For more info call: (571) 428-8387 or write an email: info@no1soccercamps.com

A Note from Dr. Joe Machnik – No. 1 Staff Coach – Michael Sheparovich

No 1 Soccer Camps mourns the passing of legendary No. 1 Staff Coach Michael Sheparovich. Michael was an original staff member who traveled the country as part of the No. 1 Goalkeepers Camp. Michael was a McDonald’s All American Goalkeeper and participated in many of the skill and athletic demonstrations which motivated thousands of young goalkeepers across the country.
Michael’s father immigrated from the Ukraine and is the man responsible for introducing me (Joe Machnik ) to the sport of soccer in high school and later at the Ukrainian Soccer Club in NY.
Michael was part of an elite staff of goalkeeper instructors which led to the national recognition of No. 1 Soccer Camps.
I will miss him as a friend and a member of our extended family.
Rest in Peace Michael!
Dr. Joe and all of the No. 1 Family!

College Recruitment Tips from College Coaches Zoom Chat

By Regional Director John Adams

I’d like to start off by thanking Nick Roberts (Ashland), Will Dyer (Lawrence Tech), Mike Pilger (Trinity) and Chris Legates (Tackling College Sports) for taking time out of their busy schedule to chat with me about all things College Recruiting.

I really enjoyed the 51 minutes we spent together. In here, there is a clear message from these 4 coaches, all of whom coach in different parts of the country at different levels and different experiences – As a recruit,  do something that makes you stand out.

For all recruits and parents, this is is a great use of your time. Real, usable information.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Johnadams@no1soccercamps.com

No. 1 Soccer Camps – Elite Training Camp

The game of soccer continues to evolve and so too has the No.1 Soccer Camps. For over 40 years the No.1 Soccer Camps has been revered for its incredible staff, a cutting edge methodology and forward looking curriculum. We have been, and continue to be, at the forefront of the soccer camp industry. As the soccer landscape in our country continues to take shape it’s important that we provide our participants with the tools, knowledge and competitive edge required to be a successful player.

In 2019 we have formatted our weekly camp offerings to be reflective of the current trends, methods and coaching demands for today’s player. US Soccer has identified six Key Qualities to look for in a player’s development. We will explore those qualities and introduce you to the necessary skills to have an enjoyable and formative soccer playing experience.

Striker Camp

Our New No.1 Elite Training Camp is designed for the High School aged player and combines the best of our Senior Academy and College Prep programs under one week. High School aged players can be looking forward to making the varsity or moving up to the highest team within their club. This aged player is also looking forward to the preparation needed to perhaps play college soccer. Our No.1 Elite Training Camp is poised to prepare competitive players for the next level. Dynamic field sessions led by our professional staff of coaches will prepare you both on and off field for what awaits you next in your soccer career.

 At the No. 1 Elite Training Camp, players will be exposed to the 3 moments of the game; attacking, defending and transition at a deeper level, so they can be successful playing in the modern game.

Competitive tournaments will be played throughout the week, and will be the highlight of our evening sessions. Players will have the opportunity to compete against other teams (World Cup), against other players (Dutch) and against themselves (Pressure Training).

Staff Coaches at the No. 1 Elite Training Camp will share their knowledge and passion for the game on and off the field.  After our evening sessions, players will meet with their Staff Coaches to review the day’s events.  In addition, High Performance discussions led by our staff coaches and guest speakers occur throughout the week.  Topics will be relevant to the development of the modern player and include, “Playing Soccer in College”,” Behaviors for High Level Players”, “Nutrition”, and “Soccer Specific Conditioning.

At the No.1 Elite Training Camp, goalkeepers and field players will receive the incredible quality of training and a truly unique week of camp that has been the hallmark of the No.1 Soccer Camps for over 40 years.

No.1 for a reason!

New for 2019 – No. 1 National Training Centers for Goalkeepers

The No.1 National Training Centers for Goalkeepers

Boy and Girls

Ages U13-U18

The No.1 National Training Centers for Goalkeepers will provide a comprehensive and stimulating Goalkeeper specific training opportunity. For over 40 years the No.1 Soccer Camps have provided the most inclusive, comprehensive and pertinent Goalkeeper training in the country. Founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik, the No.1 Goalkeeper Camps were the first of its kind to offer specialized training in the most important area of the field, the 35 yards in front of the goal. The alumni, players and coaches who attended the No.1 Goalkeeper camp is without equal. Numerous goalkeepers-male and female have gone on to play in the World Cup, Internationally, professionally and collegiately, ours is a successful list unmatched by any camp organization in the world.

A primary reason for this incredible record of success is our staff of accomplished professional goalkeeper coaches who consistently aspire to research, dissect and then design pertinent training sessions. There have been an influx of opinions on everything from proper catching technique to proper diving technique, providing ample opportunity for debate and experimentation. All-in-all, the arguments continue to rage. And as the tactical shop-talk persists among soccer circles, so does the evolution of the goalkeeper position and the “right way” to do it amongst the goalkeepers. The demand on the modern goalkeeper as played by the likes of DeGea, Allison, Nauer, Bardsley and Solo is much different than even five years ago. You are unique and possess a unique skill set, our goal will be to accentuate your strengths and encourage continued growth through an intensive goalkeeper specific environment.

The No.1 Goalkeepers Camp has always provided a forward thinking curriculum and in 2019 we are once again putting modern methodologies to the test, where they matter most, on the field-35 yards from the penalty area as always we are offering groundbreaking training situations.

Our National Training Centers will focus on the following:

  1. Become a coach on the field, a goalkeeper who effectively organizes and directs teammates from an optimal viewpoint. Exudes confidence and becomes a true leader.
  2. Have the requisite passing skills and tactical awareness to make correct decisions under pressure and be an effective first line attack.
  3. Have the ability to read the game by correct positioning in order to deal with through balls behind the defensively line, deal effectively with crosses and eliminate the opponents goal scoring chances.
  4. The necessary athleticism, quickness and technical skills to be able to deal with 1v1 situations, shots on goal and for reaction and reflex saves.

Our National Training Centers will provide extensive feedback from our knowledgeable, professional staff via, 1on 1 meetings, verbal evaluations, video evaluations and a detailed written evaluation. Our National Training Centers for Goalkeepers is an incredible opportunity to get the intensive specialized training required to be the No.1 Goalkeeper on your team, and provide you with a pathway to achieve future growth and success both on and off the field.

Typical Day Schedule

7:30am Training accountability- exercises that you can do yourself to improve footwork, handling, coordination as well as speed, agility and quickness.
8:30 Breakfast – plan your day
9:30 Lesson- Reading the play- effectively dealing with through balls
11:30 Session review and individual feedback
12:00 Lunch
1:00  Regeneration: effective Goalkeeper prehab/ rehab exercises
2:00  Lesson- Deal with back passes under pressure
4:00 Session review- video review
5:00 Dinner
6:00  Penalty Kick lesson, study the three types of Penalty Kicks
6:30 Goalkeeper specific Dynamic warm-up
7:00 Penalty Kick contest
8:30 Regeneration: Nutrition
9:00 Evening Lecture: Develop effective communication skills
10:30 Lights out

New for 2019 – Elite Training Camp

We have renamed our Sr. Academy camp to the No.1 Elite Training Academy. This camp will combine the best of our Sr. Academy and College Prep camps to offer our High School and Club players the best and most complete training experience possible.

 Ages U14-U19, 2000-2005 Male and Female, Field Players and Goalkeepers

The No.1 Elite Training Camp is designed for the ambitious player who wishes to challenge themselves by being trained at the next level.  Throughout the week, players will be put in a competitive environment that will bring out their very best. Our focus will be on the current US Soccer player development model. Based on their birth year, our participants will explore the six Key Qualities of a U.S Soccer Player. They are:

  • Game understanding and decision making:

The ability to read and understand the game and make autonomous decisions.

  • Initiative:

Take initiative and be proactive

  • Focus:

The ability to focus for the duration of a match in their task

  • Optimal Technical:

Execute their task for the duration of their match with optimal technical ability

  • Optimal Physical:

Execute their task with optimal physical ability

  • Responsibility:

      Take responsibility and accountability for their own development and performance

At the No. 1 Elite Training Camp, players will be exposed to the 3 moments of the game; attacking, defending and transition at a deeper level, so they can be a successful playing in the modern game.

Competitive tournaments will be played throughout the week, and will be the highlight of our evening sessions. Players will have the opportunity to compete against other teams (World Cup), against other players (Dutch) and against themselves (Pressure Training).

Staff Coaches at the No. 1 Elite Training Camp will share their knowledge and passion for the game on and off the field.  After our evening sessions, players will meet with their Staff Coaches to review the day’s events.  In addition, High Performance discussions led by our staff coaches and guest speakers occur throughout the week.  Topics will be relevant to the development of the modern player and include, “Playing Soccer in College”,” Behaviors for High Level Players” and “Nutrition and “Soccer Specific Conditioning.

At select The No.1 Elite Training Camp sites we host the No. 1 College Showcase ID events. When you enroll in the Elite Training Camp, you will have the opportunity to also enroll into the College Showcase ID Camp. The directors of our College ID Showcase Camps are all currently active college coaches. In addition, the College Showcase ID Camps allow you to be seen by, and to work directly with college coaches and their assistants from programs all over the US. Additional details regarding both events will be sent to you upon receipt of your registration.

We offer both Residential and Commuter options at The No.1 Elite Training Camp.  Resident campers stay on campus in the dorms at night, whereas commuter campers will leave for home following the Evening Field Session. The resident camper registration fee includes room and all meals.  Meals included in the commuter registration fee are lunch and dinner daily.  Residents and commuters will get the same No.1 Elite Training Camp on-field training.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are players evaluated?  Our professional staff coaches do a daily evaluation to ensure that the players are in the right groups and receiving the expert coaching that is expected. At the end of the week, every player will review with their staff coach No.1 Elite Training Camp Player Journal.  This detailed report is written with input of their staff coach during the week, and reviewed by the camp director.

Will this program help prepare the player for the next level?  Yes!  This specialized week of training will provide you with the confidence to make the next step in your playing career. Our staff is comprised of College level coaches and players. Whether you are getting ready for your High School, Club or College season, you will gain the confidence needed to compete at the next level.

New Programs for 2019 – No. 1 Soccer Camps

 

The No.1 Soccer Camps has always been at the forefront of providing the most relevant and modern methods in soccer camp instruction. In 2019 we will once again spread our wings and reach new heights with a revised and updated curriculum, as well as programming for campers at all age and ability levels. The most obvious change in our programming are the names of the sessions. We have changed from Jr. Academy to the No.1 Soccer Camps, and we have replaced Sr. Academy with the Elite Training Camp.  This article will explain the changes and relevance of the new No.1 Soccer Camps for boys and girls, field players and goalkeepers ages u10-u14.  Birth years 2005-2010.

The No.1 Soccer Camp is designed for boys & girls, goalkeepers and field players ages 10-14. The program has been designed to build a foundation that will help the participant’s progress to the next level of their development, this will be accomplished in a fun, entertaining and positive environment. Based on their birth year, our participants will be exposed to the six Key Qualities of a U.S Soccer Player. Our camp curriculum is very unique in that repetitions with the ball will give this group the confidence needed in the over 1,000 Go to Goal situations that players are exposed to throughout the week. The Machnik Method, a pediological approach to training, is present in every session. Competitive small sided tournaments will be played throughout the week, and be the highlight of our evening sessions. In our unique evening competitions, players will have the opportunity to compete against other teams (World Cup), other players (Dutch) and themselves (Pressure Training).

Goalkeeper Camp

A typical session will start with the Goalkeepers and Field Players working with their own specialized coaches. The topics covered on both training grounds will be mirror images of each other, so when they come together for the Small-Sided Game, the situations will be game related.  Spectacular goals and outstanding saves are the norm during the session.

All topics, exercises and games will be engaging and pertinent for this age group and ability level.  Our newly revised schedule and sessions will allow for more detailed sessions for our goalkeepers to explore in depth the qualities required to be a modern day goalkeeper. At the same time our field players will have additional training sessions that will expose our participants to the modern demands of technique and tactics to be a successful soccer player.

For our goalkeepers and our field players we will stress proper technical development with the ability to use real live situations in match related activities to challenge themselves and to execute those skills at the highest level.

We offer both Residential and Commuter options for our No.1 Soccer Camp. Resident campers stay on campus in the dorms at night, whereas commuter campers will leave for home following the Evening Field Session. The resident camper registration fee includes room and board, breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Meals included in the commuter registration fee are lunch and dinner.  Both residents and commuters will get the same No.1 on-field training and our highly acclaim and newly revised 75 point detailed Evaluation.

Challenge yourself to become the No. 1 player on your team and in your league!

Dear Soccer,

Dear Soccer,

I never thought you would mean so much to me when I first started playing.  I never thought you’d be my first love.  I never thought you would take me to college. You have affected my life in so many different ways.  Thank you for being there for me for 17 years.  Thank you for being my outlet, for never failing me.  Thank you for introducing me to some of the most amazing coaches who not only taught me about the game, but taught me about life.  Thank you for giving me teammates who became sisters I never had.  Thank you for teaching me dedication, hard work and leadership.  Thank you for all the memories, life lessons, and experiences you gave me through our life together.  It’s hard to see the good in goodbye here, but I understand nothing good can stay.  But, thank you for making me into the person I am today.

Love, Angelina

Angelina Piccirillo is a staff coach at No. 1 Soccer Camps in DanburySalisbury, Phelps School and Long Island.  She just finished her career at Albertus Magnus College where she was notably named Female Athlete of the Year in 2017.

Tryout Tips for Players & Parents

By: John Adams, No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director

Practice Technique and Comfort On The Ball

Weeks of preparation on the ball, receiving, trapping, killing, all pay off. Close control, or lack of it, is one of the two things easiest to observe in a tryout. (The other is pace). Don’t waste time on much psychological preparation except that the player should be bright, friendly, and communicative at the tryout. When bored with skill work, play 3v3 and 4v4 to cone goals.

Arrive Early and Get Touches in Early

Most players first 100 touches are not their best, yet many players come to tryouts and games and don’t get 100 touches on the ball before the match or tryout ends. From a practical point of view, come early with a partner and get at least 30 minutes of ball work (see point 1 above), preferably more, before the tryout begins.

Wear Distinctive Clothing If Allowed

At some ODP tryouts, white tee shirts are mandated, club uniforms are prohibited at most, for a lot of good reasons. But if you don’t have to wear white, why not wear something distinctive but not silly, like an Ajax top with a bold red panel down the front, or a Sheffield type top. I did a U19 ODP tryout once, and everyone had the same stuff on.  We had to sprint across the field to pick up numbers that got more crumpled as the time went on. It was a lot easier when one of the other coaches would point to someone with yellow shorts or striped socks and ask an opinion than when pointing to the girl with the same white tee shirt and blue shorts everyone else wore.  However, don’t show up in bright green fluorescent clothing, no one will take you seriously.

Play with Vigor and Influence the Game

Most tryouts start with small-sided games, like 4v4 or 5v5 to cone goals, and work up to 11 v 11 to goals with goalies. Most decisions are made in the small-sided phase. Often, players are rated 1, 2, 3. Definitely, maybe, and certainly not. In the 11v11 stage, the 2’s get the most playing time because a decision must be reached. Don’t try to guess whether you made it or not by which team you are on.  Play vigorously, don’t hold back, and try to win and use as many balls as possible to have as great an impact on the game as possible. For defenders, this means winning balls and then attacking out of the back by overlapping forward of their pass or running with the ball. Midfielders and strikers too should win and use as many balls as possible. The secret of staying involved in the attack is not to hog the ball and dribble the opponents, but to provide instant and continuing support for the passes.

Communicate in The Games

Players who give instructions and help other players with verbal and visual cues stand out as leaders. It does not have to be long winded or a continuous narrative, but good communication makes players stand out in a positive way to the observers. Silent players appear to be out of the game mentally.

Introduce Yourself and Ask Questions

Whenever there is a moment, the player should greet each of the coaches. It is sad to hear kids say that they went to the tryout but did not know who had evaluated them. Players should ask questions to ensure that they understand what’s going to happen at both the tryout and during any follow-on tryouts or administrative mumbo jumbo.

Ask for The Job

Good heavens, please tell the coaches you had a good time and want to play for the team. As a coach, I really have a much harder time cutting kids who show up, work hard, introduce themselves and who ask for the job than I do cutting kids who show up, play, and leave without indicating any interest.

PARENTS – Be Prepared

  • Understand that your child may not be the big fish anymore.
  • Part of being prepared is being realistic
  • Have an open mind. Accept that the coaches may see your daughter in a different role than what you have been used to.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the club beforehand.

PARENTS – Be Supportive

  • Before tryouts, tell them you love them
  • During tryouts, don’t stand on the sideline and coach them; don’t stand on the sideline lurking or with negative body language.
  • After tryouts, refrain from post-game analysis. Tell them you love them, ask them if they had fun and where they want to eat.
  • Sit back and enjoy. The angst that the players feel might go away if you’re relaxed.

PARENTS – Be Helpful

  • Dealing with disappointment is an important lesson that young people need to learn. With acceptance or rejection comes a teachable moment and a life lesson.
  • Take a neutral stance on the outcome of the evaluation process.
  • Support them no matter what the outcome is and that you are proud of them no matter what.
  • Ranting, raving and otherwise placing blame will harm your children’s development.

 

The World Cup, Russia 2018

The World Cup, Russia 2018

By Dr. Joe Machnik

In summers where there has been a World Cup, both Men’s and Women’s, it has always been a special time at No1 Soccer Camps. In the early years, when there was only limited TV coverage, we struggled to make the games available to our campers as part of the daily program. Of course, the USA did not qualify until 1990 and the camp was already in existence for 12 years. But we still wanted to learn all we could about the latest in goalkeeping, watching some of the best like Ranat Dassaev of Russia whose distribution was of such high quality that teams were careful to only take high quality scoring chances against him in fear of being counter attacked. In 1990 we were startled at the antics of Columbia’s Rene Higuita, one of the first sweeper keepers, and this year we hope that Manuel Neuer recovers from his injury in time to show us the perfection of that concept and how everything begins with the keeper’s starting position in relationship to the ball and the ability of the opponents to place a ball over the goalkeeper’s efforts to get back to the cross bar with footwork.

Over the years, when field players were added to the No.1 Camp program we had so many stars to emulate and from so many countries. But today’s super stars, Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar (also recovering from an injury) are expected to lead the pack. Will Robert Lewandowski be able to show his form for Poland without the Bayer Munich support staff is another good question?

One of my favorite times at camp was when we opened the camp in Dallas/Ft Worth @ TCU and the WC games were coming to us from Korea/Japan at 4AM. We didn’t wake up the campers (obviously) but many staff members set their alarms to watch the USA play and then caught an hour more sleep before sunrise soccer.

Of course, officiating has always been an issue at the WC and controversy has been a part of the mystery of the game. This year, however, FIFA is attempting to minimize the negative headlines that surround officiating with the use of video replay and the video assistant referee (VAR) program.

FIFA and the IFAB have experimented with VAR over the past two years at various competitions including the Bundesliga and MLS. The program has generated mixed results and there are those that believe that the experiment is incomplete and needs further practice. Time will tell if the objective of “minimum interference-maximum benefit” will be reached.

I have had the good fortune to be working as a Rules Analyst for FOX SPORTS and have spent considerable time studying the VAR program. In early April, I attend a VAR Seminar run by PRO, the officiating body in charge of professional games in the US, such as MLS. And in the same month, I delivered a presentation for the broadcasters and staff at FOX who are going to be working this summer’s World Cup. I believe, at this time, that I have a pretty good understanding of the protocol and processes which are to be implemented and which are designed to reach that objective.

It has always been understood that there are three (3) match critical decisions which Referee/Assistants make which influence the outcome of a game because of the low scoring nature of soccer. The importance of decisions pertaining to offside, penalty kicks and send offs (red cards) are clear to everyone. And because the game is now so fast, there are times where the Referee team can also miss an incident, perhaps off the ball, which maybe only visible with the help of instant replay.

One of the obvious benefits of VAR has been the reduction of off ball incidents, as player behavior has been modified with the knowledge that there is now no place to hide.

So as we once again watch the World Cup at No1 Soccer Camps, (all 64 games will be televised by Fox) I will have the personal responsibility and privilege of helping our broadcast teams and at times explaining to the TV audience; the intricacies of the VAR system, and there are many.

Every goal will be checked to see if there was an offside, or a foul in the attacking possession phase (APP) which might lead to overturning the decision and disallowing the goal. When the VAR system is used to make such a decision, the Referee will make a clear rectangular TV screen signal so that we all know that VAR has been used. FIFA has promised to show the video clip which enabled the correct decision to be made on the stadium’s giant screen and rapidly to the TV audience. Reviewing goals by this nature has the unfortunate effect of disallowing more goals than awarding which may be an unexpected and unwanted by product of the VAR system.

Also, being reviewed are every decision relating to the possibility of a penalty kick (PK). Was the foul inside the area or outside? Was their real illegal contact or simulation?

And of course, serious foul play and or violent conduct incidents will be reviewed to see if a send off is justified. In the Bundesliga, we have witnessed yellow cards turned to red and even a red card reversed to yellow, all with the assistance of the VAR system.

The VAR Manual containing all the protocol and processes is some sixty-seven (67) pages long, almost as long as the Laws of the Game (LOTG). It describes the various incidents at which VAR can be reviewed. Here are a couple to serve as an example:

  1. “What happens if the VAR identifies a clear mistake in a match changing incident after the Referee has blown the whistle for half or full time”?
  2. “What if a goal is scored after a possible penalty at the other end of the field”?
  3. “What happens if the VAR identifies a clear “missed” penalty kick but also an offside in the build up to the missed penalty”?

Of course, if I provided the reader with all the answers in this blog, there would be no need for you to listen to “Dr. Joe” when I try to explain what is happening on the field within seconds of the incident appearing on your TV screen.

This will be the sixth World Cup that I will be attending in person. My first was the ’82 Cup in Spain. I then had the good fortune to serve as Assistant Coach to the USA as we qualified for the 1990 World Cup in Italy. While everyone remembers the Paul Caligiuri goal which helped defeat Trinidad & Tobago in Nov. ’89; forgot in the mix that led to qualification for the USA’s first World Cup in forty years was the four (4) straight shutouts by Tony Meola, (all in one goal wins or zero-zero ties) and the penalty kick save by Dave Vanole (a five year No.1 Goalkeeper Camp camper and later staff coach) against Costa Rica which preserved our first win in the qualification process.

I also had the good fortune to attend the World Cups in Germany and France and of course in the USA in 1994. But this (2018) will be my first as a broadcaster.

The World Cup is the barometer by which all soccer is measured. It is considered the ultimate world-wide sporting event and soccer’s biggest stage and moment. Let’s all hope that the VAR system enhances the games to an even higher level. I know that I will be glued to the studio monitor watching every crucial event with the hope that previous errors which decided matches will be corrected now in a most sporting fashion. I hope all our readers will be watching as well and perhaps some of you watching at No.1 Soccer Camps.

Have a great summer!

It’s No. 1 Soccer Camps founder, Dr. Joe Machnik

There is an awfully familiar face in the broadcasting lineup for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™.

It’s No. 1 Soccer Camps founder Dr. Joe Machnik!

Last week, FOX Sports unveiled their all-star lineup of International Broadcasters to Celebrate the 50-day countdown to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™.  This summer’s global event, will air on FOX and FS1 from June 14 to July 15. The best-in-class broadcast team of play-by-play announcers, match analysts, studio hosts and commentators combine for a wealth of international on-field and television experience, including FIFA World Cups™, UEFA Champions League, FIFA Confederations Cups, Olympic Games, UEFA European Championships, CONCACAF Gold Cups and FA Cups.

Dr. Joe Machnik will offer his expertise as the RULES ANALYST for each and every broadcast.  He will be front and center trying to help the viewers sort out any situations that might get controversial during a match.

“Thank you to everyone in the No. 1 Soccer Camps community.  Players, parents, coaches, directors.  Your hard work has helped make this possible.” said Dr. Joe Machnik, last week.

Along with founding No. 1 Soccer Camps back in 1977, Dr. Joe Machnik is a former FIFA and CONCACAF Match Commissioner and was inducted into National Soccer Hall of Fame earlier this year. An All-America goalkeeper at Long Island University, he coached his alma mater to the 1966 National Championship Game and is believed to be the only person to play in the NCAA Soccer Tournament, coach in three NCAA finals and referee an NCAA Championship.

The (Ongoing) Evolution of the Goalkeeper Position

By: Lyndse Hokanson, Regional Director

I recently sat down to coffee with a mentor of mine, and we spoke at length about the position that is near and dear to both of our hearts: the most important position on the field, the goalkeeper (spoken like a true GK, I know).

We spent a majority of our time discussing the emergence of the spread/block breakaway save that is making its way through the professional and collegiate ranks. Below is a photo of Joe Hart, one of the best at this technique in the world. I expressed my naiveté to the training of the technique, as I never was taught nor used it growing up. We talked about the strengths of the technique and the weaknesses and how we think it should best be handled moving forward with our No. 1 goalkeeper curriculum. When I was learning breakaway saves, and particularly those that break to a semi-lateral position which the spread save is mostly used for, we were taught an array of techniques from the “cobra” block save with our forearms, to the stalk-set-save mantra that used to give me nightmares after long breakaway sessions. The advantage, and perhaps largest reason this technique has caught on is its ability to keep the goalkeeper upright, while allowing a maximum amount of the body’s surface area to obstruct the path between the ball and the goal. It also gives the goalkeeper the opportunity to save balls waist height and above with their hands while freeing the legs and feet to prove useful on low, hard, driven finishes. As field players in today’s game have grown in finishing finesse a la Messi and Christiano Ronaldo, it has forced the goalkeeper into becoming more savvy in their ability to stop a range of finishes from close range.

This extensive dialogue got me thinking about just how much the position has changed since I played it not so long ago, and even more from when said mentor played it. The position continues to evolve in so many ways as the rest of the game changes around it. As I was coming through the game from the youth levels on, the use of the goalkeeper’s feet was the trademark of the “modern goalkeeper.” We would spent countless hours on showing for and executing successful backpasses to help our team get out of pressure. At the time, goalkeepers with great feet were the way of the future and now it has become a necessity of the position at nearly all competitive levels.

I have heard arguments for a high starting position, an aggressive stance where the goalkeeper eliminates attacking threats before they happen by clearing balls with their feet. I have heard other coaches who argue that goalkeepers have the best chance to make the most number of saves by remaining close to their line and allowing for a greater amount of response time. I have heard coaches who believe that if a ball is not caught, the save is not nearly as successful, and others who have graduated to practically strictly parrying technique.

There have been an influx of opinions on everything from proper catching technique to proper diving technique, providing ample opportunity for debate and experimentation. Low dives in particular have started to morph as goalkeepers around the world are implementing a single-handed extension reach with a trap from the second hand versus a two-handed approach, as seen below.

All-in-all, the arguments continue to rage. And as the tactical shop-talk persists among soccer circles, so does the evolution of the goalkeeper position and the “right way” to do it amongst the goalcreatures (as my boss so affectionately coins us).  As a former goalkeeper and now college goalkeeper coach, what I can tell you is this: there is no one singular answer as to how to play the position. I know that may sound like an obvious answer, but among GK circles this is not the popular answer. Many seem to have their way or the highway. But having coached a variety of ages and body types, what is consistent among the samples is that some things work for certain kids that don’t work for others. Some kids can fly while others have quick feet and make saves upright. Some are going to de Gea their way through their career with a multitude of saves using their feet and calves while others will have safer hands than that famous insurance provider. For every technical robot there will be an unconventional save-maker who gets the job done.

My point to all of this is that as the game changes, and as the position changes, it is important for us as educators of the position to stay alert to the modern trends and pay mind to the way others are playing and training their goalkeepers. At the end of the day, by opening our minds to certain techniques and offering those ideas to our goalkeepers we give them the opportunity to find what works for them. So even if I am not a master of the Joe Hart spread save, by introducing the technique to my goalkeepers, I may give them a tool that allows them to be the best that they can be. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that the only way we can hurt our GKs is by making them only do things our way and not allowing them to find what will be their style. Here’s to continuing to watch the position evolve, and to may shutouts ever abound.

 

“The Machnik Method”

“The Machnik Method”

By Christine Huber, CAO – Regional Director No 1 Soccer Camps

Soccer parents ask me:  “Does your camp play 11 vs 11?”  Me – “No!”

Here at No. 1 Soccer Camps will use what is called the “Machnik Method.”  All of our games are played small sided in 4 vs 4 or 5 vs 5 situations.

Think about it, would you rather your child be standing as a left defender only touching the ball a few times during the course of the game? Or would you want them to get them involved in a diamond formation where they are constantly moving, constantly touching the ball, while constantly under pressure?

From the youngest age groups to the professional ranks; teams, leagues, and soccer organizations are now incorporating more small sided play into their practice plans.  The reason is simple: more involvement.  We call the small sided theory the “Machnik Method” after Dr. Joe Machnik.  “Dr. Joe” as Fox Sports, Rob Stone and Lexi Lalas love calling him…. is US Soccer’s Renaissance Man.  He was recently inducted into the National Hall of Fame and his influence on US Soccer is unparalleled.  From starting “Goalkeeper Wars”, “Dutch” tournaments, and many other small sided games, he has had his impact on coaches and players thought the world.

At No. 1 Soccer Camps we make our fields about 40 yards in length by 30 yards wide.  On offense, we are encouraging a diamond shaped formation.  This formation stretches the field in length and width.  With 4 players on the field, and one goalkeeper, everyone is not only touching the ball but will need to move off the ball and think ahead to be successful.  No matter what position you play, you need to be able to handle the ball in pressure situations.  In a 5 vs 5 game on a 40 yard long field, the pressure is high and the play is quick.  The player needs to think about how to create the best scoring opportunity quickly.  The first touch is crucial.  A bad decision can send the opposing team immediately to a goal scoring opportunity on a quick counter attack.  Due to the small field, players learn that if they lose the ball, they must be the first one to try to win it back.

The results we see week after week are amazing.  In just a few days, we see players gain confidence on and off of the ball by learning from their mistakes that they made earlier in the week.  We see players picking their head up and looking to score from 20 – 30 yards out.  We see the goalkeepers increase their communication and angle play because every player is dangerous with the ball at their foot in small sided games.  The bottom line is: the more involvement in the play, the better one will become.  This is the “Machnik Method”.

 

The Most Important Dimension of the Game

THE MOST IMPORTANT DIMENSION OF THE GAME

By Regional Director Rob Andrulis

Famous Basketball Coach John Wooden once said “The most important thing in any athletic endeavor is the 5-inch playing field between your ears”

Since the founding of No.1 Soccer Camps back in 1977 the focus on teaching the game has been an emphasis on the 4 dimensions. The Physical, Psychological, Technical and Tactical components of soccer.

In this article we will focus on the most important Dimension!

We asked Founder and Recent US Soccer Hall of Fame Inductee Dr Joe Machnik his take on this and how he incorporated it into the His “Machnik Methodology “of training.

“When Dettmar Cramer did the first US Soccer Coaching Schools; he was the first to expose us to the four dimensions of soccer.

We all had a sense of the physical and technical but struggled with the tactical and psychological.

Among the psychological factors stressed were will power (he called it “fighting power”) and mental toughness, ideas such as playing in pain (pressure training) and confidence to overcome adversity (early goal against, mistake by a GK, losing at half time)

I took those concepts and from my personal experiences as a goalkeeper developed a training method (if you will) which relied on the need to have those components to be successful. And an attitude for which they could work in the psychological intimidation of opponents. Cramer used to say: “The body says NO, but the mind says YES”

I used to love the comments by parents after camp which were more about the campers improved training habits, love for the game, recognition of intrinsic values, improved behavior around the game, higher level of confidence etc.”

Fast Forward to the late 1980’s

A young Goalkeeper named Jon Busch was attending camp and a few years later was asked to be on staff. Jon has had a storied playing career in college and in the professional ranks. It culminated with Jon being selected as the 2008 Major League Soccer Goalkeeper of the year!

We ask Jon to share is experience at No.1 Soccer Camps first as a camper and then as a staff member, and how the most important dimension influenced and molded him into the player he became.

