Strength of
Understanding the roles of the three key people in a player's soccer journey improves the experience for everyone, especially the player.
THE SOCCER PARENT
NUU soccer parents are engaged but not overbearing. They play a crucial role in their children's soccer experience. We encourage parents of 1- to 9-year-olds to buy the book SOCCER STARTS AT HOME. While our Destination Soccer program provides a good introduction to the sport, nothing beats the time kids can spend with a ball and a parent at home. Understanding the challenges of raising a youth soccer player enhances the NUU experience. We recommend several books for parents to read during their club soccer journey, as they will help everyone grasp why NUU aims to improve how we support our community's young soccer players and their families.
Books for parents to guide their youth soccer journey:
Be All In (great for parents of 11-18 year old’s)
Here is an article on SoccerParenting.com
Parents Who Are Getting It Right
Here are two articles to read when considering your coach.
Traits of a successful youth soccer coaches
7 Ways to Spot a Con Artist Coach
THE SOCCER PLAYER
Every player deserves a supportive environment that helps them enjoy soccer for life, no matter their age, skill level, or goals. "Rising" means becoming the best version of oneself.
Players need to train hard at home and during club activities, with support from the club and coaches. While age and skill level are considered, they are expected to show mental focus. Physical intensity may vary but should improve over time. Each player develops at their own speed, and setting unrealistic expectations can lead to players leaving the sport.
Requirements to "RISE TO ROYALTY"
Qualities
Always Learning
Confident
Good Teammate
Champion Mindset
Dynamic
Punctual
Traits
Respect
Courage
Humility
Discipline
Creative
Perseverance
Grit
Here is an article on Storrelli.com
Youth: Why Young Soccer Players Need to “Up” Their Mental Game
THE SOCCER COACH
Many of our coaches volunteer, mostly parents. As the need for a better soccer experience grows, more people are thinking about paying coaches. We appreciate every coach and realize that volunteering takes time and money, as they often miss work, buy gear, seek coaching training, and travel to tournaments. Without these sacrifices, the cost of youth soccer might rise or the player experience could decline. Regardless of the coach, they have a support system that wants to help them improve, which in turn benefits their players. Due to our pool play structure and teamwork among coaches, NUU requires coaches to care for all players in the club, especially within their age group, not just those on their team.
NUU Coaching Characteristics
Focus: Development Minded
An NUU coach leads by example. Both players and coaches should focus on continuous learning to achieve their best.Patience: Player Centered
An NUU coach cares for every child, regardless of skill level. Players need determination and support to improve. Coaches must set aside personal ego to prioritize each player's needs.Drive: Perseverance
An NUU coach is ready to face challenges. Players must learn to handle both success and failure as part of growth. A confident coaching team with a clear plan can effectively manage players, parents, and emotions while fostering a competitive yet supportive environment.Humility: Transparency
An NUU coach is adaptable. Players should feel involved in decision-making. Coaches who welcome input from players, parents, and colleagues promote a shared experience. Flexibility is essential for success, even in the club game model.
Interested in coaching? Email: NUUginn@gmail.com
Books for youth coaches to read:
Here is an article for every youth coach to read:
Youth Soccer Coaches Wanted: Only Those with Patience and Perseverance Need Apply
