Summer Break, What do we do now?

This article was written by Chris Rue, Futsal Manager

We are at that time of year again when players and parents are scrambling to find the best solution for the upcoming year.  Since the demise of the US Development Academy, the alphabet soup of playing options creates an absolute nightmare for all constituents involved during this time.  With over 25 years’ experience, I am frequently asked to advise players and parents on what they should do.  My typical answer is; take a break from all the nonsense.  What is the hurry?  Enjoy the summer and use FUTSAL to develop.

An often-overlooked aspect of the whole tryout season is player psychology.  The desire to be included in a tribe makes us human.  Subjecting young players to a barrage of tryouts is not healthy.  Coaches are there to monitor and grade performances in a narrow time frame which leads to varying results.  Some player’s abilities set them apart on the field, but can be harmful off of it and vice versa.  It really is a difficult time for all involved.   Coaches and parents can help alleviate the stresses by encouraging players to simply play and enjoy themselves.  Futsal offers a great environment for this.

In the south, summer futsal season is here.  Clubs who offer futsal programming during this time have a great advantage.  Not only are some players seeking clubs who offer futsal, they can get a feel for teammates, coaches and environment to make an informed decision.  Coaches can also get a feel as to the right fit of a player.  It’s a win-win for all. 

Futsal offers a completely different vibe.  We play music at our futsal trainings and encourage players to be dynamic.  First time flicks, dummies, elastico’s, and megs are celebrated.  The gym gets rocking and all those tryout concerns go out the window.  The important stuff; friendship, comradery, passion, and love of play emerges.  These are the environments that players and parents’ thirst for, offering this will separate your club from the others. 

Most factors determining what team a player/parent chooses are out of the club’s control.  What a club can control is the environment.  Fostering a setting filled with all types of development opportunities in a fun environment can be a difference maker.  In the past few years, many players and parents, especially in the younger ages, have been exposed to futsal.  Most see the obvious benefits and now choose clubs offering it.  Be that club!