Small-Sided Games

Small-sided games is an approach to soccer that departs from what is commonly viewed as the way to play soccer and learn the game. Games are played with 4v4, 5v5, 6v6 depending on the ages of the younger players. Small-sided games are not just for younger players, it is a great way to train and coach players of all ages. WYSA's In-House and Micro-soccer programs use small-sided games as the primary type of game. There are many reasons why this type of development is advantageous and should be supported including:

• more touches on the ball by more players.
• All players become involved where with larger teams many do not.
• In 11V 11 it often times becomes 1 V 21.
• More time with the ball, develops basic skills.
• Emphasis is not on the score, avoid keeping score, and definitely no standings.
• More fun for the players, ask those who have done it.
• Games can be altered to help emphasis specific skills.
• Self-confidence of players grows.
• The games become the teacher.
• 4v4 games do not use goalkeepers.
• Kids learn to play soccer with whatever numbers are available, they do not need 10 or 11 aside.
• Pick-up games are more likely to happen away from practice.
• Coaching can easily be done inside of the game.
• Few rules, allow the game to keep moving and more touches of the ball.
• Kids will have fun.

Many times people might think this is a step backwards, particularly if a child has played 10v10 or 11v11. Really this a huge step forward, and the benefits will be realized over time. The pressure of large sided games is gone and everyone is involved without having to worrying about winning and losing. Young players are not really as concerned about winning and losing as much as they are about getting to play and having fun. If you watch players that have experienced this type of program and do not bring up who won and who loss it is not an issue, at least not by the time they get to the cooler for something cold to drink or for a snack.

Soccer skills that deal with ball handling and ball control need to be learned to be a successful player. At these younger ages is the best time to learn them before worrying about how to play the game tactically.

Some things to consider when weighing the merits of In-house programs like the one WYSA offers are statistically 35 % of soccer players quit after U12, 80 % by the age of U16. At the top of the list for reasons why is in our culture, competition, and the need to win. We need to ask ourselves if the kids are playing to win medals, trophies, and ribbons and other awards, or if they play to have fun. To many players and teams are pushed to hard and put into to many tournaments at to early an age and this leads to soccer burn out.

WYSA hopes that this provides some insight into why the Board has decided over the past couple of years to develop these programs and provide the chance for a bigger base of players to gain basic skills while having fun in a less competitive environment. It truly is better for the good of soccer, and besides, kids like it.

If parents desire we can get more information regarding small-sided programs or possibly hold a informational session on the topic with the possibility of getting the MYSA State Coaching director to present. There is a lot of interest at the State level and Nationally in moving toward this type programming. There are even proposals Nationally to cut teams back to 8v8 at U11 and U12.

On Sunday, February 27, 2000, the WYSA Board of Directors passed the January 8, 2000 Statement of Philosophy.

We, the members of the Board of Directors of the Winona Youth Soccer Association, adopt these points of philosophy:

• That WYSA commits to the overall development of each player first of all regardless of their ability.
• That WYSA promotes player development via coaching development.
• That WYSA supports all player levels.
• That WYSA begins with a primary focus on small side games for the youngest players, progressing toward programs as follows:
  • U6-U10 -- a focus on involvement of the highest possible number of players, an in-house program, and teaching the love of the game.
  • U12-U14 -- a focus on technical skill development, love of the game, and significant game participation for each player.
  • U16-U18 -- a focus on tactical decision-making, with technical skill, and love of the game in a competitive soccer environment.
• That WYSA commits to a strong referee community.
• That WYSA commits to the expansion and renovation of Winona area soccer facilities.
• That WYSA fully supports the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association Honor, Player's, Coach's, and Parent's Codes of Conduct.
  
• Associated policy points from age groups above:
  • U6-U10 -- encourage "Street Soccer," and "G" and "Y" coaching certification
  • U12-U14 -- encourage "Y," "D," and "E" coaching certification
  • U16-U18 -- encourage "D," "E," and "C" coaching certification .

MYSA recently announced a new Player Protection Program. The Minnesota Youth Soccer Association has implemented " " to protect players from sexual, physical, mental and emotional abuse. For more information, call. Mark Gernes, 507-452-2193.