“I think I went 2 or 3 years as a camper.  That would have been around 89-90.  I went to Pennsylvania first time, then CT second and if there was a 3rd year also would have been CT.  The following year is when Doc made me the “demo boy”.  I did this for 2-3 years also.  First year was just on the east coast camps, Windsor CT, Philadelphia Pennsylvania, Atlanta Georgia.  The next year Doc flew me all over, Dallas Texas, Dayton Ohio, east coast, west coast, wherever he told me to go I did.  Back then we would train 3 times a day and lectures in the evening.  They taught us that to be successful in the game not only did you have to be physically tough but also mentally tough.  To be able to control your mind when your body wanted to give up, to keep working at your craft even when a mistake was made.  As I went into college and then the pros I took these lessons and applied them even more.  I never allowed myself to be outworked by anyone no matter if it was on the field or in the gym.  As a shorter goalkeeper I had to prove myself even more and be mentally tougher than any other goalkeeper because my height was always in question.  These lessons I learned made me a very focused, driven Goalkeeper.  I would not have had a 21-year pro career without these early lessons from No.1 Soccer Camps.

My impressions of Doc were that he was a goalkeeping god.  When he would show up and talk everyone was in awe.  We hung on every word he said.  He was the man when it came to goalkeeping at that time.  As I got to know him, and his wife Barbara I realized how much they cared for all their staff and campers and how we were like their family.  They are wonderful people and so caring.  They have a special place in my heart even to this day for the opportunity they gave me.  I am eternally grateful.”

Jump Ahead to the modern day

Charlies Shanks was born in York England and played soccer in England and Switzerland before moving to the USA. Charlie attended the No.1 Soccer Camps College Prep Performance Academy in 2015 at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury Ct. Charlie Currently plays High School Soccer for Litchfield High School in Litchfield CT. Charlie this past season played a pivotal role as the attacking Midfielder for his team and was selected All Conference first team and All State First team. Charlie also led the conference in goals scored last season and has become one of the conferences Elite Players.

We asked Charlie about his experience at camp and how the most “Important Dimension” has helped him continue to improve and excel at soccer and beyond.

“No.1 Soccer Camps helped me develop to the high school game tremendously. The physicality and quickness of soccer in high school and college means that being technically good is not enough.No.1 Soccer Camps caters to this because throughout the week, the training sessions focus on speed and fitness as well the skills-based part of the game and the mental side as well. One day we had a strength and conditioning coach come in and he did a clinic with us that improved our speed and running technique. As a player that relies more on my skill than speed, this clinic helped me bring another vital element to my game. This emphasis on speed also affected me mentally as it creates a mindset of playing quickly and sharpening my decision making.”

“It is a tradition at No.1 Soccer Camps that one night every camp, everyone did pressure training. It is basically a series of one-minute stents which are physically challenging and exhausting. As the night goes on, the intensity does not drop but the stents just get harder. Therefore, the session made me mentally stronger because you have to push through the pain whilst still concentrating on the exercise. This is a session we also do during the high school season and it mimics the tiredness one feels towards the end of a game when it is crucial one can mentally and physically perform to the same level as in the first 5 minutes.”

“My favorite thing about No.1 Soccer Camps was the college ID camp at the end. It was awesome that after working all week to improve our game and condition ourselves, we were able to then show our abilities to actual college coaches. In addition, the standard of soccer was very high from the kids from camp, so it was great, competitive soccer.”

Come Join us this summer and be apart of over 85,000 campers who have made their mark on soccer fields across the country!

No.1 For A Reason!

The Best Article I’ve Ever Read…..

The Best Article I’ve Ever Read…

by John Adams, No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director

Twitter has been a truly amazing resource for me as a coach over the last 5 years.  I have been able to connect with coaches from across the country and across the pond to get new ideas, share my own and grow as a coach.  An article I came across the other day was an interview with Xavi Alonso titled “Clearing the Ball is an Intellectual Defeat”

You can view the article in full here 

 http://www.sofoot.com/xavi-clearing-the-ball-is-an-intellectual-defeat-453815.html

Xavi talks about improving the mental aspect of the game.

One thing I try and impress upon my teams (college and youth) is to change the timeline of receiving the ball.

OLD TIMELINE:  RECEIVE – LOOK – DECIDE – PLAY

NEW TIMELINE:  LOOK – DECIDE – RECEIVE – PLAY

Imagine how quickly your team would be playing if you presented them with this challenge every time you took the field at training.  This is something I try and hammer home with my players during every session.  It is not easy for them and there is a lot of resistance initially.  Simply looking around, creating pictures in their minds, not focusing on the ball and using all this information to problem solve is extremely difficult for them.  It needs to be trained every single day.

I encourage everyone to read that article, then re-read it again later.  Bookmark it as a favorite and refer back to it later.  Incorporate problem solving into each one of your sessions.  If each one of us as coaches does this a little bit better, imagine the benefits that will come of it.

Piano Lessons & Soccer

 

We recently attended a Piano Concert where 20 Etudes were played by five world class pianist over a two hour period. The concert was incredible, as were the performers. In the note section of the Playbill, it was noted that the composer of the music and his teaching style was based on a “Pedagogical Approach”. At the No.1 Soccer Camps this “Pedagogical Approach” has been in use since our founding.

This step by step process is well-known and used by teachers in various disciplines including the academic disciplines, the arts and sciences and athletics. It is also used in teaching the individual techniques of soccer skills. While we all marvel at the best players in the world who dazzle us with intuitive and incredible creativity, there is little doubt that even they learned those skills, and can execute them instantaneously at the most important moment of a match, over time, with much trial and error. A basic premise would be that there is not a single best method for teaching soccer, or music or writing. Most theory programs and individual teaching programs are a compromise among various possible approaches. Good teaching/coaching then is the ability to recognize the strengths and weakness of a wide variety of approaches then blend the greatest number to form your session.

A secondary part of a Pedagogical Approach is when we relate theory and practice we should then give our participants an opportunity to reflect on their own learning experience. After a session for our field players that incorporates the technical ingredients of striking the ball, or for our goalkeepers who work on the technique of diving to make a save, the next logical step, the “pedagogical” step is to provide  our participants the opportunity explore and reflect on their own learning experience. We do this by affording the opportunity to all of our participants to explore relevant techniques in small sided games. These opportunities create the formulation of strategies to explore the technique and to encourage the real life application of the technique. We engage our participants by providing a positive learning culture where teaching is matched with individual exploration and the opportunity to reflect. We understand that learning takes place in multiple environments, and that is important for us to provide that environment within our one week camp.

If you have ever wondered about the roots of No. 1 Soccer Camps, you need to start with Dr. Joe Machnik. Few people in American soccer history have had such a diverse and distinguished career. Even fewer have impacted the American soccer scene in such an indelible way. From his humble beginnings in Brooklyn, to becoming a World Cup and Professional coach, Dr. Joe has helped transform the American soccer landscape in a profound and meaningful way.

Joe Machnik’s No.1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of its kind when it debuted in 1977, was designed for the instruction and training of youth and elite soccer players. Here Machnik developed a methodology and pedagogical style which is universally recognized and used today. His technical and tactical training sessions are considered to be standard.

No. 1 Soccer Camps is the first national soccer specialty camp of its kind. The No. 1 Goalkeeper Camp and the No. 1 Striker Camp offers an incredible opportunity for players to challenge themselves in a unique full week of soccer education. Here Machnik developed a methodology and pedagogical style which is universally recognized and used today. Based on our unique “Go to Goal” curriculum with modern methodologies, we offer five distinct training levels and programs for a unique week of soccer education for field players and goalkeepers of every age and ability level.

Machnik Elected to National Soccer Hall of Fame Class of 2017

No. 1 Soccer Camps is pleased to announce our Founder and President Dr. Joseph Machnik has been inducted to the very prestigious National Soccer Hall of Fame, Class of 2017.  Often referred to as “American Soccer’s Renaissance Man,” Dr. Joe has succeeded at every level of soccer in the United States.

Joe Machnik elected into National Soccer Hall of FameUniversally heralded as a visionary for his implementation of curriculum, methods and procedures for training of Goalkeepers at every level, Machnik’s methods are utilized today at fields and in stadiums all around the world. His influence has been felt by over 100,000 players, staff and families who have been part of his No. 1 Soccer Camps, currently in its 41st year of running soccer camps throughout the United States.

On behalf of No. 1 Soccer Camps, our directors, staff, campers and families, we send our sincerest appreciation for all that Dr. Joe has done for soccer in the United States. We congratulate Dr. Joe, his wife Barbara, daughters Janine and Collette, and the extended Machnik family for this amazing accomplishment.

As Rob Stone of Fox Sports so eloquently stated “Dr. Joe is one of our favorite human beings that we deal with, we are so proud!”

 

Dr. Joe Machnik’s accomplishments include:

  • All-American goalkeeper at Long Island University
  •  Coached LIU to the 1966 NCAA championship game — as a 23-year-old.
  • He was a member of the 1965 US Open Cup champion New York Ukrainians.
  • Coach Of  the Men’s and Women’s Soccer Team at the University of New Haven.
  • Assistant Coach with the U.S. National Team when it reached the World Cup for the first time in 40 years at Italy in 1990
  •  Director of referees for three leagues – Major Indoor Soccer League, Major League Soccer and National Premier Soccer League.
  • Coach of the New York Arrows (MISL).
  •  Commissioner of the American Indoor Soccer Association.
  •  A FIFA and CONCACAF Match Commissioner.
  •  Current Rules and Match commentator for FOX Sports.

 

“Joe is one of the great personalities of the sport in the States, a person who has been at every level from player to coach to referee, administrator in the league with a vast experience and vast knowledge of the game in this country.When you talk about the pioneers of the game in this country, he has to be one of them.” – Alfonso Mondelo, MLS’s director of player programs

What Makes No. 1 Soccer Camps Number 1?

It’s not just a name. No. 1 Soccer Camps is #No1ForAReason. Several reasons in fact. Our players, staff and training are just a few things that have made our soccer camps a leader in the soccer industry for over 40 years.

OUR PLAYERS ARE NO. 1

In the 41+ years of being the most trusted name in soccer camps, over 80,000 players have come through our system. Some have signed professional contracts as players and coaches others have played for National teams or won the NCAA title.  Our players are the driving force behind our camps and have set the high standard!

OUR STAFF IS NO. 1 No. 1 Soccer Camps No1ForAReason

At any of our sites you will find the highest quality staff alongside current college players, A-licensed coaches and coaches of current National Team players.  Each week our staff coaches complete a 75-point evaluation and personal development plan for each player at camp. You will not find this evaluation or this level of quality coaching anywhere else!

OUR TRAINING IS NO. 1

If you have ever wondered about the roots of No. 1 Soccer Camps, you need to start with Dr. Joe Machnik. Since 1977,  the “Machnik Method”, a distinctive soccer training method that is universally recognized and used today.  Our unique “Go to Goal” curriculum with modern methodologies, we offer five distinct training levels and programs for a unique week of soccer education for field players and goalkeepers of every age and ability level.

#No1ForAReason

At No. 1 Soccer Camps, our mission is to provide the most valuable experience possible using instruction and positive reinforcement in match related games and situations regardless of which side of the ball the camper plays on in a mutually satisfying atmosphere where learning takes place in a spirit of camaraderie; goalkeeper and striker, boy and girl, staff coach and camper, fostering soccer development and the encouragement of an appreciation of soccer’s intrinsic values.

For more information on any of our camp locations from Connecticut to California, please visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com.

In Memory of Tony DiCicco

By Dr. Joe Machnik, Founder of No. 1 Soccer Camps

It is a sad day today as the No.1 Soccer Camps Community has learned of the passing of Tony DiCicco, after a brief illness.

Tony DiCicco
Photo courtesy of © BrokenSphere / Wikimedia Commons

Many of our staff over the past forty years and many of our campers, as well, knew and worked for Tony, played for him and went to his camp, as campers.

Tony DiCicco has left a huge footprint on American soccer. He was an excellent player, better coach and an even better person.

I first met Tony while we were still playing, each of us selected to the All- Star team for the Connecticut State League. We combined to shut out the New Jersey State All-Star in the only game we played.

Of course, living in Connecticut, our paths crossed on many occasions. Small state with, at the time, a small soccer community.

We each ran soccer camps; and although we competed against each other in that business, we always treated each other professionally and with respect. In many ways, we had parallel careers, although Tony certainly eclipsed mine with his unprecedented success with the Women’s National Team in the Olympics and World Cup Tournaments.

Twenty years ago, our family moved from Connecticut to South Carolina and the occasions of seeing Tony on a regular basis diminished. Yes, there was the MLS Cup socials, and the NSCAA Conventions, but there was never really any time to talk, only to exchange pleasantries.

Then, by chance, both Tony and I were hired by Fox TV to work the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup. It was great to be with Tony at meetings and even lunch and dinners. We had a chance to sit with each other and talk about the good old days, where soccer is now and whether the USA is on the right path.

Tony really cared. And so many people cared for him.

The outpouring of grief and sadness from every corner of the soccer world is so appropriate. I just wanted everyone in the No.1 Soccer Camp community to appreciate what Tony DiCicco has done for American soccer and to recognize that Tony was one of the great ones. We should all be thankful for his work and I am thankful for knowing him. I wish we had more time together!

Chad Liddle US Paralympic Team GK Coach

No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Chad Liddle named Assistant Coach with the US Soccer Paralympic Team

Chad Liddle, longtime Regional Director for No.1 Soccer Camps at Darlington and No. 1 Soccer Camps at Baylor School, has been with No. 1 since 2003.

PNT GK Coach Chad LiddleLast summer, Darlington School hosted two weeks of training camp for the U.S. Paralympic National Team for their preparations for the Rio Para Olympics. In between his two No. 1 Soccer Camps at Darlington, Liddle was pulled to Atlanta to train the PNT’s two goalkeepers.

As of the first of the year, the team gathered at three training camps: Tampa, Lakewood Ranch, and then the Olympic Training Facility at Chula Vista.  Liddle has coached the goalkeepers during the past two camps in Lakewood Ranch and Chula Vista.

During the last camp, the PNT played a team comprised of San Diego Sockers players as well as 3 members of the US Soccer National Beach Soccer Team. With 16 minutes to go in the game the PNT goalkeeper went down with an injury, and Liddle had to step in and play the rest of the game. The US was under a tremendous amount of pressure in the last 15 minutes, but held on to win 6-5. After the game, the team awarded Liddle his first US “Cap.”

Chad Liddle PNT GK Coach Cap

The U.S. Paralympic Soccer Team is an elite level program that selects players from across the United States in preparation for International standard competition. The National Team, in addition to friendly matches and invitational tournaments, competes in the Intercontinental Cup, Copa America, World Championships, Parapan American Games, and Paralympic Games.

For players to be eligible, they must be ambulant (no requirement for assistive walking aids) and have a one of the following neurological conditions:

Have had a Stroke

Have Cerebral Palsy

Have had a Traumatic Brain Injury / Acquired Brain Injury

For more information on the PNT, visit their page at ussoccer.com.

This summer, Coach Liddle will be directing No. 1 Soccer Camps at Baylor School June 18th-22nd and No. 1 Soccer Camps at Darlington School Session 1 July 15 -19 and Session 2 July 19th – 23rd.

No. 1 Soccer Camps BFF Promotion

You + BFF + No. 1 Soccer Camps = Saving $$$

What’s better than attending the top ranked No. 1 Soccer Camps this summer? Attending No. 1 Soccer Camps with your best friends!

Grab your BFF, buddy, or teammate and register for any of our 28 locations across the US and save up to $89! Choose from College Preparatory Performance, Senior, Junior, Youth Academies or our new College ID Showcase Program. Whatever your age and skill, we have a program that will improve your technical, tactical, mental and overall soccer performance.

For over 40 years, No. 1 Soccer Camps has been providing exceptional soccer training for generations of soccer players while remaining true to our mission:

To provide the most valuable experience possible using instruction and positive reinforcement in match related games and situations regardless of which side of the ball the camper plays on in a mutually satisfying atmosphere where learning takes place in a spirit of camaraderie; goalkeeper and striker, boy and girl, staff coach and camper, fostering soccer development and the encouragement of an appreciation of soccer’s intrinsic values.

Take advantage of our  discount before it’s too late! Receive 10% off any registration when you use promo code BFF10% at registration.

To see a list of our locations and dates for 2017, visit our website!

Team Camp at No. 1 Soccer Camps

Get the Preseason Advantage at No. 1 Soccer Camps Team Camp

Did you know No. 1 Soccer Camps offers a team camp for high school and club teams looking for a preseason edge? Our staff will work directly with your team to ensure a valuable and enriching team training experience.  In addition to the positive camaraderie gained by living and playing together, we will also deliver rigorous team competition and training, all while developing the modern skills of attacking with speed and going for goal! Each individual player will receive our extensive 75 point personal evaluation for their personal use and future development. 

“As a soccer coach and soccer parent, I haven’t found a better soccer camp experience than No. 1 Soccer Camps.  My kids and players can’t wait each summer to attend.” – Marc Hatam Port Washington Cobras 

No. 1 Soccer Camps offer exceptional opportunities for teams to attend the camp at a significant discount. For more information, contact the camp office at info@no1soccercamps.com or call 571-428-8387.  

No. 1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of it’s kind, was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 80,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps and become part of the No. Family. Our tradition of excellence, professional coaches and world class facilities have made No. 1 the industry leader for US soccer camps for over 40 years.

Tony Pierce Inducted Into Wisconsin Soccer HOF

No. 1 Regional Director Tony Pierce Inducted Into Wisconsin Soccer Hall Of Fame

No. 1 Soccer Camps Tony PierceNo. 1 RD and seventh-year Wisconsin Lutheran College head women’s soccer coach Tony Pierce was inducted into the Wisconsin Soccer Hall of Fame on Saturday, March 11, 2017.

Pierce, a longtime member of the No.1 Soccer Camps family, has coached collegiate soccer for nearly 30 years.

Tony Pierce Hall OF FameOne of the winningest goalkeepers in the history of the former National Professional Soccer League (NPSL), Pierce was a goalkeeper for the Milwaukee Wave for eight years and one with the Chicago Power, appearing in 195 games, posting 75 wins and making 2608 saves. The three-time All-Pro also served as the Wave’s Director of Community Relations for six years. He was inducted into the Milwaukee Wave Hall of Fame in 2010.

Tony Pierce Hall Of FamePierce was a member of the University of Connecticut’s 1981 NCAA Division I Championship soccer squad. He also returned with the Huskies in national semifinal appearances in 1982 and 1983. In 1983 Pierce was a co-captain with Jim D’Orsaneo.

Pierce also has one National Team cap versus Portugal for the US Men’s National Futsal Team.

No. 1 Soccer Camps at Wayland Academy in Beaver Falls, WI is under the direction of Tony Pierce who has been with No. 1 Soccer Camps for 36 years.  This unique specialty camp blends the best of No. 1 Soccer Camps with its partner in Germany the Fussball Ferienschulen. The camp runs July 16-20th. For more information, visit www.No1SoccerCamps.com.

Win a Week of No. 1 Soccer Camps

On Tuesday April 4, No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director John Adams is shaving his head in support of the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.  All proceeds are to benefit research for Children with Cancer.

No. 1 Soccer Camps is partnering with St. Baldrick’s to help with the cause.  We will be holding an online auction where the winner will get a FREE WEEK OF CAMP

 CLICK HERE to enter a bid

 Some simple rules for our auction:

 1) You must be 18 to bid.

2) DO NOT BID unless you are prepared to win.

3) Auction ends at 11:59p on Tuesday April 4.

4) Winning bidder will be contacted by No.1 Soccer Camps via E-Mail on April 5.  We will provide you with instructions on how to make your donation and how to register for your camp. 

5) No. 1 Soccer Camps will make a donation in the amount of the highest bid to St. Baldrick’s. The winner will be awarded with a week of camp at a location that fits you best.  College Showcase ID Camps are not eligible.

 From Coach John Adams: 

 It’s How I Help

Although I don’t have any personal dealing with childhood cancer, my father battled cancer for 9 years. When I first joined Jon Cohn’s Coaches United Against Cancer Team  I didn’t know what to expect.  When I walked into the event, it was packed.  The energy in the room was nothing like I had felt before.  As I worked my way up to the shavees, I saw her.  She was a middle school girl, with long dark hair  She was shaving her head. I was in awe.  It wasn’t until that moment that I realized what I was a part of.  The courage of this middle school girl was amazing, something I would never forget.

I still “Brave the Shave.”  It’s how I can help.  The goal of the Coaches United Against Cancer Team to raise funds.  We have expanded to Arizona and are now recognized as a National Campaign.  During our 8 years, we have raised over $200,000.  For me to shave my head, it takes nothing.  There is no courage on my part.  The courage lies with my father who battled for almost 10 years before passing in September 2013. The courage is with the middle school girl who is shaving her head to help support children she doesn’t know, who are battling cancer.  The courage is with all these children, battling cancer, who keep smiling and showing us that we should be enjoying life. Please consider making a donation HERE

Teacher, Trainer, Coach: What’s the Difference?

By No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Greg Andrulis

In the sport of soccer, we often have teachers, trainers, and coaches who each have a specific set of responsibilities for the development of their players. Looking at each title, there seems to be an overlapping and co-mingling of responsibilities that go with the job description. A teacher can have a more formal role in the development of their players and teams. A coach helps a player or team achieve success on the field, and a trainer is the facilitator of new skills. Can one person be all three? Absolutely!

If you have been fortunate enough to attend a training session that has been put on by Anson Dorrance, head coach at the University of North Carolina, former World Cup Coach and the winner of 21 National Championships, then you have been fortunate enough to have seen one of greatest teacher, trainers, and coaches of our generation. What makes this type of coach, teacher, and trainer so special? Is it their ability to articulate the message? Their communication skills? Their intuitive nature? Their knowledge of the game? Yes to all of the above.

No. 1 Soccer Camps John Amorim Teacher Trainer Coach
Former professional player and current US U14 National Camp Goalkeeper Coach, John Amorim was one of the inaugural participants in the No. 1 Soccer Camps as a camper in 1977.

At the recent Connecticut Junior Soccer Association Annual General Meeting, those in attendance were introduced to a person who clearly fits comfortably into the role of Teacher, Trainer and Coach. John Amorim is currently the head goalkeeper coach for the Region I ODP Staff. While watching Coach Amorim run his session, it was striking to observe a man comfortable being a teacher, a trainer and a coach – sometimes within the same sentence. Putting on a training session in a hotel ballroom is never easy. Add in the dimensions of training players that you are unfamiliar with, being surrounded by coaches who are only somewhat interested in your topic and those in place for required CEU’s, and you have an environment that is demanding to say the least.

John presented a goalkeeper session that at its basic level was not challenging in its format with one major exception – his delivery. John was able to present a multi-layered session that challenged each participant at the physical, technical, and psychological spectrum at every step of the progression. His delivery was as a teacher to the coaches in attendance explaining the exercise, as a coach to the players; he was working with and as a trainer executing drills and exercises. His session was exceptional. His knowledge of the position is at a very high level. Those in attendance were witness to an outstanding presentation, by an extraordinary teacher, coach and trainer.

His ability to layer each exercise with each dimension of the spectrum is a gift. The players had to think, react and make decisions related to each ball. The session was not the type of session that we often see put on by trainers at these type of events. More commonly we see sessions where the ball is constantly struck with mind numbing repetitions and little to no level of distinction as to the reason, method or purpose, other than to create the illusion of success.

At this session it was clear and refreshing to see an educator (a unique combination of teacher, coach, and trainer) present a session that was simple in concept but complex in methodology. If you are looking for an individual to be part of your staff or work with your child, strive to find someone with the capacity to incorporate all the ingredients for a successful session – someone who can teach, someone who can coach and someone who can train. All will benefit from that experience.

Coach Andrulis is a coach and teacher who has had the good fortune to have worked with and trained some of the best goalkeepers in the United States. His goalkeepers have played at all levels, including World Cup and national teams, professional, collegiate and club. As a 40 year staff member of No. 1 Soccer Camps, Coach Andrulis enjoys the opportunity to spend time working with the next great generation of players each and every summer throughout the United States.

To Shootout Or Not?

By No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Rob Andrulis

Marco Van Basten, FIFA’s Chief Officer for Technical Development, thinks it is a good idea. Along with the expansion of the 2026 World Cup to 48 teams, FIFA is considering using run-up shootouts to break ties in the group stages of the World Cup. With the addition of the shootout, the World Cup could look like the early days of the MLS. If adopted this method could potentially be deciding matches in upcoming World Cup tournaments.

Since, 1996, the inaugural season of Major League Soccer, No. 1 Soccer Camps has been teaching the MLS shootout contest as part of our “Breakaways session.” During the session field players and goalkeepers are put through a series of technical breakaway exercises to prepare them for the contest at the end of the session. Safety is of the utmost importance while teaching the techniques of this situation.

“Back in the early days of the MLS, it was decided to institute the idea of having matches that where tied after regulation to have that tie be broken by a Shootout contest instead of penalty kicks,” said No. 1 Soccer Camps Founder Dr. Joe Machnik. “Back in the days of the NASL there was a 35 yard offside line put in place and by doing so, it created many break away situations from in and around that line, hence the idea of the 35-yard shootout was born.”

The set up for the MLS Shootout is very simple. The field player is 35 yards from goal and has five seconds once the ball is touched to shoot. The Goalkeeper must have at least one foot on the end line to start. If the goalkeeper touches the ball, the field player is not allowed to attempt a second shot. If a foul is committed by the goalkeeper inside or outside the box, a penalty kick is awarded and the Goalkeeper could receive a Yellow or Red card for the infraction. The MLS Shootout was developed to bring an exciting conclusion to the match – a true breakaway situation, field player versus goalkeeper, under the spotlight!

Dr. Joe added, “The MLS substitution rule at the time of three field players and one goal keeper allowed for many tactical changes near the end of regulation most notably goalkeeper changes.” A keeper who excelled in breakaway situation was often subbed late in the match for exactly that reason. A great example is how the Columbus Crew utilized Crew player (and former No. 1 Staff Coach) David Winner during a match. Then Columbus Crew Coach (and current No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director) Greg Andrulis liked the idea of the shootout and his ability to use Winner in that situation. “There were some nuances with it and it was a lot of fun; it brought some drama to the conclusion of the match instead of players and coaches shaking hands and moving onto the next match.”

Brazilian Legend Carlos Alberto Torres was a true wizard of the shootout during his playing days with New York Cosmos of the North American Soccer League. Also known as “O Capitao do Tri”, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time. During the shootout Carlos would use his incredible foot skills to lift a bouncing ball off the turf and calmly chip the on-rushing goalkeeper.

There are pros and cons to the Shootout Method of deciding a match. Injuries are an integral part of the equation. Collisions between the player and goalkeeper are a real possibility. On the flip side, in the past it allowed for a very exciting and entertaining way of deciding matches. The shootout also extended the playing careers of many American and International stars who excelled in the shootout format including International Great and Columbian National team player Carlos Valderamma who used his incredible touch and dribbling skills to score many artistic shootout goals.

Busch Shootout
MLS Goalkeeper of the Year (2008) and former No. 1 Camper and Staff Coach Jon Busch

We also asked for some thoughts from former No. 1 Camper and Staff Coach and 2008 MLS goalkeeper of the year Jon Busch. Jon has had a very successful professional career playing for many teams including the Columbus Crew with the then Head Coach Greg Andrulis. “As far as the shootouts I liked the idea. When I first started my pro career, we had them in the USL and I enjoyed them better than PK’s,” said Busch. “They gave the goalkeeper a better chance of being successful. I believe there is a bit more skill involved on both sides of the ball in a shootout then in a penalty kick”.

A lot to ponder as FIFA ultimately decides: To Shootout Or Not?

Check out these Best Old School MLS Shootouts

No. 1 Goalkeepers Top MLS 50 Greatest

Earlier this month, Everybody Soccer, a website dedicated to following American goalkeepers, published an article ranking the 50 Greatest MLS Goalkeepers of All Time.

No. 1 Soccer Camps was pleased to find SIX of the top TEN MLS goalkeepers are part of the No. 1 Soccer Camps family as former campers and/or coaches, and and four others round out the 50.

Top 10 GKs of All Time by Everybody Soccer

 1 Kevin Hartman (416 Games, 1997-2012)***

 2 Nick Rimando (424 Games, 2000-present)***

 3 Jon Busch (309 Games, 2002-2015)***

 4 Pat Onstad (223 Games, 2003-2011)

 5  Matt Reis (293 Games, 1998-2013)***

 6 Joe Cannon (342 Games, 1999-2013)***

 7 Zach Thornton (282 Games, 1996-2011)

 8 Tony Meola (250 Games, 1996-2006)***

 9 Scott Garlick (237 Games, 1997-2006)

 10 Tim Howard (102 Games, 1998-2003, 2016-present)

Additionally,

16. Bo Oshoniyi (109 Games, 1996, 2000-2006)***

20. Kasey Keller (93 Games, 2009-2011)***

23. Brad Friedel (38 Games, 1996-1997)***

30. Mark Dougherty (123 Games, 1996-2001)***

***Denotes No. 1 GK

No. 1 SOccer Camps History Goalkeepers
Brad Friedel with Dr. Joe Machnik circa 1993

No. 1 Soccer Camps has a long history with the MLS and US Soccer. No. 1 Soccer Camps founder Joe Machnik was an Assistant Coach for the U.S. National Team 1990 World Cup team as well as being a FIFA/CONCACAF Match Commissioner and being inducted into six Soccer Halls of Fames.

No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Greg Andrulis is the former head coach of MLS’ Columbus Crew.

Our coaching staff has experience at every level of American soccer from high school to collegiate D1, 2, and 3, to Major League Soccer and the US National teams.  For over 40 years, No. 1 Soccer Camps has been training generations of quality goalkeepers and field players across the United States.

To learn more about No. 1 Soccer Camps and to locate a site near you, visit our website at www.No1SoccerCamps.com.

 

No. 1 Staff Collegiate Season Highlights

It was a record breaking collegiate season for several No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Directors and Staff Coaches. Read on to hear about a few honors and achievements our staff made in the 2016 season.

Nick Roberts No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director and Staff Coach Nathan Jones – Urbana University

Nick Robertsroberts, who finished his ninth season guiding the Urbana University Men’s Soccer Team and was recently named Mountain East Conference Coach of the Year, has built an impressive program in Urbana. In 2016, the Blue Knights tied the school record for most wins after finishing 14-5-1 and made the team’s second-straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament, where they advanced to the round of 16.

UU spent the majority of the season ranked in the national polls and received the program’s highest ranking ever at No. 12 earlier in the year. The Blue Knights outscored opponents 48-17 this season, averaging nearly three goals per game.

In addition, several Blue Knights thrived under the UU coaching staff in 2016. Eight total student-athletes were voted all-conference performers, including the league’s Defensive Player of the Year (and No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach) Nathan Jones.

Nick DeMarsh No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director – Buffalo State

No. 1 Soccer Camps Collegiate Season Updates DeMarshNicholas DeMarsh concluded his 15th season as the head coach of the Buffalo State women’s soccer program in 2016, leading the Bengals to its first ever SUNYAC Championship and NCAA Championship appearance.

DeMarsh’s 2016 Bengals set a school-record for wins in a season, finishing 17-1-3 and winning the program’s first conference championship.  In doing so, DeMarsh was named the SUNYAC coach of the year for the second consecutive season, and third time overall.

DeMarsh saw his team sweep the SUNYAC awards in 2016, winning the Offensive, Defensive, Rookie and Coach of the Year honors and is now the all-time winningest coach at Buffalo State with 134 victories and a .537 winning-percentage.

No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach Lyndse Hokanse – Georgetown University

No. 1 Soccer Camps Collegiate Season Updates HokansonLyndse Hokanse, First Assistant Coach helped lead the Georgetown University women’s soccer team to its most successful year in program history. Head Coach Dave Nolan and his staff were recognized by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) as the recipient of the NCAA Division I Women’s Coaching Staff of the Year, as voted on the by coaches in that division.

Georgetown advanced to the NCAA College Cup for the first time in program history and lost to eventual national champion Southern California. The Hoyas finished the season with a 20-3-3 overall record, ranked No. 3 in the country by the NSCAA and Soccer America and won the BIG EAST Tournament Championship for the first time in program history.

No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director John Adams and Staff Coaches Danielle Polvan, Angelina Piccirillo, Lexi Mack, Bridget Judd, and Lexi Fenn – Albertus Magnus College

No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coaches Collegiate Honors
No. 1 Staff Coaches Danielle Polvan, Lexi Fenn, Angelina Piccirillo , Lexi Mack

John Adams, Albertus Magnus Women’s Soccer Assistant Coach, and his Falcons also had a record-breaking year in 2016. New program-bests were set and the team earned its first-ever berth in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championship. The team ended the fall with an 11-8-1 overall record and were the No. 3 seed in the GNAC Tournament thanks to posting a 7-3-1 mark in league play.

