Advice

What college coaches want in a player

Columnist Joe Dougherty interviewed several area college coaches to find out the most sought-after attributes they look for when scouting at showcases. The three most common patterns he found were character, technique and being physical.

Think first: Five simple ways to raise your team’s soccer IQ

For all the improved technical training going on in North America – and some steps in the team tactical training as well – soccer is still so far removed from our everyday culture that most players and youth coaches still lack some of the basic “soccer IQ” that is standard fare in most of the world, laments SoccerWire Executive Editor Chris Hummer. Here he breaks down five easy ways to get your team playing smarter -- and scoring more.

LeBolt: Plot your course from green to tee

A golf-minded friend of Dr. Wendy LeBolt recently gave her some food for thought: "Look at the course from green to tee, rather than tee to green." In other words, figure out what you want to accomplish and then plan backwards, she explains in her latest post for SoccerWire.

Dougherty: For the young player, details matter

Longtime youth coach and soccer writer Joe Dougherty explains why helping young players focus on the basics - and the accompanying details - is far more productive than rushing to move on to more advanced technique.

How to be intentional with your college commitment

Leading up to signing day, longtime soccer coach Joe Dougherty outlines the keys to a smooth, well-researched college commitment process for players and parents to feel good about.

Five ways to develop soccer players during a blowout without disrespecting opponents

LeBolt: Five simple tests to identify increased risk of ACL tear

A conversation with a rising young player at the NSCAA Convention reminded Dr. Wendy LeBolt just how widespread youth soccer's plague of ACL injuries has become. So she's provided an important series of tests that can help players and parents catch the warning signs before a catastrophic knee injury occurs.

Manchester United’s Tony Strudwick shares youth development philosophy

Manchester United head of athletic development Tony Strudwick holds the challenge of keeping one of the English Premier League's top clubs in peak physical condition, from the first team on down to the youngest youth age groups.