The MPS '99 Boys Fire philosophy stems from an overall player development goal. We develop our player's individual, overall technical ability while stimulating their creativity on the field. Using Guided Discovery, it is our goal to ensure that our players have touch, vision, and technical efficiency by the time they progress to the U-12 level. How we get them to that point centers around the environment we create for their growth:
- Comfort, Confidence, and Aggressiveness on the ball: We train and encourage players to take defenders on, even in situations where adult players would not. Players are expected to use their feet to work themselves out of difficult situations – never to just “kick it out”. Passing is introduced as a secondary option after basic comfort on the ball is established.
- Freedom to take Risks: Any player can learn and execute “moves” in a training atmosphere – but it takes a special player to be able to take defenders on without hesitation, especially when they perceive “pressure”. We do our best to create a positive environment by emphasizing the player’s effort and attitude and by providing a quiet and supportive sideline, so players feel comfortable taking risks with the ball ESPECIALLY in matches.
- Fun and Success: Young players need to have their fair share of both challenges and success to develop as athletes. Having an Academy type system we are able to place players in the appropriate level of competition where they can experience the success they need to build the confidence and comfort on the ball that is so important at the youngest ages. We do our best to put players with others of like ability so there are no team “super stars”, but rather an environment where all players feel they have as much right to the ball as any of their teammates – no feeling that they need to defer to teammates.
- Complete Soccer Players: Players are not pigeon-holed in positions, but are expected to play and become comfortable with responsibilities all over the field. Players are encouraged and expected to attack from all positions.
- 1 Player Pool, 3 Match Day Teams: Young players go through a variety of changes as they grow, much of it beyond their control. Physical, emotional, and intellectual breakthroughs and roadblocks are givens with young athletes. Having a large player pool with a variety of competition levels ensures that players that learn and grow within the game have a place to be continuously challenged and rewarded. It also gives players that struggle during their growth a place to play and have success until they get more comfortable in their bodies. As long as the player demonstrates the effort, attitude, and development expected they will remain within the pool. Match team selection is based on the merits of the player's skill and decision making, with consideration for their individual needs. Match teams are Green (most competitive), White (competitive), and Gold (developmental).