Following the year, four Falcons received All-GNAC honors – three of whom are No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coaches. Junior midfielder Angelina Piccirillo had a breakout season and landed on the first team, while seniors Danielle Polvan, and Alexis Mack  received second-team distinction.

In addition, Piccirillo earned a spot on the 2016 National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-New England Team. She becomes the fifth player in program history to earn NSCAA All-New England. Piccirillo was one of just five GNAC players to earn regional recognition this autumn. Piccirillo had a breakout year for the Falcons, scoring six goals to go along with two assists for 14 points.

Polvan, a four time All-GNAC recipient, became the school’s all-time leader in goals in 2016. During her senior season, She also became the program’s all-time leader in points with 85. Polvan led the team this fall in goals (10), points (23), shots (66) and shots on goal (39).

Defensively, Bridget Judd along with Piccirillo anchored the Falcon backline this year. The Albertus Magnus defense ranked third in the conference in goals-against average and recorded nine shutouts. The team was one of three in the league that allowed less than one goal per game.

In net, GK Lexi Fenn had a solid 2016 season. In her first season as a starter, Fenn has posted a 1.31 goals-against average with 82 saves, a .788 save percentage, five shutouts and a 9-8-1 record. She currently ranks fourth in program history in shutouts and sixth in saves.

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Youth Academy Meets Distinct Needs of Younger Players

You Asked, We Answered: No. 1 Soccer Camps Youth Academy

No. 1 Soccer Camps Youth AcademyFor years, parents have requested a soccer camp for their younger children, and No. 1 responded. No. 1 Soccer Camps Youth Academy is designed for players aged 7-10. Based on our 40 years of soccer camp experience, No. 1 Soccer Camps created a curriculum specifically constructed to meet the distinct needs and abilities of the emerging player. 

The participants at our Youth Academy benefit from a positive and encouraging setting. We create a fun, nurturing environment and ensure no 3 L’s.  No lines, no laps and no lectures are a mainstay of our youth curriculum. We understand our younger players have specific needs that if taught properly can insure a greater appreciation of the game. Fun, exciting, and engagiNo. 1 Soccer Camps Youth Academyng activities are all part of the week. We achieve this with individual and small group activities with the introduction of entertaining technical exercises and games that are engaging and relevant for the age group and ability level. 

No 1 Soccer Camps Youth Academy is available at many of our residential camps across the country. Half day and full day options are available for greater flexibility and to meet families and players individual needs.

For specific locations and dates for No. 1 Soccer Camps Youth Academy in 2017, please visit our Youth Academy page here.

No. 1 Soccer Camps Enters 41st Season

No. 1’s 41st Season Of Soccer Excellence

In 1977 under the direction of former college, professional and World Cup coach Dr. Joe Machnik, No.1 Soccer Camps was born. That first year, Machnik started the No. 1 Goalkeeper’s Camp with 39 goalkeepers from thirteen states participating in a one week session. Coaches John Kowalski, Shep and Roy Messing, Mickey Cohen, Peter Johnson and Danny Gaspar joined Machnik in putting the young goalkeepers through their paces.

By 1995, it became evident that goalkeepers had progressed in technical areas, but tactical decision making abilities, which could only be tested by field players in match situations was missing. In addition, the lack of goal-scoring abilities was rampant in America and a striker’s curriculum was needed to provide players with opportunity to enhance technique and composure in front of the goal.

Accordingly, Machnik and Kowalski incorporated field players into the No. 1 Soccer Camps program with the addition of the Star Striker’s School which was the forerunner of the No. 1 Striker Camp program. Within no time, field players came from all over the country and the world to attend the unique No. 1 Soccer Camps program.

Machnik and his experienced professional staff continue to refine the program and update the methodology utilized to get results on both sides of the ball. In 2016, in response to age group and field size mandates from US Soccer, No. 1 Soccer Camps responded with steps to assist players and teams throughout this important transition.

“Entering the 41st year of the camp,  it’s amazing to see the positive impact that the Machnik Method and philosophy has had on the development of goalkeepers and goalkeeper coaches throughout the US and the world,” says No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Greg Andrulis.

“Teaching methods that have had a profound effect on the development of goalkeepers at every level from club to National team players was the hallmark of the No. 1 Soccer Camps from its early days. Now with the combination of field players and goalkeepers competing in our unique “Goal to Goal” curriculum has set a new  standard for specialized training for players regardless of which side of the ball players compete on.

Andrulis, who also serves as Head Coach at George Mason University, has witnessed firsthand the camp alumni successes, “The number of players who have benefited from our camps and who are actively competing at the highest level – youth national teams, college and professional teams continues to grow.”

Dr. Joe Machnik recently reflected on No. 1 Soccer Camps’ 41 season and secret to the camp’s enduring success: “The success and longevity of No. 1 Soccer Camps has been due in a large part to our continued pursuit of the most up to date and forward thinking curriculum for our participants. We have endeavored and have achieved a reputation for being innovators in all aspects of the environment that we create for strikers, field-players, goalkeepers, boys and girls, coaches and staff.”

“This year for the first time, some of our national teams will hold mini camps for goalkeepers and strikers in order to create an environment where strikers and goalkeepers alike can hone their skills in specific specialized sessions. Having recognized the need for this environment and intensive training that is possible with our Go to Goal  curriculum, our camps have been providing this opportunity and related format for over 40 years.”

“It gives us a great sense of satisfaction to see that each year players and staff of the No. 1 Soccer Camps continue to have a significant impact on the success of soccer at all levels in the US as well as abroad. Our staff coaches and directors have had tremendous personal success with their own programs. We continue to have numerous players each year become professional players, national team players and achieve athletic scholarships, make their club teams and achieve personal satisfaction with their development. We are proud of the positive impact that the No. 1 Soccer Camps has had on the soccer landscape and we will always strive to stay true to our Mission:

To provide the most valuable experience possible using instruction and positive reinforcement in match related games and situations regardless of which side of the ball the camper plays on in a mutually satisfying atmosphere where learning takes place in a spirit of camaraderie; goalkeeper and striker, boy and girl, staff coach and camper, fostering soccer development and the encouragement of an appreciation of soccer’s intrinsic values.

For 2017, No, 1 Soccer Camps offers Youth Academy, Junior Academy, Senior Academy, College Prep Performance Academy and College Showcase ID  Camps in locations across the US.

No.1 Soccer Camps 41st Season

Goalkeeping Key to 2016 MLS Championship

THE KEY TO MLS CHAMPIONSHIP? STELLAR GOALKEEPING

By Dan Naden

As a former soccer goalkeeper and current goalkeeper coach, I see the goalkeeping as vitally important to a team’s success.

With the Major League Soccer (MLS) season now in the books, it’s telling to look back and review the critical role of goalkeeper.

The table below lists the MLS 2016 Goalkeepers organized by Goals Against Average (GAA). Note: Minimum of 10 games played.

Orange = Keeper for a Final Four Team

Grey = Keeper for a Playoff Team

MLS Goalkeeping GAAA Few Goalkeeping Takeaways:

Half of the Final Four (Toronto and Colorado) rotated between 2 keepers throughout the year.

7 of the Top 10 keepers by GAA played for playoff teams, highlighting the pivotal role of goalkeeping.

Bingham (San Jose) and Knighton (New England) posted strong GAAs, but their lack of shutouts may have contributed to being left out of playoffs.

Tyler Deric, homegrown player and Native Texan, showed promise in limited time for Houston. (leader in GAA and Shutouts/Start)

Article courtesy of Dan Naden as originally published on DanNaden.com

Act Now For 2017 Early Bird Discount

No. 1 Soccer Camps registration is now officially open for the 2017 season! To celebrate our 40th year of soccer camps, we’re offering a limited time Early Bird 2017 discount to SAVE you up to $50.00 off your program fees.

No. 1 Soccer Camps 2017 DiscountRegister for any of our Junior Academy, Senior Academy, College Prep or College ID Camps with the code EARLYBIRD2017 to receive $50 off!

Register for Youth Academy with the code EARLYBIRD25 to receive $25 off! Click here for more information.

This offer won’t last long, so reserve your spot at the nation’s No. 1 Soccer Camp today!

No. 1 Soccer Camps Registration

12 Questions To Ask A Potential Soccer Camp

Choosing a summer soccer camp can be a difficult decision. With so many options, how do you know which one is the right fit for your child? No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Christine Huber asks the twelve vital questions parents should pose to potential camps to ensure a rewarding and safe soccer camp experience.

ASK YOUR SOCCER CAMP THE TOUGH QUESTIONS

1) How many years has the camp been in the business?

Experience matters. While it is not always a guarantee of a superior camp, this can be an excellent indicator of the caliber of the camp experience, its management, and its coaches. No. 1 Soccer Camps has been in continuous operation for over 40 years. VERY few camps can make this claim, and we are proud of our tradition and history.

 

2) Is the camp a soccer specific camp or a camp that offers soccer?  Which is best for your child? 

A camp that offers soccer may have different activities and may not be focused on just on soccer. Dances, plays, and skits may be incorporated into the camp day which limits the amount of time spent on soccer.  No. 1 Soccer Camps is a specific soccer camp geared towards the player who loves the game.  We offer on and off the field soccer specific training, films, and lectures to make sure the camper gets the most comprehensive soccer experience. Each session we see amazing improvements in the campers’ skills in a relatively short amount of time.

 

3) How does a camp facilitate maximum amount of touches on the ball to foster the most positive results over a short period of time?

Many camps play 11 vs 11 games which means some players are only getting a few touches a game.  In these camps you will also see drills with long lines and campers waiting to shoot or touch a ball due to limited equipment and staff.  With well thought out and designed lesson plans, No. 1 Soccer Camps plays small sided tactical games based on a recently broken down technical skill. This not only increases the amount of touches on the ball but also mentally prepares players for tight situations in the final third of the field.  Field players are preparing and taking more shots while goalkeepers continuously have shots coming at them.  We bring in full sized official goals to mimic the real game.

 

4) How does the camp challenge its players? Will the camp allow the player to “play up” if warranted?
Every player needs to be challenged physically and mentally in order to improve.  A good camp will be flexible enough to adjust to the needs of every camper.  During the first session of camp, our staff evaluates the campers and makes any necessary adjustments under the direction of the Camp Director and Striker/ Goalkeeper Director. This ensures each camper receives a tailored experience geared toward his/her current level of play.

 

5) What is the average number of training hours per day? How many hours of your camper’s day are actually spent working on the field getting better?

A good camp like No. 1 Soccer Camps will have perfected the proper balance between training, recovery, and free time.  We offer evening lectures, group discussions as well as the on the field training to create a comprehensive program geared to the mental and physical needs of the player.

 

6) What is the staff to camper ratio?  Is it 1:8 or less?

This ratio is required legally by many states.  A smaller staff to camper ratio will ensure your player receives the individual attention necessary to improve. No. 1 Soccer Camp aims to have a 1:6 or less ratio at all of our locations.

 

7) How many years has the Camp Director been running the camp and how extensive are the staff coaches backgrounds in coaching younger players?

Not all professional coaches are capable of coaching youth players. Your camp director and staff coaches should have many years of experience in the camp industry along with coaching the specific age groups.  Our No. 1 Soccer Camps Directors are leaders in the soccer community and have been an integral part of our company for many years. Several are even former campers themselves! Our Staff coaches are selected and matched based on coaching experience with a particular age group in mind for maximum success.

 

8) Does the camp perform background checks on all staff?

Most state legislation requires criminal background checks and SORI checks for ANYBODY around children. Be sure any camp under consideration meets these requirements and thoroughly checks its staff. No. 1 Soccer Camps uses a national company to perform background checks on all staff regardless of state requirements.

 

9) What kind of access do campers have to the camp site’s facilities besides the fields ie. indoor spaces for inclement weather, dorms, cafeterias, pool, lounges etc?
The access to and quality of these amenities are important to a camper’s overall experience.  No. 1 Soccer Camps chooses its locations based on the excellence of the facilities and the needs of our campers. The quality and stellar reputation of No. 1 Soccer Camps allows us to secure some of the most coveted university and private schools locations in the nation.

 

10)  How is the camp supervised? Do coaches, directors, and medical staff stay on campus?  Is there adequate staff coverage in the dorms?

Safety is a paramount parental concern and proper staff supervision is necessary to make sure campers are well cared for on and off the pitch. At No. 1 Soccer Camps our directors, coaches and camp nurse are on campus throughout out the day and night to provide supervision and assistance 24 hours a day.

 

11)  How does the camp prepare it’s players for the collegiate experience?
Only a few camps address the many issues the college-bound player faces. Collegiate level training, recruitment, and application processes are just a few of the areas our College Showcase ID, College Prep and Sr. Academy programs address both on and off the field.

 

12) How are players evaluated?

Camp is over.  Now what? At many camps, once the last session is played, you are on your own. On the final day of No. 1 Soccer Camps, each camper receives a written 75 point evaluation, the most in depth detailed soccer camp evaluation in the industry. Our staff takes great pride in the quality of each camper’s evaluation and the Personal Development Plan which offers a post camp game plan for the further enhancement of each camper’s abilities. Campers and parents have the opportunity to review and discuss the evaluation with the camper’s staff coach at the end of camp creating a positive conclusion to camp’s training.

 

Regional Director Christine Huber has been with No. 1 Soccer Camps since 1996. A former four year starter and Hall of Fame Player for the University of New Haven, Huber is now the head coach at Hamden Hall Country Day School and Assistant Coach at the University of New Haven. The following No. 1 Soccer Camp locations are under her direction: Brewster AcademyNorthfield Mount HermonPomfret SchoolCFC Arena, and Hamden.

MLS Winningest Goalkeeper Nick Rimando

NO.1 ALUM SETS MLS RECORD FOR MOST GK WINS

Former No. 1 Camper and Staff Coach – and current Real Salt Lake nick_rimandoGoalkeeper – Nick Rimando –  made history last weekend as he recorded his 181st win, the most in MLS History

Real Salt Lakes’ 3-1 win over Chicago Fire placed Rimando ahead of an another No. 1 alum, former No. 1 Camper and Staff coachKevin Hartman, who previously held the record for 180 wins.  Hartman, a MLS league legend, played for the LA Galaxy, Kansas City Wizards, FC Dallas and New York Red Bulls in a 17-year career.

Rimando, 37, has been in the MLS for 17 years, first with the Miami Fusion (2000-01) and D.C. United (2002-06), before landing with and Real Salt Lake (2007-present). He made 11 playoff appearances and won the MLS Cup with RSL in 2009.

Before last weekend, Rimando already held the MLS record for clean sheets with 126, and he now holds a career record of 181-135-98, with a 1.19 goals against average, including a league-record 27 penalty-kick saves.

No. 1 Soccer Camps has a long history of producing the top goalkeepers and players in the US. At one time, No. 1 had 5 starting goalkeepers in MLS – Nick Rimando, Kevin Hartman, Joe Cannon, Matt Reis, and Jon Busch. Today, the 40 year tradition of excellence lives on as No.1 continues to train the next generation of professional soccer players.

 

NO.1 Parents Tell It Like It Is

There is a reason No. 1 Soccer Camps has been successfully training players for over 40 years – a commitment to excellence.  This commitment is evidenced in every facet of our camp – from our exceptional coaches, to our proven methodology, to our top notch facilities.  But don’t just take our word for it, have a look at what parents have to say about our camp this season so far:

 

Cannot even say enough about this great camp at Northfield Mount Hermon. Thank you Christine and all the coaches for pouring into Daniel this week. Special thanks to Jordan who has helped my son’s confidence, skills, and spirit to soar. He respects and admires you. What a great role model you are for our son. You have been instrumental in building his strength, belief and character as a goal keeper. He talked the entire way home about what you and all the other coaches taught him…not only in skill level but also how “to think” and make better decisions on the field. Really?! How many 11 year olds are getting that level of training? Wow. You are all much appreciated. – Jenny via Facebook

I just wanted to shoot you an email thanking you!! Carter had the best camp experience. As you know, this was her first time attending your camp and you are your staff exceeded our expectations. The Vero facility was nicely kept up and I felt very safe and comfortable leaving her there. In addition, you and your staff had energy!! Sometimes I find that the energy fades after the first day, but Carter came home and said how much time the staff spent with her teaching and training her. She came there to learn and become a better soccer player and that is what was accomplished. This experience was so positive for her that her love of soccer has grown. She continues to practice everyday and she loves every minute of it! Thanks again Mike. Carter will absolutely see you at camp next summer. Regards, Kathy

Just wanted to pass along my thanks to you and your staff for a great experience for my daughter. This was her first time away from home and she had a blast. She enjoyed the people, the soccer drills, the food, the pool…just about everything. Before she even left camp, she said she was going to do it again next year. So thanks again for a great camp experience.  – Jen R

I just wanted to say what a class act I think your organization is and that I would highly recommend you to other players and parents. My daughter, who is a goalie, fractured her wrist at an overnight camp after spending less than 24 hours at camp and was not medically able to continue. I had no expectations for a full refund (we were hoping for a credit for a future camp). But we received an email stating that our full camp tuition had been refunded, minus a minor handling fee!!! Thank you so much! Your organization will certainly receive our business again in the future and we will spread the word about your exceptional customer service! – Patricia via Facebook

I wanted to pass a few things along since pick up my son From the NMH soccer camp. He absolutely loved this camp, hasn’t stop talk about the coaches, friends, food. Him and his friends really enjoyed and wish was a few days longer. My son had real anxiety about going and this was a great thing for him, thank you to your staff for give him a great week! Thank you.   -Michelle

No. 1 Soccer Camps was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 100,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps and countless alumni have gone on to playing and coaching careers throughout the national and international soccer ranks. No. 1 Soccer Camps currently offers programs for every level of field players and goalkeepers with residential and day camps at twenty-five locations across the country. 

 

No.1 Soccer Camps 2016 Photo Contest

CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF NO.1 SOCCER CAMPS AND WIN SWEET SWAG AND FREE CAMP FOR 2017!

Details

One entry from EACH camp location will be selected to win by the No. 1 staff. The winner will be notified on the final day of camp, and their photo will showcased on our website and social media sites. NEW FOR 2016 All of the site winners will then be entered to win the Grand Prize : a 2017 camp session at location of your choice! The winner will be contacted and announced in August.

To Enter

Post your picture to Twitter or Instagram during your camp session. Include the following in the post:
@No1SoccerCamps
#No1SoccerCamps
#No1Location ie. #UniversityofDallas #CharlestonSouthern #VeroBeach #Brewster to identify which No. 1 Site contest you are entering.

Terms and Conditions

Deadline for contest – Last night of camp by 10:00 PM
Eligibility – Entries must be submitted by a current camper while attending that No. 1 site/session.
All entries become the property of No. 1 and may be used in upcoming promotions, advertisements and posts.
Void where prohibited.

CELEBRATE YOUR HARD WORK, LOVE OF THE GAME, LOVE OF NO.1 SOCCER CAMPS-AND BECOME INSTAFAMOUS!
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German-Us Soccer Opportunities With No. 1 Soccer Camps

NO.1 SOCCER CAMPS OFFERS THREE CULTURALLY ENRICHED GERMAN SOCCER PROGRAMS

At each of our three German specialty camps, players will be integrated into the program of the highly esteemed fussball-ferienschule.de along with the No. 1 Soccer Camps methodology. Being exposed to the high level, technically sound German coaching scheme will add another dimension to camper’s soccer education and their ability to produce on the field. Comparing one’s own skills with and against the young German campers will provide an excellent gauge for campers and parents to evaluate each child’s true abilities.

IN 2016, NO.1 SOCCER CAMPS IS OFFERING THREE GERMAN AMERICAN PROGRAMS:

Bad Blankenburg, Germany

no1bbThe Sport Complex in Bad Blankenburg, Thuringia – Germany offers only the highest quality for all soccer campers. Including a superior three star hotel, 5 excellent maintained grass surfaces, one artificial turf with flood lights for evening sessions and an indoor soccer field the Sports Complex offers precisely what is asked for at a training camp. The two, three and four bedroom apartments entail a single bed, a shower, a TV, a desk and Wi Fi Internet for all campers.

For Additional Information, on our Bad Blankenburg Camp, Click Here

Lubmin, Germany

The Sport Complex in Lubmin at the Baltic Sea, Germany is a top notch sports facility in a popular German vacation destination. The no1balticsport and youth hotel “Schawi” has around 180 beds and is ideal for sport and school groups. And is located near wide sandy beaches, arresting cliff coasts, and a picturesque pine forest. The two, three and four bedroom apartments entail a single bed, a shower, a TV, a desk and Wi Fi Internet for all campers.

For Additional Information, on our Lubmin Camp, Click Here
Wayland Academy in Beaver Falls, Wisconsin
For those players who want a German camp a bit  closer to home, we have our Wayland Academy Camp.  For the past three years the No.1 no1waylandSoccer Camps have worked with No.1 Staff Coach Boris Kalff who has led a camper and staff exchange to one of the leading soccer camps in Germany, the Fussball Ferienschulen. This year we are happy to announce that German campers and staff coaches will be coming over to the No.1 Soccer camps at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. Tony Pierce, veteran staff member of No.1 Soccer Camps, and Boris Kalff of the Fussball Ferienschulen have worked together to make this exciting new venture possible.

For Additional Information, on our Wayland Academy Camp, Click Here

Campers at each of our three German – US camps will be uniquely challenged by the mix of the Fussball Ferienschulen and No.1 Soccer Camp’s curriculum every day, every session. The training will feature the latest technical, tactical and strategic education and training of goalkeepers and field players.  Players will benefit from modern methodologies while learning how to attack and defend in the most exciting part of the field –  the 30 yard area directly in front of the goal. This summer’s experience of training alongside German campers and coaches will be second to none in No.1 Soccer Camps 40th year.

No. 1 Soccer Camps College Showcase Id Camp

YOU ASKED FOR IT, AND NO.1 SOCCER CAMPS DELIVERD

The No. 1 Soccer Camps College Showcase ID Camp is Now Available for the Serious, Aspiring Collegiate Soccer Player

 

Forget the 100+ player ID camps or overwhelming and time consuming college showcase tournaments. No. 1 Soccer Camps College Showcase ID Camp provides the serious aspiring collegiate player a more intimate, personalized environment to learn with and from top DI, DII, DIII, NJCAA and NAIA coaches. Players work in SMALL groups with the college coaches and assistants in a 10 -1 player to coach ratio allowing for personal instruction, networking and evaluation.

No. 1 Soccer Camps has been a fixture in American soccer for 40 years, and our network extends to every level of collegiate soccer thereby allowing us to bring the top programs to our camps. The directors of our College ID Showcase Camps are all current college coaches and have assembled an extensive list of top coaches to attend each camp. Our College ID Showcase Camps are gender specific in order to showcase the talents of male and female players to specific men’s and women’s collegiate coaches.

In addition to the one of a kind on field experiences, our College Showcase camp also provide an inclusive NCAA Seminar covering the recruiting process, the NCAA Eligibility Center, and a personal proactive marketing approach.

2016 COLLEGE SHOWCASE ID CAMP LOCATIONS

North East

June 11th at Albertus Magnus College, New Haven, CT – Women

July 30th at Western Connecticut State College, Danbury, CT – Men

Mid Atlantic

June 25th at The Landon School, Bethesda MD – Women  Click here for a list of participating College Coaches at The Landon School: List of College Coaches

June 29th-July 1st at The Phelps School, Malvern PA – Men   Click here for a list of participating College Coaches at The Phelps School: List of College Coaches

Mid West

July 9th at Urbana University, Columbus, OH – Men

Just a few of the colleges and Universities that will be in attendance at No. 1 Soccer Camps College Showcase ID Camp at The Phelps School:
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Want to learn more? Visit our College Showcase ID Camp page here. Due to the small player to coach ratio, player spots are extremely limited. Registrations are filling up fast, so don’t delay securing your place this summer. Register Today! 

No. 1 Soccer Camps was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 100,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps and countless alumni have gone on to playing and coaching careers throughout the national and international soccer ranks. No. 1 Soccer Camps currently offers programs for every level of field players and goalkeepers with residential and day camps at twenty-five locations across the country. 

No.1 Soccer Camps And Soccer Mandates For Calendar Year Participation And Small Sided Standards

HOW NO.1 SOCCER CAMPS CAN ASSIST PLAYESRS AND FAMILIES WITH IMPENDING US SOCCER MANDATES

By Dr. Joesph Machnik, Founder of No. 1 Soccer Camps

For 40 years, No. 1 Soccer Camps has been a proud partner of the soccer evolution in the United States.  As part of this continuing progression, US Soccer has mandated two key changes that will impact youth soccer throughout our country. Theses change will affect your child, and No. 1 Soccer Camps can assist in making this transition as smooth as possible for you and your family. 

The first change will be the nationwide adoption of small-sided standards and the second will be a shift from school-year to calendar year age grouping of teams. “With these initiatives, we’re more likely to have players better prepared down the road” according to Tab Ramos, U.S. Youth Technical Director. “With small sided standards, what we’re trying to do is to help players develop by putting them in an environment where they are constantly involved in the play.”

At No.1 Soccer Camps, our unique “Go to Goal Curriculum” played 35 yards from the goal, has always employed the small-sided standards concept for maximum touches and realistic game type experience. Our philosophy has always recognized the benefits of small-sided games for our players. By managing the numbers of players and the space they play in, we see tremendous benefits including more interaction, additional touches on the ball, and the increased need for quicker tactical decisions. Our philosophy allows players to learn different positions, become more technically acute, learn tactics quicker, increase fitness, and allow players to become more emotionally and socially involved. Whether you are a goalkeeper or a field player, you will be more active at No. 1 as we create the opportunity for 1000 saves or a 1000 chances on goal during a week of camp.

The second change from US Soccer is the mandate of players from a school year calendar to acalendar year for the age groupings of teams. We recognize this change has caused much concern and disruption within leagues, clubs, teams, and families. The philosophy of No.1 Soccer Camps has always been to challenge the player based first and foremost on the player’s ability, not just their age. Players regularly play up with their teams at home, and we embrace this concept at No. 1 Soccer Camps. With so many players having to adjust to playing with new teammates and being moved to new teams, there is a tremendous challenge ahead for all involved.

To assist players and parents in this transition, No. 1 Soccer Camps provides an environment where players can challenge themselves in a positive manner, make new friends, reinvent themselves, and become more prepared for the next season. The new age mandate means players will be jumping in age groups, changing teams or moving to a different club, and we facilitate making that transition easier for the individual player as well as the newly formed team.  If you have a son or daughter that is going into a new team and new environment, our training program will expose them to new concepts,  new coaches, and new friends – all in a positive and encouraging environment. With No.1, new teams are given the opportunity to train together, play together and team build together as they prepare for the next season.

As the foremost leader in soccer education for over 40 years, No.1 Soccer Camps has always been ahead of the curve in regards to our curriculum and training concepts. We recognize and embrace the incredible responsibility we have which is to create the most advanced, forward looking curriculum that helps all of our participants become No.1 on their respective teams.

dr-joe-machnik-727x727-dammresize-360-360-high-1Dr. Joe Machnik is the Founder of No. 1 Soccer Camps, FIFA/CONCACAF Match Commissioner, and a Rules Analyst for Fox Sports. No. 1 Soccer Camps was founded by Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 100,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps and countless alumni have gone on to playing and coaching careers throughout the national and international soccer ranks. No. 1 Soccer Camps currently offers programs for every level of field players and goalkeepers with residential and day camps at twenty-five locations across the country.

Mike Idland Named Head Coach At Suny Brockport

Long time No. 1 Staff Coach Mike Idland was recently named Head Coach for Women’s Soccer at SUNY College at Brockport. SUNY Brockport is a division III program near Rochester, NY competing in the SUNYAC conference. Idland was selected over scores of  exceptional candidates due to his impressive resume that spans several different levels of soccer and his achievements as head coach at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. A former No. 1 camper, Idland played collegiately at at Suny Cortland. He became a staff coach at No. 1 in 2000 and went on to become a Regional Director in 2004.

In Idland’s eight seasons with the Panthers, he accumulated a record of mike-idland88-54-6, including an Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) record of 49-22-2. The Panthers team qualified for seven straight conference postseasons including four straight runner-up seasons. During that time the Panthers have dominated the AMCC awards with numerous All-Conference honors in addition to Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year awards. In addition, Idland was first named the AMCC Coach of the year in 2011 after leading Pitt-Bradford to an impressive 13-3-2 record. He also was awarded the AMCC Co-Coach of the year this past season. Idland’s 2014 team set a new school record after a 15-5-0 year, which also resulted in the program’s first ever regular season championship.

Additionally Idland serves as a senior staff member of the Region I Girls’ Olympic Development Program (ODP) and as the head coach of the Under-14 Girls team for the Western New York Flash Academy.  He also holds a United State Soccer Federation National Coaching “A” (USSF “A”) license.

At Brockport, Idland will face some No. 1 family rivalry in the  SUNYAC conference next season when his team will face off against  long-time No. 1 Striker Director, Nick DeMarsh’s Buffalo State University.
 Idland recently spoke on his new venture at Brockport and the influence of No. 1 Soccer Camps on his coaching philosophy:
I am excited to be taking on a new challenge. The team has been hovering in the middle of the pack for the SUNYAC, so I am going to try to push the program higher up towards the top of the conference obviously.  I think pretty much any coach would come into a new position with that same objective; the real question is how to get it done?

As far as on-field performance goes, games are basically won and lost in front of both goals.  In the recent past, Brockport has been solid in front of our own goal and less so in front of our opponents’ goal.  I think that leads me right back to No.1 Soccer Camps, which is obviously all about executing the striker’s role as well as the goalkeepers’.  Therefore, plenty of our camp curriculum and methodology will be put in place on the field here just as it has been during my time in my previous position at Pitt-Bradford, where we eventually led our league in virtually every defensive and attacking category.
What brings me back to camp on a deeper level is the philosophy.  Dr. Machnik has always put it so simply for us over the years there.  I can still hear him saying this stuff in my head sometimes: “Do the very best you can under all circumstances.” “Create loyalty.” “Create intrinsic motivation.” “Respect tradition.” “Get in and get out.” These are the types of principles that gave camp such an aura for me as a player and as a staff coach; they are what made it matter on such a deep level.  So, I’ve always just tried to implement that same philosophy as best I can into my teams to make it matter on a deep, intrinsic level for my players. I’m looking forward to laying that ground work in front of both goals and inside our heads here at Brockport.

Gear Up For Spring With No. 1 Soccer Camps April Giveaways

SNAG SOME SWEET SOCCER SWAG SIMPLY BY REGISTERING FOR CAMP!

Each week in April, we will be gifting No.1 Soccer Camp apparel and gear to our No.1 Soccer Camps family.

Week of April 10-16th Goalkeeper Week Each day we will randomly select 1 goalkeeper who has registered for 2016 camp for a free pair of Adidas GK gloves. Each goalkeeper who registers this week will also receive a free “Gold No.1 Soccer T- Shirt”!

Week of April 17-22nd Striker Week  Each day we will randomly select a striker/field player who has registered for our 2016 camp for a free No.1 Soccer Ball.

Week of April 24th-30th Training to Be No. 1 Week Each day we will randomly select 5 players to receive a free Adidas No.1 training top.

Additionally throughout the month of April we will randomly select 10 registered players to receive a special Adidas prize package that includes a 2016 No.1 Soccer Camp Ball, T-shirt, Training Top and Shorts.

Get Registered for 2016 this April and Get the Gear! 

For more information on any of our locations across the US and Germany for 2016, please visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com. To register for any of our 2016 programs, CLICK HERE.

No. 1 Soccer Camps was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 100,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps and countless alumni have gone on to playing and coaching careers throughout the national and international soccer ranks. No. 1 Soccer Camps currently offers programs for every level of field players and goalkeepers with residential and day camps at twenty-five locations across the country. 

The Secret To Success

The Secret to Success: Why Winning Isn’t Everything in Player Development

By No. 1 Regional Director Graeme Orr

 It is evident that we now live in a world where we want to see our children experience immediate success. If we are unhappy with individual results over a short period of time, we will instantly look to find another team, another club, or another coach for our son or daughter to play for. We often find ourselves asking young children “Did you win?” instead of the more important question “Did you have fun and learn something new?” and this is highlighted in youth sports every day within the United States. There are a variety of different options available now to young soccer players with Soccer Academies, ECNL, ODP and High School to name a few, therefore, if we are unhappy, it becomes easy to find another option.

