Jason Griffiths: Elite Development Academy (EDA) Update
As I begin my second year with Classics Eagles, I have a much better idea of how the club is run top to bottom and how this structure positively affects all Classics Eagles families. Last year in the EDA we added a number of new programs:
- Age Group Training for all EDA teams: This allows us to train the same content and curriculum across all teams.
- SAQ for U12s: In addition to U13 and U14 program already in place
- Winter "Training Up" Program: This allowed all players to "train up" at least one time with the team directly above them.
- Winter "Finishing Touch" classes
- Spring "Weekly Training Focus" themes in which we emphasized different passing techniques that are required by all players to become well rounded and technically astute.
This year we will keep the above programs going, but we will fine tune them to help make our players even better. We now have programs in place to enable all of our players to receive the best possible training from all of our highly qualified coaches. The curriculum we have is thoughtful and deliberate to make sure that all players in the EDA are receiving similar training, but tailored towards each team's needs and ability. This year we have also added some fun events for each age group:
- U12 Soccer Olympics: This has already taken place and the kids had a fantastic time. They were able to bond with their teammates and coaches before the season started.
- U13 Foot Golf: This event was held earlier this season and was a lot of fun. We had over 60 players in the age group attend and prizes were given out for different accomplishments on the day, from best dressed to closest to the hole.
- U14 University Visit: Our U14 age group will be attending a tournament in Lexington, Kentucky in March 2016, and touring the University of Kentucky campus.
Now that we have these great programs in place it is about being consistent and improving the foundation that we have laid out. More is not better until what you have is perfect, and we will continue to strive for perfection within the programs we currently have.
I have seen huge improvements in all players since last year and I look forward to seeing that development continue this year. I have learned that success is seen by most on the scoreboard, but to the trained eye success is also seen in the development and progress that our players make outside of Classics Eagles, too. Last year, I personally coached two teams. A U13 boys team and a U14 girls team. The U13 boys won the State Cup tournament and went to the Regional tournament in Wisconsin, a fantastic achievement for them and a wonderful experience. The U14 girls team did not win the State Cup, but over half of that team is now starting for their Varsity high school teams, an outstanding accomplishment at their age.
Winning right now is not the most important thing for developing players at this age. The PROCESS of how you win and how you compete is what is important.
Winning is a by-product of your development on the field, your hard work in training and your commitment to excellence. No one remembers what you did yesterday. Live in the present and be the best you can be in everything you do today. Our programs, directors and coaches will help you to fulfill your potential IF you apply yourself to excellence.
If you have any questions or concerns over regarding soccer please do not hesitate to contact me.
See you on the field!
Jason Griffiths
Director - Elite Development Academy