The Soccer Sidelines

Cross training into soccer from other sports or into other sports from soccer... Parents often ask if it's a good idea for kids to cross train. In this episode, we go into some of the pros and cons of cross training as youth athletes.

Some topics we consider include overuse injuries, strengthening of different muscle groups, and athletic IQ.

This episode made me sad to have to deliver, but this is a subject that is important to talk about. Better now than after another child is abused. Violations of youth protection result in pain that can last a lifetime. It's important to talk about the pain that's already happened, but it is equally important to talk about making it harder for this kind of abuse to happen in the future.Today's kids are tomorrow's victims - unless we do something to prevent that from happening.In this episode, we reveal the system that we put in place to prevent abuse in our Club. Learn how we do it, and share what best practices you may be aware of.In this Episode[spp-timestamp time="01:08"] Framing my perspetive on Youth Protection[spp-timestamp time="01:38"] Assumptions: Predators are on the Hunt[spp-timestamp time="03:06"] Predators are (and have been) among us[spp-timestamp time="03:46"] Our 4-step process for protection[spp-timestamp time="03:54"] Step 1: Creating and being clear about the rules[spp-timestamp time="04:22"] Two-deep leadership[spp-timestamp time="04:48"] Use the school system[spp-timestamp time="05:13"] Darkness to Light[spp-timestamp time="06:21"] Leverage other clubs[spp-timestamp time="7:02"] Mandatory items for all coaches and adult volunteers who work with children[spp-timestamp time="07:24"] National Centers for Safety Initiatives (NCSI)[spp-timestamp time="08:24"] Getting arrested vs creating a record[spp-timestamp time="10:48"] After the offense[spp-timestamp time="12:21"] Background checks alone are not enough[spp-timestamp time="14:06"] Step 2: Communicate often with parents and coaches[spp-timestamp time="16:08"] Counseling players safely[spp-timestamp time="18:41"] Two-way communication[spp-timestamp time="20:04"] Step 3: Reinforcing the rules as often as possible[spp-timestamp time="21:58"] Step 4: Review the rules each year during annual planning[spp-timestamp time="23:14"] Prevent the news from happening (Summary)Resources* Feinstein, and Dianne. “Text - S.534 - 115th Congress (2017-2018): Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017.” Congress.gov, 14 Feb. 2018, www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/534/text.* “National Center For Safety Initiatives - Protecting Vulnerable Populations.” National Center For Safety Initiatives - Protecting Vulnerable Populations, www.ncsisafe.com/.* “Homepage.” Darkness to Light, www.d2l.org/.

This episode was inspired by a simple pool-side chat. Dr. Brown and I both had daughters swimming on the same team. As most sideline parents do, we talked to pass the time. After discovering our common interests in making college affordable and agreeing that The Soccer Sidelines listeners would benefit from the discussion we were having, we decided to take it to the microphone. With Dr. Brown's many years of higher education experience as an educator and now as the Program Chair and Professor for the Software Engineering Specialization for the Information Technology Master's program at the University of Maryland University College, you get a glimpse into inside tricks you can use to earn 120 credits, earn an undergraduate degree, and graduate without student debt - even if you have no money and no idea that you even want to go to college until your junior year in High School! In this episode, Dr. Michael Brown joins the show to talk about making college affordable. From the simplest stay-at-home option to more expensive out-of-state options, we explore several models that put a good education within reach of virtually any student - regardless of prior financial planning - without the need for money from Mom and Dad, and without taking on excessive student debt.Making College Affordable - What We Cover* [Time="01:22"] Who is Dr. Michael Brown?* [Time="02:42"] College as an investment* [Time="03:58"] Choosing a field vs a college* [Time="04:37"] "What do you think is a reasonable amount of debt to carry?"* [Time="05:21"] Debt free education alternative to military service* [Time="05:45"] What's required to graduate* [Time="06:05"] Transfer credits* [Time="06:15"] Making College Affordable Option 1: Getting college credit before leaving high school* [Time="06:27"] A few inexpensive options online (see resources below)* [Time="07:38"] Based on your experience teaching online courses, how does that system work?* [Time="10:54"] Quality of online courses* [Time="11:47"] Augmenting traditional school with online courses to save money* [Time="12:41"] What about those kids who are not ready to take college-level courses in high school?* [Time="13:25"] Leaving high school with zero credits and accruing no debt* [Time="13:47"] Making College Affordable Option 2: leaving high school with zero credits, no money from parents, no Pell grants, no scholarships, and start from scratch - the 100% self-sufficient option. Starting in Junior year.* [Time="14:34"] Reducing the cost of textbooks (see resources below)* [Time="16:13"] Financial planning (start as early as possible)* [Time="17:49"] Starting from zero in your junior year. Community college + an exit plan* [Time="19:52"] What about the quality of community schools?* [Time="22:05"] How to get that 120 credit hour degree without a scholarship or money from home - the $26,000 degree* [Time="22:43"] Special Grants* [Time="24:04"] Making College Affordable Option 3: How to earn a degree an be able to live on campus - the $45,000 degree* [Time="26:26"] Making College Affordable Option 4: How to earn a degree even if a student wants to leave the state? - the $52,000 degree* [Time="26:53"] The Southern Regional Education Board and The Academic Marketplace* [Time="32:16"] Making College Affordable Option 5: Taking advantage of inefficient education markets to negotiate a good price* [Time="35:01"] Watch out for "the research school" trap for undergraduate degrees* [Time="37:00"] How about athletic scholarships? Can I use those to get through college?* [Time="45:00"] Find "a day in the life" videos on Youtube* [Time="48:00"] Dr. Brown's Final thoughts - profit vs not-for-profit collegesMore About Dr. BrownDoctor Brown has also taught at the following universities:* University System of Maryland (2017-present)* Nova Southeastern University (2015-2016)* Hood College (2012)* Montgomery College (2012)* American Public University (2012)* DeVry University (2011)* Trident U...

