen United 0
Belwest Foxes 2 (Snez Veljanovska (pen), Tahlia Stanley) Tuggeranong United 0
For a full report go to:
http://www.capitalfootball.com.au/site/news.php?id=582
Woden Valley is off to good start, Belwest Foxes are running smoothly, Canberra FC have steeped out on the right foot this season after some rebuilding and ANU by all accounts were very competitive.
The draw between Belconnen and Weston Creek (defending premiers) is a clear indication of how hard fought season 2010 is likely to be for all clubs.
The participation of ACTAS and W League Players in the Premier League (when judged best for the player by Coach Juna) is just the ingredient needed to lift the competitiveness of all teams. It works for Clubs and players - and spectators.
Women’s Premier League
Round One
Canberra FC 3 (Grace Gill (2, 1 pen), Aurelia Bullot) Brindabella Blues 1 (Laura Johnson)
ANU WFC 0 Woden Valley 3 (Sally Rojahn, Emma Thornton (pen), Isabella Boag-Taylor)
Weston Creek 0 Belconnen United 0
Belwest Foxes 2 (Snez Veljanovska (pen), Tahlia Stanley) Tuggeranong United 0
For a full report go to:
http://www.capitalfootball.com.au/site/news.php?id=582
Men's Premier League Round One Results
Who said Football is predictable and that preseason form determines a season? No one is the answer after Round One and good thing too!
Monaro Panthers defeated the in form Goulburn Strikers - that just didn't seem possible after the awful Federation Cup efforts by the Pathers. But there we are - Panthers have arisen from the ashes. Just what the competition needed. Well done!
Tuggernanong felt the wrath of CFC and they wont be alone in that expereince this season, while the rest of the games were very closely contested. On balance, a terrific start to the season.
Gatorade Premier League
Round One
Canberra FC 11 (Paul Ivanic 5’, 7’, 58’, 61’, 78’, Adam Spaleta 45’, John Glass 48’, 50’, own goal 67’, Michael Spaleta 80’, 92’) Tuggeranong United 1 (Steve Oxford 74’)
ANU FC 1 (Tom Rogic 11’) Canberra City 2 (David Dexter 56’, Misko Naumoski 60’)
Belconnen United 3 (Dustin Wells, David Arranz, Tai Smith) Woden Valley 2 (Carlos Salazar (pen), Lukas Cole)
Goulburn Strikers 1 (Daniel Aliffi) Monaro Panthers 2 (Nathan Walker, Justin Selkirk)
Canberra Olympic 3 (Andrew Ross 36’, Trent Flanigan 51’, Dominic Giampaolo 67’) Cooma Tigers 2 (Daniel Gecic 46’, Tony Aleksovski 56’)
For a full report go to:
http://www.capitalfootball.com.au/site/news.php?id=580
Monaro Panthers defeated the in form Goulburn Strikers - that just didn't seem possible after the awful Federation Cup efforts by the Pathers. But there we are - Panthers have arisen from the ashes. Just what the competition needed. Well done!
Tuggernanong felt the wrath of CFC and they wont be alone in that expereince this season, while the rest of the games were very closely contested. On balance, a terrific start to the season.
Gatorade Premier League
Round One
Canberra FC 11 (Paul Ivanic 5’, 7’, 58’, 61’, 78’, Adam Spaleta 45’, John Glass 48’, 50’, own goal 67’, Michael Spaleta 80’, 92’) Tuggeranong United 1 (Steve Oxford 74’)
ANU FC 1 (Tom Rogic 11’) Canberra City 2 (David Dexter 56’, Misko Naumoski 60’)
Belconnen United 3 (Dustin Wells, David Arranz, Tai Smith) Woden Valley 2 (Carlos Salazar (pen), Lukas Cole)
Goulburn Strikers 1 (Daniel Aliffi) Monaro Panthers 2 (Nathan Walker, Justin Selkirk)
Canberra Olympic 3 (Andrew Ross 36’, Trent Flanigan 51’, Dominic Giampaolo 67’) Cooma Tigers 2 (Daniel Gecic 46’, Tony Aleksovski 56’)
For a full report go to:
http://www.capitalfootball.com.au/site/news.php?id=580
Friday, April 9, 2010
ACT Under 13 Boys Have a Good Day At The Nationals
The ACT Under 13 Boys, competing in Group B, had a very good day in terms of game results:
Team Played Win Draw Loss GF GA GD Points
1 NSW
Metro 4 4 0 0 13 3 +10 12
2 NSW
Country 4 3 1 0 9 3 +6 10
3 ACT 4 2 1 1 4 3 +1 7
4 Tasmania 4 2 0 2 14 10 +4 6
5 Victoria
Country 4 0 0 4 3 8 -5 0
6 Northern
Territory 4 0 0 4 4 20 -16 0
At the beginning of the day the ACT team was not placed in the first three for Technical Points. Today's performance may have improved this important aspect of assessment.