As a college coach, I believe the growth of the game has increased enormously in the past decade and every program named above will serve a purpose and create success stories along the way. However, we have to ask ourselves how many of these programs are focused on the process of improving technique and how many are purely focused on results. Joe Machnik’s No.1 Soccer Camps provide a unique environment where young soccer players can break down their individual technique as well as apply it in a match-related game.

I believe that in order to really develop individual technique, you must be willing to work at the skill on a daily basis; not just the 90-120 minutes you spend with your club each week. I truly believe that the Machnik method is the best coaching tool I have witnessed in my career as it enhances player development over a very short period of time.

There is no doubt that the United States is full of great coaches that will develop talented players but the Machnik method used at No.1 Soccer Camps will give players a technical breakdown that most of them have never received before in areas such as: passing, receiving, placement shooting, and power shooting to name a few. I was fortunate enough to be introduced to No.1 Soccer Camps in the summer of 2004, and I realized very quickly that the Machnik method allowed players to gain an invaluable experience using instruction and positive reinforcement as well as playing match-related games; both field players and goalkeepers.

The patient atmosphere created at No.1 Soccer Camps allows players to work individually and collectively on skills that their club coaches do not have time for which is why I would strongly recommend the camps to any player who wants to develop their game technically. No.1 Soccer Camps also benefits young coaches who are looking to learn the game from some of its best teachers.

Words cannot express how fortunate I was to learn so much throughout the summer as a young staff coach from the following coaches and current No.1 staff directors: Clark Brisson, Mike Potier, Billy Gordon and Naomi Clarke. I cannot think of many other coaching opportunities that provide a lifetime of networking that No.1 Soccer Camps have given myself and many other coaches and players that are now in the coaching world.

graeme-orrNo. 1 Regional Director Graeme Orr has been with No.1 Soccer Camps since 2003.  In addition, he is also the Head Coach of the University of West Alabama Women’s Soccer Team. No. 1 Soccer Camps at University of West Alabama will be under the direction of Graeme Orr and will offer Junior Academy and Senior Academy Programs for players aged 10-18 from July 9th – 12th. For more information on our Alabama location, or any of our other sites for 2016, please visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com.

New For 2016: No. Soccer Camps Wisconsen Site

NO. 1 SOCCER CAMPS ANNOUNCES NEW SPECIALITY SITE AT WAYLAND ACADMY

 

tony-pierce-soccer-camp-directorNo.1 Soccer Camp is pleased to announce our new location at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. The facilities and location of our new site are stellar – less than an 90-minutedrive from Madison, Milwaukee, Appleton or Rockford, Illinois.

Under the direction of Wisconsin Lutheran College Women’s Head Coach and long-time No. 1 Regional Director Tony Pierce, our Wisconsin site will blend the best of No.1 Soccer Camps methodology with our partner in Germany, the Fussball Ferienschulen. For the past three years, No.1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach Boris Kalff  has led a camper and staff exchange with the leading soccer camp in Germany. This year the German campers and staff coaches will be traveling to No.1 Soccer Camps at Wayland Academy location.  This innovative and multicultural soccer program combines the finest soccer training from both the US and Germany.

Wayland Academy is a college prep school founded in 1855 and has a screen-shot-2016-03-23-at-11-27-45-amrich tradition with modern amenities.The facilities are superb across the board. No. 1 campers willtrain on the immaculate soccer fields, have use of the pool, and access to the iconic Wayland Field House  – a truly one of a kind facility. The dormitories are comfortable and close to the fields and dining facility – a key factor as legs tired during the week! The food at Wayland Academy is exceptional and abundant offering a variety of choices for every appetite. The combination of No. 1 Soccer Camps’ exceptional training, Wayland Academy’s state of the art facilities and our German coaches and campers joining us is going to make for a fantastic week of soccer!

No. 1 Soccer Camps at Wayland Academy offers Junior and Senior Academy Programs for players aged 10-18 July 17th – 22nd.  For more information on our Wisconsin site, or any of our other locations across the US and Germany, please visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com.

 

No. 1 Rd Jhon Gregg Travels To Costa Rica With Region One U15 Team

No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director John Gregg (Elizabethtown) recently traveled to Costa Rica as the Region 1 ODP Girls U15 Assistant and Goalkeeper Coach for the Costa Rica US Youth Soccer International Tournament. While in Costa Rica, the team competed in four international matches, performed community service, went white water rafting, participated in several cultural events and toured San Jose, Costa Rica’s historical capital.  The US Region 1 U15 team won the international tournament for the first time in the 10 years Region 1 has attended and on the tournament’s 10th year anniversary.

“I feel honored and humbled to have been selected to the Region 1 staff for this event,” said Gregg. “The experience for the girls and myself in learning about the culture of Costa Rica, the playing abilities of the Latin American (CONCACAF) born players, and participating in community services in a poverty stricken area and school was incredible.  We all left Costa Rica with a much better appreciation of life and the things we have.”

In Game One, the Region 1 Girls topped Moravia 2-1. With thirteen free kicks and one penalty for the Moravian team, it appeared the Referee was a home team fan, but the US team was able to persevere for the win. In Game Two, the team netted a major victory when they beat a very competitive Dimas Escszu 2-1. Again having to deal with adverse condition of home field advantages, It was a hard-fought game, and the US R1GK had an unbelievable save on one of two penalty kick to ensure the win. After day 2, the Region 1 girls were the only team of the 8 undefeated.

The girls and coaches had a break from competition on day five where md1they ventured into the Rain Forest for a team rafting trip down the Sarapiqui River. Day six started with a trip to the Robleato Children’s Center for community service. For players and coaches alike, it was a humbling, but incredibly rewarding experience.  While there, the team the players and staff socialized and played with the children.  Although children spoke English, the Americans found common ground with a soccer ball at their feet, swings, monkey bars, and other playground equipment.  The highlight  – and tear jerker – was the 5 year old boy who blessed the team for coming to spend the day to play with them.

john-gregg-cr-gkInspired by the visit, the team quickly turned it around in preparation for Game Three versus UCEM Alajuela.  The team wasted no time with goals at 1:08, 8:47, 22:53, and 25:46 to move onto an impressive 4-0 win. “The game plan was to jump on them right away and score early and often given the referees no decisions in the game,” said Gregg.  “We knew if we could get on them fast , we could then control the tempo and get them off their game plan.”

The R1 team lost their final game to the professional club, Saprissa, 0-2, but due to the point total and goal difference, the Region 1 U15 team nabbed the championship title. While the Region 1 ODP program has been attending this tournament for the last 10 years, this year’s U15 team was the first to ever win the event. Out of the four goals the R1 team gave up, only one was in the run of play. Their keepers faced five PK’s during the course of the tournament and saved two.

‘Of all the fortunate things I have been able to experience through soccer, this was by far one of the BEST things I have ever done!  I would do this again no questions asked,” Gregg commented upon his arrival back in the US.

john-gregg-directorNo. 1 Regional Director John Gregg first came to No. 1 Soccer Camps as a camper in 1985 and later transitioned to a staff coach, GK director, and RD. In addition to No. 1, Gregg is a fixture in Central and Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer.  In 2016, No. 1 Soccer Camps at Elizabethtown College will be under his direction. Offering Junior and Senior Academy Programs for goalkeepers and field players, the camp will run from July 24 th to 28th. For more information on our Elizabethtown location, or any of our other sites, visit our website at: www.no1soccercamps.com

The Importance Of Small Sided Games Recognized By US Soccer

SMALL SIDED GAMES A LONG TIME STAPLE AT NO. 1 SOCCER CAMPS
By No. 1 Regional Director Christine Huber

 

US Soccer recently announced the implementation of small sided games into their developmental curriculum, a training tool No. 1 Soccer Camps has been utilizing with great success for over 40 years.

No. 1 Soccer Camps was an early proponent of the use of small-sided games in our training. No. 1 Founder Dr. Joe Machnik believed the use of small-sided training allowed players a greater number of touches on the ball and, therefore, an increased opportunity to improve their technical and decision-making skills.  For these reasons, small sided games continue to be a hallmark of today’s No. 1 Soccer Camp curriculum.

In my past 19 years with the camp, I am still amazed at the rate which players develop in such a short period of time due to this practice. To continuously have a soccer ball at your feet and playing in various tactical small sided games for eight hours a day, a player becomes more confident and comfortable on the ball which ultimately leads to an increase in playing performance. No. 1 has long known small-sided training works, and US Soccer’s recent initiative is a testament to the sound practices No. 1 Soccer Camps is based upon.

US Soccer’s Statement on Small Sided Standards

Courtesy of US Soccer

The coaching initiatives are focused on advancing youth players’ individual skill and intelligence, and providing players with the best opportunity to improve. “Our number one goal is to improve our players down the road and these initiatives will help us do that,” said U.S. Under-20 Men’s National Team head coach and Youth Technical Director Tab Ramos. “With small-sided standards what we’re trying to do is to help players develop by putting them in an environment where they are constantly involved in the play and our changes in birth-year registration will make age groups easier to understand, while aligning our calendar with the international calendar.”

Small-Sided Standards MALL-SIDED STANDARDS
The small-sided standards are focused at players from the U-6 to U-12 age groups. The field size is based on age groups, providing a more age appropriate environment that will allow players with a better opportunity to develop heightened soccer intelligence and on-the-ball skills.

The field dimensions and number of players on the pitch will increase in size from 4v4 to 7v7 to 9v9 as players age, up until they reach the U-13 age group and begin to play full 11v11 matches.

“In general we would like for players to be able to process information faster, and when they are in this environment they are going to learn to do that over a number of years,” Ramos said. “When you have young players in an 11v11 game there are only so many involved in any one play at a time. By taking numbers away and playing 4v4, 7v7, and 9v9, you are multiplying their chances on the ball, increasing their touches and making it overall more for them by making them an active participant at all times. Fast forward 10 years and there are thousands of game situations added to a player’s development.”

For the complete article on US Soccer’s Initiatives, click here.

huber-bwNo. 1 Regional Director Christine Huber has been with No. 1 Soccer Camps since 1996 when she began as a Striker Staff Coach. A former four-year starter and Hall of Famer for the University of New Haven, Huber is now the Head Coach at Hamden Hall Country Day School and Assistant Coach at the University of New Haven. In 2016 No. 1 Soccer Camps at Pomfret SchoolNorthfield Mount Hermon, and Brewster Academy will be under her direction.  For more information on these sites, or any of our other 25 locations, click HERE.  

 

No.1 Staff Coaches Excell With Urbana University

Congratulations to Head Coach Nick Roberts for leading the Urbana Men’s Soccer Team to the finest season in Urbana soccer history. Members of his team include No.1 Soccer Camps staff coaches Nathan Jones and Ben Fitzpatrick.

nathan-jonesJones, who was UU’s co-captain and field general on the pitch this season, started 19 matches in goal for the Blue Knights. The 2015 All-MEC first teamer finished second in the conference in goals against average (0.81), save percentage (.803), and ranked fifth in total saves (61).

Jones was the main catalyst in UU’s resurgence this season, leading the Blue Knights to their first-ever national ranking and a program record nine-straight wins. He posted seven shutouts, including a 1-0 win over nationally-ranked Millersville in UU’s first NCAA Tournament contest in any sport.

Ben Fitzpatrick was named to the 2015 National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-Atlantic Region Team, recently ben-fitzpatrickannounced by the organization.

Fitzpatrick, a native of Hilliard, Ohio and co-captain of the Blue Knight men’s soccer team, picked up first-team honors and has been recognized as an all-region performer by the NSCAA for the third straight year. The junior midfielder garnered All-MEC First Team accolades, while posting four goals and four assists this fall.

As one of UU’s top scoring threats, Fitzpatrick most notably scored the game-winning goal during the first-ever NCAA Tournament game in school history, which ended up as a 1-0 victory over No. 21 Millersville.

Photos courtesy of Urbana University Men’s Soccer

No. 1 Soccer Camps will be at Urbana University June 26th to 30th in 2016.  No. 1 Soccer Camps at Urbana University is under the direction of Regional Director Greg Andrulis, former head coach of the Columbus Crew, MLS Coach of the Year and current Head Coach at George Mason University. For more information about other locations and dates for 2016 No. 1 Soccer Camps, please visit our website atwww.no1soccercamps.com

Albertus Magnus College Nets Nscaa Ethics Awards

NO.1 STAFF COACHES AWARDED 4TH CONSECUTIVE NCAA ETHICS AWARD

Albertus Magnus College Women’s Soccer, with five No.1 Staff Coaches alburtusrostered, won it’s 4th consecutive NSCAA Ethics Award this season. Given annually, the award recognizes teams that exhibit fair play, sporting behavior and adherence to the laws of the game. This is reflected by the number of yellow caution cards or red ejection cards they are shown by referees throughout the season based on the number of cards accumulated divided by the number of games played.

Albertus Associate Head Coach John Adams is also an Associate Director for No. 1 Soccer Camps West Conn. Albertus players Danielle Polvan, Maria Case and Lexi Mack have all been a part of the No.1 family as Staff Coaches at our West Conn and Salisbury, MDlocations for the past two years. In addition, Angelina Piccirillo and Bridget Judd are Staff Coaches at No. 1’s Brewster Academy and West Connsites.

“I’m pretty impressed with it.” Judd said. “I like the fact that the program has been recognized for the last 4 years for sportsmanship while we’re still playing good, physical games. We’re not a team to just roll over and take the punches but we’re playing a fair game and putting up a good fight with opponents.”

Albertus Magnus College is located in New Haven, CT and will host a No. 1 College ID Camp this summer in June.

For more information on any of the 2016 No. 1 Soccer Camps programs or locations, please visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com.

No.1 Celebrates 40th Year

NO.1 SOCCER CAMPS: LONGEST CONSECUTIVELY RUNNING SOCCER CAMP IN THE US

 

No. 1 Soccer Camps is proud to announce its 40th year as a leader in the soccer camp industry. In an era when soccer camps come and go, No. 1 Soccer Camps has provided four decades of professional soccer training for generations of American and International players. Now, the nation’s longest consecutively running soccer camp in the country, No. 1 Soccer Camps will celebrate its historic achievement during the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) convention with an commemorative reception on January 15th, 2016 at 4:00 pm at The Camden Pub 647 West Pratt Street, Baltimore.

no1-40th-joe-machnik-group“The No.1 Soccer Camps have stood the test of time due to the guidance and leadership of Dr. Joseph Machnik,” said No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Greg Andrulis. “From the beginning, the camp has been dedicated to providing the most advanced and compelling experience for the staff and players in attendance. Many of the country’s and the world top players and coaches have become part of the camp’s legacy. Always striving to be No.1, the search for excellence continues today. It’s a true testament to Dr. Joe that many of his current staff have been part of this experience for well over 20 years, and a few from the beginning. It’s amazing to think how many players and coaches have benefitted from the lessons and teachings of Dr. Joe. He is a true icon in the American soccer culture and his contributions are immeasurable.”

Dr. Joe Machnik on the milestone season: “As we celebrate our 40th camp season in 2016, we look back at the long history of outstanding staff, no1-soccer-camps-40th-joe-machnikprofessional players and international stars, and we think about the nearly 100,000 participants, campers and staff and those that have excelled at the highest levels of our sport. But most of all, we remember the sheer joy on campers faces, the huge smiles when learning takes place and the level of satisfaction achieved in so many ways. It certainly has been a great run, and with the renewed vigor and leadership of our current Directors and Staff, No.1 Soccer Camps will continue to be on the cutting edge in providing the absolute best in soccer camp experience. No. 1 For A Reason!”

no1-soccer-camps-origional-brochure

About No. 1 Soccer Camps: No. 1 Soccer Camps was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 100,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps and countless alumni have gone on to playing and coaching careers throughout the national and international soccer ranks. No. 1 Soccer Camps currently offers programs for every level of field players and goalkeepers with residential and day camps at twenty-five locations across the country. 

Save On 2016 No.1 Soccer Camps Registration

2016 EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT

 

Sometimes the best saves are made off the pitch.

No. 1 Soccer Camps is excited to announce that registration is now earlybird_redofficially open for the 2016 season. As a little incentive to get the ball rolling, we’re offering a limited time Early Bird offer so you can SAVE up to $50.00 off your 2016 program fees!

 

For all Full Day Camps, both residential and commuter, use the code EARLYBIRD50 to receive a $50.00 discount.

For all Day Camps, use code EARLYBIRD25 for a $25.00 discount.

This offer won’t last, so reserve your spot at the nation’s No. 1 Soccer Camp today!

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No. 1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of it’s kind, was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 80,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps. With camp site locations nationwide, choose a program right for you and become part of the No. 1 Soccer Camps Family!

Get Packing: Preparing For No. 1 Soccer Camps

GET READY FOR A SOCCER SUMMER TO REMEMBER!

Your time at No. 1 Soccer Camps is going to be one of the most memorable of your soccer career. You’ll work hard, learn from professional coaches, improve your game, and meet like-minded soccer players. In order to maximize your time at camp, we have put together some pertinent information to help you prepare and pack for your No. 1 Soccer Camps experience.

Preparing for Camp

Prior to the start of your camp you will receive a detailed information sheet from your Regional Director that is specific to the site that you are attending. If for some reason you do not receive this information within two weeks of the start of camp, please contact your regional director directly. Their phone numbers and email addresses are listed on our website and individual site pages. Please also note that the contact number on our website (571-428-8387) is for our national office in Virginia and can be used if you are unable to reach your RD directly. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.

Youth Academy Camps

Your Regional Director will provide you with detailed information concerning the specifics regarding the Youth Academy Camp schedule, check in, location and other important information.

Residential Camps

Your Regional Director will provide you with the time and location for the first day of camp check in prior to the start of camp.

Medical and Camper Profile Forms

The Medical Form must be completed by a parent and your physician. Physical exams conducted for the 2016/17 school year may be attached to our Medical Form provided all necessary information is provided. It is imperative that you remember to bring your medical form to camp. Please note that you cannot participate at camp without a completed Medical Form.

The Camper Profile Form must be completed by the player and/or a parent. The picture is important and will help us to get to know the campers quickly at camp. The camp directors and staff coaches will use the Camper Profile Form as an aid in placing the camper in the right group and in maximizing their camp experience. Please bring the Camper Profile Form along with your Medical Form to camp. For all camper forms, go to our website at www.no1soccercamps.com, click on FYI, Players, then click on Prepare For Camp or simply click the links above.

Roommate Requests

All roommate requests will be honored to the best of our ability. Be sure to list your roommate choice during the registration process. If for whatever reason the roommate dynamics are not working out between campers, it is important that campers let our staff know. If a camper is uncomfortable telling someone, then they should have their parents call. Things are sometimes simple to fix.

Packing List:blog_westconngroup

• Soccer Ball
• Soccer Socks
• T-Shirts (NO tank tops)
• Soccer Shoes – it is NOT a good idea to bring new shoes to camp.
• Indoor Training Shoes (Sneakers)
• Shin Guards
• Warm Up
• Bathing Suit
• Equipment Bag
• Water Bottle
• Sun Screen and Bug Spray
• Note Book and Pen
* Personal Items
• Sandals/Flip Flops
• Towels
• Pillow and Bed Sheets – for twin size bed – residents only
• Blanket/Sleeping Bag – residents only
• Toiletries
• Goalkeeping gear including gloves

Commuters – First Day of Camp

Campers who are not staying overnight should arrive at the assigned time provided to them by the Regional Director. Dinner will be the first meal. The regional director will provide you with the time and location that your commuter should be dropped off and then picked up at the conclusion of the day. Lunch and dinner will be provided daily. We will have a location in the dorm where our commuters can relax between sessions and store their belongings.

Residents – First Day of Camp

Registration is generally between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm on opening day at a specified location. Your Regional Director will send you exact times and locations. Once on campus, signs will direct you to the exact location for registration. The first field session is scheduled for early afternoon. Dinner is the first meal of the day, followed by a second field session. The evening lecture concludes the day’s events followed by lights out.

Room Key Deposits

Most residential campers are required to submit a key deposit at the time of check-in. Deposits can be made in the form of cash or checks and will be returned to campers on the last day of camp at check out when the room keys are returned to us. Please make checks payable to No. 1 Soccer Camps. It will save you time during check-in if you have a check ready.

Creating Groups

blog_soccer_girlsCampers will be initially placed into groups based on the program that they have enrolled during registration. During the sessions on the first day, campers will evaluated on their ability, throughout the week there will be continued evaluation as the program progresses.

Please know that the staff is very aware that friends come together and want to stay together in the same group. Groups and teams that signed up together will work together. As other groups are established, the staff may not know exactly which campers are friends and want to train together.

Campers will be asked several times – “Is there anyone who has been separated from their friends – does anyone want to move for any reason?” This is an important question, and we take it seriously. Groups can be adjusted – friends can and should play together – this is part of the whole camp experience. If a camper does not feel right in his group for whatever reason, please let us know. PLEASE tell your camper to speak up – we want to hear what they have to say. Sometimes they need to call home and have their parents contact us for them…that’s okay too.

Last Day of Camp

Camp will conclude after the morning field session on the last date of camp. Specific times will be provided by your regional director. At that time, campers will receive their personal detailed evaluation forms from our coaches. Lunch will not be served. Campers can be met on the field or at their dormitory. There is no formal closing meeting with parents. Parents wishing to do so may meet with the Directors, Staff Coaches, and Trainers on the field at the end of the last session. All campers must be promptly picked up at the conclusion of camp. We will have them as ready as possible for you. Due to our national sites, many of our staff are moving onto another site and will also need to depart camp promptly.

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact your Regional Director directly. We look forward to seeing you in a few weeks!

No registered yet? Register Today!

No. 1 Soccer Camps was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 100,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps and countless alumni have gone on to playing and coaching careers throughout the national and international soccer ranks. No. 1 Soccer Camps currently offers programs for every level of field players and goalkeepers with residential and day camps at twenty-five locations across the country.

New Podcast Provides History Of No.1 Soccer Camps

AN INSIDER’S LOOK AT NO.1 SOCCER CAMPS

 

No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Adam Manning (Salisbury University adam-manning_soccer-office-startup-300x300– Day Camp, Federalsburg, MD – Day Camp shown on left) recently produced a new podcast for SoccerOffice.com that gives listeners an inside look at No. 1 Soccer Camps.

Manning recalls the trajectory from No. 1 Camper, to Staff, to Goalkeeper Director, to Regional Director and reflects on how attending No. 1 Soccer Camps as a 13 year old altered the course of his life. In the podcast, Adam reaches out to some of the No. 1 Family who helped him along the way, including No. 1 Founders Joe & Barbara Machnik, Regional Directors Bill Gordan (Landon School – Bethesda, MD) and Christine Huber (Pomfret School – Pomfret, CT, Northfield Mount Hermon School – Mount Hermon, MA, Brewster Academy – Wolfeboro, NH) and Striker Director Jamie Shure (Brewster Academy – Wolfeboro, NH).

Listen to Coach Manning’s podcast on iTunes here:

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adam-manningAdam Manning is the Regional Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps at Salisbury University – Day Camp and Federalsburg, MD – Day Camp. Adam recently stepped down as DOC of CCYSA to launch Soccer Office and Soccer Office Media, the first soccer specific podcasting company that focuses on storytelling and documentaries.
SoccerOffice.com.

 

Tax credits for soccer camp

Send your child to No. 1 Soccer Camps AND receive a tax credit? It may sound too good to be true, but it’s not. Under current guidelines, parents can earn a federal tax credit for sending their children to summer camp. Imagine, your child receives a quality camp experience, and you put some of that hard earned money back in your pocket come tax time. All you have to do is gather information now from your No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director to use on this year’s tax forms. The article below by David Slade details the Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit and the steps you need to take to take advantage of this credit.

SENDING A CHILD TO DAY CAMP SO THAT YOU CAN WORK? COLLECT INFORMATION NOW FOR TAX SAVINGS LATER.

By David Slade, Columnist for The Post and Courier

If you’re the parent of a child under the age of 13, and you’re working or looking for work, then perhaps you’re sending that child to day camp or paying someone to care for them while you work this summer.

If so, you’re likely eligible for a federal tax credit that will put some of that child-care money back in your pocket, even if you have a high income.

I’ll explain the rules, but here’s a quick tip: If you are sending a child to a summer day camp, make sure to ask for the camp’s tax identification number, and the name and address associated with that number. If you are paying someone to care for your child while you work, such as a babysitter, you’ll want their address and Social Security number.

You’ll be asked to provide that information in order to claim the credit on your federal income tax form, and when you’re filling out tax forms in 2016, it may be difficult to figure out who to call. Some summer camp programs last only a few weeks and are held at temporary locations. In my experience, they can be difficult to track down in the off-season.

Here are some key points about the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit:

A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the tax you owe, and is therefore much more valuable than a tax deduction, which reduces taxable income. This credit is worth between 20 percent and 35 percent of the amount paid to care for a dependent, who was under age 13 at the time the costs were incurred, so that you could work or look for work.

You can claim the credit for up to $3,000 in expenses for one child, or $6,000 in expenses for more than one. So, for example, $3,000 in qualifying child-care expenses results in a tax credit worth between $600 and $1,050. Qualifying expenses cannot be greater than the income earned by the tax filer, and in the case of a married couple the amount would be capped by the lowest-earning spouse’s income.

Day-camp expenses count as child care, even if they focus on particular activities such as learning computer skills or cooking, as long as the child’s enrollment in that camp allows the parent to work or look for work. Overnight camps, however, are ineligible expenses.

The cost of a preschool program or an after-school program is an eligible expense. Summer school costs, private school tuition for kindergarten and higher grades, and tutoring costs are not eligible.

Dependent care benefits provided by an employer may reduce the amount of expenses that can be claimed.

Married couples (unless legally separated) must file a joint tax return in order to claim the credit, and both must be working or looking for work during the time the qualifying expenses were incurred. One spouse can, however, be a full-time student, but he or she also must have earned income during the year.

The dependent care credit also applies to work-related expenses necessary to care for a spouse or dependent who is “physically or mentally incapable of self-care and lived with you for more than half the year,” according to the Internal Revenue Service.

Some costs are eligible, or not, depending upon the options offered by the care provider. For example, someone working part-time may only need child care three days a week, but the care provider offers only a five-day program. In that case, the cost of all five days is eligible, but if there were an option to only pay for the three days needed, only the cost of three days would be eligible.

Like many federal tax rules, there are lots of rules that might apply to people with nuanced child-care situations. One example used by the IRS is a family that hires a housekeeper to care for two children, one of which is young enough to qualify for the tax credit, while also providing other household duties and driving the parent to work (the answer is, the cost of the housekeeper qualifies). To see all the rules, visit irs.gov and find Publication 503.

Article originally appeared in the Post and Courier

No. 1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of it’s kind, was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 80,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps. The former World Cup and professional soccer coach is credited for creating the “Machnik Method”, a distinctive soccer training method that is universally recognized and used today. The No. 1 Soccer Camp offers an incredible opportunity for field players and goalkeepers to challenge themselves. Based on our unique “Go to Goal” curriculum we offer five distinct training levels and programs for a unique week of soccer education for field players and goalkeepers of every age and ability level. With camp site locations nationwide, choose a program with the confidence and become part of the No. 1 Soccer Camps Family!

World cup win exemplifies good soccer

Along with the successes and celebrations surrounding the US Women’s National Team winning of the World Cup this week, there are many lessons to be learned for players, coaches, parents, and soccer enthusiasts. Mike Woitalla from Soccer America takes a closer look how unexpected set plays, a multidimensional back line, and coach who trusts her players can make all the difference.

Lessons from Jillellis and The U.S women

by Mike Woitalla, Soccer America

It’s wonderful that millions of aspiring players and coaches watched the Women’s World Cup final. Not because the USA won, but because how it won. Many aspects of the victory serve as excellent examples of how to play successful and entertaining soccer.

Play Low, Win High.
When Megan Rapinoe lined up to take a third-minute corner kick, everyone expected a high ball into the area. Instead, she drove a low ball that Carli Lloyd met eight yards out and shot into the net with the outside of her foot.

Not that low corner kicks will work all the time, but, besides demonstrating the value of executing the unexpected, the opening goal showed something crucial that’s often ignored by players and coaches — that well-aimed balls on the ground are harder to defend than crosses “whipped into the mixer.”
Lloyd’s second goal, just two minutes later, came from Lauren Holiday’s free kick on the flank. Again, it was a low-driven ball that the Japanese couldn’t handle.

The USA did get success in the air, such as Lloyd’s headed gamewinner in the quarterfinal victory over China, but high balls were a very small part of the U.S. game. The majority of its offensive success came from combination play on the ground — a wonderful example being the second goal of the semifinal win over Germany.

Savvy is Better than Brawn
That the U.S. four-player backline combined for just three fouls in final against Japan – and only 14 fouls total in the tournament’s seven games – reveals what kind of defenders Coach Jill Ellis fielded in Ali Krieger, Julie Johnston, Becky Sauerbrunn and Meghan Klingenberg. They used smarts, good positioning and good timing to stifle opponents.

Johnston may have been lucky to escape with a yellow card when she took down Germany’s Alexandra Popp in the semifinal, but that was one of only two fouls Johnston committed in 630 minutes of soccer.

All four players were more than comfortable with the ball at their feet, able to maintain possession after they won it, by being able to elude the first opponent who challenged them and hitting accurate passes of various ranges.

The outside backs surged forward with confidence and the central defenders didn’t just “clear” balls out, but aimed for teammates.

A major part of the USA’s success at World Cup came thanks to the backline — not just for its defending, but it because it was comprised of multidimensional players who also helped the offense improve from game to game.

Trust Your Players
Just imagine the pressure there was on U.S. coach Jill Ellis. The USA hadn’t won a World Cup since 1999 and anything other than first place in Canada would be considered a debacle.

But you would never have thought that Ellis was anything but confident in herself and her players when you saw her sitting on the bench during the final — or anytime during the tournament, even when the USA struggled to find its groove.

Once in a while, she would get up and convey an instruction — before returning to the bench. She wasn’t pacing, prowling and yelling from the sideline, but watching in way that made one feel she believed in her players.

I imagine when players see such positive body language from their coach it helps them keep the confidence that will get them through the high-pressure periods.

Coaches who behave with such dignity as Ellis does on the sideline — instead of bouncing around, gesticulating and screaming — look like coaches who know they’ve done well to prepare their teams and can trust their players at game time.

Original Article 

No. 1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of it’s kind, was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 80,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps. The former World Cup and professional soccer coach is credited for creating the “Machnik Method”, a distinctive soccer training method that is universally recognized and used today. For information on our camp or any of our 2015 nationwide sites, please visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com.

Ask our coaches: what is the ‘Go to goal program’?

SoccerMom14: I am interested in sending my twins sons to your camp this summer – one is a goalkeeper the other a defender. How can No. 1  help both of them, specifically at their individual positions?

No 1. Founder and President Dr. Joe Machnik:  Both of your sons will benefit from the unique and modern methodology of our “Go to Goal Curriculum” which concentrates on play in the final third of the field – 35 yards from goal – on either side of the ball. Field players and goalkeepers are trained and tested at the highest level.

For your son who is a defender, he will learn to attack and defend the various tactical situations which challenge the complete player in today’s all inclusive modern game. Attackers, midfielders and defenders learn the art of goal scoring with over a thousand “Go to Goal” opportunities in a typical camp week.

For your son who is a goalkeeper, our nationally recognized Goalkeeper staff will teach him the technical skills needed to be successful and tactically savvy. At a No. 1 camp, he will be playing in the goal in game like situations under the guidance of a goalkeeper coach who will be coaching the player from in the goal, not from the sideline. Each camp lesson will finish with game-like situations combining the strikers and goalkeepers. Using small sided games in front of full size goals, the strikers and goalkeeper are involved in critical decision making situations designed to improve their execution in this all important part of the field.

In addition to our proven “Go to Goal” philosophy, what really sets No.1 Soccer Camps apart from other camps is our staff. Our camp staff is a virtual who’s who of American players and coaches. Our Alumni include MLS Coaches, 5 current MLS goalkeepers, and a current member of the US Men’s National Team. We are also proud of our impressive list of former No.1 Soccer Campers who represent our male and female youth National teams at every level, including four current staff coaches, and a three year camper who played in this year’s NCAA Final Four. All of our coaches are carefully screened and selected to ensure our campers are getting the highest caliber coaches in the soccer world.