Arguably the most difficult and most argued about call in all of soccer, the offside rule has given plenty of sideline enthusiasts, coaches, players, and referees alike a lot to talk about. In this episode, I will break down the four conditions that must be satisfied to result in an offside foul, give you the one timing component that makes all the difference, and share the difference between being in an offside position and drawing an offside foul.As much as I'd like to say that after listening to this, you will be an expert at spotting offside fouls, I can't. It will still be confusing and it will still be dependent upon variables - including the referee's perspective and opinion - that will be impossible to get right every time. At least you'll know why this call is so hard, and can explain it to your fellow enthusiasts when it becomes a point of contention.Quick Reference Links:[spp-timestamp time="01:26"] The most difficult call to make[spp-timestamp time="02:05"] Rule #1 - When the Ball Is Kicked[spp-timestamp time="03:30"] The Last Line of Defense[spp-timestamp time="04:00"] Being in an offsides position without committing a foul[spp-timestamp time="04:28"] Condition #1: The opponent's half of the field[spp-timestamp time="05:06"] Condition #2: Nearer the opponent's goal than the ball[spp-timestamp time="05:40"] Condition #3: Nearer the opponent's goal than the second to last opponent[spp-timestamp time="06:29"] Condition #4: Participating in the Active Area of Play[spp-timestamp time="07:16"] Scenario example 1- simple scenario[spp-timestamp time="08:42"] Scenario example 2 - added complexity[spp-timestamp time="09:42"] How can a player participate in the active area of play?[spp-timestamp time="10:09"] Not even touching the ball and drawing a foul anyway[spp-timestamp time="11:13"] Summarizing[spp-timestamp time="11:57"] Just having some fun with an even more complicated scenario[spp-timestamp time="13:36"] Want to argue with the referee?

How can we tell where in the soccer system our child should play? In this episode, we look at behaviors you can find at home or on the field that tell us where our kids want to play. Should we move them into a more technical environment, into a more social environment? Which is best for my kid? Let's explore that question...There is a wide range of programs available as we discussed in Episode #16. The challenge is figuring out which one is right for our family. Money has a voice in our decision. If spending more than $200 isn't something we're prepared to do under any circumstance, then a Classic or Select travel program is probably not a good option. If money is not an issue, then the real drivers should be our children.There is nothing "less" about a recreation experience. It's just different. If your child is proving themselves to be a more technical player (I discuss this in more detail within), then they might enjoy the opportunity to play with other technical players. If they are using soccer primarily as a platform for cross training, social engagement with friends, fun, fitness, and for something to do besides video games, then a recreation soccer program may be exactly the right choice.If your player has a ball at their feet every day and loves perfecting their crispy through pass, and your family isn't prepared to spend more than $200, then the best option may be a recreation program, coupled with being more selective about the coach (s).It bears mentioning that many recreation coaches are accomplished, credentialled, and good at drawing the best from a team of players. There are many that work as a volunteer or for very little compensation.Ask your coach what their coaching philosophy is. Ask them about their season plans and what kind of goals and culture they strive to develop on their team. In the end, it takes some looking and listening to find the best fit.The one thing I would stress is not to simply look at one option, then quit. A positive experience can make a lifetime of good memories and form healthy habits that last a lifetime.