The final day of the Nationals see the ACT play Tasmania at 1045 hours. The table above indicates that Tasmania has scored more goals than any team in Group B, so it will not be easy. The ACT has not been good at scoring goals. Should be an interesting game.
There is one game that is likely to be all class. Its the Group A clash between NSW Metro 1 and Victoria Metro at 1030 hours. Both teams are at the top of their game and this game might well decide the Championships. Another reason to watch this game - this is the standard of play that we in the ACT should aspire to - we are a long way off at the moment.
- Northern Territory 1 v 3 Australian Capital Territory
- Australian Capital Territory 1 v 0 Victoria Country
Team Played Win Draw Loss GF GA GD Points
1 NSW
Metro 4 4 0 0 13 3 +10 12
2 NSW
Country 4 3 1 0 9 3 +6 10
3 ACT 4 2 1 1 4 3 +1 7
4 Tasmania 4 2 0 2 14 10 +4 6
5 Victoria
Country 4 0 0 4 3 8 -5 0
6 Northern
Territory 4 0 0 4 4 20 -16 0
At the beginning of the day the ACT team was not placed in the first three for Technical Points. Today's performance may have improved this important aspect of assessment.
The final day of the Nationals see the ACT play Tasmania at 1045 hours. The table above indicates that Tasmania has scored more goals than any team in Group B, so it will not be easy. The ACT has not been good at scoring goals. Should be an interesting game.
There is one game that is likely to be all class. Its the Group A clash between NSW Metro 1 and Victoria Metro at 1030 hours. Both teams are at the top of their game and this game might well decide the Championships. Another reason to watch this game - this is the standard of play that we in the ACT should aspire to - we are a long way off at the moment.
The Teenage Brain - part 3
One of the pleasing aspects in which the Nationals are run, is that you cannot hear the Coaches delivering a barrage of instructions from the sideline. Mostly the parents seem to be more observant than commentators intruding into the game. The players play and work things out for themselves. Good learning! It is entirely consistent with the general infomration provided in this series around brain development.
Frances E. Jensen, MD, senior assistant in Neurology at Children's Hospital Boston and a professor at Harvard Medical School, is translating the most up-to-date research on the teen brain which she shares with parents, teachers and teens during her presentation, "Teen Brain 101"
Frances E. Jensen, MD, senior assistant in Neurology at Children's Hospital Boston and a professor at Harvard Medical School, is translating the most up-to-date research on the teen brain which she shares with parents, teachers and teens during her presentation, "Teen Brain 101"
The Teen Brain - part 2
Part 2 of the Teen Brain. Some elements of this will ring bells. Have you ever thought of Football as an "addicition"? Ah yes - decision making!
Frances E. Jensen, MD, senior assistant in Neurology at Children's Hospital Boston and a professor at Harvard Medical School, is translating the most up-to-date research on the teen brain which she shares with parents, teachers and teens during her presentation, "Teen Brain 101"
Frances E. Jensen, MD, senior assistant in Neurology at Children's Hospital Boston and a professor at Harvard Medical School, is translating the most up-to-date research on the teen brain which she shares with parents, teachers and teens during her presentation, "Teen Brain 101"
NPL Special Series - The Teenage Brain part 1
The FFA's National training Centre Challenge began a series of national football tournaments, designed to showcase our talented Footballers at age. The players are all teenagers (15-17 years of age). The FFA's National Junior Championships have begun at the Under 13 age group and will continue across the age groups throughout the year. The sound technical and attitudinal development of teenage football players is crucial to the development of the game in Australia.
