Updated Tuesday, March 22 @ 11:30 AM: We just received word that Tophat fields will be closed on Saturday. Our games have been moved to Metro North Park. Game times have changed from morning to afternoon kickoffs because Metro North fields were already booked for the earlier time slots.
2nd update @ 2:15 PM: The schedule change gremlin has just been reclassified as the evil schedule change gremlin. Match-ups have changed. This means girls who were scheduled in game 2 and 3 swap time slots. Roster details below reflect the 2:15 PM changes.
Our next game day is Saturday, March 26. We’re at Metro North Park take a short trip to the Tophat Buckhead fields for a set of three 7v7 games against Buckhead and Smyrna teams. Link: team assignments and schedules (posted Sunday, March 20 @ 5 PM; updated Tuesday, March 22 @ 11:30 AM and again Tuesday, March 22 @ 2:15 PM)
Game day links:
- March 26 team assignments and schedules
- about game days
- Reminder: No jewelry! It’s a rule, not a suggestion. Link: jewelry rule
- Spring 2022 game day schedule (major updates posted March 20)
Dribbling moves of the month:
We practice dribbling moves (changes of direction or fake changes of direction finished with a burst of speed) very often. Our current emphasis is on three types of dribbling moves:
- pullbacks
- twist-off turns (also called hook turns or shielding turns)
- V-pull moves
All of the above moves are aimed at helping a player keep the ball when under pressure, instead of dribbling into an opponent or teammate (what we call “bones & shin guards”).
These moves rely on ball manipulation, not wizardly body fakes or foot fakes. Some of our players use these moves in games (often with success), but the majority of players either forget them come game time, or lack the confidence to try the moves.
Parents, you can help with your daughter’s development! The key is to take the mindset of being your daughter’s training partner, not her coach. For example, start by asking her about her favorite dribbling moves, or which ones she wants to improve. Then take a ball into the back yard or garage and have her show you. You’ve now opened the door to a productive “fun with a soccer ball” session.
We encourage you and your daughter to spend 5-10 minutes 2-3 times a week to review moves, and then play games (such as Texas Draw or Snow Cones) that reward the use of dribbling moves. (Sisters and brothers are welcome to join in!) You don’t need past soccer experience of your own, just some time and energy. We’re confident that both you and your daughter will have fun, and your daughter will gain skill and confidence!
Check the above links for descriptions and demo videos of the moves and games. Most of the activities can be done in small spaces, such as a 10-yard square. If you’d like a personal demo of a move, or want more details about a dribbling game, feel free to check with your coach after an upcoming practice.