In this episode, Part 2 of How Much Does It Cost To Play Soccer, we dive into the programs available. We reveal what each program costs in the area we live in, and what you get for the money you pay.

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Anyone new to the game of soccer - or interested in exploring hat's possible - will find this episode useful. While there is no single answer to how much does it cost to play soccer, this episode will give listeners a good idea of the range of what's out there.

[spp-timestamp time="00:00"] Introduction

[spp-timestamp time="00:48"] The range of programs available

[spp-timestamp time="01:26"] Pickup Ball

[spp-timestamp time="03:30"] Academy

[spp-timestamp time="03:48"] Parallel Play At the Youngest Ages

[spp-timestamp time="05:04"] Cost for Academy

[spp-timestamp time="05:12"] Transition Academy vs Academy - Moving kids into Team Structures

[spp-timestamp time="06:07"] Transition Academy

[spp-timestamp time="06:59"] What you get for Academy or Transition Academy for the money

[spp-timestamp time="09:20"] Getting parents involved in Academy

[spp-timestamp time="10:22"] Overhead Expenses

[spp-timestamp time="11:08"] Playing Recreation

[spp-timestamp time="11:42"] Field Costs

[spp-timestamp time="12:19"] Recreation Equipment and Support

[spp-timestamp time="12:36"] Coaching Credentials and Compensation

[spp-timestamp time="15:01"] Recreation Uniforms

[spp-timestamp time="15:48"] Recreation Tryouts

[spp-timestamp time="16:25"] Playing Classic Soccer

[spp-timestamp time="16:52"] Classic Coaches

[spp-timestamp time="17:20"] Introduction of Trainers

[spp-timestamp time="18:05"] Classic as a Bridge to Select

[spp-timestamp time="18:58"] Classic Uniforms

[spp-timestamp time="18:26"] Meeting Tournaments in Classic

[spp-timestamp time="20:00"] Increase in Consistency of Players

[spp-timestamp time="20:44"] Playing Select Travel

[spp-timestamp time="21:45"] Coaches Credentialling and Compensation

[spp-timestamp time="22:16"] Select Uniforms & Blood Kits

[spp-timestamp time="23:10"] GotSoccer Points

[spp-timestamp time="23:37"] "Psuedo" Select

[spp-timestamp time="24:19"] Wrap up and Look Ahead to our Next Episode

 

 

Soccer families that understand the economics of the game early will make better investment decisions over time. It's possible to just "follow the crowd" and see where it takes you, but you'll spend more time and money this way than you need to. By understanding what's involved in costing a soccer experience, you'll go in with your eyes wide open.

This episode is part 1 of a two-part series that talks about the soccer experience. We will introduce the variables here so that next week when we talk about the range of soccer experiences available, you'll better understand why one experience costs more or less than the other. In the episode immediately following these two on cost, we'll talk in more detail about how we can choose the soccer experience that's best for our own family.

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you get all three when they are released!

Sticks in a bundle can’t be broken but sticks taken singly can be easily broken. Same applies to people.

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One of the most potent superpowers any team has is Unity. In this episode, we talk about creating unity on the field, amplifying it at home, and using Unity as a measure of a game's effectiveness.

Sometimes, we just need a simple and effective way to introduce the concept to players so they will understand and be able to apply it. Moms and Dads need a simple message to reinforce at home. Players need a vocabulary that they can use to focus one another on the field on the concept when they need to. "Bindle of Sticks" has served my team[spp-timestamp time=""]s for several seasons now and easily deserves credit for much of my team's success.

The concept is so useful that players will easily take this with them when they leave the pitch for the last time. Employees, adults, families, and even business owners employing the Bundle of Sticks philosophy are better of for knowing it.