Our best Coaches (Club or representative) should be tasked with the development of the junior / youth players.
The best guides the best to be the best!
It is easily the most rewarding sphere of Football coaching. It is too often left to find its own way forward, particularly at Club level, usually by well intentioned parents who volunteer simply because no one else is available.
So if we are in the crucial business of developing junior players (and an enromous amount goes on before the Under 13 age group), we should have some better understanding of human development at these age groups. Some elementary understanding / awareness of the development of the human brain is so importnat for us as Coaches of junior football players. It may help us manage the diversity of players that present each season at age.
There would not be one coaching course that does not see participants speak about some aspect of player development that revolves around "Behaviour and Atittude" of some players - talented or otherwise at age. So with that in "mind" lets take a quick three part trip through "The Teenage Brain". The presenter is:
Frances E. Jensen, MD, senior assistant in Neurology at Children's Hospital Boston and a professor at Harvard Medical School, presents and translates the most up-to-date research on the teen brain which she shares with parents, teachers and teens during her presentation, "Teen Brain 101"
Our best Coaches (Club or representative) should be tasked with the development of the junior / youth players.
The best guides the best to be the best!
It is easily the most rewarding sphere of Football coaching. It is too often left to find its own way forward, particularly at Club level, usually by well intentioned parents who volunteer simply because no one else is available.
So if we are in the crucial business of developing junior players (and an enromous amount goes on before the Under 13 age group), we should have some better understanding of human development at these age groups. Some elementary understanding / awareness of the development of the human brain is so importnat for us as Coaches of junior football players. It may help us manage the diversity of players that present each season at age.
There would not be one coaching course that does not see participants speak about some aspect of player development that revolves around "Behaviour and Atittude" of some players - talented or otherwise at age. So with that in "mind" lets take a quick three part trip through "The Teenage Brain". The presenter is:
Frances E. Jensen, MD, senior assistant in Neurology at Children's Hospital Boston and a professor at Harvard Medical School, presents and translates the most up-to-date research on the teen brain which she shares with parents, teachers and teens during her presentation, "Teen Brain 101"
Thursday, April 8, 2010
The Outside Stepover Pivot
Here's a move to practice and use in a game.
Is called the Outside Stepover Pivot in this video and has other names - but its a good change of direction.
Is called the Outside Stepover Pivot in this video and has other names - but its a good change of direction.
ACT Under 13 Boys Commence their Nationals Campaign
Following the very commendable performance by the ACT Under 13 Girls, the ACt Under 13 Boys now get their chance to be as good as they can be.
Make no mistake, this is a very tough competition. Two games a day really takes it out of the boys. There is a lot of pressure at Nationals.
The ACT Team is placed in Group B which includes:
Make no mistake, this is a very tough competition. Two games a day really takes it out of the boys. There is a lot of pressure at Nationals.
The ACT Team is placed in Group B which includes:
- Australian Capital Territory
- New South Wales Country
- New South Wales Metro 2
- Northern Territory
- Tasmania
- Victoria Country
The draw for the ACT team is follows:
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
ACT Under 13 Girls Finish A Terrific Nationals Campaign
The ACT Under 13 Girls Team had a terrific 2010 National Junior Championship campaign.
ACT Girls under-13 FFA National Championships Squad:
Hayley Armstrong, Emma Bestek, Freya Brent, Brigette Calabria, Caitlin Cantrill, Julia De Angelis, Jessica Giovinazzo, Mikaela Goldstein, Hiwot Johnstone, Ruth Kravis, Melissa Leary, Edwina Nelson, Siena Senatore, Madelyn Whittall, Phoebe Worth, Georgina Worth, Clea Porteous Borthwick, Hollie Massey (standby)
The team at the Burthurst Tournament prior to the Nationals - important preparation for the Nationals!
They were placed in the much fancied Group A part of the Championship playing schedule. Every game was a hard game and presented new challenges to the girls. They played in good style and as a result produced very praiseworthy results - one win, three draws and one loss. Better still, they were judged (along with their Coach - Colin Jonstone) to have achieved second place in the much prized Technical Assessment score at the end of the competition in Group A.