With a 40 year camp history and over 80,000 players trained, No. 1 has a alumnimclaughlin-family_alumni_newlong tradition in the soccer community. Each summer we have former campers returning to bring their children to camp and campers who have gone onto play at the collegiate and professional level are returning to coach. Shown to the left is the McLaughlin family. Dad Ryan, a No. 1 veteran, brought his son Connor and daughter Callie to the No. 1 Soccer Camps in Salisbury Maryland recently. Players who attend our camps become a member of an incredible fraternity and lifelong members of the No.1 Soccer Camps family. We hope to see you and your sons this summer!  For No. 1 Soccer Camps 2016 dates and locations, click here! 

dr-joe-machnik-727x727-dammresize-360-360-high-1Dr. Joseph Machnik is Founder and President of the No. 1 Soccer Camps. He is a former Asst. Coach of the U.S.National Team 1990 World Cup and FIFA/CONCACAF Match Commissioner. He has been inducted into six (6) Soccer Halls of Fame and is also a commentator on Fox Soccer.

Changing history: Remembering the 1990 world cup

Dr. Joe Machnik, No. 1 Soccer Camps Founder and former Assistant Coach for the 1990 US Men’s Team, recently shared some of his memories of the 1990 World Cup. Les Carpenter’s An Oral History of USA at Italia ’90: the World Cup that Changed US Soccer captures the excitement and the drama surrounding a team of unknown US players tasked with representing their country in the World Cup  for the first time 40 years. 

An oral history of USA at ITALIA’90: The world cup that changed us soccer

by Les Carpenter
 

On 10 June 1990, a bunch of unknowns stepped on to the pitch in Florence – and launched modern soccer in the US. America’s pioneers recall an Italian adventure

Steve Trittschuh recognized the figure slowly approaching the American locker room beneath Rome’s Stadio Olimpico. This was June of 1990, the middle of the World Cup, and everyone knew the silhouette of Italy’s best player, Roberto Baggio, with bushy curls piled on his head. But why was Baggio here? Why was he outside the locker room of the team Italy had just beaten 1-0? And why was he clutching what appeared to be … his game shorts?

“Hey,” Baggio said to Trittschuh, changing just inside the door.

“Hey,” Trittschuh replied.

An awkward silence filled the space between them until Trittschuh realized what was happening. Baggio, perhaps the greatest player of his time, was asking a 25-year-old defender from Granite City, Illinois, to trade pants.

“I had Baggio’s shorts forever, man,” Trittschuh said one recent morning as he prepared to coach his Colorado Springs Switchbacks of the United Soccer League. “It was the coolest thing.”

Long before Major League Soccer, regular World Cups for America and Saturday games on network TV, there was a team that launched modern soccer in the United States. It was a group of unknowns, many of them fresh from college, who had been handed an impossible task: become the first American team in 40 years to go to the World Cup.

For nine months in 1989, the US players battled to seize one of the two Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf), spots in the 1990 World Cup. Eventually, they did, with a miracle goal scored on a tiny island off the coast of Venezuela. Then 25 years ago this week they stepped on an Italian field and launched a movement.

This is the story of America’s soccer pioneers who walked into a world they never could have imagined.

1. From the Stone Age

Bob Gansler (Head coach of the US men’s soccer team 1989-91): We didn’t think about the difficulties of the venture. That’s just where soccer was at the time. There was no professional soccer at the time.

John Polis (Director of communications, US Soccer Federation 1988-93): Soccer in the United States was the Stone Age compared to now.

Gansler: We tried to put together a squad of talented people who could do things together, and could go through adversity as well as perform. There was no way outside of Concacaf where we would be the favorite. We wanted guys with gonads who could handle the situation.

Paul Krumpe (midfielder): Even with guys who had professional experience, our experience was so minuscule. It was imposing for us against everyone we went up against.

Bruce Murray (forward): There were a lot of indoor league guys like Ricky Davis, and the sports writers were saying these need to be the players in the World Cup, these are professional players, grizzled players, but Bob Gansler is like: “They haven’t played outdoors and [don’t have] the fitness levels.” He stuck with the college guys. A lot of people criticized him for it.

Polis: In 1988, Fifa had announced the 1994 World Cup was coming to the United States.

Murray: Can you imagine what an embarrassment it would be to not have qualified for the previous World Cup and be awarded the World Cup? There was even some talk about taking the World Cup away.

Gansler: I said: “Let’s get together a team not just for 1990 but for the 1990s.”

Murray: We were the guinea pigs.

Steve Trittschuh (defender): There was a group of us – like 13-14 guys – and we started together at the end of 1986 and beginning of 1987. It was a good group. We all had to learn the game. Gansler taught us.

Polis: The task was enormous. There was this big, huge mental block hanging over this team.

Gansler: We played catch-up but we were running fast.

Polis: Gansler was a terrific guy who was in a tough situation. It was a little bit like Herb Brooks with the US hockey team. He wasn’t blustery. He had a businesslike manner. He was coaching a bunch of kids trying to get to the World Series. That’s what it was like – taking a bunch of 22-year-olds to the World Series.

Peter Vermes (forward): I always admired the job he did at that time. It was like the movie Miracle. He had to take college players and turn them into men playing at the highest level in a short time.

John Harkes (midfielder): I think Bob Gansler had a keen eye to not just observe the ability of the players but to see the desire of the team you are putting together. It’s hard.

Mike Windischmann (defender and captain): I remember one time we were in East Germany, and we were training a lot. So some of the guys said: “Hey, Mike go talk to Bob and ask him if he could cut down the practices a little bit.” So I got to Bob Gansler’s room, and I say: “Some of the guys are a little concerned, you know, with training.” And he was like: “Oh, all right.” Basically, it was like: “Tell them to go to hell. We’re still practicing.” I go back and everybody’s huddled up. “What did he say?” He said: “Go to hell. We got practice next morning.”

Joe Machnik (assistant coach US men’s team 1989-90): I would say Bob was authoritative. He was a serious-minded coach who believed the players had to behave a certain way off the field.

Murray: We had a lot less … professionalism. I guess that would be the word. But we got it done.

Vermes: It was amazing if you look at the resources [Gansler] had to achieve what he needed to. Back in those days we had a $5 per diem.

Gansler: When we qualified for the World Cup, our federation president, Werner Fricker, put up his Philadelphia construction company as collateral to have a loan that got us some more money.

Krumpe: The big benefit to us [in qualifying] was Mexico using ineligible players [in 1988 Olympic qualifying] and not being part of the Concacaf. There was a huge opening without Mexico. Everyone felt the same way. It was the time to qualify.

Gansler: I was glad we were getting covered by more journalists, but they had never covered soccer before. They didn’t know much about soccer or Concacaf. They pulled out the atlas and said: “You’re playing against Guatemala or you’re playing against El Salvador, and should be able to beat them anyway.”

John Stollmeyer (midfielder): I was always surprised that it was close for us in getting through qualifying. The older I get, I realize it’s difficult. It got to the end of those last several games and it was a battle.

Gansler: I knew it was going to be a long road. Early on, after a game against Costa Rica, I said: “More than likely it’s going to come down to the last game of qualifying [against Trinidad & Tobago].”

Murray: It wouldn’t have come down to Trinidad if we had won the El Salvador match right before that. We blew it.

Trittschuh: That was tough. El Salvador was not in [the running for the World Cup] at the time and they sent a really young team and we just couldn’t score (a 0-0 tie). The way things happened is a great story but we could have made it a lot easier on ourselves.

2. The shot heard round the world

Costa Rica had already grabbed one Concacaf qualifying spot. The US and Trinidad & Tobago were tied for the second with nine points. Since Trinidad had a two-goal differential over the Americans, the US could not make the World Cup with a tie. It needed to win or face the shame of hosting a World Cup in four years without having been to one in more than four decades. The match, scheduled for the afternoon of 19 November 1989, in Trinidad’s national stadium, became the biggest American soccer history to that point.

Gansler: The federation got us a camp in Cocoa Beach, Florida, for 10 days, and they even flew in Bermuda to play us to prepare, because they played the same way as Trinidad – an athletic team who was quick.

Machnik: We struggled against Bermuda, so the media around us was very skeptical. They were writing that we can’t win.

Polis: There was angst among the press at the time around the team. Could [the US] do this on the road? There were people in the press corps who thought we were going to get thumped.

Trittschuh: I knew we could play against Trinidad. but in the back of our minds we wondered what was going to happen to US soccer if we didn’t win – and then what was going to happen to us?

Gansler: I remember at the airport, as you walked off the plane, you walked into a sea of red. All of Port of Spain was wearing red that day.

Polis: There were 10,000-15,000 people screaming: “No way, USA! No way, USA!” People were banging on the side of the bus.

Vermes: There were even people on the roof of the airport. It was crazy.

Trittschuh: It was 10 o’clock at night. As we were driving down the highway there was a lot of people lining the road all the way to the hotel.

Murray: They had declared a national holiday the day after the game to celebrate going to the World Cup.

Krumpe: They were so convinced they were qualifying for the World Cup, they got all their artists to record World Cup songs, and were playing them on the radio.

Polis: On the morning of the match, a lot of us in the delegation were invited to breakfast at the ambassador’s residence. It was a beautiful house that looked down on the stadium and at the water. The stadium was already filled at 11am.

Murray: The bus ride into the stadium was at 2mph, and everywhere you looked it was red. I’ve played before bigger crowds, but it was a very intimidating atmosphere. Everybody was dressed in red.

Vermes: You could feel the tension of the occasion. It was us against the world.

Murray: There was a park next to the stadium with a Jumbotron, and there were 100,000 people watching the game, and the stadium holds 35,000, but there were people climbing up the walls.

Stollmeyer: There was only a rail around the field and people were actually sitting on the track.

Murray: I don’t think there was a lot of belief in that locker room. You could ask any player. You were young, you weren’t sure you were getting another contract [with the national team]. You had to win to survive. I was getting married a week later, and I was like: how am I going to take care of kids?

Gansler: I told them before the match: “[Trinidad] will take chances, that’s the opportunity we can have. That opportunity is going to be there.”

Vermes: I remember walking out of the tunnel before the game. You could see the terror in the [Trinidad players’] eyes, because of all the pressure to go to the World Cup that had been placed on them.

Play by play: Ramos…putting it in…to Caligiuri…beats the first man, a left-footed shot…Paul Caligiuri has scored a goal and the US leads 1-0!

Gansler: Paul just let it fly.

Windischmann: He just flicked it over and just hit it. It was surreal, like in slow motion, the ball continuing and just dropping in.

Machnik: The moment Caligiuri hit it, I jumped up and yelled: “Trouble!” The sun was in the goalkeeper’s eyes.

Gansler: The goalkeeper did not have an NBA vertical. It had a chance.

Machnik: The ball was in the perfect spot. I think it hit the ground before it hit the net.

Vermes: We were all amazed when the ball went in. It was almost as if: “Holy cow! We got this thing now.”

Murray: When Paul scored his goal, we realized: “You know, we can win this game. We probably can score another one.” There was no belief until Paul scored and then there was belief.

Stollmeyer: During the rest of the game you were wondering: “How much more time were they keeping on the clock to give them a chance?” I kept thinking: “When are they going to blow the whistle?”

Windischmann: Some people just fell down afterward. There was shock when that whistle blew, because we were waiting and waiting for that whistle to blow. It was just a relief when that whistle blew and it was: oh my goodness, we are going to the World Cup! It was unbelievable.

Polis: The celebration in our locker room was tremendous relief. Bob Gansler was in the corner nursing a beer. He said: “Just another game.”

Trittschuh: It was a relief. By the time everybody got back to the hotel, everybody was exhausted. We didn’t even have a party that night. Everyone just sat by the pool.

Murray: For us, [losing] would have been a disaster. All this that you see now [in US soccer] is because of what Paul Caligiuri did in Trinidad & Tobago. It’s as simple as that, if you want to pin it to one specific moment. For example, Nike jumped in with hundreds of millions of dollars to build all these academies, and that never would have happened if Paul hadn’t scored that goal. They should put Paul on a lifetime stipend. Seriously.

3. Three stripes or you’re out

Krumpe: The US Soccer Federation had not been through this since 1950. Nobody knew what you were supposed to do. Do you give bonuses? Do you fly everyone to a training? Everything was new to them.

Trittschuh: After we qualified, we had to sign another contract, because it was the start of another year.

Stollmeyer: They flew us to New York.

Trittschuh: In New York, we all got into a room and they all presented what [the contract] was going to be.

Krumpe: Then they brought us into a room one-by-one.

Stollmeyer: They gave us the contracts and we either signed them or we left. There wasn’t any negotiation. They said: “This is it.”

Krumpe: It was minimal. It was less than $50,000 a year.

Trittschuh: I want to say it was between $40,000 and $50,000.

Windischmann: It was $40,000, I definitely remember.

Stollmeyer: It floored a lot of us, in terms of: oh my God, look at what we did, and they aren’t going to take care of us?

Krumpe: I have an aerospace engineering degree, and I had a great job with McDonnell Douglas designing the MD-90. It was an unbelievable job. They couldn’t believe I was walking away from it to play soccer.

Murray: I had just bought a house in Bethesda [Maryland] right by Suburban Hospital on Garfield Street.

Stollmeyer: I got married in February of 89. My wife was still in med school and I had car payments.

Trittschuh: A few of the guys thought they were being a little bit bulldozed by the federation.

Stollmeyer: The problem with the whole thing was that we couldn’t have individual shoe contracts because the federation had a deal with Adidas. There was no means to make more money.

Polis: The federation was short on funds at the time. I don’t think they were getting much of anything. They got a deal with Adidas and I don’t think they got much more than product.

Windischmann: We were approached about signing Puma contracts.

Krumpe: There were 10 of us under contract to Puma at the time, and we had to give that up to go to the World Cup.

Windischmann: Puma gave us, I think, $10,000. They gave us boots and gave us equipment. At the time Adidas wasn’t giving us stuff like that, so it’s kind of hard to say: ‘No”.

Polis: There was one guy at Puma who was pouring gasoline on the flames. I remember one day when a bunch of them walked out to practices with Puma gear on, and Gansler said: “Go change.”

Windischmann: I think it was in San Diego, and we put the Puma boots on only to have people tell you: “You can’t wear those.”

Stollmeyer: Here we were, at the best time of our lives, and we were fighting over how much we were getting paid.

Trittschuh: We all stuck together as a group for a while until everybody finally went their own way. I wanted to play in the World Cup. What else were we going to do?

Polis: It’s got to be hard when at age 20 you’re getting told: “You’re getting screwed by the federation.”

Stollmeyer: Two guys I remember held out. They showed up to camp without contracts.

Gansler: I finally said to them: “This isn’t the German federation or the Brazil federation or Argentina. This is us.”

Trittschuh: We all stuck together as a group for a while, until everybody finally went their own way. I wanted to play in the World Cup. What else were we going to do?

Krumpe: As a 32-year-old without an outdoor pro league to play in, there was no chance but to say yes to the contract. There were sacrifices to be made, including wearing Adidas shoes.

4. ‘It was like a prison’

The US was faced with a daunting task in its first World Cup in 40 years. At the draw, actress Sophia Loren picked the ball that placed the Americans in a loaded Group A with rugged, experienced, Czechoslovakia; the host Italy – one of the world’s finest teams – and Austria, then a rising soccer force in Europe. The Czechoslovakia and Austria matches were to be played in Florence. The US would face Italy in Rome.

Gansler: To go to downtown Rome and try and prepare with all the spotlights and media and all that … I thought it wouldn’t serve us. I thought it would be better for a group of young guys that, rather than spending extended time with the media, we should be somewhere secluded.

Machnik: There are several theories on whether a team should be sequestered or at a downtown hotel. It had been 40 years since the USA had been to a World Cup, so no one had an idea what we should do. But Bob told the federation that we should be sequestered.

Gansler: We were booked to go to Coverciano, the [soccer] training center of Italy, which is located just outside Florence. That’s what the agreement was. If you look up the official Italian training center you’ll see how nice it is.

Machnik: We were going to share it with [the Italian team]. Then we got put in the same group as them and they didn’t want us training with them anymore.

Gansler: They said: “We have an Olympic training center a little farther away in Terrenia. It’s comparable.” We didn’t have any money to go out there ahead of time and find out it wasn’t comparable.”

Harkes: It looked like barbed wire [on the top of the gate]. Where are we going?

Polis: It was a dormitory-like training facility. It wasn’t in town, it was out in the country a little bit. There were a lot of Italian carabinieri law enforcement guys. We had guards stationed all around the compound. They were well-armed.

Vermes: It was like a prison. Anytime you wanted to go out a guard went with you.

Murray: It was almost like a compound.

Harkes: We pull in, and there’s a track around the field, and that was it. There were these little complexes on the site and that’s where we were staying.

Trittschuh: It was a little bit of a letdown. It didn’t feel like we were at the World Cup. It was a prison camp.

Machnik: Lets just say it was Sparta compared to Athens.

Stollmeyer: The problem was: we were watching on TV all these big teams coming out of these posh hotels. Why aren’t we living like that?

Gansler: They assured us it was comparable [to Coverciano]. Where we thought we had a four-star complex – we went there and found that. I felt bad and wanted better. I could have stood there and pitched a fit, but those were the cards we were dealt.

Machnik: After the World Cup they brought all the World Cup coaches back to Coverciano for a seminar with the coaches from Serie A. It’s a nice place, you can imagine, the Italian team stayed there during World Cup. Our players would have loved it.

Gansler: I didn’t go out there before, our coaches didn’t go out there before. We couldn’t afford the plane trip to check it out, and we couldn’t afford the time away from the team. Maybe our shortcoming was that we were too trusting when the Italians told us it was comparable

Trittschuh: We trained twice a day. When we started they had a cafeteria and the food wasn’t good, so eventually they found us an Italian restaurant outside, just so we had one good meal a day.

Murray: We were away from our families, had very little time with our families, and I think that was a big mistake. Now they have players stay at the Westin or whatever. The team will take over the whole hotel in the World Cup. They don’t seclude them completely from their family. My family, we had 50 people over there – it was like a big celebration, but I could never get to see them.

Krumpe: There was a sponsor who paid for anyone who was married and their spouse and family to travel to Italy. That was a nice touch.

Polis: When we were there the US was thought of as neophytes, and how did we get there? They said if we got there then Concacaf must be so weak. That was the overriding view.

Gansler: Czechoslovakia had a lot of internal crisis going into that World Cup. They were in turmoil. I thought watching their films through qualifying that this was the one game to get a result. Maybe I’m conservative in these matters but a result would be a tie.

Machnik: We thought our best chance was against Czechoslovakia. Only later on, when I was at the coaching seminar in Italy and I talked to their coach, did I find out how bad their internal issues were.

Stollmeyer: I remember our coaches telling us the Czech game was the one where we had a chance to get a result. I thought: “Really? I don’t remember playing an eastern bloc team that wasn’t hard and couldn’t run our asses off.”

Murray: That first game we weren’t really prepared, I don’t think. I remember Joe Machnik telling us that physically we would be imposing, and we were lining up in the tunnel to come out, and I’m right next to Tomas Skuhravy, and he’s, like, 6ft 5in, and the two center-backs are 6ft 4in, and I’m thinking: “What the hell?”

Gansler: We had opening-game jitters. We gave up a goal just before half – it would have been easier to go into half down just 1-0. To be down 2-0 was much worse. We were a young team and we self-destructed. Eric Wynalda got tossed out of the game.

Murray: We just got smashed.

Windischmann: We got beat in the air. But you have to remember both of those teams went to at least the quarter-finals – Czechoslovakia and Italy – so we weren’t playing against just teams that so happened to qualify. So we had a tall order.

Harkes: There were a lot of deep thoughts among the players, among ourselves: “Are we really up for this thing?”

Murray: So now you can imagine going into the second game against Italy in Rome … The Italian paper La Gazzetta dello Sport was like: “Can the Italians score 12? “You have to remember the Italians were the best team in the world cup according to 90% of the people over there. Their line-up was ridiculous.

Polis: This German journalist asked: “Mr Gansler, what would be an acceptable number of goals to lose by? Five goals? Six goals?”

Stollmeyer: After the Czech game, team morale was not great. Practices were brutal. Changes were coming on the field. There were guys coming out to practice in screw-ins and it was really hard play.

Trittschuh: There was a lot of frustration. There were guys who weren’t starting and thought they should have been starting. We had three straight weeks in that place and guys were getting sick of each other.

Stollmeyer: We had to say: “Hey, we’re teammates here.”

Windischmann: I think maybe it’s that mental aspect that gets to you when you are doing that same thing over and over again. We hardly had any television, [ate] regimented meals. Then we started going back to our rooms getting on each other’s case because you’re there so long.

Vermes: We had a big fight. It was Murray and [Eric] Eichmann. It was a melee, everybody was basically in the goal throwing punches.

Murray: I felt that Eric had targeted me in training, and if he made me look bad it would help his cause to get into the next game. So a couple of late hits, and that was it, and the gloves were off. I have no problem today with Eric, but it does show the competitive atmosphere within the group.

Vermes: It was letting steam off.

Harkes: I would have to think Gansler would look at that and think: “This is good.”

5. Respect, finally

Murray: On the way to Rome we had helicopters flying beside the bus, literally down low, like five feet off the ground, and another sweeping across the road, like, maybe five feet off the ground. There was some threat, apparently, from some terror group that they were going to do something, so that was a concern.

Stollmeyer: There were one or two (police) cars ahead of us, and two or three in back of us and one on the side, and a helicopter above us. The bus never stopped. We would come up to a toll plaza and it would be cleared and the bus would never stop going through the tollbooth.

Machnik: In Rome, the bus would come to a major intersection. The bus would stop and the (police) would get out of the car with their guns and look around and then wave us on.

Stollmeyer: They all had Uzis hanging out of the cars.

Gansler: When we drove over to Rome, there were people on the side of the road. They figured out it was our bus and they’d come to stand by the road and hold up 10 fingers. They weren’t giving an Italian greeting. It was them saying: “We are going to beat you by 10.”

Polis: People were coming out of their houses holding up 10 fingers.

Machnik: They were just standing there holding up 10 fingers!

Gansler: On the day of the match, I remember Joe Machnik coming to me saying: [the players] want to have a meeting. I said: “Why not?” Those are meetings where leaders stand up and they are accountable.

Stollmeyer: It was in a ballroom of the hotel in Rome. It had a stage up front and 30 or 40 theatre seats. The captains sat up on the stage, everyone else was in the seats.

Vermes: I remember a lot of guys talked.

Stollmeyer: Guys were complaining, and I had just had it with the bullshit. I basically called anybody out who was whining and moping. I said: “We are here for us, and let’s just go out there and play.” Brian Bliss later told me: “You set the record for F-bombs in two minutes.” John Doyle said: “Nothing else needs to be said.”

Gansler: So those guys did have gonads after all!

Vermes: We got to the stadium quite a few hours before the game. There were only, like, 500 people in the stadium and the stadium was so loud already.

Stollmeyer: The field was just like a putting green – it was spectacular. There was a fog smoke in there, flags were waving, people singing, you couldn’t hear a guy five yards away.

Murray: When I walked out of the stadium tunnel (at the start) I was standing next to Paolo Maldini, the famous AC Milan player. I look over to my right and Franco Harris and Tom Landry were sitting in the front row. I went like: “What the hell is this?” You couldn’t miss them. Tom Landry with his fedora. Franco Harris with his beard. (Franco) kind of smiled at me – a very surreal scene.

Gansler: I thought if we could control the ball against Italy their Adam’s apples would be – should we say – upwards, because of the expectations that they would beat us by 10 goals. That’s exactly what happened.

Murray: Bob Gansler said: “This is our gameplan: we are going to defend two blocks of four, and we’re going to hit them on the counter-attack, and you need to hold the ball more.” And we did. Everything came off exactly as planned.

Harkes: We had a sequence where we had 23 consecutive passes without the Italian team touching the ball. In order to do that, on that stage, is pretty remarkable in itself.

Machnik: We could have won that match too.

Murray: The crowd started to turn on their team in the first half because we were just hoarding everything. I was winning my individual battle. And the whole idea was to get it up to me. I would hold it up so we could get some defensive players out. So it actually turned out to be a real battle. I watched that film a thousand times, and it’s the best game I ever played, and not because I scored goals or did anything – but because I held the ball for the team against two of the best defenders in the world.

Trittschuh: We got lucky in that game because they had a penalty kick and they missed the kick.

Murray: I think we had 15 minutes left in the game [losing 1-0] and I got fouled. Free kick from 24 yards out. I sent it over the wall and Italian goalkeeper Walter Zenga dove and knocked it down right in the path of Peter Vermes. From six yards out Peter hits it and it hits both of Zenga’s ankles.

Harkes: Then it hits [Zenga’s] butt. He falls down.

Murray: (The ball) starts spinning on the line. In slow motion you could see the ball spinning.

Vermes: Then it got cleared off the line.

Windischmann: It was like Caligiuri’s goal, slow motion and surreal moments and hoping that ball would go over the line. That would have been nice.

Vermes: I always say one of two things could happen there. I score that goal and I get to play in Italy right after, or I could be where I am today. But I’m happy where I am today.

Gansler: We could have walked out there with a 1-1 tie. Would it have been a true representation of what happened out there? No. It would have been fortunate. They were the better side so we could live with a 1-0 defeat.

Stollmeyer: We knew we were eliminated, but in our minds we knew this is a better representation of who we are and what we can do. I don’t think it was a disappointed atmosphere afterwards. We weren’t disappointed.

Gansler: I remember the first question in the press conference was: “How thankful are you for being so frigging lucky?” I didn’t think that question was proper. [The Italian press] was disappointed and it got under their skin.

Harkes: There was a player that wore No 6 [the same as Harkes] on the Italian national team. I think it was [Riccardo] Ferri. I wanted to change my jersey with him. He was trying to explain that he had promised it to someone else, so he took off his shorts and I looked at him and thought “Well, OK,” and so I took off my shorts. I remember walking down the tunnel in my underwear with his shorts in my hand and I didn’t care … That was kind of odd.

Polis: There was this guy outside our locker room after the match, and he was trying to get in. He was arguing with a security guard. It dawned on me it was Marvin Hagler! I said: “Marvin, can I give you some help?” He said: “Yes, I’d like to go in.” So I took him into the locker room.

Peter Vermes is put under pressure by Italian defenders Giuseppe Bergomi and Riccardo Ferri. Facebook Twitter Pinterest
Peter Vermes is put under pressure by Italian defenders Giuseppe Bergomi and Riccardo Ferri. Photograph: Bob Thomas/Getty Images
Murray: And then there’s a little bit of a commotion – the Italian team comes into our locker room to shake hands. I don’t know who the spokesman was but (he said): “We want you to know that your country should be proud of you.” I’ve never had that happen my entire life. These are superstars: Paolo Maldini, Roberto Baggio, Riccardo Ferri. That was incredible.

Harkes: It was so respectful.

Windischmann: The whole Italian team comes in and they wanted to trade whatever we had, which makes you feel great, you have the Italia team – Baggio – coming in. He wanted to trade jerseys, which was pretty incredible.

Krumpe: I not only exchanged my practice jersey, I exchanged my practice sweats, too.

Windischmann: I got a Baggio jersey!

Vermes: I actually got [Franco] Baresi’s jersey. He was one of the best defenders in the world.

Polis: When we were on our way back [to Tirrenia] people were coming out of their houses again, and this time they were giving thumbs up or clapping over their heads.

Murray: The next day, while we were driving in the bus to training – this is really cool – all these house’s light poles now had Italian and American flags flying together all throughout the town.

6. ‘Something to build on’

Gansler: We thought it we came up with the same kind of performance against Austria that we had against Italy we’d have a result. But every game is different. Where against Italy the onus was totally on them, with the Austrian team the onus was a little on them, but they had the performance they wanted.

Murray: The game against Austria, we’ve got confidence. We lost 2-1 to Austria but we had all kinds of chances. We knew we were done but anyone who says you don’t play for pride – you have to, you’re playing for the United States of America.

Gansler: Their two goals were on counters. That means we were on the throttle.

Harkes: Ever since 1990 we have been representing the United States in the World Cup. So on a bigger scale we did it. Sure, we lost the three games, but it was something to build on.

Machnik: We opened the eyes of the USA to soccer. We helped bring soccer back into the mainstream.

Windischmann: You talk about being pioneers … before 1990 it was very difficult to get tryouts in Europe or anywhere else, so we kind of broke the barrier at the time. I went over to a German league, so now people started to go for tryouts, you know. These days you make a phone call and you get those tryouts. So I think that’s the blazing trail for some of those teams.

Gansler: What I take away is: hey, here’s what we did well, and didn’t do well, and how the game is going to change. We needed to get an MLS – a professional game – because a player’s evolution of his game comes when he practices with good players and plays against them. If you don’t have a league you are at the end.

By 1991Werner Fricker was no longer the president of US soccer. The federation decided it wanted a coach with foreign experience and hired Bora Milutinovic, who had coached Mexico and Costa Rica in World Cups.

Trittschuh: There were a lot of that group in 90 that Milutinovic wanted to get rid of so he blew it up.

Machnik: Bob Gansler’s hard work, and his decision to stick with American kids, was not appreciated. There was pressure that we needed a coach that wasn’t an American coach. I think that was misguided.

Gansler:I thought I would have another chance. We didn’t set the world on fire in 1990 but I had gained a hell of a lot of experience. If Werner Fricker had remained, I would have had a chance but Hank Steinbrecher came along [as secretary general] and they wanted to go a different way.

Harkes: I still think Bob Gansler is completely undervalued in where the game is. Because of him and his belief and his keen eye for heart, for players and the discipline he gave us – we were a young team – I think he was probably the biggest catalyst of the game in this country.

Gansler: I was never disappointed [about being fired]. I was more bothered that when we finally got the MLS I wasn’t one of the first eight coaches to get his own team.

7. The shot heard round the world part II

Stollmeyer: There was a reunion game in Trinidad.

Krumpe: I think it was 2009 – 20 years after.

Stollmeyer: I remember it being 17 years after, so 2007?

Windischmann: I started getting a couple of phone calls. At Thanksgiving time they were looking to take some guys over to Trinidad to play a reunion game. One of the guys I see from the Trinidad team I see in the US. I saw him in a Dunkin’ Donuts – I was getting coffee with my wife. He waves: “Hey! How you doing?” And he’s talking about the game.

Trittschuh: Desmond Armstrong put it together. He had called and said: “Would you be interested in this?” Then he called one time and said it was off. Then two or three weeks before the game he said: “It’s on. Are you going?”

Krumpe: I got a phone call two weeks ahead of time: “Can you play?”

Windischmann: It started to get shady. You pay for the ticket and we give you the money back. You’re worried already. Then they were going to give us $1,200 after the game. I was willing to go anyway.

Krumpe: We kind of showed up and said: “Hey, OK, we’re here.”

Windischmann: We went there and went to the stadium where we played. Trinidad was training they were all ready for us. Those guys had been playing for a month and a month-and-a-half, exhibition games – everything – they were ready for revenge.

Stollmeyer: We only had nine guys, and they were going to get some guys from the embassy to play. We said: “We aren’t playing like that.” So they got us some guys.

Trittschuh: I wish more guys had gone.

Stollmeyer: Different guys’ flights were messed up. There were a couple guys coming from San Jose, California, but the tickets that were sent to them were from San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Windischmann: Robin Fraser [US national team player in the 1980s who was not on World Cup team] came down.

Stollmeyer: Two minutes into the game Caligiuri scores.

Windischmann: It was so ironic. The whistle blows and a couple minutes after I send a free kick over. Caligiuri controls it and scores the first goal. The whole stadium got quiet. What the hell just happened? Trinidad all over again. Then after that Trinidad started scoring some goals.

Stollmeyer: They ended up winning 3-1. We were completely exhausted.

Windischmann: I had torn my ACL, and got it fixed, and then had torn it again, and never got it fixed. I played the whole game with that torn ACL They told us we got only 12 guys. What? So I wound up playing almost the whole game. I couldn’t bend my knee after that!

Krumpe: They had promised to pay us, and without a crowd they had no money. But it was not about the money. For me it was about the chance to get back together with the guys.

For the original article with photos and video, click here.

The Club Tryout Season: Tough on Players, Tough On Parents

It’s that time of year again – the dreaded soccer club tryout season. While tryouts can bring out the nerves for many players, there are a few things parents and players can do to minimize the stress and anxiety for the whole family.

 TIPS FOR PARENTS:

Be Prepared

  • Understand that your child may not be the big fish anymore.
  • Part of being prepared is being realistic.Have an open mind.  Accept that the coaches may see your daughter in a different role than what you have been used to.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the club beforehand
Be Supportive

 

  • Before tryouts, tell them you love them
  • During tryouts, don’t stand on the sideline and coach them; don’t stand on the sideline lurking or with negative body language.
  • After tryouts, refrain from post-game analysis.  Tell them you love them, ask them if they had fun and where they want to eat.
  • Sit back and enjoy.  The angst that the players feel might go away if you’re relaxed.

