Weather update (from Friday @ 11 AM): Friday’s weather forecast calls for lots of rain. If accurate, many grass fields could be closed Saturday. But our games are scheduled on indoor / outdoor carpet (Metro North TOPS field), so we don’t expect Friday’s rain to affect our Saturday schedule. Check our Twitter account Saturday at 7:30 AM for a game day status update: https://twitter.com/nasajracadg
Our next game day is Saturday, March 19. We’re home at Metro North Park for a set of 5v5 games against outside opponents. Link: team assignments and schedules (posted Sunday, March 13 @ 5:45 PM).
Game day links:
- March 19 team assignments and schedules
- about game days
- Reminder: No jewelry! It’s a rule, not a suggestion. Link: jewelry rule
- Spring 2022 game day schedule (still under construction)
Dribbling moves of the month:
We practice dribbling moves (changes of direction or fake changes of direction finished with a burst of speed) very often. Our current emphasis is on three types of dribbling moves:
- pullbacks
- twist-off turns (also called hook turns or shielding turns)
- V-pull moves
All of the above moves are aimed at helping a player keep the ball when under pressure, instead of dribbling into an opponent or teammate (what we call “bones & shin guards”).
These moves rely on ball manipulation, not wizardly body fakes or foot fakes. Some of our players use these moves in games (often with success), but the majority of players either forget them come game time, or lack the confidence to try the moves.
Parents, you can help with your daughter’s development! The key is to take the mindset of being your daughter’s training partner, not her coach. For example, start by asking her about her favorite dribbling moves, or which ones she wants to improve. Then take a ball into the back yard or garage and have her show you. You’ve now opened the door to a productive “fun with a soccer ball” session.
We encourage you and your daughter to spend 5-10 minutes 2-3 times a week to review moves, and then play games (such as Texas Draw or Snow Cones) that reward the use of dribbling moves. (Sisters and brothers are welcome to join in!) You don’t need past soccer experience of your own, just some time and energy. We’re confident that both you and your daughter will have fun, and your daughter will gain skill and confidence!
Check the above links for descriptions and demo videos of the moves and games. Most of the activities can be done in small spaces, such as a 10-yard square. If you’d like a personal demo of a move, or want more details about a dribbling game, feel free to check with your coach after an upcoming practice.