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Coaching Goals
There are two goals that will guide our coaching decisions.  The first is to teach the game of soccer in such a fashion that our players learn to love the game and will choose to continue playing, refereeing, and/or coaching for the rest of their lives.  The second goal is to provide an appropriate Christian role model for these girls.  I coach because I have a sense of the Holy Spirit's leadership in my life to do so. The scriptures below form the basis for my actions and coaching decisions.

And whatever you do (no matter what it is) in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in dependence upon His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.
Colossians 3:17

… whatever you may do, do all for the honor and glory of God.  Do not let yourselves be hindrances by giving an offense to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God [do not lead others into sin by your mode of life];
1 Corinthians 10:31- 32

Coaching Philosophy 
This team has a philosophy and commitment focused on developing well rounded, complete soccer players - not super forwards or wonder fullbacks.  Part of achieving that is teaching, training and playing each field position.  We will establish a plan to rotate each player through all the field positions. It is important that all the girls to fully understand the roles, responsibilities, and purposes of each field position and have the confidence that they can play each position.

Soccer is a game that is better learned than choreographed.  It is also a game that can be beautifully spontaneous and filled with individual and team improvisation.  Practices consequently will focus on fundamentals and principles.  As principles are learned and understood, the girls will recognize and apply them in the games.

Playing Time
Keep in mind that Challenge is a competitive soccer league.  In the recreation soccer leagues everyone had a minimum expectation of playing 1/2 of every game.  The NCYSA Challenge handbook states that everyone must play at least 10 minutes of each half.   We all know that a child is not going to develop just playing 10 minutes a half.    As long as your child is competing well on the field and holding her own against the competition, we will adjust the rotation so that she gets significant playing time.  If you child is not competitive on the field, it is my responsibility of the coach, trainer parent and child to develop a plan to get them there.

Parents Help Required
We need your help to make sure that your daughter's challenge season is an overwhelmingly positive experience.  If she gets down - doesn't enjoy the games or practice - shows any signs of not wanting to go to practice/ games, let me know ASAP.  Whatever is causing the problem, will not likely go away.  We need to address and remedy it quickly before she decides to leave the game.   This is a competitive league, but we are still talking about 9 year old little girls.  We (coaches, parents & trainers) must still make sure that U10 challenge remains fun and positive experience.  Regular and open communication between coaches, trainers and parents is critical.