Five ACT players were selected to play in the final game for the Group A AllStars. The ACT Coach was given the task of Coaching the Group A AllStars.
As they say "Mission Accomplished'!!!
ACT Girls under-13 FFA National Championships Squad:
Hayley Armstrong, Emma Bestek, Freya Brent, Brigette Calabria, Caitlin Cantrill, Julia De Angelis, Jessica Giovinazzo, Mikaela Goldstein, Hiwot Johnstone, Ruth Kravis, Melissa Leary, Edwina Nelson, Siena Senatore, Madelyn Whittall, Phoebe Worth, Georgina Worth, Clea Porteous Borthwick, Hollie Massey (standby)
The team at the Burthurst Tournament prior to the Nationals - important preparation for the Nationals!
The ACT Team at the 2010 Nationals
They were placed in the much fancied Group A part of the Championship playing schedule. Every game was a hard game and presented new challenges to the girls. They played in good style and as a result produced very praiseworthy results - one win, three draws and one loss. Better still, they were judged (along with their Coach - Colin Jonstone) to have achieved second place in the much prized Technical Assessment score at the end of the competition in Group A.
Five ACT players were selected to play in the final game for the Group A AllStars. The ACT Coach was given the task of Coaching the Group A AllStars.
As they say "Mission Accomplished'!!!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
ACT Under 13 Girls On Track At The Nationals!
After a terrific first day at the National Junior Championships, the ACT Under 13 Girls faced at fomidable opponent this morning - South Australia.
South Australia's form at the end of day one was very impressive.
The game against SA this morning was on a ground covered by heavy dew - heavy conditions. This meant that passing required some adjustment, as sprays of water came off the ball on the ground and slowed the speed of the ball. Both teams were challenged by this change in playing conditions.
The first half was all ACT. Itw as easily their best technical performance of the competition thus far. They dominated possession, played an impressive passing / possession game, but just could not put away any of several chances. The SA defence coped - just!
Then came the half time break.
The game turned around completely. The SA team consciously pressed their defence well forward and held the ACT in it's defencive third for more time than was good them. SA dominated possession and the ACT turned out "all hands on deck" to repell the SA team. Fortunately for the ACT, the SA team could do no better at scoring a winning goal than the ACT.
When the full time whistle went, it ended 0:0. A fair result.
So there we have it for the ACT midway through Day 2 - one win (against Queensland), and two draws (NSW Metro and SA) and probably the best of the opposition in their group seen off without loss. However, as each day passes the teams are playing better football. It can only get a bit harder for all concerned.
For example - the game that followed the ACT game this morning was between NSW Metro and Queensland. It was easily the highest quality game I have seen in Group A. Very impressive and to a standard that was a little excess of our ACT performances (based on a whole match performance).
The ACT players must be very pleased with themselves. They are playing as they trained and for much of the time, it looks real good. What a pleasure to watch. Great campaign!
Now on to Northern NSW this afternoon and Victoria metro tomorrow morning.
For all the results so far go to this location:
http://www.capitalfootball.com.au/site/njc_girls_2010.php
South Australia's form at the end of day one was very impressive.
The game against SA this morning was on a ground covered by heavy dew - heavy conditions. This meant that passing required some adjustment, as sprays of water came off the ball on the ground and slowed the speed of the ball. Both teams were challenged by this change in playing conditions.
The first half was all ACT. Itw as easily their best technical performance of the competition thus far. They dominated possession, played an impressive passing / possession game, but just could not put away any of several chances. The SA defence coped - just!
Then came the half time break.
The game turned around completely. The SA team consciously pressed their defence well forward and held the ACT in it's defencive third for more time than was good them. SA dominated possession and the ACT turned out "all hands on deck" to repell the SA team. Fortunately for the ACT, the SA team could do no better at scoring a winning goal than the ACT.
When the full time whistle went, it ended 0:0. A fair result.
So there we have it for the ACT midway through Day 2 - one win (against Queensland), and two draws (NSW Metro and SA) and probably the best of the opposition in their group seen off without loss. However, as each day passes the teams are playing better football. It can only get a bit harder for all concerned.
