How They Learn

Every year I've got a couple guys who just don't get it: they can't kick the ball straight, can't keep the ball on the ground, don't know where to be on the field.  And I'm okay with that, it takes time to build these skills and sometimes it doesn't come the first or even the second year.  But sometimes things feel different.  This can point to a learning disability or something else going on.  So before you think the player is lazy or defiant, consider this possibility of learning style.

Some players may have a problem processing verbal instructions to physical action.  This can be a problem especially when you're running a drill with 18 players and you typically shout out instructions as the drill is going on - they're just not going to be able to process that.  In these cases it's important to have someone who can assist, taking the player off to the side and work with them.

Another possible situation are players who get overwhelmed in chaotic situations - like games! - and they freeze when there's too much going on around them.  They may have very good soccer skills, but put them in a crowd with a lot going on and they shut down.  Here's what makes it worse: the fans yelling at them.  People will look at these players and wonder why they aren't moving more.  Even coaches will yell at them - been there, done that.  Here's what to do:

• The first key is to keep them off of defense.  Defense is all about jumping into the middle of a crowd and they don't do well with that.  
• Second, put them on striker or a wing, while these aren't exactly quiet positions, they do offer some buffer.  Players like this can be very good on break away situations or one on one.  
• Provide basic instruction - here is the one thing you want them to do in the game.
• Lots of praise for what's working right and very specific feedback.  No more than one point of feedback.  It's not that their stupid, it's that when they get into the chaos of the field, they won't remember the five things you want them to do.
• Go find the noisy fans and tell them ... you'd appreciate it if they didn't do what their doing.

There are all different kinds of learning styles, but sometimes there are specific reasons for them 'not getting in'.  Also, talk to the parents - frame the discussion as you're trying to help the player learn a concept and they seem to be struggling - is there anything that the parent has found that helps them in learning.  Home school parents are typically more sensitive to the learning style of their kids than a private or public school.