Over twenty million Americans are playing the great game of soccer. This guide is for their coaches; it will help both the new and the experienced youth and high school coaches develop complete players, those who master the three fundamental elements of technique, tactics, and function. There are many technique books on the market, and a few tactical books, but none which attempt to integrate technique, tactics, and function with accompanying game activities. As in state-of-the-art coaching for all sports, this integration is best developed through a system of progressions. Building upon a logical progression of exercises, activities, and shortsided games, this guide will help the coach to apply the principles of play to the game of soccer and the development of soccer players. Too often these principles are overlooked by coaches; yet they are the very foundation of the game! Once a coach can view game action from this point of view he is capable of making important/relevant suggestions that relate to training and general principles. This facilitates player growth and game results.