For example - the game that followed the ACT game this morning was between NSW Metro and Queensland. It was easily the highest quality game I have seen in Group A. Very impressive and to a standard that was a little excess of our ACT performances (based on a whole match performance).
The ACT players must be very pleased with themselves. They are playing as they trained and for much of the time, it looks real good. What a pleasure to watch. Great campaign!
Now on to Northern NSW this afternoon and Victoria metro tomorrow morning.
For all the results so far go to this location:
http://www.capitalfootball.com.au/site/njc_girls_2010.php
National Junior Championships - Under 13 Girls - All The Details From the FFA
The following information was provided by the FFA in a press release today.
The squads and the draw in full.
2010 Westfield FFA National Junior Championships for Girls
The squads and the draw in full.
2010 Westfield FFA National Junior Championships for Girls
Capital Football Technical Director Talks About Player Development And the 1-4-3-3
This program is broadcast on 2xxfm, Austrlain Community Radio Network at 7:00PM on Tuesday.
The program is given to a lengthy "fireside chat" with the Capital Football Technical Director, Ian Shaw. We range across a number of interesting but related matters around player development and Coaching in a developmental environment.
I think you will be hard pressed to argue with or disagree with the Technical Director's veiws on player development.
The Capital Football HPP is in its first cycle and its been hard work to get it going, but a start was made, had to be made in order to give life to the FFA's new National Football Curriculum. Its not been an easy road, but its important to remember that there is no choice in this matter - we simply must get on the same page as the FFA. Importantly for us - progress is evident. Our representative teams have now begum the annual cycle of particpation in the National Youth Championships. It involves a high level of scrutiny and assessment by the FFA Technical Study Group. This is all new ground for players and coaches and technical staff around the nation. It's in this often torrid and potentially conflict ridden environment that a Technical Director and staff must operate. Not an easy task. Football never is! In this environment Ian is clearly both pragmatic and thoughtful.
Sit back, cup of tea to hand or your favourite tipple and have a listen.
Download the program here:
The program is given to a lengthy "fireside chat" with the Capital Football Technical Director, Ian Shaw. We range across a number of interesting but related matters around player development and Coaching in a developmental environment.
I think you will be hard pressed to argue with or disagree with the Technical Director's veiws on player development.
The Capital Football HPP is in its first cycle and its been hard work to get it going, but a start was made, had to be made in order to give life to the FFA's new National Football Curriculum. Its not been an easy road, but its important to remember that there is no choice in this matter - we simply must get on the same page as the FFA. Importantly for us - progress is evident. Our representative teams have now begum the annual cycle of particpation in the National Youth Championships. It involves a high level of scrutiny and assessment by the FFA Technical Study Group. This is all new ground for players and coaches and technical staff around the nation. It's in this often torrid and potentially conflict ridden environment that a Technical Director and staff must operate. Not an easy task. Football never is! In this environment Ian is clearly both pragmatic and thoughtful.
Sit back, cup of tea to hand or your favourite tipple and have a listen.
Download the program here:
Sunday, April 4, 2010
National Junior Championships - Under 13 Girls and Boys - Who is doing the Assessment?
The following press release has been issued by the FFA. Han Berger makes it perfectly clear what he is looking for and the composition of the FFA Technical Committee for the 2010 Westfield FFA National Junior Championships for Girls and Boys is listed. This is a must see tournament - make time to get see a game.
"FFA Technical Director Han Berger believes that the championships are an important part of the Talented Player Pathway within the National Football Curriculum.
“If we want to take our football in Australia to the next level, our youth development programs should focus more on development instead of results,” Berger said on the eve of the tournament.
“We are now looking for the skilful instead of the powerful, with mistakes being learning moments instead of being punished.
“We need to encourage individual play, initiative and risk taking."
"FFA Technical Director Han Berger believes that the championships are an important part of the Talented Player Pathway within the National Football Curriculum.
“If we want to take our football in Australia to the next level, our youth development programs should focus more on development instead of results,” Berger said on the eve of the tournament.
“We are now looking for the skilful instead of the powerful, with mistakes being learning moments instead of being punished.