Finally realize as a parent that your whole self worth should not lie in the fact that your child makes a team. They are not you and often what different things than you do. Life isn’t always fair, but honest. All human beings are not created equally. Cherish your child because you just never know what your negative reaction about a “tryout” can do in the long run. Have fun because these childhood times  – no matter how stressful – go quickly.

 TIPS FOR PLAYERS:

Be Prepared

    • “If you fail to prepare, prepare to fail” From now until tryouts, get outside with a ball for 30 minutes a day.
    • You may have to play a different position than what you’re used to.  Don’t ever say to a coach, “I’m not a defender/striker/etc” Eat healthy, stay away from junk food the day of tryouts
    • Drink water throughout the day
    • Going into your pool is OK!  But don’t go swimming.  Pool is for relaxing.  If you do go into the pool, make sure you shower before tryouts.  Get the chlorine off of your body, it clogs the sweat pores.
    • Get a good night sleep.

Showcase Yourself


  • This doesn’t mean turn into a ball-hog.
  • If you are a good dribble, than show it.
  • If you’re athletic, put yourself in a position to showcase that.
  • If defense is your strong point, win as many tackles as you can.
  • Win every 50-50 ball you can.
  • Communicate effectively.
  • Show off your “Soccer IQ”
Enjoy the Experience

  • Be composed, carry yourself with confidence.
  • Have a positive attitude.  Coaches will notice this either way.
  • Smell the roses while you can, enjoy the experience of playing.
  • Have fun and smile, shows that you love the game

No. 1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of it’s kind, was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 80,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps. The former World Cup and professional soccer coach is credited for creating the “Machnik Method”, a distinctive soccer training method that is universally recognized and used today. For information on our camp or any of our nationwide sites, please visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com.

No.1 Staff coach named female athlefte of the year

Danielle Polvan is a staff coach at No. 1 Soccer Camps at Salisbury, MD and West Conn, CT sites. This summer will be her second season working with No. 1 Soccer Camps. This May, Danielle was named Female Athlete of the Year at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, CT where she will be a junior captain in the fall. Recently, No. 1 was lucky enough to catch up with Danielle between pick-up games and ask her a few questions.

No.1 Soccer Camp: When did you start playing soccer?

Danielle Polvan: I started playing when I was 6.

No.1:  What is your favorite soccer memory?

Danielle: Definitely scoring the winning goal in OT of the ECAC Semifinals against Roger Williams as a freshman.  They were ranked nationally.  I remember thinking during the corner kick this might be the closest we get to scoring and I took full advantage of it.  Not only was scoring the goal such a memory, but the love my teammates gave me after was so much more impacting.  That game is always in the back of my head during game days.

No.1:  Why did you choose Albertus Magnus College?

Danielle: I wanted to be close to home.  The coaches showed me how much they wanted me right from the beginning and their style of play seems to fit me so well.

No.1:  Where did you play club soccer?

Danielle: I played at South Central Premier for 7-8 years.  It helped me become more competitive at soccer!

No.1:  What’s your favorite memory at No. 1 Soccer Camp?

Danielle: Probably teaching my group of girls some 1v1 moves they had never seen before.  Teaching other people what I have learned my whole life is something I love and can’t wait to continue to do.

No.1:  Do you have any game day rituals?

Danielle: Nothing really crazy.  Left sock then right sock, left shoe then right shoe.  Coaches always gives us a pre-game quote and I put that inside my right shinguard.

No.1:  Why do you play?

Danielle:  It’s my passion.  I can’t think about anything else that takes my mind off something like soccer does.  I love going to practice, I love playing in games.  There isn’t anything I don’t like about the game.  I really couldn’t imagine my life without it.

No.1:  If you could coach any team in the world, who would you coach?

Danielle: I wish I could coach the US Olympic team.  Be a part of that team in any way would be a dream.

No.1:  Who or what is your inspiration?polvan3

Danielle:  My mom, Lisa.  She is always such a huge supporter all of my life.  She keeps pushing me to strive to do better.

No.1:  OK Danielle, let’s play a game of Pick ‘Em.  I am going to give you a choice of 2 things and let’s see which one you choose.

Danielle: OK, shoot!

No.1:  Country or Hip Hop?

Danielle:  Definitely Hip Hop

No.1:  Oreos or Chips Ahoy?

Danielle:  Chips Ahoy!

No.1:  Turf or Grass?

Danielle:  Turf

No.1:  Power or Placement?

Danielle:  Placement.

No.1:  Scissors or Step Over?

Danielle:  Scissors

No.1:  Last game now!  Some word association.  The pick-up game over polvanthere looks like it’s about to start.  I’ll be quick!

Danielle:  Oh boy, OK!

No.1:  Number…

Danielle:  15

No.1:  Goalkeeper…

Danielle:  My teammate, Maria “The Wall” Case

No.1:  Soccer…

Danielle:  My Life

No.1:  Song…

Danielle:  Loft music – The Weekend

No.1:  Cartoon…

Danielle:  Scooby-doo

No.1:  Pressure…

Danielle:  Determined

No.1:  Thanks for taking time out of your day to talk with us.  Good luck in the next pickup game.

Danielle:  Thank you.  It was fun!  And I hope I keep my streak going, I haven’t lost in 3 games today!

Danielle gets up from the bleachers we were sitting on, takes her ball and gets back into the game.  It was a mix of guys and girls, no goalkeepers and bags were used as goalposts.  It looked like they were counting megs as 3 points.  It was a fun game to watch.  Danielle is like any other soccer junkie.  A ball and cleats always in her car, she will choose soccer over work and she will watch every game of this summer Women’s World Cup.  Through soccer, Danielle has found her passion and is running with it.

john-adamsJohn Adams is No. 1 Soccer Camps Associate Director. A long time No.1 staff member, Coach John has served as Goalkeeper Director and Striker Director throughout the years. He is also currently the Associate Head Coach and Goalkeeper Coach for Women’s Soccer at Albert Magnus College, where in 2013, his team reached the ECAC Finals. Adams will be directing and coaching at No. 1 Soccer Camps at West Conn this summer.

Soccer Tournament Nutrition

Eat to win

Perform your best with these nutrition tips for your soccer tournament weekend
nutrition-for-tournament

Article excerpted from Science and Soccer

No. 1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of it’s kind, was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 80,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps. The former World Cup and professional soccer coach is credited for creating the “Machnik Method”, a distinctive soccer training method that is universally recognized and used today. 

No. 1 Soccer Camps offers an incredible opportunity for field players and goalkeepers to challenge themselves. Based on our unique “Go to Goal”curriculum we offer five distinct training levels and programs for a unique week of soccer education for field players and goalkeepers of every age and ability level. With camp site locations nationwide, choose a program with the confidence that you can become part of the No. 1 Soccer Camps Family!

Goalkeeper Communication

Effective Goalkeeper Communication– Coaches must Teach It

How goalkeepers communicate with their teammates is a big part of their development.

Personally, I struggled with communication as a young goalkeeper, especially as it related to helping organize my teammates. I was frequently frustrated when coaches would tell me, “Paul, you need to talk more!” I was at a loss as to how to improve mostly because of the challenges of making sense of the chaos in front of me.

That experience serves me well now as a coach because I understand that simply telling young goalkeepers to “talk more” will do little to improve them.

A coach needs to listen to what is being said — or not said — to understand their starting point and personality.

Have conversations with the goalkeeper to learn how they think about various aspects of the game. Based on their personality and knowledge of the game, provide specific, age-appropriate advice to support them as they face the challenges of the position. Lead them through a series of questions related to various situations that they and the team face to help them recognize possible solutions.

Spending some time with goalkeepers during training, watching games on TV together and doing video are all opportunities to have conversations about the many scenarios in a game that repetitively occur and that a goalkeeper may be able to influence through communication. Ultimately, supporting the goalkeeper’s growing understanding of the game and discussing potential methods to prevent dangerous situations by working with their teammates will result in more knowledgeable and communicative goalkeepers who don’t simply yell or cheer-lead ineffectively.

Helping a young goalkeeper make sense of the game, read it, and communicate is a huge challenge for a coach. But, when you help them to do so, it can be one of the more gratifying moments. Not only are you helping the goalkeeper become a better soccer player, but you are also providing them with leadership training for life.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when helping keepers interact with their teammates:

  • Patience is crucial for the goalkeeper, field players and coach. Supporting the development of a goalkeeper’s ability to communicate effectively is a long-term effort.
  • Don’t expect sophisticated communication from a player with limited understanding of the game and/or team tactics, but don’t settle for cheerleading or simple screaming either.
  • Communication should mostly provide information to put out fires before they happen. However, there are definitely times when no communication is appropriate.
  • Communication should be about executing the team’s tactics effectively as a group, not about the goalkeeper showing off. Monitor what goalkeepers say, how they say it, and even their body language to ensure its usefulness.
  • Communicating loudly is fine. But yelling at your teammates rarely results in positive outcomes. Most of the time, concise, proactive, and relevant information is required.
  • To avoid constant blaming, goalkeepers should be coached to think how they could have organized better to avoid the danger (as well as why they weren’t able to save the team in the end). Was your information clear enough? Was it early enough? Was it loud enough? Was it accurate enough? Why didn’t it work? What could you have done better?
  • The majority of goalkeeper communication should be defensive-oriented. Even when their team is in possession of the ball, goalkeepers should be thinking mostly about, and possibly communicating how, the team may be vulnerable in transition.
  • Credibility is important. If a goalkeeper in older age groups is holding a teammate accountable, they should be sure their house is tidy as well. No player wants to be criticized by a goalkeeper who is not fulfilling his or her own responsibilities first.

Article Courtesy of Soccer America

No. 1 Soccer Camps have been at the forefront of goalkeeper training since 1977. At the No.1 Goalkeeper Camp, goalkeepers learn the technical skills needed to be successful and tactically savvy from playing in the goal in game like situations under the guidance of a goalkeeper coach coaching the player from IN the goal and not from the sideline. 

With over 80,000 satisfied No.1 Campers, the list is countless as to the current and former campers that have played at the highest levels of intercollegiate soccer, USNT U17 and U20 programs for both men and women, and in the NPSL, MISL, USL, MLS and WPS. Learn more about our No. 1 Goalkeeper Camp at www.no1soccercamps.com

Start Packing: It’s Almost Camp Time!

Get Ready For A Soccer Summer To Remember!

Your time at No. 1 Soccer Camps is going to be one of the most memorable of your soccer career. You’ll work hard, learn from professional coaches, improve your game, and meet like-minded soccer players. In order to maximize your time at camp, we have put together some pertinent information to help you prepare and pack for your No. 1 Soccer Camps experience.

Twitter Q & A on Preparing for Camp May 27th

In addition, we are hosting a live Question & Answer on Twitter with No. 1 Associate Director John Adams on May 27th from 7:00 – 8:00 pm. It is a chance for campers and parents to ask Coach Adams (@coachjqa) any questions you may have about preparing for camp.  Just tweet at us @No1SoccerCamps and use the hash tag #AskNo1 between 7:00 and 8:00 pm on Wednesday, May 27th.
Preparing for Camp
Prior to the start of your camp you will receive a detailed information sheet from your Regional Director that is specific to the site that you are attending. If for some reason you do not receive this information within two weeks of the start of camp, please contact your regional director directly. Their phone numbers and email addresses are listed on our website and site page. Please also note that the contact number on our website of 571-428-8387 is for our national office in Virginia and can be used if you are unable to reach your RD directly. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.

Day Camps

The Day Camp Director will provide you with detailed information concerning the specifics regarding the Day Camp schedule, check in, location and other important information.

Residential Camps

Your regional director will provide you with the time and location for the first day of camp check in prior to the start of camp.

Medical and Camper Profile Forms

The Medical Form must be completed by a parent and your physician. Physical exams conducted for the 2014/15 school year may be attached to our Medical Form provided all necessary information is provided. It is imperative that you remember to bring your medical form to camp. Please note that you cannot participate at camp without a completed Medical Form.

The Camper Profile Form must be completed by the player and/or a parent. The picture is important and will help us to get to know the campers quickly at camp. The camp directors and staff coaches will use the Camper Profile Form as an aid in placing the camper in the right group and in maximizing their camp experience. Please bring the Camper Profile Form along with your Medical Form to camp. For all camper forms, go to our website at www.no1soccercamps.com, click on FYI, Players, then click on Prepare For Camp or simply click the links above.
Roommate Requests
All roommate requests will be honored to the best of our ability. Be sure to list your roommate choice during the registration process. If for whatever reason the roommate dynamics are not working out between campers, it is important that campers let our staff know. If a camper is uncomfortable telling someone, then they should have their parents call. Things are sometimes simple to fix.

Packing List:

• Soccer Ball • Soccer Socks • T-Shirts (NO tank tops) • Soccer Shoes – it is NOT a good idea to bring new shoes to camp. • Indoor Training Shoes (Sneakers)

 

• Shin Guardsblog_westconngroup-1 • Warm Up • Bathing Suit • Equipment Bag
• Water Bottle
• Sun Screen and Bug Spray • Note Book and Pen  * Personal Items • Sandals/Flip Flops • Towels • Pillow and Bed Sheets – for twin size bed – residents only • Blanket/Sleeping Bag – residents only • Toiletries • Goalkeeping gear including gloves
Commuters – First Day of Camp

Campers who are not staying overnight should arrive at the assigned time provided to them by the Regional Director. Dinner will be the first meal. The regional director will provide you with the time and location that your commuter should be dropped off and then picked up at the conclusion of the day. Lunch and dinner will be provided daily. We will have a location in the dorm where our commuters can relax between sessions and store their belongings.
Residents – First Day of Camp
Registration is generally between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm on opening day and will be held in the dorm. Your Regional Director will send you exact times and locations. Once on campus, signs will direct you to the exact location for registration. The first field session is scheduled for early afternoon. Dinner is the first meal of the day, followed by a second field session. The evening lecture concludes the day’s events followed by lights out.
Room Key Deposits
Most residential campers are required to submit a key deposit at the time of check-in. Deposits can be made in the form of cash or checks and will be returned to campers on the last day of camp at check out when the room keys are returned to us. Please make checks payable to No1 Soccer Camps. It will save you time during check-in if you have a check ready.

Creating Groups

blog_soccer_girls-1Campers will be initially placed into groups based on the program that they have enrolled during registration. During the sessions on the first day, campers will evaluated on their ability, throughout the week there will be continued evaluation as the program progresses.

Please know that the staff is very aware that friends come together and want to stay together in the same group. Groups and teams that signed up together will work together. As other groups are established, the staff may not know exactly which campers are friends and want to train together.

Campers will be asked several times – “Is there anyone who has been separated from their friends – does anyone want to move for any reason?” This is an important question, and we take it seriously. Groups can be adjusted – friends can and should play together – this is part of the whole camp experience. If a camper does not feel right in his group for whatever reason, please let us know. PLEASE tell your camper to speak up – we want to hear what they have to say. Sometimes they need to call home and have their parents contact us for them…that’s okay too.
Last Day of Camp
Camp will conclude after the morning field session on the last date of camp. Specific times will be provided by your regional director. At that time, campers will receive their personal detailed evaluation forms from our coaches. Lunch will not be served. Campers can be met on the field or at their dormitory. There is no formal closing meeting with parents. Parents wishing to do so may meet with the Directors, Staff Coaches, and Trainers on the field at the end of the last session. All campers must be promptly picked up at the conclusion of camp. We will have them as ready as possible for you. Due to our national sites, many of our staff are moving onto another site and will also need to depart camp promptly.

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact your Regional Director directly. We look forward to seeing you in a few weeks!

Preparing For A Collegiate Playing Career

The college Process: be Prepared, Proactive And Persistent

No two children are alike and their dreams are as unique as their goals. As high school students across the nation complete another grade, many will begin the exciting — and at times overwhelming — process of preparing for college.

With 5,800 two- and four-year universities to choose from and nearly 3,000 collegiate soccer programs, finding the right fit can seen like a daunting task.

A question we are often asked is, how do you choose the right college? In short, it begins with creating a personal roadmap. To help, we have prepared a few guidelines to get your family started:

Start with documenting volunteer activities, academic, athletic accomplishments and the things that make you unique. This will help you create an academic and athletic profile (or resume) that can be distributed to college coaches and university officials at schools that interest you.

If you are a junior in high school, start with a list of 20 universities and consider factors such as geographic location, enrollment size, program of study, degrees offered, athletic program, campus life, and the community surrounding the campus.

You can add other factors you feel are important to your college search. The goal is to consider aspects of college life — being happy and prepared is essential. Money also plays a vital role, but don’t let money be the only reason you choose one school over another. One thing we tell all families and students is GRADES = Money.

Each year more than $100 million in academic scholarships, grants and aid will go un-taken at many universities. Why? Athletes seem to think the only way to pay for college is an athletic scholarship. The best opportunity to earn money for college is good grades. It’s that simple.

Academic scholarship money far outweighs what most student-athletes will receive via athletic scholarship dollars. As you narrow your college list, do your homework on the university and see if Presidential, Provost, Merit and or Academic scholarships are available and if so, check the deadlines to apply.

Consider taking practice SAT and ACT tests in the fall, and then make a point of taking the official test in the spring. Not only will this help determine if you are meeting admissions standards, it’s a great opportunity to find out where you stand.

Reach out to schools you like, ask for more information or a media package, contact admissions/financial aid, connect with the coach, and begin to think about an unofficial campus visit.

Before you visit, contact the dean of the academic department that interests you most, contact admissions and send your player resume to the college coach and ask for a meeting.

Allow 2 to 3 hours per campus tour. Prior to the unofficial visit, evaluate where you are academically and if you can’t meet college admissions for NCAA Division I, II or NAIA, you might consider NCAA Division III, NCCAA or NJCAA.

If your goal is to play NCAA Division I or Division II soccer, register with the NCAA Eligibility Center (not applicable to Division III) the summer prior to your junior year. If you’ve started your junior year and haven’t registered, do so immediately.

The NCAA is responsible for 23 sanctioned sports and ensuring all prospects can meet both academic and athletic requirements. The goal is to ensure core course requirements and amateur status has been met. If you are considering NAIA, registration is also required to determine eligibility.

Prior to registering with the NCAA or NAIA, parents are encouraged to meet with your son or daughters’ guidance counselor and make sure transcripts are in order and reflect accurate grading for classes taken. Have the guidance counselor correct any errors to eliminate delays with the eligibility process.

Each year roster spots go un-filled because kids think of schools that are top of mind. In reality, opportunity abounds on all levels of the NCAA, NAIA, NCCAA and NJCAA, with most offering athletic scholarship opportunities.

When it comes to identifying where you fit athletically, be realistic about your abilities. To understand why one player is selected over another, simply look at the team roster. When a college coach evaluates you, he or she will look at your technical, tactical, physical and psychological abilities to determine if you would be a good fit for their program.

Define your strengths and how you can contribute to the program, and why you would be a good fit if offered a roster spot. This is what we call your personal USP — Unique Selling Proposition.

Remember, being prepared, proactive and persistent can make your transition from high school to college a seamless one. Besides, long after soccer has come and gone due to old age, injury, or retirement, your education will last a lifetime!

Article Courtesy of Soccer America’s Youth Soccer Insider
No. 1 Soccer Camps College Prep Performance Academy for 2105
No. 1 Soccer Camps is offering ten sessions of our College Prep Performance Academy this summer. The goal of the No.1 College Prep Performance Academy is to provide an incredible environment where serious soccer players will receive the highest level of instruction in anticipation of playing at the collegiate level.

The No. 1 Soccer Camps College Prep Performance Academy is available for individuals looking to be challenged in a highly competitive soccer environment, while being assessed by guest collegiate coaches as well as our No.1 Senior Staff Coaches. Our goal is to improve individual play through demanding field sessions and insightful seminars about playing at the highest level.
High Performance Seminars will be led by trusted experts in their field and will include: Sports Nutrition, Soccer Specific Conditioning, ACT/SAT Preparation and Sport Psychology. Goalkeepers and field players will be exposed to an intensive training environment for those who are serious about fulfilling their potential. For more information on dates and locations, visit our College Prep Page on www.no1soccercamps.com.

Club Tryouts 101

Tips For Tryouts: Players Make  An Impact

There are often more questions surrounding the club soccer tryout process than there are answers. How do I find club tryout information? How many should I attend? How will I get the coach’s attention? US Youth Soccer sat down with Ronnie Woodard, current head coach of three-time US Youth Soccer National Championship qualifier Tennessee SC 16 (TN) and former head women’s soccer coach at Vanderbilt University, who offered her answers to some of the most important tryout questions.

Woodard explains some of the first things coaches are looking for are if woodard-tryout-tipsthe player is coachable and exhibits a lot of effort, which can be displayed in a multitude of ways. “One of the little tricks in tryouts is to always keep eye contact with the coaches during drills and when the coach is giving you their input. You also should try to implement these points immediately,” Woodard said. “A player’s work rate on and off the ball are equally as important.”

Woodard points out that specific clubs may be looking for a lot of different things, varying from strength in the air to finishing in the 18-yard box, but the one consistency coaches are looking for is players who provide special moments that turn heads.

“Coaches are looking for players to make an impact and get their attention,” Woodard said. “I think it is very important for players to get the coaches to notice, and it isn’t always easy.”

It is inevitable that a player is eventually going to make a mistake, which Woodard acknowledges and admits good coaches aren’t going to be concerned with a mistake, but rather how the player reacts afterwards.

“No one is perfect, and when you make a mistake coaches want to see how you respond. You can put your head down and stress out, or you can go get the ball back,” Woodard said. “I recommend turning around and getting the ball back.”

One recommendation Woodard has is for players to approach the tryout thinking about the opportunity given to them as opposed to the ramifications of not making the team.

“It is always difficult for young players especially to come into an environment with new potential teammates and establish worth to a group in a short period of time,” Woodard said. “If you remain in the moment and keep focus on the task at hand — but also remember you have a fun opportunity to play good soccer and enjoy it — then you will feel more comfortable.”

Woodard isn’t the first coach to emphasize enjoying the game when approaching tryouts. Both Mark Ryan (Loudoun Soccer) and Jimmy Obleda (Fullerton Rangers) have emphasized enjoying the game as a crucial element to developing and performing well. Another thing the three coaches agreed on was the importance of doing research beforehand when deciding which clubs to attend tryouts.

“I don’t think you want to attend four different tryouts and just see which ones you make,” Woodard said. “Rather you need to do a little bit of research on the team, coach and the league to see if it fits that player.”

Assessments at tryouts can go both ways. While the primary purpose is for coaches to measure players’ abilities, Woodard looks to tryouts as one of the best ways for the players to evaluate potential coaches.

“You want a coach that is fair and well respected in the soccer community. Coaching is synonymous with teaching, so while it is really important to have a good coach with high standards, you also want a great teacher of the game,” Woodard said. “You also want a coach with tremendous compassion for their players and strikes a good balance between being someone you can trust and someone who will push you to be the best player you can be.”

In the end, Woodward insists that while natural ability is critical, being receptive to coaching also goes a long way.

“Coaches are looking for the complete package. They want hard workers, technically gifted and tactically skilled player,” Woodard said. “However, those can be difficult to come by, especially at an early age. Coaches are more willing to invest in a player who is easy to coach, and you can prove that in tryouts by going out there giving it your best.”

 

Striking The ball With Power And Accuracy

Persistence Turns Failure Into Extraordinary Achievements

Every soccer player, no matter what the age or skill level, strives to strike the ball with power and accuracy; and every player, no matter how experienced, can improve this element of their game. At No. 1 Soccer Camps, our innovative training sessions break down skills and elements to improve all of the aspects of a player’s game.

Over the course of a camp week, campers will participate in a variety of professionally designed sessions geared to every aspect of the game. One of No.1’s individualized training sessions focuses on power shooting. What makes this particular exercise unique is that players are required to perform a number of technical exercises wearing only socks. This environment allows for a better understanding of what it feels like to properly strike the ball for power and accuracy.

At the beginning of the session, each player is videotaped striking the ball on goal in a game like situation. A staff coach will then provide the player with a brief review and analysis of their technique and advise them on how to correct any technical mistakes.

Next, the players are asked to remove their cleats and begin a series of technical drills that focus solely on proper foot position with the toes pointed down and the ankles locked before striking the ball.

The first exercise is completed while lying on the ground allowing for isolation of the foot movement and ankle position and designed to improve the quality of the strike. The players then complete a series of exercises from sitting to standing with the same focus. Finally, they put their cleats back on and resume going to goal while properly striking the ball for power and accuracy.

At the end of the session, the players are again videotaped striking thepower-session2ball. In almost every instance, the second video shows a dramatic improvement in technique. The secret to the success? During the course of this session, players perform hundreds of repetitions to instill the ability to feel comfortable when put in goal scoring opportunities. This training session helps young soccer players gain confidence in their ability to correctly strike a ball and put it on target  – this repetition and persistence allows them to turn their failures into extraordinary goals.

For more information on how to become part of the No.1 Soccer Camp family and benefit from proven training sessions like this one, visit our website: www.no1SoccerCamps.com. Over 80,000 campers have turned their failures into extraordinary achievements – you can too!

rob-andrulis-web-appRob Andrulis is an Associate Director for No. 1 Soccer Camps. In addition, he is also the Head Coach of Boys Soccer at Litchfield High School. Coach Rob will be at the following No. 1 locations camps this summer:  Salisbury University – Salisbury, MDWestern Connecticut State University – Danbury, CTPlumb Fields – Litchfield, CT – Day CampVeterans Field – Sharon, CT – Day Camp

The Rise Of Us Soccer Camps

No. 1 Soccer Camps: A 39 Year Tradition of Excellence

The Early Years of US Soccer Camps

US based soccer camps originated in the middle to late 1960’s.  The North American Soccer League (NASL) and later the Major Indoor Soccer league (MISL) and some early soccer on TV – Wide World of Sports and Soccer Made in Germany – developed interest in the game beyond the ethnic hotbeds of the major cities and industrial areas.

Junior soccer leagues sprung up across the continent wherever a NASL or MISL team played, but there was a dearth of coaching until US Soccer and the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) began spreading the game through weekend clinics and coaching schools. In the 1970’s some of the better college and high school coaches started summer soccer camps.

By the late 70’s, hundreds of camps operated throughout the country.  At these camps young players (mostly boys) received coaching at levels of competition they could not receive in their local communities.  Some camps became so popular that they were able to spread nationwide on the reputation of the coaching and the quality of instruction.

No. 1 Soccer Camps
k-3-jugs-staff-machnikIn 1977, three years after receiving one of the country’s first “A” coaching licenses, Joe Machnik, then a coach at the University of New Haven, started the first nationally recognized camp for goalkeepers, No.1 Goalkeeper Camp.  In a few short years, No.1 grew to be the “in” place for goalkeepers, and the staff was a virtual “Who’s Who” among American and foreign goalkeepers playing in both the Pro’s and collegiate soccer realms.During this time, it was not unusual at that time to see a camp of 150 – 250 goalkeepers at a single No.1 location.  Within 10 years, however, Machnik and partner John Kowalski, came to the realization that the technical training, the how to perform a certain skill or technique, was not enough to advance the American goalkeeper.  There was a need for more traditional training to answer the questions of “when, where and why” as that training could only be done in the presence of field players playing in match like situations.  Hence, the founding of the Star Striker School, which became the fore-runner of the No.1 Striker Camp and an important component of the No.1 Soccer Camps program.By the middle 1990’s, after the World Cup of 1994 played in America and the winning of the Women’s World Cup and Gold Medal in Olympic Women’s Soccer, youth soccer became increasingly mainstream and millions of American boys AND girls now played the game. While camps were still important at that time – and were centers of fine teaching and coaching –  the club system began to take hold in the US, and players could receive good coaching at the club, high school and college level.  By 2000, most established players were being identified early by the club system, and many camps ceased operation as the summer soccer camp was no longer the only place to receive fine coaching and a chance to play some real soccer.
No. 1 For A Reason
Very few summer soccer camps stood the test of time and continue to be successful today. No. 1 Soccer Camps is the shining exception. Diligently organized and professionally staffed, Machnik developed a unique program worthwhile for all players regardless of which side of the ball they play on. Goalkeepers, strikers, mid-fielders, defenders – all benefit from the intense training performed 30 yards in front of the goal.  Each lesson ends in a competitive environment with new skills in an atmosphere of trial and success. In addition, the assembly of campers develops a sense of camaraderie and teamwork in the camp environment culminating in all-inclusive 40 seconds on/40 seconds off interval training session that is a true test of each camper’s dedication to the game.

The beauty of the No.1 Soccer Camps environment is the fact that a machnik-w-second-generationcamper does not have to be the best player in order to attend.  Campers are organized in mobile groups, first by age, size, and ability with adjustments to the group structure and makeup being made each day as the week progresses. More importantly, campers develop an appreciation for the soccer’s inner values as the intrinsic rewards of participation and success are constantly stressed.  At week’s end, a thorough 75 point evaluation form is presented to each camper with a personal development plan citing areas to be worked on during and after the season.  Machnik credits the evaluation form as a critical factor in the decision parents make to return their campers to No.1 year after year.

A 39 year tradition of excellence, proven pedagogy and methodology, and professional coaching staff ensures No. 1 Soccer Camps remains the top soccer camp in the soccer industry for almost four decades. With a camper alumni list of over 80,000+ satisfied players, you will find former campers and staffers currently rostered on US National, MLS, WPSL, Division I, II, and III collegiate teams. One of the greatest testaments to our program is the number of former campers now bringing their children to camp thereby keeping the No. 1 tradition and family growing every year.

To learn more about No. 1 Soccer Camps or to register for one of our camp sites, visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com.

In addition to founding No. 1 Soccer Camps Dr. Joe Machnik’s resume highlights include serving as Assistant Coach and Goalkeeper Coach for the 1990 USA World Cup soccer team and ranges to his post as Vice-President of Game Operations for Major League Soccer (MLS) and Assistant to the Commissioner for On-Field Competition. Machnik has most recently served as a FIFA Match Commissioner for World Cup Qualifying events throughout the CONCACAF region. Dr. Machnik has also been a successful NCAA Men’s and Women’s soccer coach and referee, as well as Director of Athletics at the University of New Haven. He is also currently the Director of Officiating Services for the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), a NEC Women’s Soccer Assignor, and a Soccer Analyst, Fox Sports TV. Most notably, Machnik has been a pioneer in the Soccer Camp industry in the US where his No.1 Soccer Camps is celebrating its thirty-ninth year. 

The Need For Summer Camp

The Case For camp Why Kids Need It Now More Than Ever

Change is a part of life. It is often directly related to survival and can enrich one’s life in ways unexpected. Childhood is in essence a time of profound change and development. It is exciting and disquieting at the same time. When it comes to our children, we need to be sure that change is made for the better.

We’ve been so concentrated on the brain, we forget about the rest of our bodies. This change in focus has lead to an obesity rate that is unacceptable. Our kids are not as healthy as the generation before.

Families used to live in a community. We’ve lost that, keeping kids inside and losing a sense of neighborhood.

Add to that the fact that our kids stand to inherit all the economic, social, and environmental challenges we’ve created, and the legacy we have left our children and youth begins to look bleak.

So, how do we prepare our children with the skills and more importantly, the competencies they will need to tackle changes in our world?  We could start with a positive camp experience. A quality camp experience provides our children with the opportunity to learn powerful lessons in community, character-building, skill development, and healthy living — a meaningful, engaged, and participatory environment.

blog1Camp promotes community. It creates this great space that shows kids how to live together and care for one another. There are norms and negotiation of boundaries; there are rules. Camp is a place where kids can “practice” growing up stretching their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive muscles outside the context of their immediate family. This is what childhood is supposed to provide.

Camp teaches critical thinking. We need to remember how important it is to be actively involved in the learning process, and camp affords that. We’re going to need really strong problem solvers in the next century. We need the science, math, and biology, but without the ability to relate, connect, empathize, or inspire innovation, how will our kids be able to make a difference in the challenges now facing us?

The camp experience embraces the natural environment. While children have fewer and fewer opportunities to be outdoors, the camp experience advances the outdoor learning environment. As we become more concerned about saving the planet, we run out and make DVDs and videos about it. But the environment needs to be experienced to be appreciated. Kids need to catch tadpoles in the creek, wander among the trees, and feel the sun on their faces to understand the importance of those things. What happens to a generation that may grow up not seeing stars in the dark of the night?

Camp creates future leaders. The camp experience offers kids a close-up look at compassionate leadership through the camp director, counselors, resident nutritionist, and other camp personnel. And kids get loads of opportunities to practice being a leader themselves — song leader, lunch table leader, team captain, the list goes on and on.

