Passion, Persistence, Positive and Pragmatic

Smithsonian Soccer Academy Philosophy

Smithsonian Soccer Academy was founded to give players in Tidewater an opportunity to train in the same way youth academy teams would be trained in continental Europe. We use the Dutch KNVB or Ajax training system which utilizes small sided games in a station training format. It is our belief that players develop in a game like environment, with multiple finishing opportunities. In this environment, players develop a passion for playing the great game of soccer. In Holland, it is believed that players must be free to experiment in a non-restrictive environment which emphasizes individual player development over team success. Therefore, our training is totally dedicated to training players from multiple clubs in an open and encouraging environment where mistakes are not criticized, but actually encouraged. At Smithsonian Soccer Academy we encourage players to play on their edge and positively encourage players to experiment and make mistakes when they are learning new techniques or increasing their speed of play. Players develop when they experience pragmatic training sessions which expose them to pressures they will face in game situations. Players will be forced to play much faster by restricting space, increasing numbers of players, or by restricting the number of touches. In addition, field size, numbers and size of goals, and objectives of each session will challenge the technical and tactical abilities of our players. Individualized attention is guaranteed by maintaining a player to coach ratio of 12 to 1. Our only goal is to make every participant a better player with greater technical skills, improved tactical understanding, and improved fitness capabilities. Through persistent training over years, we will develop the best players in Tidewater in an encouraging and demanding soccer training environment.
Observations

After watching many teams ranging from U10-18 this fall, I have come to the following conclusions.

1. Players and teams develop when the coach emphasizes individual technical development.
2. Players and teams cannot play adequate soccer until each player becomes comfortable with the ball in tight spaces and under intense opponent pressure.
3. The best coaches would rather have players make mistakes attempting to play properly, than take no chances and not develop their skill set to handle pressure.
4. Given the choice of winning games playing kick and run soccer or losing games attempting to play the game correctly, a good coach always chooses the latter.
5. Players develop when they are having fun.
6. An intense competitive environment where kids have no fear of making mistakes, is the soccer training and game environment where players develop the most.
7. Players play this great game because it is fun. It is the adults who often take the fun out of the game. If a player is having fun, training intently, concentrating on every aspect of their training, they will develop and get better.
8. Only in the US and England is winning emphasized over the development of skillful and insightful players. Most nations emphasize technical development and tactical insight over game results. Is it any wonder that the Dutch, Spanish, and German national teams are developing world-class players while the US and UK try to compete with athleticism and work rate.
9. The game becomes more enjoyable when you have the technical competence to work your way out of trouble and the creativity to be dangerous on the field.
10. Players need to have a hard working and encouraging environment to develop.
11. I have witnessed kids who no longer enjoy playing because of the negativity surrounding their individual teams, whether it be coach, club, or parent driven.
12. Demand that your sons or daughters receive intense and comprehensive technical training in an encouraging environment and you will see them improve, have fun, and desire to get better in every facet of the game.