How many different ways can you apply the Bundle of Sticks (B.O.S.) philosophy in your life or in the lives of your players? I'd love to hear about how Bundle of Sticks has helped in your neck of the woods.

[spp-timestamp time="00:44"] Unconventional Wisdom

[spp-timestamp time="02:27"] Pre-Season Ritual

[spp-timestamp time="02:58"] Introducing Bundle of Sticks to Players

[spp-timestamp time="03:42"] Origins of Bundle of Sticks

[spp-timestamp time="04:24"] The Effect of Bundle of Sticks

[spp-timestamp time="05:43"] Coaching Bundle of Sticks from the Bench

[spp-timestamp time="06:46"] Players Who Play Individual Ball

[spp-timestamp time="07:20"] Average Players Frustrating Better Players

[spp-timestamp time="07:58"] Cowboys Mess Teams Up

[spp-timestamp time="08:22"] How do we Train and Tigger the Bundle of Sticks Method?

[spp-timestamp time="09:38"] Reinforcing the Meta-Message on the Pitch and Off

[spp-timestamp time="10:00"] Bundle of Sticks Trigger During a Game

[spp-timestamp time="11:35"] Finding B.O.S. in Professional Games

[spp-timestamp time="12:32"] Bundle Breaking Down

[spp-timestamp time="13:49"] Call to Action, Summary, & Bringing B.O.S. Knowledge to Your Team

Resources Referenced in this Episode:

* “The Father, His Sons, and The Bundle of Sticks.” Fables of Aesop, 28 Mar. 2017, fablesofaesop.com/the-father-his-sons-and-the-bundle-of-sticks.html.

* Stick Bundle Image. Brooklyn Museum [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Inspired by an article written by Fred Bowen of the Washington Post titled "Athletic Ability is just a part of success in sports," we hear what 5 high school coaches are looking for from players beyond athletic ability.

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We also hear about what Tom Statham from Manchester United's Youth program has to say about essentially the same subject.

Time and again, we hear that what separates the good from the great is Character. Coaches from high schools to the pros are echoing this message over and over again: talent isn't enough. Youth wanting to participate - whether in higher competitive level soccer or in life in general - must develop core character skills around sportsmanship, teamwork, empathy, leadership, and more.

In this episode, we review multiple coach's input and talk about being intentional with development of character.

Resouces Mentioned in this Episode:

* Bowen, Fred. “Athletic Ability Is Just Part of Success in Sports.” The Washington Post, 7 Dec. 2017, www.highbeam.com/doc/1P4-1973275117.html?refid=easy_hf.

*

Maltbie, Reed. “#39 Manchester United Youth Coach Tom Statham Discusses Two Decades of Watching Young Players' Unique Pathways to the Pros.” Changing the Game Project, 11 Dec. 2017, changingthegameproject.com/39-manchester-united-youth-coach-tom-statham-discusses-two-decades-of-watching-young-players-unique-pathways-to-the-pros/.

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So much of the tournament experience happens beyond the pitch. Building esprit-de-corps, enjoying local food, experiencing the hotel, and checking out many different game and coaching styles are just a few!

In this episode, we explore two real-world soccer tournaments that are hosted in the Maryland area. As co-owner for both of these tournaments, David shares some insights on the value of tournaments and how to prepare for them by setting a budget, a plan for the area, and making registration deadlines well in advance.

In the early part of the year is the perfect time to think about what tournament activities you want to include in your Club or team experience. These present great opportunities to brush the rust off before the Fall season or put a polish on a team after a few months of hard work.

Jump to:

[spp-timestamp time="00:27"] Tournaments are fun!

[spp-timestamp time="01:15"] Team Bonding

[spp-timestamp time="01:56"] What is the tournament experience like?

[spp-timestamp time="04:29"] Coming in from out of town

[spp-timestamp time="04:41"] When are the tournaments used as examples?

[spp-timestamp time="04:46"] What if I'm local and won't be competing?

[spp-timestamp time="05:04"] What does it cost and how do I get there?

[spp-timestamp time="07:23"] Getting Registered

[spp-timestamp time="08:06"] Wrap Up

Resources / Links I promised:

* “Tournaments.” Damascus Soccer Club, www.damascussoccer.org/tourneys.

* “August Cup Tournament.” Homepage, www.augustcup.com/.

* “Rush for the Cup Tournament.” Home, www.rushforthecup.com/.