Camp is an equal opportunity life changer. It addresses universal childhood needs not specific to a particular racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic group. Nobody is left out. It’s all about childhood development.

Camp has a lasting impact. One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is a sense of success and achievement. Camp teaches kids how to be active participants, ask questions, ask for help, and try new things. They leave understanding that it’s okay to feel a little uncomfortable sometimes, because that’s generally what happens when you’re getting ready to learn something. The camp experience translates back in real-world experience — in an “I can” attitude.

We need to advocate for our young people. We should promote opportunities for kids — give them camp experiences that serve as an antidote for the world’s challenges. We need to recognize this is not a series of frivolous activities. We often think if it looks like fun it must be unimportant, but “fun” is a young person’s “work” — to learn, to grow, to be productive, creative, and happy. If they don’t do that work, they won’t turn into healthy adults.

Article Courtesy of CampParents.org

No. 1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of it’s kind, was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 80,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps. Our camps are conducted at exceptional facilities with quality accommodations and dining amenities.  With a camper/staff ratio of 1:8, we hire only the best coaches in the industry.

“I just wanted to send a HUGE thank you to you and your team. Stephen had an amazing time and is already talking about coming back next year. He really liked all the kids and coaches and can’t stop talking about the whole experience. On a separate note, I have to praise his coach for the very thorough evaluation he provided. It obviously took a lot of time to prepare and included some great observations and suggestions for Stephen to work on to continue to develop his game. Well done and thank you so much!” – Alan, No. 1 Soccer Camps Parent

For more information about our 2015 Camps and Locations, visit us at www.No.1 SoccerCamps.com

 

No.1 Soccer Camps In Germany

Its Time For A Cultural (Ex)Change!
Are you passionate about soccer? Do you enjoy learning about other cultures? Are you ready for a new adventure this summer?
If you answered yes, No. 1 Soccer Camps has a program for you! Train with German coaches and players this summer and take your game to the next level with No. 1 Soccer Camps in Bad Blankenburg Germany. Male or female, goalkeeper or field player, if you are between between 10 – 18 years old and have an adventurous spirit, we want you to join us!

No. 1 Soccer Camps in Germany is a camper and staff coach exchange with one of the leading soccer camps in Germany led by former No.1 Soccer Camp staff coach Boris Kalff. Our camps are conducted on the pristine training pitches and beautiful facilities of the all inclusive Elite Sport facility in Bad Blankenburg.

Campers will be integrated into program of fussball-ferienschule.de for either five or nine days. Being exposed to the high level, technically sound German coaching scheme will add another dimension to player’s soccer education and their ability to produce on the field. Comparing one’s skills with and against the young German campers will provide an excellent gauge for campers and parents to evaluate a player’s real abilities. Germany’s leagues have among the highest goals per attempted scoring situation percentage in the world while at the same time producing countless numbers of excellent goalkeepers and Europe’s (UEFA) most successful national teams at the U17, U20 U23 and full international levels.

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About the Facilities

The Sport Complex in Bad Blankenburg, Thuringia Germany offers only the highest quality training facilities and accommodations for all soccer campers. No.1 Soccer Camps’ accommodations include a superior three star hotel, five beautifully maintained grass surfaces, one artificial turf with flood lights for evening sessions, and an indoor soccer field. The two, three and four bedroom apartments include a single bed, a shower, a TV, a desk and Wi Fi Internet for all campers, and The Sports Hotel offers an extensive buffet menu for all meals.

About the Coaches
All Coaches are licensed by our National Soccer Federation DFB. They adhere to the rules & guidelines for coaches in Germany. All coaches send in an official background check, signed by the state governance, before practicing with our campers. Fussball-ferienschule.de hires female and male coaches and abides to international standards for gender equality and equal employment opportunities.

 
Dates

July 11- 17th 2015 (7 Days)

Campers will leave the US Thursday, July 9th to arrive in Germany Friday, July 10th. Camp runs the 11th through 17th. Return date to the US is July 18th.July 18- 24th 2015 (7 Days)

Campers will leave Thursday, July 16th to arrive in Germany Friday, July 17th. Camp runs the 18-24th. Return date to the US is July 25th.

 
July 11 – 24 2015 (14 Days)

Campers will leave Thursday, July 9 to arrive in Germany Friday, July 10th. Camp runs the 11-24th. Return date to the US is July 25th.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is the training all done in German or mixed in English? The training will be held in English and supported in German.

2) Are the girls and boys bedrooms and floors separated? Girls and boys sleep in separate hotel rooms (single, double or triple bedrooms). Girls stay on the same floor as the coaches. Boys are not allowed to enter girls’ hotel rooms and vice versa.

3) What is a typical meal comprised of for lunch and dinner? All meals are buffet style, including among vegetables, salads, soups, entries meat etc. The kitchen is happy to accommodate individual orders upon request.

4) Are the supervisors females for the girls? Generally, our supervisors are female and male. For the US Camp, we will have a female supervisor delegated for all girls rooms.

5) Do the supervisors stay with them in the dorms? All staff members stay at the hotel and take responsibility for all kids.

Make this summer the most adventurous yet with No. 1 Soccer Camps in Germany. Learn more about the camp and register at No.1 Soccer Camps – Germany.  

 

Win A Week At No.1 Soccer Camps

Online Auction To Benefit St.Baldrick’s Foundation

On March 31st, No. 1 Soccer Camps will be holding an online auction for Printone 2015 session of No. 1 Soccer Camp. The winning bid amount will be donated to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a charity dedicated to the research of childhood cancer. According to their website: “Worldwide, 175,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year. And in the U.S., more children die of childhood cancer than any other disease—more than AIDS, asthma, cystic fibrosis, congenital anomalies and diabetes combined.”

This month, No. 1 Soccer Camps Associate Director John Adams (West Conn) “Braved the Shave” to raise money for the foundation. Shown here in his before picture with his daughter Brooklyn, and after with his FSA U14 Girls Elite Team, John talks about how he first became involved with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation:

 

It’s How I Can Help
In 2010, a close friend introduced me to St. Baldricks. He ran the St. Baldricks event through the Middle School in our district, and it didn’t take much convincing for me to take part in the event. The event helps research for childhood cancer. Although, I didn’t have any personal dealings with childhood cancer, my father was battling cancer at the time. Because I like to keep my hair short as well, it was a win-win situation!

The day of my first event, I walked into the gymnasium about 30 minutes late with my mother.  We both were blown away with what we saw.  There were about 200 middle school students cheering and chanting, a DJ playing music.  As we worked our way closer to the shavees, I saw her.  She was a middle school girl, with a blonde pony-tail down to the middle of her back.  She was shaving her head. I was in awe.  It wasn’t until that moment that I realized what I was a part of.  The courage of this middle school girl was amazing, something I would never forget.

Six years later, I still “Brave the Shave.”  It’s how I can help.  Although I’m with another group now, Coaches United Against Cancer, our goal is still the same – to raise funds.  Our group helped raise over $35,000 this year.  For me to shave my head, it takes nothing.  There is no courage on my part.  The courage lies with my father who battled for almost 10 years before passing in September 2013.  The courage is with the middle school girl who is shaving her head to help support children she doesn’t know, who are battling cancer.  The courage is with all these children, battling cancer, who keep smiling and showing us that we should be enjoying life. 

You too can contribute to St. Baldrick’s Foundation (and win a week at the No. 1 Soccer Camp in the country!) through our Online Auction on Tuesday, March 31st. To enter, head to the No. 1 Soccer Camps Facebook page on March 31st and click on our Online Auction Event. Simply write in the amount you would like to bid in comments section. The highest bid submitted by 11:59 PM will win a week of No. 1 Soccer Camps at the location of their choice AND have the honor of contributing to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. Retail Value: up to $889.

AUCTION RULES

  • All bidding will be done via No. 1 Soccer Camps’ Facebook Page. Click here
  • Bids will be accepted from 12:01 AM until 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 31st, 2015.
  • You must be 18 to bid
  • Do NOT bid unless you are prepared to win.
  • To place a bid, add your bid in the Comment under the Auction photo on March 31st. For example: “I bid $100”.
  • No minimum bid. Maximum bid is $889. The first bid to reach this amount will be the winner.
  • Winning bidder will be contacted by No.1 Soccer Camps via Facebook on April 1st.
  • ***NOTE**Payment is due within 3 days of auction end. If you are sending a check, please notify No. 1 Soccer Camps that a check is on the way within 3 days of auction end.
  • Questions? Email info@no1soccercamps.com.

The Art Of Flying

Learn To Fly at No. 1 Soccer Camps

Incredible goals and acrobatic finishes have captured the imagination of soccer players and fans since the inception of the modern game. From Pele to Marco van Basten, Luis Saurez toWayne Rooney, these spectacular moments have turned great players into legends. Diving headers, scissors kicks and even overhead bicycles kicks have inspired generations of young players. They have spent countless hours on soccer fields, in backyards and parks and even in living rooms the world over, attempting (and usually failing) to complete a successful “bike.” Even the occasional broken lamp and bump on the head has not deterred players from practicing these experimental techniques just for that one opportunity to become immortal, even if just in the eyes of their teammates.

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No. 1 Soccer Camps has been teaching the Art of Flying for decades. We have always encouraged repetition as part of our philosophy and continue to provide our strikers with the opportunity to score one thousand goals during their camp experience. Many of those scoring opportunities come during our crossing and finishing lessons. Our expert coaching staff provides step by step instructions, starting with very basic body movement and slowly progressing to a full speed finishing.  Our lessons are scaffold-ed from simple to complex to allow each participant to find their own level and build upon their current skill set.

First we teach proper body mechanics, starting each lesson safely on the no-1camperbikeground. We stress the importance of body control, core strength, mental focus and making clean contact on the ball. Players then move to their feet to hone their perception, coordination and footwork while adjusting to the flight of the ball. Finally, we teach our campers how to land safely, using their upper body and arms to cushion their landing. Of course, at the end of each lesson the campers always have the chance to then apply what they have learned in a live small-sided game.

The thrill of a diving header or the once in a life time bicycle kick will always lure players into unscripted practices. In fact, trial and error is critical for young players. We encourage self-teaching and hope that every player has the courage to use their imagination and try new things. That said, every technique still starts with fundamentals and repetition. At No. 1 Striker Camps, our methods safely teach advanced finishing in a controlled environment to provide our campers with maximum fun and success. We believe every player can learn how to fly.

demarshNicholas DeMarsh is the No. 1 Soccer Camps Striker Director at our West Conn site. In addition, he just concluded his 13th year as the head coach of Buffalo State’s women’s soccer program in 2014, leading the Bengals to the SUNYAC semifinals for the second season in a row. DeMarsh, the 2010 SUNYAC Coach of the Year, has guided the Bengals to winning seasons in seven of the past 11 seasons and has a career record of 102-108-32.

Off the Pitch With Boston Breakers Jamia Fields

Former No. 1 Camper and Staff Coach Jamia Fields Talks Camps, College and Becoming a Champion
Jamia Fields, a former No. 1 Camper and Staff Coach from with Alta Loma, CA, has been part of the No. 1 Soccer Camp family for over a decade. After eight years as a camper, Jamia returned to No. 1 as a Striker Staff Coach during her summer breaks from Florida State University.
At FSU, Fields had 14 goals and 30 assists during her career and led the Seminoles to four straight College Cup appearances. The forward finished her college career on top as the Seminoles won the 2014 NCAA National Championship with Fields scoring the game-winning goal in the 1-0 victory in the finals against Virginia.
In January, Jamia was drafted 14th overall by the Boston Breakers for the NWSL. She and her Breakers teammates opened the 2015 preseason earlier this week with their first training session.
Jamia took a few minutes out of her hectic schedule to answer questions about her playing career, wining the National Championship, and her experiences with No. 1 Soccer Camps. She finished up with some sage advice for our campers.
How did you get started playing soccer and at what age?
My mom signed me up and I started playing at age 5.


How many years did you attend No.1Soccer Camps and what location did you attend?
I attended the Claremont location for 8 years.
Coming back for 8 years in a row do you feel you learned something jamia_no1camperdifferent each year?
Coming back each year I definitely learned something new. The activities and drills were difficult yet fun. Each year I came back eager to better myself. I also came back and worked as a staff coach for 2 years which was really great to be able to work with the players and see the other side of camp. Lot’s of campers come back and become coaches. There is a lot of loyalty at the camp which I think is very important!

What is your favorite memory of camp?
My favorite memory was playing World Cup each year. I couldn’t wait until after lunch when the teams were posted to see which team I was on and whom I was competing against.

As an elite player what 3 things do you think separated No. 1 Soccer Camps from all the other soccer camps out there?The evaluations are definitely what separate No.1 Soccer Camps from all the other soccer camps out there. The detailed evaluation of my performance at camp had everything in it to help me develop as a soccer player as I left the camp. The feedback I received in my evaluation wasn’t vague. My coach for the week genuinely spent a lot of time on it with the goal to further my soccer skills.

The small groups were another aspect that makes No.1 Soccer Camps special. They allowed me to get one on one help to correct my wrongdoings during the different activities and have lot’s of repetition. This was so important to me because some of the drills and skills were challenging like bending the ball and bicycle kicks; but with the personal attention it was easier to succeed at the task.
The atmosphere would be another aspect that definitely separated No.1 Soccer Camps from the others. Session to session, I had fun and constantly felt that the staff wanted me to further my soccer skills.
Over the years you have had the chance to work with some of the best coaches in the country. How would you compare the coaching staff at No.1 Soccer Camps?

dsc_0193The coaches at No.1 are definitely top notch coaches  – in my opinion they are among some of the best in the country. The training sessions at camp were very good, and I felt like I was being challenged every session. The Camp Directors Mike Potier and Billy Gordon are so professional and knowledgeable about the game and it was displayed every year. And it was really great that the actual Camp Directors were at the camp and on the field at every session literally going around and helping and getting to know every player at the camp. The entire staff they provided year to year never failed to disappoint me.

Mike and Billy traveled to many of my games when they were close to them. Also, Mike made it to the College Cup this year for the entire weekend to witness us win the national championship. My point being that these coaches and staff at No.1 Soccer Camp care about your development and accomplishments apart from the camp. Years later, two coaches from a camp I attended when I was younger are still supporting me.

In December you scored the game winning goal in the NCAA Div I img_1341Women’s College Cup for Florida State to give them their first Soccer National Championship. Can you describe that moment and feeling?
It was the 83rd minute and still 0-0 so I knew I had to take a shot if I got the opportunity. I cut inside and saw a small opening and took the shot and it went in. That moment is still pretty indescribable.How did you end up at Florida State when you lived in California?
I was looking at schools in California too but since Mike was from Florida and knew the coach he advised me to look at FSU. He also contacted the Head Coach and recommended he come watch me play at an event in Florida. Then I went on a visit and the coaches, the team, the school in general just felt right. Initially I didn’t want to go all the way across the country but I knew FSU would give me the best opportunity to develop my career and further me as a player after college.

You were just drafted in the NWSL by the Boston Breakers. What are you excited about starting your professional career?fsu-fields
I’m excited to play at one of the highest levels in women’s soccer. I think its going to be a good experience playing for a new coach and with new girls at a professional level.
What goals you are setting for yourself for the future?


I want to play overseas and hopefully get the opportunity to play for the USWNT.

What advice do you have for players looking to play at the collegiate level?
Dedicate time to work on your skills and fitness outside your organized team.
As you are searching for colleges, keep your options open and don’t be close-minded. I didn’t want to leave California, and ended up at Florida State going to 4 college cups in 4 years (something I could have never imagined).

Anything else you want to say to our campers and all of your fans out there?
I can honestly say that No. 1 Soccer Camps contributed my success in soccer. I recommend this camp to those who are looking for a camp, and if you have already attended, I advise you to return, you won’t be disappointed. It’s worth every penny!

Keep working hard, set goals, envision dreams for yourself and strive for them even when the path may be seemingly impossible.

For more information on No. 1 Soccer Camps or any of our 26 sites nation wide, visit our website at www.no1socercamps.com

No. 1 Soccer Camps March Promotions

No.1 Soccer Spring Swag Giveaways- Its March Madness!

Every day in March, No.1 Soccer Camps will be giving away free soccer swag to campers registered for any of our 2015 camp sessions. If you are registered, you are automatically entered into every drawing, every day!  In addition, we will be holding an online auction for one week of camp on March 31, and No.1 will match the winning bid and donate it to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

 

March Daily Giveaways

March 1-7th: Each day we will randomly select five registered campers to receive a free No.1 Soccer Camp Training Jersey, a $25.00 value!

March 8th-14th: Each day we will randomly select a goalkeeper who has registered for camp to receive a free pair of adidas Predator Pro Gloves, an $80.00 value!

March 15th-21st: Each day we will randomly select five registered campers to receive an adidas F50 Soccer Ball, a $60.00 value!

March 22nd-31st: Each day we will randomly select 10 registered campers for a unique 2015 No.1 Soccer Shirt. Value – Priceless!

No.1 Gives back With Online Auction

On March 31st, No. 1 will hold an on-line auction for a week of No.1 Soccer Camps! The winner has her/his choice of any of our 26 locations nation wide! In addition, No.1 Soccer Camps will match the winning bid and send a check for the same amount to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, an organization dedicated to pediatric cancer research.

Adjusting Technique And Training Mentality In Goalkeepers

Get After It: Adjusting Technique And Training Mentality In Goalkeepers

This is the final installment of a three part series on training youth goalkeepers by No. 1 Soccer Camps’ Goalkeeper Director Mike Idland.

Technique First.  Let us consider the unbalanced goalkeepers discussed previously in terms of which is in better shape to move forward as a player.  The key factor here will be adjustments.

The highly-technical goalkeeper has quite a bit going for her.  First of all, her attempts at saves and her mistakes are going to be fairly uniform, as she tries to handle a given situation employing the proper technique almost every time.  Likewise, her successful saves are also going to look and feel alike for the same reason; thus, by imprinting those technical movements, the goalkeeper will develop great consistency on routine plays.  For these reasons, she is in a good position to make adjustments to solve problems or mistakes.  Her repetitions will have a “control,” like a scientific experiment, and she will be able to find the change that fixes the problem relatively easily so long as she is willing to change what she is doing, which is a definite consideration.

The play-making goalkeeper is a different story.  A coach will often find himself trying to help this keeper by first reviewing the correct technique for the given situation.  There is good reason for this.  Most would agree that part of the beauty of our game is that, because of its free-flowing nature, it is different every time.  Yet, there are patterns in the game that recur again and again, especially for the goalkeeper.  Clearly, the same patterns of play require the same patterns of response from the goalkeeper.  (i.e. It would make no sense to catch a shot at chest height using an overhand grip one time, and catch another shot at an identical height using an underhand grip at a different moment in the game.) So, based on this logic, the first adjustment for the play-making goalkeeper, when trying to work on a given situation giving her trouble, is actually to standardize the technique being employed and see where that leaves her.

So, when working with very young goalkeepers from scratch, the preference is to train them to technical perfection while helping them to problem solve situations tactically in the course of game play.

Training Mentality.  But there is something very specific to training and a3blog7 goalkeeper’s demeanor during training.  The training ground is where the goalkeeper becomes hard or soft; it is where the goalkeeper works out problems and imprints habits; and it is where the goalkeeper has the most candid and unrestricted exchange with the coach and other goalkeepers. Ideally, the majority of this attitude toward training is learned holistically through example – almost as if by osmosis.  Top end goalkeeper camps like No. 1 Soccer Camps Goalkeeper Camp are unique in their ability to provide this type of environment all day long for an extended period of time, during which a young player can literally live as a goalkeeper.  Often, they emerge a different player simply because they have learned, through direct exposure, the proper attitude toward training.  Nothing can replace this experience.

Hard work, a respect for the work being done, and general common sense will constitute a positive attitude toward training. Efficiency is a critical element for a goalkeeper’s approach to training.  Nothing should be wasted and everything should be maximized.  That is to say, the goalkeeper moves quickly from one activity to the next whether that be in between repetitions or simply jogging back onto the field after breaking for water.  She always returns the ball back to the server quickly and accurately and begins to focus on the next ball before the server has played it.  There is very little “down time.” Likewise, the goalkeeper shows up to training early and prepared.  She is fully and properly dressed and prepped in terms of initial stretching etc. before the session is scheduled to begin.  She works attentively until the session is through, is proactive in offering assistance in gathering up the training equipment being used on the field, and she takes the time to stretch afterwards as well as the care to properly pack her own equipment.  Everything about the goalkeeper’s effort, work rate, and attention should say, “I am here to train hard because I recognize it is important and I am happy to put the work in.”

When a group of goalkeepers are training together, there is a very special camaraderie that is unique to this type of group.  It is different from a team’s camaraderie because, in the end, each goalkeeper is concerned mostly with improving her own game; however, there is a certain spirit of collectivity and support for the fellow goalkeeper that should be apparent in the way that they relate to each other.  Hard work and big time saves should be acknowledged both when carried out by the players or, when applicable, demonstrated by the staff coach.  This creates a very positive atmosphere: spirits are high and goalkeepers are compelled toward excellence in performance both by their own internal motivation and by the appreciation and praise expressed by their peers.

3blog4_newWork hard, but relax.  Often, when a young goalkeeper first “catches the bug” and wraps her head around a training ethic, she will over do it.  That is to say that she might work so hard that she becomes frantic and her performance suffers as a result.  There is nothing good about a frantic goalkeeper.  But, refining this youngster’s approach is not very difficult and it is fun to do!  The young player must learn to recognize the difference between a controlled high work rate and going crazy.  This is one of the elements of the goalkeeper’s training mentality that can be coached directly.  Again, the best way is by means of example.  A young, accomplished staff coach’s (or perhaps an older, more experienced player’s) demonstration paints the best picture here.  Put him in a training exercise and let him go to work.  As he is playing, point out to the young goalkeeper how controlled his movement is.  He is always focused.  His feet, for example, are always precise in their movement and set at the right times.  Yet, he is always pushing the pace at which the training moves: making saves and bouncing right back up for more; returning balls accurately and swiftly to the server; playing just a bit faster than the serve so as to ask the server to test him more on the next one.  These traits are the embodiment of the very valuable lesson to work hard, but relax.

Effort.  Each goalkeeper has her own range, and the goalkeeper coach must never punish or reprimand the goalkeeper for the limitations of her range.  I should explain that I am taking the word “range” here in a broad sense, to indicate the given boundary of ability.  To illustrate, one might say a goalkeeper’s “range” enables her to catch driven crosses five yards out from the goal line, but not six.  Or, one might say, a goalkeeper’s range enables her to work at 100% for 30 seconds, but not 35.  As the coach of a youth goalkeeper, it is fair to say that your job can be summed up in one simple phrase: Extend the goalkeeper’s range.  Effort and range are intimately related, and range must be applied to mentality too.  The goalkeeper coach must demand the maximum effort in all situations and at all times from the goalkeeper in order for the goalkeeper to extend her range.  To embody a style of training or play that is always at maximum effort is, then, a critical part of the goalkeeper’s mentality, and it is the coach’s job to teach the goalkeeper to understand why.

Pride.  The goalkeeper must take pride in all that she does before, during, and after training.  Does her appearance represent her as the goalkeeper she wants to be recognized as? Does the effort and work rate in a given training session do the same? Does the goalkeeper behave in a manner during play and away from the field that she knows her goalkeeper coach would be proud of? When the goalkeeper can answer each of these positively, she is arriving at a mentality that is healthy for her own development.  Right around this time, the goalkeeper’s mentality will usually begin manifesting itself in terms of poised, comfortable, confident, and consistent play in games.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the complexities and idiosyncrasies of a young goalkeeper’s mentality are, no doubt, important for the coach who has taken on the project of developing the keeper.  However, the point I would emphasize most for the coach undertaking this challenge is patience.  Developing a well-balanced and mentally strong goalkeeper is most definitely a long-term project.  In a sense, we are asking the goalkeeper to become an expert in a particular philosophy, versed in all of its tenets and familiar with how they are applied.  This will be a process of verbalization, of hands-on experimentation, of environmental manipulation, and of repetition.  The goalkeeper coach must work in the capacity of a guide for the youngster, rather than an authoritarian in order for the goalkeeper to develop an intrinsic embrace of a training mentality.  This goalkeeper, then, will carry herself – will act – like a goalkeeper simply because it is the right way to be, not for anybody else, but for herself.

idlandmikeMike Idland is the Head Coach for the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Women’s Soccer Team and Goalkeeper Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Elizabethtown College location. A former No. 1 camper, Coach Idland played collegiately at at Suny Cortland. He became a staff coach at No. 1 in 2000 and went on to become a Regional Director in 2004. Idland will be the Goalkeeper Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Elizabethtown College location from July 26-30st. 

Also by Mike Idland: Understanding The Youth Goalkeeper Mentality (Pt. 1), Mistake Management and Troubleshooting for Goalkeepers (Pt. 2) and Out Of Your Mind Breakaways (2014)

Mistake Management And Troubleshooting for Goalkeepers

Get After It: Mistake Management And Troubleshooting In Youth Goalkeepers

By Mike Idland, for No.1 Soccer Camps

In the second installment of a three part series, No. 1 Goalkeeper Director blueridgegkMike Idland tackles mistake management and troubleshooting common reactions to technical and tactical mistakes by goalkeepers.

For any educated fan of soccer, it is understood that goalkeepers make mistakes regularly and at all levels, including at the very highest professional and international levels.  And sometimes the mistakes at those levels can be very embarrassing and magnified by the thousands of fans watching and the fact that the backup is also a professional and ready to take your spot the first chance he gets.  So, how do these goalkeepers continue on?
Mistake Management

Never let one goal turn into two!  This sounds like common sense, but it is one of the most important points to emphasize with your young goalkeepers.  When goalkeepers concede goals – especially “soft” goals – they can be haunted by them for long periods of time.  Needless to say, this can have a devastating effect on their performance for the remainder of the game, and sometimes even in the games to follow! It is all an issue of ego and the goalkeeper must be taught at a young age to put it in perspective.  A very logical conversation with the goalkeeper goes a long way here.  “It stands to reason that to do your best in a given situation during the game requires your full concentration, doesn’t it?” you might pose to your goalkeeper, “Well, if that is the case, then you can’t have your attention divided on the present and the past – especially since you cannot change the past!” When a goalkeeper is caught in two minds: one in the present and one in the past, she is likely to make mistakes that she normally wouldn’t make were she focused exclusively on the present.  This is how one goal turns into two!

gkblog5Another very simple adage I use over and over again with my goalkeepers is Always the next ball.  If during the periods between action, the keeper’s frame of mind and focus is always on the next ball, then she will give herself the best chance possible to perform to her full ability at all times.  This must be the approach whether she has just made the biggest blunder of her career or the greatest save of her life: Always the next ball.  The maturity that this requires does not usually come to goalkeepers on its own until they are quite old and the development of humility, as a natural piece of their personalities, comes to be.  But, it can be taught at a relatively young age under the following conditions: the goalkeeper has an open mind; the goalkeeper coach knows and understands the goalkeeper as a person; the goalkeeper coach knows and understands the type of goalkeeper with whom he is working; and the keeper trusts her coach (and her team).  Before going into more depth on types of goalkeepers and mistake management, it is worth stating something I think everyone in the goalkeeper’s sphere (the team, the coach, the fans, and the keeper herself) will agree on after a mistake: everyone wants to get the next play right, so everyone will be happy if the goalkeeper is able to is able to bounce right back into the game and get the next ball! Big time goalkeepers such as the professionals and internationals mentioned before understand this, and this is what keeps them playing at a high level even after they let up a howler.

Troubleshooting Reactions To Mistakes

The Highly-Technical Goalkeeper’s Mistake or Goal Against

Needless to say, the goalkeeper’s psyche can be fragile at times.  At young ages, the very serious goalkeeper is often very technically oriented.  Technique is often their measurement of success or failure.  This is both a blessing and curse for the goalkeeper coach.  The positive side is that the keeper will pay great attention to detail in training and during play and will make technical progress at an exciting pace.  On the other hand, this keeper is often in danger of becoming a player who plays strictly by the books.  They often lack the creativity to make an unorthodox save when called upon to do so, and some of them – when they do make this type of save – will even regard it as a failure because they are technically incorrect.  For this type of goalkeeper, mistake management is a very difficult task.

Fear of embarrassment is usually a major concern for highly-technical goalkeepers, as they often have a misconception as to how their mistakes are perceived.  They often feel very silly doing the scrambling and floundering for loose balls that is sometimes required of the keeper in emergency situations.  And the keepers feel like everybody sees their mistake, which they most certainly do not.  For example, a goalkeeper might misjudge a flighted ball, come out to meet it, and have it hit only her fingertips and fall awkwardly behind her into a crowd of players.  The game now asks the goalkeeper to do something unorthodox to solve the problem: she has to go backwards and she may have to dive on top of the ball to cover it and protect it from the players in the area like a football player recovering a fumble.  Again, they will often feel ridiculous doing this because it is not necessarily an accepted and established technique.  You may see this goalkeeper “give up” at this point, and this must be addressed immediately but carefully by the coach.  (More on that to follow.)

Similarly, when the very technical goalkeeper is beaten for a goal because of a technical error (for instance, a breakaway is scored under her hands because they were not positioned low enough), the goalkeeper may have a very tough time “shaking it off” because she holds herself to technical perfection as a standard.  Again, this is wonderful on one hand, but a real problem on the other, as technical perfection is not realistic at a high level of play.  The coach, of course, must understand this keeper’s orientation toward her game and help her through it with the objective of engendering a perspective more balanced between the technical and tactical in the goalkeeper.  i.e. The keeper should strive to execute technically correct at all ties, but the top priority must remain to solve the soccer problems posed to her in front of the goal in order to keep the ball out of the net.

Let me return for a moment to the phenomenon of the highly-skilled, gkblog4highly-technical goalkeeper “giving up” in the middle of an awkward situation such as a scramble in front of the goal.  It is easy for the coach to jump to the assumption that the keeper doesn’t care because of her actions, and that is an understandable reaction.  But, this scenario is usually a bit deeper than that and understanding the inner workings of this problem for the goalkeeper will go a long way in helping her and, consequently, helping your team in the long run.

Ask yourself if your keeper’s behavior under normal circumstances (in training, match play, off the field, etc.) ever really indicates that she doesn’t care? If the player has any integrity and heart, the answer is probably no.  And if this is the case, then it is probably fair to say that her lack of effort is not because she doesn’t care.  More likely, for this type of goalkeeper, it is because she either doesn’t know what to do or will feel extremely embarrassed doing it.  When this problem is left to fester over time, the goalkeeper may actually be more comfortable with the goal against than making the awkward effort to solve the emergency.  This is a major problem that must be corrected immediately, but it must be done through calm and logical conversation with the goalkeeper.

Shouting at her without contextualizing the problem will do the coach no good.  Ask her some questions.  Let it come out in the open both that she cares and that she is grappling with the feeling of the unorthodox solution to the problem.  Let her know that you understand but also that this “giving up” is unacceptable.  After all, this is supposed to be a player with very specialized expertise, but if she doesn’t try for a ball, any field player could be thrown in goal and do the same job if not better! It will go a very long way to make absolutely certain the environment is 100% comfortable for the goalkeeper when training to resolve this issue.  There must be a perfect trust between the goalkeeper and the goalkeeper coach because the goalkeeper must feel okay to embarrass herself in front of him, and, if working in a team training environment, in front of the team too.  This is no small task!

The goalkeeper will start out with the same problem, no visible effort, and the coach should start coaching by stating the obvious: “Christina, you are not moving to get the ball; I can’t see any effort.  Our first step is to show some effort.” Little, by little, the goalkeeper may chip away at her comfort zone and begin scrambling and “making plays,” instead of just counting on text book techniques.  Needless to say, you should commend these efforts and tell her how happy you are to see her working so hard to keep the ball out of the net: it is a very positive message to both the coach and the team.

In the old days, the goalkeeper coach would berate the goalkeeper in this situation, demanding that she make an effort and perhaps even kicking her out of training if she persisted in failing to make an effort.  This approach has its place, but things have changed, and it is not usually the best first course of action, as this gets the goalkeeper to perform chiefly based on either fear or anger, neither of which allows for the keeper to be well focused.  You may reach your boiling point with a goalkeeper – I know I have several times – and explode on her, and this is understandable because you are only human.  But, patience and restraint are very precious virtues when coaching a goalkeeper.  All it may take is one outburst out of the blue (in the goalkeeper’s perspective) to lose the young player’s trust.  She may feel almost as if you have just been hiding your anger with her all along.  Now, every long-term working relationship between goalkeeper coach and goalkeeper will require the coach to scold his goalkeeper on occasion; that is just the nature of the coach-player-performance relationship.  But, knowing your goalkeeper well and knowing, consequently, which chords you will strike with which actions, or with which words, is paramount to your effectiveness as a coach.  You may shout once or twice a year at the most dedicated goalkeepers, and that will most likely be very effective.  Then again, you may have a goalkeeper who needs to be under your wrath constantly.  More power to you if you can work with a player under these conditions.  For me, this goalkeeper is not worth my time, as her motivation is almost exclusively extrinsic, and I am interested only in intrinsically motivated goalkeepers.

