Where getting better is the goal!
OYSA’s Developmental Leagues is for U8-U10 players. The objective of small-sided games is to make sure that players are getting more touches and decisions with the ball. This also simplifies the decision making process by having less players on the field. We encourage our coaches to create fun, but learning environment where players can be creative and make mistakes that they can learn from.
U8 Guidelines
– Game Length/Format: 4v4 games, 4–10 minute quarters
– Activity Priorities: Fun, Physical Movement, Time on the Ball, Engagement, Creativity
– Player:Coach Ratio: 6:2 is recommended, may be adjusted as needed but work towards ideal
– Playing Time: Everyone plays at least 50% of each game with a goal of
75%
– Ball Size: Size 3 ball
– Coaching Philosophy: Player Centered, High Energy, Engaging, Asks Questions
– Style of Play: Soccer Decisions, Creativity, Experimental Coaches
- Toolkit Preferences: Positive Feedback, Guided Questions, Key
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U9/10 Guidelines (changes from U8)
– Game Length/Format: 7v7games, Formal League Play, 2-25 Minute Halves
– Player:Coach Ratio: 9:2 is recommended, 10:2 maximum, may be adjusted as needed but work towards recommended
– Playing Time: Everyone plays at least 50% of each game with a goal of 75%
– Ball Size: Size 4 ball
– Coaching Philosophy: Player Centered, High Energy, Engaging, Asks Questions
– Style of Play: Soccer Decisions, Creativity, Experimental Coaches
– Toolkit Preferences: Positive Feedback, Guided Questions, Key
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