Player Characteristics

U6 | 3 against 3 no goal keepers

Short attention span. Frequent shifts in focus. 

Aware of basic needs, thirst, hunger, rest and other immediate physical stimuli.

Very individually oriented (me, mine, my).

Constantly in motion, but, with no sense of pace. They will chase something until they drop. They are easily fatigued but recover rapidly.

Can attend to only one problem at a time.

Physical coordination limited. Eye - hand and eye - foot coordination is not developed. Need to explore qualities of a rolling ball.

Love to run, jump, roll, hop, etc.

Catching or throwing skills not developed.

Prefer large, soft balls.

Can balance on their "good" foot.

May understand simple rules that are explained briefly. simply and demonstrated.

May or may not understand or remember: what lines mean on the field; what team they are on; what goal they are going for. Need to be patient and laugh with them as they get 'lost' on the field.

Easily bruised psychologically. Shout praise often. Give "hints", don't criticize.

Need generous praise and to play without pressure. No extrinsic rewards (trophies, medals, etc.) should be given for winning.

Prefer "parallel play" (Will play on a team, but will not really engage with their teammates. Thus, a 3 against 3 games is, in reality, a 1 against 5 games because they all want the ball at the same time.

Development for boys and girls are quite similar.