Player Development

The articles in the Phases of Player Development series are from a report by the staff of the U.S.Women’s National Team.

The Elite Phase: The Full Bloom (U-19) Development of functional and team play: Fulfillment of a player’s potential depends on his or her own efforts, the support of teammates and the unselfish guidance of her coach.

The Fervid Phase: The Dedication (U-16) Development of individual skills – individual, group and team tactics: This is a critical time in the player’s development.

The Formal Phase: The Commitment (U-14) Development of individual skills – individual and small group tactics: Adult standards and formal rules become applicable.

FOUNDATION PHASE: THE ROMANCE (U-12) Development of individual skills — individual and small group tactics: The effect of the role model is very important at this stage of development.

As coaches, it’s important to keep your players rested and healthy, but is it possible that too many substitutions can actually be bad for your players?