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Parent/Player Reporting

Under 12 Training Guide

Below outlines the suggested next steps for Under 12 players, carefully graded according to their current ability levels and developmental progress.

U12 Player Development Guide (Ages 10–11)

Our U12 Player Development Guide is centered on two key areas: advanced skill development and improving game intelligence. Players are evaluated on a 1–5 scale across four pillars: Technical, Tactical, Physical, and Mental. This guide outlines specific training topics, coaching strategies, and program recommendations based on a player's current evaluation score.

🔴 Scores Under 2: "Emerging to Developing"

A player at this stage is starting to understand foundational concepts but needs consistent guidance, structured repetition, and a confidence boost.

    • Purposeful dribbling ⚽

    • Basic shooting 🥅 accuracy

    • First touch and passing basics

    • Awareness of spacing and positioning

    • Technical: Dribbling control, short passing, introductory shooting, and first-touch improvement.

    • Tactical: Understanding positions, where to be on the field, and simple support play.

    • Physical: Coordination, basic agility, and body control.

    • Mental: Focus and effort, willingness to learn, and emotional control.

    • Wall passing and first-touch control drills. 🧱

    • Cone dribbling under light pressure.

    • Shadow positioning and field awareness drills.

🟡 Scores 2–3: "Developing to Progressing"

A player at this stage demonstrates reliable skill execution and is beginning to integrate tactical awareness into their gameplay.

    • Passing and receiving under pressure.

    • Understanding transitions (attacking to defending).

    • Applying technical skills in real-time situations.

    • Improving decision-making speed.

    • Technical: Confident passing and shooting technique, directional first touch, and weak foot development. 👟

    • Tactical: Positioning during play, transition timing, and off-the-ball movement.

    • Physical: Core strength, quickness, and agility with the ball.

    • Mental: Confidence, game awareness, and improved decision-making.

    • 1v1 and 2v2 backyard games.

    • First-touch drills with varied ball speeds.

    • Field-mapping activities to visualize where to move in different situations.

🔵 Scores 4+: "Proficient"

A proficient player is confident, consistent, and applies their skills effectively in game scenarios with significant tactical insight.

    • Decision-making under pressure. 🚀

    • Consistent execution with both feet.

    • Leadership and anticipation on the field. 🗣️

    • Refining advanced techniques.

    • Technical: Quick 1-2 combinations, finishing accuracy, and advanced first touch.

    • Tactical: Supporting play, anticipation, and maintaining team shape.

    • Physical: Endurance, speed, and body control during high-intensity play.

    • Mental: Leadership, resilience, and self-motivation.

    • Pressure-based ball control circuits.

    • Leading peer practices or sibling sessions.

    • Tactical review of previous games (using video or a visual replay).