I want to talk to you about the coaching methodology that sets us apart: the Play-Practice-Play (PPP) approach. We’ve adopted this innovative approach from U.S. Soccer, and it’s all about putting the players, at the center of your development while making the game enjoyable and exciting. Let’s dive into the three phases of PPP and how they contribute to your growth as soccer players.
Play: We create small-sided games or modified match situations in the Play phase. Here, the focus is on allowing you to express yourselves, apply your skills, and make decisions in a game-like setting. We, as coaches, take a step back and provide minimal instructions, allowing you to explore and discover the game’s dynamics independently. This phase is about having fun, being creative, and developing your game sense.
Practice: After the Play phase, we move on to the Practice phase. This is where we introduce specific exercises, drills, or activities that target particular skills, techniques, or tactical aspects we identified during the play. These activities are designed to replicate real game scenarios, helping you refine your skills and deepen your understanding of the game. The Practice phase gives you focused opportunities to improve and grow as individual players and as a team.
Play: In the final Play phase, we bring you back to a game-like environment. This time, we encourage you to implement and transfer the skills and concepts you practiced during the previous phase into the actual game situation. We observe your performance and provide feedback, reinforcing what you’ve learned in practice and encouraging you to apply your newfound abilities in a realistic setting. This phase is where you truly showcase your progress and shine on the field.
The PPP methodology ensures a balanced and comprehensive approach to your soccer development. By experiencing the game first-hand, practicing specific skills, and immediately applying them in a meaningful context, you gain invaluable benefits:
Game Realism: You develop skills and decision-making abilities in an environment that closely mirrors actual match situations. This prepares you to excel in real games and face any challenge that comes your way.
Creativity and Problem-Solving: PPP fosters your creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. It empowers you to think independently, adapt to different situations, and make effective decisions under pressure.
Motivation and Enjoyment: PPP enhances your motivation and enjoyment by including game-like activities and giving you autonomy. It creates a positive learning experience and keeps your passion for soccer alive and thriving.
Transfer of Learning: PPP ensures a smooth transfer of skills and knowledge from practice sessions to real-game scenarios. You can apply what you’ve learned effectively, making a tangible impact on the field.
As coaches implementing the PPP methodology, our role is to be supportive, guide your learning process, and facilitate your development. We create a positive and engaging environment where you can flourish, improving your skills, tactical understanding, and, most importantly, your love for the game.
So, my fantastic Team Strike team, get ready to experience the joy of playing, the focus of practice, and the thrill of applying your skills in real games. Embrace the PPP approach, be fearless, and keep pushing yourselves to new heights on and off the field.
Together, let’s create unforgettable soccer moments and unleash the full potential of each player.
Keep those feet on the ball,
Coach Mick
