Acquiring technical and tactical soccer proficiency is a long developmental process where players progress gradually from a simple technique to a more tactical (decision making) application.  The technical-functional training, in which players apply the correct technique in a game-realistic environment, is the desired achievement for training sessions. Players should participate in game-like training environments. Game-like training environments will be able to better prepare players for the constantly evolving game of soccer. Roaring Fork United values players who can become better problem solvers.  

Player Pathway - Five-Stage Model of Skill Acquisition 

Novice/Discovery Phase – Ages 6u-8u
Overall Objective: learn basic movement and soccer skills by building overall motor skills.
Focus: FUN-damentals. This stage is all about fun! This is often a player’s first experience with a ball, a coach, an organized team; they are just beginning to understand the very basic concepts of the game and playing with teammates. In this stage, players are introduced to the basics of the game through thematic activities and imaginative games designed to get players comfortable on and off the ball.
Development Philosophy: Igniting a passion for the game must be the number one objective for this age group. The aim of the coach is to keep the experience fun and enjoyable while fostering a desire to play. An emphasis on movement and body awareness is essential for this age group as they continue to develop eye-hand and eye-foot coordination. 

Coaches are responsible for developing a general understanding of the basic rules of the game.  These rules are best taught in any scrimmage or small-sided game, which is free play.  Players will develop an understanding of how to perform basic soccer skills. 

• Introduction to soccer 
• Soccer is best learned from free flowing play  
• Thematic games are used to instill an enjoyable and fun environment 
• NO elimination games  
• Players are more self-centered and can only think of themselves and the ball 

Advanced Beginner Stage - 9 to 12 Years (10U-12U) 
Developmental Phase: skill acquisition is at its greatest. Training sessions should consist of technical training and application of technique. The players should have a deeper understanding of the rules, and should be encouraged to explore the gray areas of the rules.  This does not mean encouraging the players to “cheat,” but figuring out how to gain advantages within the games (i.e. taking free kicks quickly, figuring out how much physical play the referee will allow.) 

• Acquiring of basic skills 
• The introduction of tactical concepts 
• The absorption of basic skills (good habits) is never greater than at this age 
• Players will begin to change from childhood to adolescence, so will be going from a more self-centered to a self-aware mindset    
• Games in practices should be central to all skills training 
• Small-sided games appropriate 

Competence Stage – 13 to 15 Years (13U-15U)  
Players should know the rules of the game and should be encouraged to understand the "grey area" of the rules, the etiquette of the game, and the gamesmanship of the game.  This is usually accomplished by watching the game being played at very high levels, both in person and on television.   

• The pace of development quickens at this level due to the acceleration of physical and mental maturity  
• The technical/functional training should increase along with tempo and pace  
• 9v9 small-side games become an important part of the practice 
• Move to 11v11 game format  

Proficiency Stage  - 16 Years and Up 
The direction of the team at this age is largely dependent on the motivations of the players. This is the players’ team, and the coaches and players should treat it as such. Players should be trusted to run their own warm- ups, and leaders on the team should be allowed to take charge. The coach’s role at this age is largely organizational and tactical, allowing the players to take ownership over their team. The environment is player-centered and catered to their ability to apply technique to tactical situations (Soccer IQ).

Expertise Stage - 18 Years to Adulthood 
Players should better understand the "grey areas" of the rules, the etiquette of the game, and the gamesmanship of the game.  This is usually accomplished by watching the game being played at very high levels, both in person and on television.  The game can become very physical at this age, and playing within the exact rules of the game can put players at a disadvantage.  Teaching players to deal with the physical side of the game can help ensure the players' safety. Players should be able to understand and implement different game formations example: 1-4-4-2 and/or 1-4-3-3.