LOUDOUN SOCCER Is Proud To Offer Its Unique & Exceptional
MINI SOCCER PROGRAM
The Mini Soccer Program is designed to teach basic soccer skills to our youngest players. Originally started in 1996 it is a constantly evolving and the FUNdamental program now includes:
- Professional Trainers provided by Darryl Gee Soccer Academy
- Saturday only program for Pre-School 1 &2 (3 year old and 4 year old) and Pre-K (5 year old)Age Groups, the Kindergarten (6 year old) Age Group teams have one additional practice during the week
- 6 Convenient Locations – Ashburn, Brambleton, Leesburg, Purcellville, South Riding, and Sterling,
- Participation Award presented to each player at the end of the season
- 45 minute Sessions for Pre-School 1&2 (3 and 4 year old) players made up of soccer based activities
- 55 minute Sessions for Pre-K and Kindergarten (5 and 6 year old) players made up of part soccer based activities and 3v3 or 4v4 games starting the very first session
- Pre-School 1&2 and Pre-K (3-5 year old) are Co Ed teams, Kindergarten (6 year old) splits to Boys and Girls teams (unless number of players registered necessitate Co Ed)
- Developmentally appropriate activities
The philosophy can be summed up in one word – FUN! The Mini Soccer Program (MSP) is structured and designed specifically for the young player to have more touches on the ball – which increases enjoyment and participation. We have created a safe and positive environment where kids can learn the game of soccer through playful training techniques and team bonding activities. Loudoun Soccer offers a unique program that encompasses the use of “small-sided games” and age-appropriate training. Players benefit when there are fewer players on the field which leads to better understanding, better decision making and greater concentration. The combination of these methods are the foundation to developing good habits with the ball which leads to mastery of skills. Being part of a team, making new friends and achieving individual success are our main objectives.
The program consists of seven 45 minute sessions for the Pre-School 1&2 (3 and 4 year old) teams in which players work with professional trainers. Trainers focus on basic ball touches stressing movement exploration with the soccer ball. The first three Pre-K and Kindergarten ( 5 and 6 year old) sessions start by having approximately 20 minutes of training and complete the day with a game against their scheduled opponent. The professional trainers will remain at their fields to assist the volunteer coaches with questions or advice for the duration of the games. During the last four weeks of the Pre-K and Kindergarten (5 and 6 year old) program, training and games will be turned over exclusively to the volunteer coaches, so they may implement what they have learned in the prior weeks.
Coaching young children in their first soccer experience can be a very rewarding. If you have never coached before, but are looking for a way to be involved in your children’s activities, then this is the program for you. If you do have experience coaching, please take this opportunity to be an example for the newcomers. We are happy to have the solid foundation on which to build. There will be a coach meeting prior to the onset of the season where coaches will be informed on all aspects of the program. It is our sincere hope that while we are instilling a love for soccer in your child, we are also instilling it in you. Volunteers find the professional trainers provide a smooth and informative introduction into coaching by answering questions and serving as role models – their methods may be utilized by volunteer coaches working with teams.
Coaches will be able to access their rosters and schedules online in their Family Registration area at least two weeks prior to the first session. Parents receive an e-mail confirmation that their registration has been received, and can expect a call or an email from their coach about two weeks prior to the start of the season. Parents should also feel free to contact the coach.
It is Loudoun Soccer’s intention to provide an extremely FUN, non-stressful environment for the players which will build your child’s confidence and instill a love of the game.