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[quote=Anonymous]Hello,

I'm Reza, father of an FCGB 2006 player.  I'm happy to share my thought with any soccer families who may have specific questions about FCGB and are confused by subtext of these anonymous posts. Please feel free to email me directly at rsadj@yahoo.com and I will do my best to answer as objectively as possible.  I'll admit I'm not knowledgeable about the pursuit of college soccer scholarships, but I have lifelong love for the beautiful game.

From my experience, DC-area families are lucky to have so many opportunities for girls to learn and experience this sport.  It's truly remarkable how many clubs/coaches there are; and the range of technical, tactical, and physical development on offer.  Indeed, the DC-area is unique in how the various children's and adults' leagues can even emulate the various styles of play which exist around the globe.  If you feel that your child will enjoy playing a certain style, it's not hard to find a club that shares your opinion of how the game is best played.  The only thing that seems to be in short supply are enough high-quality, public pitches.

In a nutshell, my advice on developing your child's talent can be paraphrased from (legendary) coach Arsene Wenger:

-For children up to the age of 7, the focus should be simply instilling a love for the game.  Show them some freestyle tricks. Take them to see a local game at a club tournament, high school, university, MLS, NWSL, etc.  (If you can take them to a big European or South American match at this age they will likely imprint and become a lifelong fan)

-For children between the ages of 7-14, the focus should be on technical development.  Help them to develop the skill and ball-mastery necessary to progress.

-The period between ages 14-17 is usually a period of physical development.  Help them develop flexibility, balance, strength, coordination, stamina, etc.

-The period from is usually 17-18 is when tactical intelligence can blossom.  In America this is commonly referred to soccer IQ.

-The period between 18 and 21 is usually when children develop the mental strength and maturity needed for higher-level competition.

Whichever club you choose, appreciate that to really learn this game takes time, patience and humility.   It should be done by following a process which builds layer upon layer without skipping steps.  No child can achieve technical precision without first developing a love for the game.  Technical ability without tactical sense won't make a good player.   An intelligent and skillful player who is impulsive, or lacks poise or discipline is always going to be limited.  Most importantly, the foundation of the development pyramid has to always be a love for the game.

Of course, for most families concerns about costs, time commitments, academic performance, family dynamics, mental health, injuries, and the like have to be taken in consideration while setting goals for soccer development.  My advice is to consider your child's soccer education in the same way as other fine arts (painting, music, dance, etc)  A good education can provide a lifelong source of joy and appreciation even if they don't end up reaching the highest levels.

Hopefully this is helpful.

Best,

Reza
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