change

“We all need to think more deeply about the insanity of our youth sports culture, with its focus on early specialization in one sport, and, especially its seasons without end.” -Michael Sokolove, author of Warrior Girls “Do you know the girl’s youth traveling basketball coordinator?” asked the Director of Youth Recreation & Middle School Sports in our city. “No, why?” I replied. “I could have sworn that you two have talked because he says the exact things you have talked to me about today regarding youth sports.” “Really? Well, I’m glad I’m not the only one. Something has to change!” Several years ago my son and daughter stepped foot on their own soccer fields for the  first time. My daughter was four-years-old and my son was six. Both of them were excited to play on their own team as they had been attending my husband’s games since they were born. Watching his games, my son and daughter looked forward to hearing the long whistles that indicated half-time and the end of the game. Their little feet would scurry for a practice ball and run out on the field to take advantage of the little amount of time they had to shoot on the big nets. Three years have gone by and both of my children are still playing soccer. My husband and I have been coaching and assist coaching our kids’ teams for the past six seasons, and we have been blown away by the many changes in today’s youth sports culture. Today’s youth soccer is not the same as when we were young. The changes we see today are not helping to instill a love for the game in our young athletes, and I’m hoping to bring awareness to some of the largest issues. Join me in a three part series where we explore: Part 1 – the effects of participating in an adult-centered (direct coaching that includes many drills and very little time for players to practice in game-like situations) vs. a player-centered training model (players spend very little time participating in drills, and spend the majority of their training time in game-like situations that promote player creativity and socialization between teammates). Publish on 12/17/2017 Part 2 – the effects of not keeping score. Publish on 12/24/17 Part 3 – the effects of sport specialization at young ages, and the astronomical price increases to play sports. Publish on 12/31/17   Author’s background: Erin is certified in K-12 physical education and adapted physical education. She is also a long-time soccer player and youth soccer coach who loves to share her love of the game with young athletes.