Prepare to Win

I became the head coach of the San Domenico’s Men’s varsity soccer team a year ago. We finished the season with the best record in school history and secured our place in the NCS playoffs for the first time as the #9 seed. I recognized that I needed to further my coaching education if I wanted to continue leading the men’s program in the right direction. So I decided to get my USSF B License.

It was one of the best decisions that I made. The knowledge I gained from the course has shaped my perspective on the soccer landscape in Marin and long-term player development in the area.

What is a Long-Term Development Plan?

A long-term development plan is the planned, systematic, and progressive development of individual players within the club game model throughout each stage of development. We create them to provide the player with a structured and player-owned process to develop player actions related to key qualities.

Something to keep in mind…

There are few moments throughout the year that are appropriate for intensive training that does not put a player at a higher risk for injury due to insufficient recovery and adaptation time. June is the ideal time to do so. Being a part of my summer camp allows me to evaluate players better and connect with families afterward to construct long-term development plans we can follow throughout the year.

The majority of players that I work with have standing weekly appointments. Although there are 52 weeks in a year, a combination of club, school, family, and social commitments reduces the number of sessions we actually get in throughout the year. 

The reality is that we train closer to 28 times a year. Here are some major events that eliminate potential training dates: 

  • High School Season

    • November - February / 16 sessions

  • Club Tryouts

    • May / 4 sessions

  • Summer Vacation

    • July / 4 sessions

That gives us enough time to fine-tune two to three areas depending on comprehension and execution. Hence the importance of developing and following a long-term development plan. Having a comprehensive plan brings peace of mind knowing that you are on the right path and steadily improving throughout the years. 

As Zig Ziglar says, "You were born to be a winner. But to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win."

So let's take the first step by setting up a meeting to lay the foundation for your future success. 

Tristan BowenCoaches Corner, Long Term Development Plan