Philosophy

Youth football is moving at a rapid pace in Southern California and we have to stop and ask ourselves “are we going to get caught up in this competitive frenzy?” Player development is taking second place to wins and losses, and League status is becoming a major decision point for parents. We try and strike a balance where our focus is on player development technically, tactically, mentally and physically in a competitive environment.

The coaching staff at SC United is our primary asset. With our coaches having played professional or collegiate soccer and holding relationships with professional soccer clubs/coaches in Europe, we follow a professional development model which teaches players to play at the highest level possible and revolves around technical training which require first class educators who are both positive role models and visual demonstrators. We evolve from mastering the ball to mastering the game with an approach which is age appropriate and kid-centric in a positive atmosphere.

Focus on player development

Player development is not based on what league you play in rather the soccer ethics of the club and coaches which :

-prioritise good soccer, having a system of play which requires passing and moving over winning

-not recruiting solely on size which is a quick fix with an over emphasis on individual strength/talent, rather encouraging team work and effective decision making from all our players

-having the appropriate training to game ratio, where technical training is pivotal to player development

-having a high player retention rate, not being overly reliant on recruiting new players/teams each year. Our approach highlights growth, progression and long term stability which is important when dealing with young kids. Our approach is governed by a development model rather than a business one.

-limiting the amount of tournaments we play as it's well known in professional soccer that playing too many games in the same day or a short period of time is detrimental to development, we therefore make soccer development decisions not business ones re our game schedule

U8-U14

Our goals and expectations within our coaching staff have been set, and the bar is high. The focus U8 to U14, is to develop the player- improve soccer skills, master the fundamental techniques, learn the value of team unity and above all develop a real passion for the game. Creating and maintaining a positive environment where players feel encouraged to express themselves on the field rather than play in fear.

U15-U19 (High School Age)

At U15-U19 we continue to develop the player but our priority shifts to the mental aspects of the game where we also develop the competitor and every effort will be made to put our teams in a position to showcase their talent in tournaments attended by College coaches, and the National staff.

We are heavily involved in High School soccer programs, and believe this experience prepares players for the rigors of College and Professional life where dealing with game results is an everyday occurance and must be learned in a pressurised environment. 

As a club we have a responsibility to help players improve, and as coaches a responsibility to deliver. Winning games is a byproduct of a strong program and although it becomes important at U15 and older level, we prefer to be judged on player progress. Trophies tarnish, good habits shine for life.

For more information on our soccer development model contact Chris Murray on 949-547-0439 or scunited@live.com or click here.