U10 THEME: PLAYING IN GROUPS

Recreation Program

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CHARACTERISTICS OF U-10 PLAYERS

§ Gross and small motor skills become more refines.

§ Boys and girls begin to develop separately.

§ Ability to stay on task is lengthened.

§ Greater diversity in playing ability and physical maturity; physically mature individuals demonstrate stronger motor skills.

§ More prone than adults to heat injury/illness.

§ Lengthened attention span; ability to sequence thought and actions.

§ Pace factor becoming developed (starting to think ahead).

§ More inclined towards wanting to play rather than being told to play.

§ Demonstrate increased self-responsibility – bring ball, water, tuck in jersey, and pull up socks.

§ Starting to recognize fundamental tactical concepts, such as changing the direction of the ball, but not always sure why.

§ Receptive technique very important, but it must be dynamic not static.

§ More likely to initiate play on their own.

§ Continued positive reinforcement needed.

§ Explanations must still be brief, concise and indicate purpose.

§ Becoming more serious about “their play.”

§ Still intrinsically motivated.

§ Peer pressure starting to be a factor.

§ Prefer identification with team, i.e. uniform, balls, and equipment.