“We need to encourage individual play, initiative and risk taking."
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Soccer Fouls - Free Kicks, Penalty Kicks, Indirect Free Kicks, Yellow and Red Cards
The 2010 season is due to commence next week so get yourself familiar with the laws of the game concerning:
- Direct Free Kick
- Penalty Kick
- Indirect Free Kick
- Yellow and Red Cards
A Little More On the 1-4-3-3 System of Play
Let's keep studying this system of play. The National Junior Championships starting next Monday at O'Connor playing fields (ACT) will have every team playing this system. It's a great opportunity for coaches, young players and parents to get a good look at how the system is played.
Courtesy of http://www.soccerfitness.com/
Courtesy of http://www.soccerfitness.com/
Harry Redknapp Classic - How To Get The Manager / Coach On Side!!!!
Now I have to admit, Harry Redknapp is one of my favourties. Sooner or later, some dill of a player goes too far with the Coach and BANG!!! Lots of time in the Reserves. The language is a bit strong but...
And Gordon Strachan Manages To Keep Our Feet On the Ground
A gem from 2006. One of my favourites. I'm not saying another thing - you watch and listen.
A Kindness Done Through Football Is Something to Celebrate - Pinoy Football Aid
The Capital Football Technical Director, Ian Shaw, asked me if I would make contact with a bloke in Canberra called Sorin Clenci. Ian has been impressed and a bit overwhelmed by Sorin's charitable works in support of underprivelegded children in other countries. He thought it was a story the Football community in the ACT Region might want to know about.
Sure do Ian! Well done mate.
The NPL contacted Sorin and we will speak to him next week and get the full story. It's called Pinoy Football Aid.
In the meantime, go to his Blog at http://www.pinoyfootball.blogspot.com/ and see for yourself.
This is how his Blog starts:
"I have Started this Blog to Discuss Thank and or Acknowledge all the Individuals, Organisations, Businesses, and Football Clubs whom have helped me to achieve my goals, which are to: Support Promote and Aid Football in Philippines by organising donations of Football shoes and various other football items that will aid poor kids to play football. I am located in Canberra Australia and this is were I am mainly conducting my collection activities. THANK YOU CANBERRA"
No, thank you Sorin and all those that have given support.
Again, from his Blog, here are the donors that have given pairs of old football boots to Pinoy Football Aid.
Keep reading this one! I know there are other acts of kindness among our Clubs and school and teams and it would be good to know about them and put them on the NPL Blog. To all those that give a little back - more power to you!
Sure do Ian! Well done mate.
The NPL contacted Sorin and we will speak to him next week and get the full story. It's called Pinoy Football Aid.
In the meantime, go to his Blog at http://www.pinoyfootball.blogspot.com/ and see for yourself.
This is how his Blog starts:
"I have Started this Blog to Discuss Thank and or Acknowledge all the Individuals, Organisations, Businesses, and Football Clubs whom have helped me to achieve my goals, which are to: Support Promote and Aid Football in Philippines by organising donations of Football shoes and various other football items that will aid poor kids to play football. I am located in Canberra Australia and this is were I am mainly conducting my collection activities. THANK YOU CANBERRA"
No, thank you Sorin and all those that have given support.
Again, from his Blog, here are the donors that have given pairs of old football boots to Pinoy Football Aid.
Keep reading this one! I know there are other acts of kindness among our Clubs and school and teams and it would be good to know about them and put them on the NPL Blog. To all those that give a little back - more power to you!
Friday, April 2, 2010
No Wonder South Australia Is Improving At The Rapid Rate In Junior Football
Eamonn referred this item he discovered on the Football Federation South Australia website.
The FFSA is collaborating with the SA Government to deliver a Football program at a SA Super School.
Delivering quality Football development through the schools is a tried and tested system. Why aren't we doing it in the ACT?
“Football (Soccer) in the North is experiencing unprecedented growth and demand for the code is outstripping supply of available facilities. Suburbs surrounding Gepps Cross have large numbers of new arrivals and their sport of choice is Football (Soccer). The establishment of a Football/Soccer program at the school will add to the educational options that students can access. Linking sport to education is a major focus of Football Federation SA.” CEO of Football Federation SA said.
