Parent/Player Reporting
Under 14 Training Guide
Below outlines the suggested next steps for Under 14 players, carefully graded according to their current ability levels and developmental progress.
U14 Player Development Guide (Ages 12–13)
Our U14 Player Development Guide focuses on three key areas: advanced technique, tactical awareness, and physical maturity. 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 developing foundational technical skills but needs structured repetition to build confidence and prepare for more advanced play.
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Confident dribbling ⚽ and first touch.
Basic short and long passing.
Positional awareness on the field.
Developing agility and physical control. 🏃
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Technical: Controlled footwork, short passing, basic shooting, and using both feet.
Tactical: An introduction to roles and formations, and understanding when to pass or dribble.
Physical: General fitness, agility, and coordination.
Mental: Focus, learning from mistakes, and listening skills.
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Elimination Games: An introduction to pressure and spacing in a fun, game-like environment.
Open Play: A less-structured setting to practice decision-making.
Basic Technical Classes: These focus on reinforcing foundational skills, not advanced techniques.
Multi-Week Footwork & Shooting Programs: Structured blocks to build specific skills.
Silver Level Personal Training: One-on-one coaching for more focused development.
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First-touch ball control drills.
Wall passing with both feet. 🧱
Footwork ladders and cone dribbling.
🟡 Scores 2–3: "Developing to Progressing"
A player at this stage executes fundamental skills reliably and is gaining confidence in game situations. They are ready to apply these skills under pressure.
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Using both feet under pressure. 👟
Playing with vision and awareness.
Building strength and coordination. 💪
Reading the field during gameplay.
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Technical: Varied passing techniques and shooting with control and power.
Tactical: Transition play, off-the-ball movement, and playing in a system.
Physical: Conditioning, agility, and injury prevention strategies.
Mental: Accountability, resilience, and game focus.
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Topic-Specific Technical Classes: Targeting a player's personal weak areas.
Advanced Multi-Week Programs or Camps: Includes topics like technical defending and advanced gameplay.
Position-Specific Programs: Tailored training for Strikers, Midfielders, or Defenders.
Silver Level Personal Training: Continued one-on-one coaching to refine skills.
Fast-Paced 3v3 or 4v4 Leagues: Improves speed of play and footwork in tight spaces.
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1v1 decision-making challenges.
Shooting accuracy with targets. 🎯
Passing drills with an emphasis on the weak foot.
🔵 Scores 4+: "Proficient"
A proficient player demonstrates maturity, a high tactical IQ, and consistency in advanced technical and physical areas. They are ready for high-level competition.
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Tactical leadership. 🗣️
Consistent use of both feet.
Fast, efficient decision-making. 🧠
Physical and mental readiness for high-level play.
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Technical: Long-range and lofted passing, precise finishing, and elite ball control.
Tactical: Adapting to multiple formations, leading play, and reading the game as it unfolds.
Physical: Conditioning for full matches, strength, and advanced injury prevention.
Mental: Self-discipline, communication, and a competitive mindset.
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Gold Level Personal Training: High-level one-on-one coaching.
High Development Academy (HDA): A competitive group training environment.
Advanced Topic-Specific Drop-In Classes: For specialized skill development.
Position-Specific Programs: Deepen understanding of their role as a Striker, Midfielder, or Defender.
Elite Performance or Speed Camps: Focused training to maximize athletic potential.
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Tactical scenario games.
Leading warm-ups or small-group drills for peers.
Review of personal performance and game film. 💻