Three Skills Every Player Needs to Be Successful

These three skills are important for our youth to practice everyday on and off the field in order to be successful now and into adulthood. These top three skills are also well within our control at all times and available for anyone to excel at quickly.

These are the foundation for additional success and skill building and what we teach our players at our summer camps, in our club, and other programs.

1. Focus
Our ability to focus on one goal at a time, the present moment, and ourselves is crucial on the soccer field AND in life. What we focus on grows. Are we paying attention in the game to what is happening and anticipating what could happen next? Or are we thinking about what we're going to do after the game? Staying focused is a habit many professional athletes hone in order to reach their performance goals.

2. Effort
Did you give 100% effort at practice? At the game? In the classroom? Effort is well within our control at all times, how much energy, focus, time, dedication we put into anything will show direct results immediately or over time. Ask yourself- what does 100% effort look and feel like for me? Everyone is different so stay focused on yourself and avoid comparing with others.

3. Attitude
Our mindset is what really determines our attitude and the type of energy we are putting out when we do something or when we communicate. Do you have a growth mindset or a fixed mindset? What can you do to change your mindset or attitude in the present moment? Using setbacks or challenges as opportunities to learn is a great first step. Asking yourself- what am I learning from this challenge?