Confirming Next Try-out is Monday, Feb 7 at WSC

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Confirming Next Try-out is Monday, Feb 7 at WSC

Hi all, to confirm, the next Try-out is this coming Monday, February 7 between 6:00-7:30 pm, indoor at the WSC. This will be the first of three indoor try-out sessions at the WSC (Feb 7, 14, 21). I am very grateful that Coaches Rob Lalama and Gerry D'Angelo, from the Club's Technical Department will be joining us at the dome.

As always, please ensure players have indoor soccer shoes, shin pads and wear WHITE SHIRTS (no club gear). Cost for dome rental is $5.00 per session, it would be appreciated if you could pay the $15.00 at the first session.

Note: These three sessions at WSC are in addition to our Wednesday Try-outs at Glendale.

SPECIAL REQUEST: Please send me an email to james.tober@ontario.ca , ranking by preference, which positions you would like to play (i.e. Forward, Midfield, Defender, Goal Keeper)... rank all four position groups. All players on this team will be encouraged to play all positions. Specifically for now though, we need to know who would like to play Keeper at some time. This does not mean a player will be "pigeon-holed" or "stuck" playing Keeper..Those interested in playing Keeper will get Keeper-specific traning from Coach Gerry and we will have the services of a Guest Goal Keeping Specialist Coach throughout the year... I need to receive your personal positional rankings no later than this Sunday morning.

Lastly, and NOT related to our team try-outs or the WSC, there is a Futsal pick-up program at Ridley College on Sundays between 1:00-3:00pm. The cost is $5.00 per session. There is no coaching or drills - but there is lots of music! The players that show up are divided into teams and play "to-the-beat" for fun. It's great exercise for the kids. Ronaldino has credited Futsal as a big part of the development of his ball controll skills! For more information call Clayton at 289-214-1414.

Thanks,
Coach Jim

PLAYER ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

1) MENTAL ATTITUDE/APTITUDE FOR THE GAME & TEAM PLAY

i. Commitment to Game – The player exhibits good Team Player attitude. He is confident in his abilities and doesn’t second guess himself. The player is coachable/respectful at all times. He shows up for practices, listens, makes progress, shows good competitive sportsmanship and applies lessons well. Shows a desire to play soccer for the love of the game. Focused at games and practices. Eager to learn because he is aware of his own strengths and weaknesses. Always makes best effort. Rarely late. Player has courage and plays with urgency, willing to sacrifice.

ii. Game Sense – The player understands the tactical side of the game. Player understands the principles of attacking and defending, and rules of the game. Aware of situational play, transitions well between attack and defend mode, can make fast decisions and makes a positive difference in most plays with his teammates. Communicates with team-mates. Knows when to be “selfish” and knows when to be “unselfish”. Can “shake-off” mistakes.

iii. Positioning/Spatial – A player’s ability to read the game as it develops and to position themselves in the most advantageous area from which to support their team effectively. The player moves to space. The player understands their position and his position on the field. Understands the format the team is playing. Adjusts his play to support those around his and usually makes the BEST choice during play. Player is always moving.

2) SKILL CATEGORIES

i. Dribbling/Ball Control - Player’s ability to move the ball quickly, while under complete control combining pace, deception, and skill. Using both feet, inside and outside, under control, under pressure. Composed manner, shielding and seldom losing possession. Attacks opponent straight-on, makes opponent commit. Player works towards achieving 100 juggles/kick-ups using both feet (including inside/outside of feet), thighs, head and chest.

ii. Passing/Serving/Crossing – To accurately pass the ball at the correct pace to a teammate. Proper passing/receiving technique, passes to feet of teammate and to space, can keep the ball on the ground and lofted as needed. Uses both feet and all parts of the feet. Anticipates opportunities/plays for team-mates. Communicates with team-mates.

iii. Receiving/First Touch – Shows for the ball and receives cleanly. Eyes on the ball, body behind the ball. Checks away. Uses either foot to trap the ball. Uses their body effectively to trap air balls. Does not wait for the ball, runs to the ball to receive it and always moves to open space to minimize a challenge.

iv. Shooting/Striking – The ability to strike on goal with a variety of techniques from differing ranges and angles, with composure, showing the touch to score goals. The ability to drive long passes from goal and corner kicks. Proper shooting technique, on goal, off passes and volleys. Head down and eyes on the ball

v. First to Ball/Winning the ball – The “smarts” and ability to get to the ball with efficient and fast movements in all areas on the field. Winning possession of the ball, shows courage. Overall speed with the ball. Overall speed without the ball. Quickness & reaction time.

vi. Fitness – Overall endurance, ability to work hard the entire practice session and in games. Athletic abilities of running, quick change of pace and direction (agility), leaping, and strength on and off the ball. Game fitness.

vi. Defensive Technique – Understands transition to defense. Demonstrates ability to contain attackers and knows when to challenge (tackle). Understands Goal Side. Communicates with team-mates. Wins the ball under control (not just clearing). Provides defensive support to team mates.