Nelson Rep Soccer

Nelson Youth Soccer Rep Playing Philosophy

Developing knowledgeable, flexible decision-makers.

Nelson Youth Soccer’s aim is to develop players who are both knowledgeable and flexible in their application of the four key moments of the game. Players must be challenged to become independent decision-makers with the ability to understand and carry out the instructions of the Coach and react to the needs of the team at any given moment.

We expect players to demonstrate core values of hard work, honesty, and togetherness. Coaches will ensure that they are following the Nelson Youth Soccer Philosophy so that all Rep teams play the same way.

The Four Key Moments

We focus our play around the 4 moments in the game. All practice must center around preparing players to be successful in these specific phases:

• In Possession: Look to keep possession and play attacking soccer.
• Loss of Possession: Work hard to get it back as individuals and as a team.
• Transition to Attack (Won Ball): Look to counter-attack quickly after securing the ball.
• Transition to Defense (Lost Ball): Get compact and get back into shape.

Tactical Decision Making
All members of the team have a responsibility to participate in these moments by asking the following questions:

• When regaining control: Can we counter and attack quickly? If yes, we must do so. If not, can we retain possession to build an attack?
• When losing control: Can we press high up the field to successfully regain possession? If yes, we must do so. If not, can we delay by retreating to a new line of confrontation?

Playing Out from the Back

We play out from the back to start attacks from deep. We look to keep possession of the ball and build up attacks.

Do we play out from the back all the time?
We play out from the back when it’s on to do so. If it is not safe to play out from the back, then we look to go longer but wider. If a counter-attack opportunity is available, we look to go longer immediately.

Playing Time Policy

Rep soccer is a competitive team environment and playing time should be earned.

• General Games/Tournaments: All players will be guaranteed playing time. Guidelines will be outlined by the Technical Director with Rep Coaches.
• Playdowns & Provincials: Players will be part of the team but are not guaranteed playing time. The players that have performed the best and trained the best will get the minutes on the field.

Respect & Standards

All Coaches and Players must follow the code of conduct set out by Nelson Youth Soccer.

• Conduct: Coaches and Players will show respect to officials, opponents, and spectators. Failure to do so will result in loss of playing time.
• Attire: When representing Nelson Youth Soccer, Coaches and Players must wear Nelson Youth Soccer Clothing.