I have a 2004 U12 son on his 2nd year at the same large club, B team. He has always enjoyed playing GK and we've pushed off full time GK dedication until this season. He is currently the full time GK of his club team and plays field and goal on his town/travel A team. We are aware of the importance of keeping up his footskills.
My concern is that
1. His club team is not very strong.
2. The A team at his club already has a 2004 GK and even though he is comparable and possibly better, this club never moves A players to B.
3. If he remains on the B team, the team is likely to be weaker than it is now as he'll be playing with younger 04s.
4. He's not developing as much as I would like to see foot skill wise at this club.
5. Because the team is weak, any distribution on his part often results in a turn over as his teammates don't move the ball quickly enough. My concern there is the potential for him to develop bad habits by compensating for his teammates.
The positives
1. He has grown as a GK because his team is weak. It's not uncommon for him to be shot on 15+ times a game.
2. If he stays with this club he can play Middle School next year.
3. The GK spot is his full time if he stays with this club on B.
Our Goals
1. He's having fun.
2. Growth and Development.
Is U13 a good time to make a club switch? Or is U14 better after a year of experience with the bigger net? When is it too late? I've heard older teams are pretty set. Or is it never to late if you are good?
It's complicated/difficult making these decisions as a GK as you are competing for one spot.
My concern is that
1. His club team is not very strong.
2. The A team at his club already has a 2004 GK and even though he is comparable and possibly better, this club never moves A players to B.
3. If he remains on the B team, the team is likely to be weaker than it is now as he'll be playing with younger 04s.
4. He's not developing as much as I would like to see foot skill wise at this club.
5. Because the team is weak, any distribution on his part often results in a turn over as his teammates don't move the ball quickly enough. My concern there is the potential for him to develop bad habits by compensating for his teammates.
The positives
1. He has grown as a GK because his team is weak. It's not uncommon for him to be shot on 15+ times a game.
2. If he stays with this club he can play Middle School next year.
3. The GK spot is his full time if he stays with this club on B.
Our Goals
1. He's having fun.
2. Growth and Development.
Is U13 a good time to make a club switch? Or is U14 better after a year of experience with the bigger net? When is it too late? I've heard older teams are pretty set. Or is it never to late if you are good?
It's complicated/difficult making these decisions as a GK as you are competing for one spot.
Comment