In the youngest age groups, for players aged 5-8, we aim to open a child's mind as to what is possible with and without the ball, learning about its endless possibilities. We make use of the natural predispositions of children - a vivid imagination and often inexhaustible reserves of energy. We focus on individual technical work with the ball, which will take up no less than 60% of each session, whilst up to 30% of session time will be reserved for FDS game situations. Children will be given a soft introduction to the ICFDS Skills Badge Scheme, and are encouraged to understand and appreciate the importance of respect and friendship. The overall aim is to provide an introduction to the BSS methodology, firmly creating a solid core series of skills as their foundation enabling them to successfully move into the next phase of learning. Individual development and expression is paramount.
At this age children begin to compete more regularly, this results in players practising individual, paired and group work with and without pressure, moving closer to being match ready. The ICFDS Skills Badge Scheme begins to take more prominence, with all movements being slowly taught, reinforced and mastered. However we never forget this is a critical stage for experimentation and performance must not be assessed on success rather allowing a mind to flourish and learn. It is also important for our children to appreciate that faults are acceptable and can be used as motivation to work harder and try again.
By the time children have reached the oldest age group, their technical foundation has been laid. Therefore we are ready to open up new chapters in the programme addressing players’ tactical, physical and mental development. At these ages they will have an increased intelligence and physical profile, which will enhance their understanding of these chapters. Players will not be limited to one position but encouraged to gain a full appreciation of the experiences that come with participating all over the field of play. With this we introduce team play techniques – we play in various combinations: from 1 vs 1 to 11 vs 11 using FDS footballs well as the introduction of more conventional Size 4 and 5 balls. We strengthen players’ general fitness and diet, focusing more on competition using elements of both Futebol de Salão and conventional gameplay in practice, whilst continuing to reinforce all the techniques introduced earlier in the programme.
I cannot believe what I see with Brazilian Soccer Schools and SOCATOTS, it is amazing and it is something completely different and very special. It will have so many benefits for football and for kids in general. Socially, physically and technically I can see this, having such a positive influence for future generations across the world.
The whole Futebol de Salão thing really interests me because it is a different way of teaching kids to play the game. They’ve been doing it in Brazil for years and they are one of the best teams in the world, so there must be something in it for England, it could well be the way forward.
You have rescued the game of Futebol de Salão. So many players who I played with would be interested in the fact you have done this. We still enjoy playing it, but in Brazil we can’t even buy a ball, FIFA have ruined the game with a bouncing and a high ball.
Brazilian Soccer Schools and SOCATOTS are tremendous, both are a great way to get children started with exercise, and it is so much fun and incredibly positive. I do think children need to do more exercise in general and this is a super way to begin. I think SOCATOTS and Brazilian Soccer Schools are a country mile beyond anything else out there and Devon (my son) has been a SOCATOT from seven months. It’s never too young for them to start learning. If children can start young and enjoy playing and exercising I am sure they will stay involved with sports throughout their lives.
Brazilian Soccer Schools gave me a great introduction to my coaching career and allowed me to remain open minded about many things within the game. This together with Socatots is a great concept and route for young coaches to take into the game. From a personal point of view working within a franchise also allowed me to experience many other important things such as building up my hours working with children at the grassroots level, acting as a mentor for them as well running the business side of things such as marketing and taking responsibility for my own schedule of classes.