Our Rising Stars Program is for players aged 5-13 years old (KG-8th Grade) who wish to continue to play soccer over the winter season. The program includes a skills based practice every Friday and small-sided games on Sundays.
Objective:
- The primary focus of the Rising Stars Program is technical skills development in a fun and dynamic format.
- Players are introduced to professional training allowing them to experience the environment of competitive club soccer without the associated travel and expense.
- Practices and games are led by our nationally licensed professional staff.
- The Rising Stars Program caters to players of all levels and abilities.
Friday Practice
Location: Rancho Solano Preparatory School – 9180 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (101 & Via de Ventura).
Dates: Friday 17th January – Friday 14th February.
Times: 5-6:00pm; players currently first grade or younger | 6:20-7:20pm; players currently in second grade or older.
Game Day Sundays
Location: Rancho Solano Preparatory School – 9180 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (101 & Via de Ventura).
Dates: Sunday 19th January – Sunday 16th February.
Times:
- 10.30am-11.30am; KG boys and girls.
- 11:45am-12:45pm; first and second grade boys and girls.
- 1pm-2pm; third grade and older boys and girls.
Format:
Each practice and game day the coaching staff will divide the players into groups of 8-12 children based on age and gender (ability can be a factor too). Ordinarily the players will be in very similar, if not the same, coaching groups every Friday and Sunday. If players request to be in the same coaching group as friends or siblings we will accommodate wherever possible.
Cost & Registration:
Cost for program is $200.
Price includes Rising Stars Adidas jersey and professional coaching at practice and games.
(note: daily drop-in option also available – $20 per day. Simply come along and register on site in person. Rising Stars Adidas jersey is $30 per player for drop-in options).
Benefits of small-sided games:
Small-sided games are extremely beneficial for youth soccer players. Anecdotal evidence and research studies show that youngsters derive greater pleasure from playing soccer in smaller teams and with adapted rules. As well as getting involved in the game more often, players learn more quickly and take more decisions during the course of a game. And as the ball is never far away, greater concentration is required on their part.
This all means that they gain a better understanding of the game than they would in playing on bigger fields. The fact there are less players on the field and on each team also means that they receive more attention and have more chances to score goals, which is what children play the game for. Players are exposed to more attack and defense situations, increasing their enjoyment and the pace at which they learn.
The key principles can all be taught playing small-sided games. Although played on a smaller field the levels energy expended due to continuous involvement, quick movements and sharp changes in direction mean small-sided games are also excellent for improved balance, agility and conditioning.
To sum up, young players touch the ball a lot more often in small-sided games. They play more passes and find themselves in more one-on-one situations. The repetition of situations in which they have to make decisions helps them to learn and view the game positively. Active participation also increases their enjoyment, making it easier for them to understand the game and, above all, giving them the freedom to express themselves on the ball.
If you have any questions please email Recreational Director Of Coaching, Neil Graham neilg@prfcyouthsoccer.com.