The FFSA is collaborating with the SA Government to deliver a Football program at a SA Super School.
Delivering quality Football development through the schools is a tried and tested system. Why aren't we doing it in the ACT?
“Football (Soccer) in the North is experiencing unprecedented growth and demand for the code is outstripping supply of available facilities. Suburbs surrounding Gepps Cross have large numbers of new arrivals and their sport of choice is Football (Soccer). The establishment of a Football/Soccer program at the school will add to the educational options that students can access. Linking sport to education is a major focus of Football Federation SA.” CEO of Football Federation SA said.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Lesson In Football , A Lesson In Life - The Value Of Persistence and Self Belief - You Can't Beat It!
The season's about to begin here in the ACT Region, the World Cup is just around the corner and our team is there - it just doesn't get any better.
You're not fair dinkum if this video doesn't send a shiver down your spine!
You're not fair dinkum if this video doesn't send a shiver down your spine!
Johnny Warren
This is the acceptance speech given by Johnny Warren on his induction the the Hall of Fame. Don't recall a better speech in Sport. Its all there!
SBS World Game Classic - A Youth Development Discussion
This discussion between Les Murray and Graig Foster is timeless. A must see as we get near to the start of the Under 13 Girls and Boys National Junior Championships starting next Monday.
The World Game has led the charge in the media when it comes to junior / youth player development.
The World Game has led the charge in the media when it comes to junior / youth player development.
Who's It All About?
This one is for every parent who has a child playing Football. That includes me! Take the time to read this article - we only get one shot at getting it right with our children - they will only play in the Under 12's or Under 16's once in their life. We have to make it as good as we can for them and every other young player. Think of every young player, not just your own, after all, this is a team sport. Each parent helps the other on this one. The game belongs to them, we are privileged to have them, playing football, helping them enjoy themselves and free to be as good as they want to be. The game belongs to them, not us.
"On the sidelines of youth sports there are often parents who are similarly caught up in the potential accomplishments and achievements of their children. Well-intentioned and often well-educated people rightfully see sports as a vehicle to enhancing the holistic well-being of their kids. However, on the darker side of that coin is often a tendency for parents to live through, or overstate the importance of, their kids' participation and accomplishments which again raises the question of whose needs are actually being met."
"On the sidelines of youth sports there are often parents who are similarly caught up in the potential accomplishments and achievements of their children. Well-intentioned and often well-educated people rightfully see sports as a vehicle to enhancing the holistic well-being of their kids. However, on the darker side of that coin is often a tendency for parents to live through, or overstate the importance of, their kids' participation and accomplishments which again raises the question of whose needs are actually being met."
Sit On The Bench? I Don't Think So!
Now this is one article that should ring a few bells for a lot of parents and coaches. A common problem for all Clubs and coaches is the desire to develop players more slowly and allow them time to become more proficient and knowledgable of the game, to be good at age, and importantly, mature. But as often as not, if you suggest this to many young players, they see it as failure and an unreasonable restriction on their playing abilities. Parents who are driven by the desire to push their child forward at maximum speed are offended by the suggestion as are just as likely to head to another Club where the grass looks a bit greener. Then of course there is the Coach that can't get his or her hands on emerging talent quickly enough and throw the player into football at levels of resistance that overwhelms the player and blunts their development - then they leave the game! There are no innocent bystanders on this matter.
Have a read of this article, its very topical - might even be applicable! You decide!
Sit On The Bench? I Don't Think So! Delaying gratification in competitive sports.
The View From the Dugout-
A College Coach's Perspective
by Brian Tompkins
Published on November 1, 2008
Brian Tompkins is the Head Coach of Men's Soccer at Yale University in New Haven, CT.
"I want it all and I want it now." Those lyrics have been featured in a recent television credit card commercial but were actually written with some rebellious prescience in the late 1980's by the rock group Queen. They sang of a desire to see young people seize the day and march boldly into an unknown future. Little could Freddy Mercury and Co. have known back then that their somewhat innocent assertion would become an unspoken mantra in the new millennium.
Have a read of this article, its very topical - might even be applicable! You decide!
Sit On The Bench? I Don't Think So! Delaying gratification in competitive sports.
