Pete's four P's of football

Coaching Philosophy

Poise – some might call this “first touch” skill (TECHNICAL SKILL). Basically poise is properly receiving the ball (trapping), control it, and look up for either a pass, dribble, or shot on goal. Confidence and poise about the ball. Comfort and mastery of the ball.

Possession – once you have the ball under control, what do you do with it? KEEP POSSESSION! This is done by either dribbling the ball or, preferably, passing it to a teammate. This is perhaps the most critical element of our coaching philosophy. The team that controls midfield, controls the game.

Position – Two levels of position. The first is playing your position. The second level of position is supporting position (or proper SHAPE), a more esoteric concept. We teach the girls to support your teammates. Move into a position where your teammate can pass you the ball. Don’t ball watch. Think to move into a supporting position. Create a series of 3v1 all over pitch.

Purpose – The intellectual and tactical aspect of the game. Have a purpose. Make good decisions quickly (TATICAL SPEED). Have a purpose with the ball. Just kicking the ball with no particular intent is really just kick-ball, not football. THERE IS NO KICKING IN FOOTBALL! Have a purpose with your runs (maintain good shape). Don’t just run for running sake. Run to support and create space for a through ball.