4 Basic Questions - to Select a Club

We can all do a better job at finding a Fit for our Youth in Competitive Soccer.  After all, it is at least a 1-year long commitment.  That's 1/2 the commitment for a Military Draftee - although almost everything you do as a Draftee, you don't want to do!.  Think in terms of a Multi-year RECIPROCAL relationship

So, think about it:
1. Does the Coach Know what he/she is doing/is the experience matched with the need?
 
Attend Open Practice, see if the content is there and the chemistry works for your child.  Then look at the track record.  Has the team improved in the previous year?  If not, is there a good reason? (there is a reason and it may well NOT be the coach).  Do not rely upon the Coaching License alone - it is 1 indicator.  A high-level coaching license for 16-18 year olds is a Problem if your child is 10 or 11.  Coaching experience at your targeted age-group is important.  An "A-level" coach will have to remove significant content and "adjust" to coach 12 year olds.  The proof is in the 'pudding'.
POINT: MORE is not better in itself.


2. Is the Team/Club make-up of a nature that my youth "fits In"?
Are there slots available for a player with your ability, or will the player be a paying bench-warmer?   In some cases the Club may have special programs to get a player extra training or a specific Improvement Plan customized for such players.  Remember, the game should be Played (in addition to the training).  Ask about periodic player evaluations and review process.
POINT:  The game has to be PLAYED to be ENJOYED - and for personal improvement.

3.  Are your Family Values in line with the Club/Team?
Let's face it - you and your family are going to spend a lot of time with people that come together for a different purpose.  Can you imagine joining a golf club and finding out that you now socializing with people that you do not have a lot in common with - for a whole year!?  You have car pooling; refreshments and teaming after the game; maybe out-of-town travel and "over-nighters" to chaparone the youth.  You may be forced into associations which are incompatible with your Family's life-style.  Out of 12 months, at least one parent may spend 50-60 hours on the side-line for league games alone.  That's up to a  1.5 weeks.   Make sure it's a positive experience for you and the family.
POINT:  Life is short - MAXIMIZE the JOY with the game and your family.

4.  Where does the Team Practice?:  Commuting time is often stressful.  It also takes time away from some (or most) of your family.  You have a fixed amount of time in the day.  How about cutting down on commute time and maximize the family time?  For the most part, the practices should fit with your schedule and geography since they occur 2-3 X per week - that's 2 or 3 nights out of possible 4!.   And you are already busy with travel for your employment.  So choose a club/team that has "local" practices.  If it is difficult to get to practice on good days, imagine what happens when there are rain-outs; reschedules and cancellations.  
POINT:  Remove complexity & stress from your life - Practice LOCALLY.

5. .... (more?)

SAINTS Athletic Soccer Club (Practicing in Southlake and Trophy Club) - building teams since 1987