The View From the Dugout-
A College Coach's Perspective
by Brian Tompkins
Published on November 1, 2008
Brian Tompkins is the Head Coach of Men's Soccer at Yale University in New Haven, CT.
"I want it all and I want it now." Those lyrics have been featured in a recent television credit card commercial but were actually written with some rebellious prescience in the late 1980's by the rock group Queen. They sang of a desire to see young people seize the day and march boldly into an unknown future. Little could Freddy Mercury and Co. have known back then that their somewhat innocent assertion would become an unspoken mantra in the new millennium.
The Feelgood Paradox - Can Camaraderie And Competitiveness Coexist?
We stress the importance of "development" over "winning" when bringing our junior / youth players through their Football experience. And we do so for very good reasons. This notion sits at the very heart of the FFA's National Football Curriculum. The upcoming NJC is a case in point. Our coach education philosophy emphasises a much more hands off approach on game day - let the game be the teacher! It's all much better than what went before it.
But at some point our players move into a Club environment that is more "competition outcome" orientented than it is "develop". Our local Preimier League is a good example. Coaches and Clubs and players want to win! The game changes!
The following article exlores this thorny problem. Take the time to read and give it some thought.
The Feelgood Paradox - Can Camaraderie And Competitiveness Coexist? Can camaraderie and competitiveness coexist in sports?
http://www.psychologytoday.com/, published on May 14, 2009
"A generation ago teaching athletes to have competitive fire when they played would have been viewed as laughably redundant, but this is an age where social and emotional well-being matters a great deal more than in times past. As a consequence athletes are routinely faced with the challenge of smoothly transitioning between distinctly different on and off field personas. Coaches are required to fashion teaching environments that can make sense of these opposing forces and often find themselves undertaking a challenge akin to walking a season-long tightrope with uneven weights in either hand where equilibrium is elusive and constantly changing."
But at some point our players move into a Club environment that is more "competition outcome" orientented than it is "develop". Our local Preimier League is a good example. Coaches and Clubs and players want to win! The game changes!
The following article exlores this thorny problem. Take the time to read and give it some thought.
The Feelgood Paradox - Can Camaraderie And Competitiveness Coexist? Can camaraderie and competitiveness coexist in sports?
http://www.psychologytoday.com/, published on May 14, 2009
"A generation ago teaching athletes to have competitive fire when they played would have been viewed as laughably redundant, but this is an age where social and emotional well-being matters a great deal more than in times past. As a consequence athletes are routinely faced with the challenge of smoothly transitioning between distinctly different on and off field personas. Coaches are required to fashion teaching environments that can make sense of these opposing forces and often find themselves undertaking a challenge akin to walking a season-long tightrope with uneven weights in either hand where equilibrium is elusive and constantly changing."
The Age of the Specialist?
Sports are competing for our children and the drift is toward a whole of the year committment. Football is a good example. But how do you get to be good if you don't put in the time? And its all happening at much earlier ages. And who picks the sport for the child first time around? This article makes some good points and its obviously a pattern that is observable among our junior and youth all over the world. Is this a good way to go?Where sport an educational opportunity intersect (much more in the USA than Australia) the pressure builds. That's when parents start to see things differently. When do our children just get to be children having fun? And do you only get to think like that when the family has the resources to provide options for adult life. Makes you think!
The Age of the Specialist - Whatever happened to the multi-sport high school athlete?
http://www.psychologytoday.com/, Published on July 23, 2008
"This is the age of the specialist. We live in a time where the ideal of being a multi-sport athlete is only valued up until a certain age, often somewhere between twelve and fourteen. Examples of the kid who played high school soccer or football in the fall, followed by basketball in the winter and baseball or track in the spring are becoming harder to find."
The Age of the Specialist - Whatever happened to the multi-sport high school athlete?
http://www.psychologytoday.com/, Published on July 23, 2008
"This is the age of the specialist. We live in a time where the ideal of being a multi-sport athlete is only valued up until a certain age, often somewhere between twelve and fourteen. Examples of the kid who played high school soccer or football in the fall, followed by basketball in the winter and baseball or track in the spring are becoming harder to find."
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