Soccer is constantly immersed in a dynamic of strategic change and physical demand as players become stronger, faster, more agile, and fit at younger ages. Manufacturers of soccer cleats are now required to meet the needs of youth and adolescent players by integrating concepts previously reserved for the elite professional player.

Committing to travel-team soccer can have a profound impact on family life.

"What is the optimal parent-coach relationship?" That's what Positive Coaching Alliance trainers address during the Double-Goal Coach and Second-Goal Parent workshops we conduct throughout the country. The answer appears in the very names of the workshops.

There is much to do as a high school soccer coach. New uniforms have been ordered and sent to the silk-screener. Balls have been stored in the garage waiting for the night when I will pump up each one. Assistants have been lined up and forms distributed. The fall schedule has been carefully worked out with dates and times. An accident to one of our goals required a piece be sent to a local welder to be repaired.

It is possible to scientifically understand the youth soccer culture, to consider the experience of all constituents, and to take practical and developmentally solid steps to do a better job.