The Tactical, Play-Making Goalkeeper’s Mistake or Goal Against
All together a horse of a different color, the less technically-oriented play maker has different concerns regarding her mentality and her mistakes and goals against.  In contrast to overthinking situations and beating herself up over technical deficiencies, the play-making goalkeeper tends not to think enough about the technical solutions.  Because this goalkeeper often handles the same situations differently each time, consistency is a problem.  This goalkeeper’s game is a bit undisciplined even though she may have the best intentions at heart.  An example of the problems one could face with this kind of goalkeeper might be on low balls to the goalkeeper’s side.  Whereas the technical goalkeeper is likely to low-dive every single time for this ball, the renegade play-maker may low dive for this ball one time, scoot over and stay on her feet the next time, forward dive the following time, and make up some other kind of dive all her own on the next one! So, when the ball is mishandled or goes past the goalkeeper for a goal, this keeper rarely says to herself, “which part of the dive did I get incorrect?” because there is no technical standard by which she measures herself.  Instead it is just, “I should have gotten that one!” This goalkeeper, however, does not get as embarrassed on the technical stage in the same way as the more technically-oriented keeper, which is a great quality to have in emergencies.  As a result, this goalkeeper will usually do better in awkward situations, but she will lack consistency in more “routine” situations.

Needless to say, the best goalkeepers are not at either polar extreme, they rather have a healthy balance of technique and play-making awareness.  So, how do we, as coaches, go about developing the goalkeeper with the best balance and where do we start? Next Installment: Technique and Training Mentality

idlandmikeMike Idland is the Head Coach for the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Women’s Soccer Team and Goalkeeper Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Elizabethtown College location. A former No. 1 camper, Coach Idland played collegiately at at Suny Cortland. He became a staff coach at No. 1 in 2000 and went on to become a Regional Director in 2004. Idland will be the Goalkeeper Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Elizabethtown College location from July 26-30st. 

Also by Mike Idland: Understanding The Youth Goalkeeper Mentality Pt. 1 and Out Of Your Mind Breakaways

Understanding The Youth Goalkeeper Mentality

Get After It: Understanding And Engendering The Youth Goalkeepers Mentality

By Mike Idland, for No.1 Soccer Camps

There is a temptation to refer to the goalkeeper’s mindset as a “training blog3_newmentality,” and this would not be incorrect. But, the goalkeeper’s approach, her focus, extends so far beyond training that the term “training” seems to limit the psyche unjustly.  In a sense, the goalkeeper almost has a governing philosophy or a world view.  We can say of many great goalkeepers – whether at the youth or senior levels – that “she carries herself like a goalkeeper,” or, “you can just tell she is a goalkeeper.” Why is that? Why is it that the good ones act like goalkeepers even when they are not practicing their craft on the field of play?

The factors that lead goalkeepers to act the way they do could be explored to infinite depths, but we might start by taking a look at the basic nature of the position the goalkeeper occupies within the context of the team and the game.

It can be lonely back there.
True, the more a goalkeeper develops, the more incorporated into the team shape and operation she becomes (especially on attack), but initially the goalkeeper is stranded on an island that is about 6’ by 8’ – roughly the size of a prison cell! The young goalkeeper often will feel detached from the team’s offensive successes and solely responsible for the team’s goals against.  This is just the nature of the position when the game is played at a very elementary and unorganized level, and that is why almost nobody wants to play in goal at that level.

It is partially up to the coach to frame the position for young players better than that, but it is just as much – if not more so – up to the player to recognize her calling to play in goal.  The nature of the position of goalkeeper actually appeals to a small minority of players.  At the youngest ages, this will happen on two basic levels: the youngster will either recognize the opportunity to shine from this unique position, or the child will see in this position an opportunity to “hide from the game.” This second type of goalkeeper is useless, especially in today’s game.  A good coach will talk with this player and challenge her to excel from the goalkeeper position, but if the child refuses to take on the challenge and persists in being meek, she must be removed from the position, as it does not help her, her teammates, or the game in general.

In other words, the goalkeeper must want to be there.  Thus, we can lay bare perhaps the most essential quality of a goalkeeper’s mentality: the goalkeeper is one who takes on challenges single-handedly and thrives on the opportunity to do so.  It can be lonely back there, yes, but the true goalkeeper (even at the youngest ages) will transform socially the perception of this position from one that players wish to avoid into one of which they are envious.

blog2

Goalkeepers are often named captains of the team – why? Is leadership somehow endemic to the position?
Yes and no.  Because of the isolation or “on stage” factor and because the goalkeeper is the one to whom the team turns to “bail them out,” leadership is built into the position in some sense.  However, as any experienced coach or player will tell you, not all goalkeepers are leaders.  So, there is something more to it than that.

The confident goalkeeper who faces challenges head on is, in a way, a microcosm of what a serious team aspires to be.  Here we have a player whose every touch is under pressure and whose best performance is the ultimate effort “not to lose.” (Now, this is different from the effort “to win,” though the two are very closely related.) The only way for the goalkeeper to succeed at this effort is to work tirelessly when called upon.  She can take no “time off” because doing so equals certain goals against.  So, it is only natural for the team and the coach to warm to this player and model their collective attitude after hers.  The team tries to embody the same tireless work ethic and “refuse to lose” demeanor the goalkeeper exhibits.

When the goalkeeper accepts the responsibilities that her position on the field and her position within the team require, she is afforded many opportunities to display leadership under various circumstances.  The following circumstances pose for the goalkeeper a challenge of her character and, thus, a test of her leadership qualities regularly:

  • an “impossible” situation, i.e. a breakaway or a penalty kick
  • a game-winning save
  • a game-losing goal against
  • a regular save
  • a regular goal against
  • a major mistake by a teammate
  • a major mistake by the goalkeeper herself
  • being chosen as the “back up” goalkeeper on a particular game day
  • winning the starting position
  • a demanding training session
  • an off-field problem that requires a player to step up and take charge of the situation
  • and many more.

blueridgegk2The thing is that the goalkeeper rarely does anything without the attention of the team and coach on her.  So, if she is to succeed in the context of the team, she must wear her heart on her sleeve and handle any of the above situations and the countless others that may arise with the utmost poise.  When the team trusts the goalkeeper (and there must be trust between the goalkeeper and the team if there is to be success), they will often model their own demeanor after how the goalkeeper reacts to key moments.  That is to say, if the goalkeeper is confident and composed at a critical moment, then the team is likely to be confident and composed.  If the goalkeeper is panicked and defeated at this moment, then the team may lose heart.  For some goalkeepers, the feeling is that this is an unfair element to goalkeeping; they would rather just go about their business quietly, blending in, with no more or no less responsibility than any other player on the team.  But, the thing is the goalkeeper occupies a position that is different from the other players.  And with this position comes what has elsewhere been termed the burden of responsibility.  In other words, like it or not, the goalkeeper will be looked to as an example by the team and the coach.

“What’s the message?”
This is one of the phrases I use most when coaching my goalkeepers in regard to mentality and poise.  It is very important to me that they understand the coded messages they send mostly with their body language, but also with their words and their play.  The goalkeeper, like anyone else, is always saying something by the way in which she is standing, the spirit with which she plays, and the words she chooses.  This message can be positive, negative, or anything in between.  And the team will receive it.

If you have a goalkeeper who has not considered this yet, but who is looked to as a leader by your team, watch closely the next time he or she concedes a goal at a crucial moment in the game.  First, take note of how many of the players on the field turn their attention, if only briefly, to the goalkeeper immediately following the goal.  Then, assess what the goalkeeper’s body language is projecting.  Is it confidence? Is it defeat? Hopelessness? Indifference? You will be able to decipher the message, and so can your players. This is perhaps the most important moment for the goalkeeper to be aware of her body language.  Why?

The team suffers a psychological blow after conceding a goal.  Collectively, they have failed and they feel that.  Teams with a good understanding of the game will not necessarily blame the goalkeeper for the goal, as most goals are a result of several players’ errors.  However, the team will hold the goalkeeper responsible for the ones she “should have” saved, and rightly so.  So, how does the goalkeeper send the right message to her team at this critical moment?

A great goalkeeper coach once told me, “a lot of this job is acting.”
He was right!  He was, of course, referring to the degree of theater the goalkeeper coach must employ to effectively get through to the keepers regardless of his “natural personality.” But, the same principle holds true for the player trying to get across to her team.  Every goalkeeper is different and some have a tougher time stomaching goals against than others.  At the youth levels, you will see everything from the goalkeeper who beats herself up over a goal against to the goalkeeper who seems entirely unaffected.  Neither extreme is good.  The team must see that their keeper cares, but they must not see that their goalkeeper is defeated or has lost her mind!

A little bit of anger is okay; it comes very naturally to most serious goalkeepers, and it is good for the team to see some steam coming out of the keeper’s ears once in a while, but the keeper should be mindful of the proverbial explosion after a goal against.  For some keepers, this manifests itself physically as they assault the goalpost, punch the ground or even themselves, or punt the ball a mile up the field.  Well, what is the message here? It certainly is not a message that suggests the keeper or her team is in control of what is going on.  For other goalkeepers, the explosion comes in the form of a tirade directed at the nearest defender, letting her know how at fault she is.  This is anger displacement and may function to make the keeper feel better, but it is certainly not healthy for the team and it is not going to go very far in terms of nurturing the important relationship between the goalkeeper and the defenders.  Criticizing a teammate has its place, but the timing and delivery must be taken into consideration.

Caring, determination, and conviction are the ideas the goalkeeper should try to convey following a goal against.  It is okay if the players see that the goal hit you in the heart because that shows them how much you care.  So, the facial expressions of disappointment or controlled anger are okay momentarily so long as they are kept under control.  But, at the same time, that grit and competitiveness must return to the keeper’s eyes and overall countenance while the team’s attention is still on her.  They must look back there and believe they can still do it!

Communication
Often a goalkeeper’s communication will disappear immediately following a goal against.  It is hard to say exactly why this happens, but it tends to have something to do with feelings of accountability.  i.e. who am I to be bossing these players around right now, if I can’t even keep the ball out of my own net? This sentiment is understandable.  But, the coach must have a discussion with the keeper to make sure it is understood that effective communication from her to her teammates is part of keeping the ball out of the net, and it must continue after a goal against in order to prevent the same thing from happening again.  A momentary lapse might be okay, as the players will pick up on the keeper’s ownership of the goal, but as soon as there is defensive organizing to be done, the goalkeeper must go back to work with the communication.  Next Installment: Mistake Management

idlandmikeMike Idland is the Head Coach for the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Women’s Soccer Team and Goalkeeper Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Elizabethtown College location. A former No. 1 camper, Coach Idland played collegiately at at Suny Cortland. He became a staff coach at No. 1 in 2000 and went on to become a Regional Director in 2004. Idland will be the Goalkeeper Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Elizabethtown College location from July 26-30st. 

Also by Mike Idland: Out Of Your Mind Breakaways

 

2015 College Prep Performance Academy

No.1 Soccer Camps Offer College Prep Performance Academy At 10 Sites Throughout The Us

No.1 Soccer Camps is pleased to announce select No. 1 sites throughout the country will be host to the newly revamped No.1 Soccer Camps College Prep Performance Academy.

“As we endeavor to consistently meet the needs of the modern soccer player, we have undergone a significant upgrade to our very successful College Prep Program. The No.1 College Prep Performance Academy will offer a unique and relevant way to prepare to play at the highest level,” says Dr. Joe Machnik, No. 1 Soccer Camps Founder.

The No.1 College Prep Performance Academy will provide a superior experience for soccer players aged 15 and above who are serious about fulfilling their potential. Players will receive the highest caliber of on and off the field instruction from guest collegiate coaches as well as No. 1 Senior Staff coaches in a highly competitive training environment. The goal of our College Prep Performance Academy is to improve individual play through challenging field sessions and insightful seminars on preparing and playing beyond high school. Machnik believes, “Having our participants exposed to this level of coaching will help prepare them for what is expected at the next level.”

In addition to the top quality field sessions, each College Prep site will provide High Performance Seminars focusing on relevant topics for the college preparation process.

These High Performance Seminars will be led by trusted experts in their fields and will include:

 

  • Sports Nutrition
  • Soccer Specific Conditioning
  • ACT/SAT Preparation
  • Sports Psychology

 

 

Due to the uniqueness of this specialty program, enrollment will be limited and offered only at select No.1 Soccer Camp sites.
The No. 1 Soccer Camps College Prep Performance Academy will be held at the following sites in 2015. Please click on a site for additional information:
Charleston Southern University – N Charleston, SC – June 7-11 and July 19-23

Historic Dodgertown – Vero Beach, FL – June 14-18 

University of Dallas – Irving, TX – June 21-25

Darlington School – Rome, GA – July 11-15 

Fountain Valley School – Colorado Springs, CO – July 11-15  

Salisbury University – Salisbury, MD – July 12-16

Benedictine University – Lisle, IL – July 15-17

Western Connecticut State University – Danbury, CT – July 26-30

Asheville School –  Asheville, NC – August 2 – 8

Pomfret School – Pomfret, CT – August 6 – 9 

For more information about the curriculum at the No. 1 Soccer Camps College Prep Performance Academy, visit our see our College Prep Performance Academy page here.  

No. 1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of it’s kind, was founded by Dr. Joseph Machnik in 1977. Since then, over 80,000 soccer players and coaches have attended No. 1 Soccer Camps. The former World Cup and professional soccer coach is credited for creating the “Machnik Method,” a distinctive soccer training method that is universally recognized and used today. The No. 1 Soccer Camp offers an incredible opportunity for field players and goalkeepers to challenge themselves.

Registration for the College Prep Performance Academy is limited. Register early to secure your spot along side of the nation’s top coaches and players. 

New No.1 Virginia Site At Richard Bland College

No.1 Soccer camps is pleased to announce our newest site in virginia for 2015 at Richard Bland College of William and Mary under the direction of regional director Eddie De Souza.

Richard Bland College at William and Mary

The picturesque campus is located near historic Petersburg Virginia and is a vibrant and diverse living and learning community.  Richard Bland College is easily accessible from the surrounding cities of Richmond, Charlottesville, Hampton Roads and the Virginia Beach areas. The Richard Bland athletic facilities are considered among the best in the region. In addition to lush and abundant playing fields, there is a futsal court, a warm and inviting dining hall, a state of the art field house for use during inclement weather and new student housing.   Campers will be housed in on campus resident halls that offer apartment style living with suites that offer state of the art amenities. The rooms are all air-conditioned and offer in suite refrigerators, laundry, and wi fi.  Most rooms will accommodate 4-6 campers and roommate request are honored to the best of our ability. No1 Soccer coaches are strategically placed throughout the dorm area to ensure a safe and comfortable environment.

Campers will dine in the student cafeteria where healthy, nutritious meals will be served for all- you-can-eat dining. The Richard Bland staff will be on hand to provide nutritious, healthy and quality food service to serve each camper’s individual needs. A salad bar and a sandwich bar are available during lunch and dinner to provide additional options to their daily entrees and sides. A variety of juices, water and milk are available with every meal. In addition the staff will provide a snack bar where campers may purchase pizza, snacks and Gatorade and other special treats.

No. 1 Regional Director Eduardo de Souza
eddiedesouza

The No. 1 Soccer Camp at Richard Bland College will be directed by long-time No.1 Director Eduardo De Souza. Campers and parents may know remember him as the No. 1 Soccer Camps College Prep Director and Striker Director at our Urbana, Salisbury and West Connsites.

Coach Eddie was named the Head Coach of Richard Bland College in 2014. Prior to Richard Bland, he was part of the Longwood men’s soccer program  for six seasons – three of those as the team’s associate head coach.  In addition, he served as a coach at the Schulz Academy in Boca Raton, FL and was an assistant coach at Mercer University.  Coach Eddie has coached at the Zico Academy in Orlando, Fla. since 2010. In this role, he works with Arthur “Zico” Antunes Coimbra, a world-renown soccer player who led Brazil to three World Cups and scored more than 800 goals in his professional career. de Sousa began his coaching career at Sport Club International, where he worked primarily with the ‘Junior’ program, coaching the likes of Brazilian National Team members Rafael Sobis, Alexandre Pato and Nilmar Honorato da Silva.

eduardo-de-souza

de Souza is a product of Brazil’s Gremio FBPA, and also has playing experience in Spain (Desportivo) and the United States (Tempest USL). He helped Gremio FBPA to a second-place finish in Brazil in 1992. Coach Eddie currently holds a US Soccer Coaching C License, in addition to his Brazilian B License.

de Souza earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communication at Trevecca Nazarene University in Tennessee and a Master of Science degree in education at Mercer. He was a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) All-American student-athlete at Mid-Continent University in Kentucky, helping the program to a pair of NAIA Final Four appearances before transferring to Trevecca Nazarene.
A native of Porto Alegre, Brazil, De Souza and his wife, Larissa, have a daughter, Livia.

For more information on No. 1 Soccer Camps Richard Bland College location or to contact Coach Eddie, Click Here

Click here to read a 2013 No. 1 article “Off the Pitch with Eddie de Souza” 

 

Off The Pitch With No.1 Soccer Camps Athletics Trainer Pierre Soubrier

Athletic Trainer Pierre Soubrier brings a wealth of experience as a player, coach, and medical professional to No. 1 Soccer Camps

As a player, the French born Soubrier was a youth academy player for the professional Tolouse Football Club from ages twelve through seventeen. In 2005, he moved to the US and brought his talents to Scarborough High School helping his team win the state championship. During the same year, he also played premier soccer for Odyssey Soccer Club who captured the Maine Premier state championship.

pierreSoubrier was recruited to Division 1 Quinnipiac University where he was a four year starter and named All-Conference and All-Northeast Region First Team his Junior and Senior years. As a Junior, he led the team in goals and points as the Bobcats’ center back and captained the QU team his Senior year. One of his greatest accomplishments as a player was beating Quinnipiac’s rival Central Connecticut State University his senior year 4-3 in OT. Soubrier had two assists and the winning goal on a free kick as a center midfielder.

After earning his Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and Sports Medicine from Quinnipiac in 2011, Soubrier took his first Athletic Training job at Yale University where he worked with the field hockey, women’s ice hockey and light weight crew teams. Soubrier continued his academic career and recieved his Masters of Sports Rehabilitation and Therapy degree from London Metropolitan University this fall.

As a coach, the tri-lingual Soubrier began his coaching career in 2009 and coached for Emerson Soccer Academy and The Connecticut Football Club.

No. 1 Campers at our Brewster, Northfield and Blue Ridge sites received pierrew-camperthe benefits of Soubrier’s on and off the pitch talentsin 2014.  From running sunrise PT sessions, to demoing drills to making sure each camper was properly cared for, Soubrier found a perfect professional fit with No. 1 Soccer Camps.

“I love working for No. 1 because of the excellence of its staff, and I liked the idea of traveling week from week to different states and places to coach kids,” said Soubrier. “I love the fact that kids come back year after year the relationship we get to develop with them.” A camper favorite at every site he worked, Soubrier embodies the No. 1 Soccer Camps staff member: a highly trained professional dedicated to the game and the next generation of players.

As a former D1 player, campers respect the treatment and advice he dispenses: “Remember that injuries happen and that it’s not the end of one’s career. Mental toughness is the key to go far in this sport!” Soubrier will be the Athletic Trainer at our Brewster, Northfield and Pomfretlocations in 2015.

For more information on No. 1 Soccer camps, click here.

Penalty Kicks: Handling The Pressure On Both Sides of The Ball

This year’s World Cup had its share of games decided by penalty kicks. While they make for dramatic endings, PKs present unique challenges for players. Soccer championships at every level are often decided by penalty kick shootouts, but who faces the most pressure, the goalkeeper or the striker?

While both players shoulder their share of stress, the prevailing thought by managers, coaches, players and fans is that the shooter has most of the pressure because they are expected to score.
In a recent study by Geir Jordet of the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences this theory was investigated. His analysis of penalty kicks taken in the World Cup, The Euro and Champions League found that players generally underperform when pressure is at its greatest.  The popular perception appears to be reality; however, the reality goes much deeper.
Nearly 400 penalty kicks were analyzed and the results indicate that “players generally underperform when pressure peaks.” On high pressure penalty kicks where a miss will instantly produce a loss, players score only 55% of the time. Therefore, goalkeepers have a 45% success rate at this critical time. The results of this study also show that when the penalty kick will secure a win, the successful conversion rate is 95% for the shooter.
This difference is significant and can most surely be related to players blogpk2_newthinking about the outcome and dwelling on the consequences. A fear of failure may creep in and affect the performance in the must score situation.  This effect is prominent regardless of a player’s status, but has an incredibly negative effect on players of elite status. Examples are plentiful – Maradona, Platini, van Basten, Roberto Baggio all were soccer legends who got it wrong when it mattered the most.
There are a couple of other statistics about penalty kicks that are attention grabbers. According to this study “defenders generally score fewer goals in penalty shootouts (68%), compared to forwards (80%). This difference is higher, though, when we look at only the high-status players. The majority of high-status forwards maintains an average level of performance (73% goals), while high-status defenders flop and only score on 25% of their attempts.
The study also includes valuable information concerning the timing of taking penalty kicks as well as the results of celebrations. In thee situations, every little detail is a factor in the outcome.
The curriculum at No. 1 Soccer Camps integrates the latest findings uses studies like these to provide the best training for our campers. For the past 38 years, our program has included a detailed training session featuring an in depth analysis of the three types of penalty kicks and how to improve your chances to score if you are a striker and how to save them if you are the goalkeeper. With additional research and modern training methodologies, No.1 Soccer camps helps players increase their chances of delivering the winning penalty when it matters most and learning the inside secrets to successfully making the most important save of the year.
For more information on No. 1 Soccer Camps, visit our website at www.no1soccercamps.com

In The Own Words: No.1 Parents On The No.1 Soccer Camps Experience

With just seven No. 1 Soccer Camps sessions completed this summer and nineteen more to go, we present just a few of the testimonials from our parents on their children’s No. 1 Soccer Camps Experience in 2014.

“I just want to say thank you for having Marc and Max at No.1 Soccer udallCamp in Urbana again this year. To use their words, they had an “amazing” time. Each year, I hear stories for days about their good times on and off the field. This year was even more special because of the World Cup games they viewed with the entire camp. The boys always agree that the competition level, and the soccer instruction are the most intense at No.1. Needless to say, knowing Marc and Max, they love it! I appreciate knowing they are fine with you and your staff and having the opportunity to hear their stories each year. This was their third year in attendance, and I am sure they will be back for more! Thanks again!”  – Susan, No. 1 Soccer Camps at Urbana Parent  

urbana“I just wanted to share with you that Melanie thought this was the best soccer camp she’s ever attended.  She said that she got so much more out of it than the ODP Developmental camp in May, so you and the coaching staff should feel especially proud!  The player evaluation form was much more detailed and individualized as compared to the ODP form.  Melanie has been given more specific insights on how to improve her performance this season and beyond.  The only thing she could think of to make it better would be more camps in Vero throughout the year to hone her skills. Looking forward to the next camp.” – Cindy, No. 1 Soccer Camps at Vero Beach Parent  
“Allison really had a great week. The written evaluation seemed very intuitive. She came home and told her father ‘Daddy, I should have listened to you all these years.  My coaches told me all the same things you say!’ Thank You!” – Gillian, No. 1 Soccer Camps  at Urbana Parent  
“I just wanted to let you know that my daughter, Karlie S, had a fantastic time at camp this week. They enjoyed each session with your coaching staff and said that they really helped the girls to work on the skills they needed to improve. As a parent, I knew they were in great hands with your expertise and knowledge of the sport. I appreciated how you maintained safety first and brought the kids in during local lightning.  Karlie was so excited about being on her own and responsible for her equipment and arriving at each session on time.  We really enjoyed reading the coach’s (Hector) comments as they were descriptive and right on target with Karlie.   So, thank you for a wonderful week where skills, strategy, study, and friendships were made.  We look forward to coming back next year. Have you considered a two week session where the girls could continue to practice and develop?  Not signing on for a new session but continuing the session.  I don’t think they were ready to come home!  Thanks again for the time you and your staff have dedicated to our girls.” – Monica, No. 1 Soccer Camps at Vero Beach Parent
“I wanted to let you know that the boys (Padraic & Liam) really enjoyed schucamp last week. They have attended No. 1 camps for years at several different locations. They said that the talent of the players was the best they have seen and enjoyed the experience. They want to attend again next year so we will see how the schedule works out. Thanks for putting on a great camp!” – Camille G, No. 1 Soccer Camps at University of Dallas Parent
And from one of our staff coaches: “Thank you for the opportunity to coach this past week. I enjoyed coaching for my first time and learning more about the game. I now understand why you have continued to do this camp for the past 21 years. The coaching staff was a fun group of people to be able to work with and learn from. I would love to come back and help out with camp next summer. I keep asking my parents why I didn’t know about this camp when I was younger? I look forward to seeing you again next year and I will keep you updated on my college season this fall. I will also make sure to send you an email around January or February for information about next summer’s camp. Thank you again for this opportunity and I wish you all the best in the next upcoming camps this summer!” – Katie, No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach at Schreiner University
instagram
“Great week @no1soccercamps best shape in my life after #PT gonna miss all these people! #no1soccercamps” – Chelsie R Via Instagram
There are still spots available at several of our No.1 Soccer Camps locations for 2014. To find a camp near you and for further information, click here!  

No.1 Soccer Camps Partents With Adidas

No. 1 Soccer Camps announced its new partnership with Adidas for 2014. The venture will join two industry leaders to provide the finest in soccer apparel for the nationwide No.1 Soccer Camps Company.

Founded by a professional World Cup Coach, Joe Machnik, No.1 Soccer Camps has been producing quality soccer players since 1977. Built on the backbone of over 38 years of proven training techniques and designed to bring out the best in every player, No. 1 Soccer Camps have trained over 78,000 players throughout the US and Germany.

Founder and President of the No1 Soccer Camps, Dr. Joe Machnik, spoke about  adidas becoming the official  apparel company for No1 Soccer Camps in 2014: “This partnership will provide to our many campers and staff an opportunity to embrace and promote the adidas brand and vice versa. Adidas been the number one soccer shoe and apparel company in the world and a relationship with the long time leader of the American soccer camp phenomenon, No.1 Soccer Camps, makes complete sense, looking at it from every possible perspective.”

Adidas representative Bill Harte spoke of the partnership:  “On behalf of adidas we are proud to be a part of No1 Soccer Camps. This is an organization that has set a precedence in the soccer community that should be looked up to.  With their success and growth, we feel this is a great partnership in many ways. For the past 38 years No 1 Soccer Camps has been recognized as one of the premier soccer camps that provides a legitimate program to players at all ages and levels. This is exactly what we look for when sponsoring or being part of any program.  Adidas will certainly support programs when it comes to youth development and with this new partnership with the No1 Soccer Camps, it’s clear we are staying true to our mission.”

No.1 Soccer Camps has 21 locations nationwide with three new offerings this summer. For further information, consult www.no1soccercamps.com.

Staff Spotlight: David Rubinson

No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach David Rubinson, a 20 year coach at No. 1, represents the quality and expertise our staff coaches.

As a player, David Rubinson took the pitch for Texas Christian University from 1973-1977. While playing with the Horned Frogs, he garnered all-Southwest Conference honors in each of his four seasons. After graduating from the university with a degree in political science and a minor in business, he served as captain of the U.S. National Team which participated in the Maccabiah Games in Israel and participated in the 1976 and 1980 U.S. Olympic Trials.
Rubinson returned to his alma mater as the soccer team’s head men’s coach in 1981. His 1983 and 1984 men’s teams grabbed back-to-back Southwest Conference titles. The 1983 squad was especially impressive, going undefeated in SWC play with a 5-0-1 mark.
In 1986, Rubinson was rewarded with the additional responsibility and challenge of starting a women’s program at the school. He quickly established the Lady Frogs with a .500 record in their first season and then posted consecutive winning seasons the following two years.
Following the end of the 2002 season, the status of the men’s program was changed to club status after 21 years as a varsity sport. Coach Rubinson compiled a 141-257-23 record as the head coach of the men.
In 17 seasons as the head women’s coach, he has compiled a mark of 136-170-20 record. As the head coach, Rubinson has picked up six seasons with a winning percentage of .500 or better and has achieved the 10-win mark on four occasions. His teams have had at least nine wins four of the last six seasons. Rubinson earned Western Athletic Conference Co-Coach of the Year honors when he brought his women’s team to its first WAC Championship tournament in 1997.
In the summer of 2001, Rubinson’s talents were displayed on an international stage, as he was selected to coach a U.S. under-17 girls’ team that competed for the first time in Israel’s Maccabiah Games where the team won gold.  In 2005 he was named Head Coach of the US Women’s National Team for the Maccabiah Games; this time his team won silver. Coach Rubinson also was a US Soccer National Staff Coach from 2005-2010.
Staff Coach David Rubinson will be at No. 1 Soccer Camps University of Dallas and Schreiner University locations in 2014. Click the above links for more information on these sites.

No.1 Directors Earn ‘A’ License

National “A” License for Orr and Thorne  

No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Graeme Orr and Goalkeeper Director Matthew Thorne successfully completed the USSF “A” License coaching education course earlier this month achieving the highest level of coaching certification in the US. Both directors will be in attendance at No. 1 Soccer Camps at University of West Alabama July 16th – 19th.

“The ‘A’ Coaching License is a big deal”, said Dr. Joe Machnik, No.1 Soccer Camp President, who participated in the very first US Soccer Coaching School in 1970. “I am very happy for Graeme and Matthew, and I am sure that they will bring much of what they have learned and a new sense of confidence to the No.1 Soccer Camp program at UWA. We look forward to many great years of camp at UWA, and I am sure the campers will learn much and have fun in the process” Machnik said.

No. 1 Soccer Camps at University of West Alabama

The University of West Alabama (UWA) in Livingston is the perfect place for No.1 Soccer Camp’s only campsite offering in the State. Located strategically and an easy drive along Interstate 20/59 from Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, and West along State Road 80 from Montgomery, UWA also services campers coming across the border from Jackson, Mississippi and as far away as Shreveport, Louisiana. With outstanding facilities at Tiger Stadium, Homer Field House, and Pruitt Hall, No. 1’s UWA site has already doubled in size since 2013 – it’s first year in Alabama – and is quickly becoming one of the most sought after soccer camp locations in the South.

For more information about No. 1 Soccer Camps at University of West Alabama, click here.

No.1 Soccer Camps’ 2014 Photo Contest

Your Pic = Free Soccer Gear!

Capture the spirit of No. 1 Soccer Camps in a picture and win an Adidas Prize Pack!  One entry from each camp location will be selected to win by the No. 1 staff. The winner will be notified on the final day of camp and showcased on our website and social media sites. Celebrate your hard work, love of the game, love of No. 1 Soccer Camps – and become instafamous!
To Enter: 

• Post your picture to Twitter and/or Instagram during your camp session

• Include the following in the post:
@No1SoccerCamps
#No1SoccerCamps
#No.1Location (#UniversityofDallas #CharlestonSouthern #VeroBeach #Brewster, etc.)
Terms and Conditions
Deadline for contest: Last night of camp by 10:00 PM
Eligibility: Entries must be submitted by a current camper while attending that No. 1 site/session.
All entries become the property of No. 1 and may be used in upcoming promotions, advertisements and posts.
Void where prohibited.

Meet The RD: Mike Potier

This week’s article turns a spotlight onto one of our Regional Directors – Mike Potier. Mike has been with No. 1 Soccer Camps for over 21 years. With an impressive playing and coaching career, he embodies the professionalism, experience, and excellence that define our staff, coaches and directors at No. 1 Soccer Camps.

As a high school player, Mike played at Satellite High School in Satellite mercer-university-1992-1Beach, Florida from 1986-1989 during which time his team was the only boy’s team in the school’s history to reach the Final Four. In 1988, he was selected to travel to Brazil as a member of the USA Select team for international training and friendlies.   After high school, Mike continued his playing career at Division 1 Mercer University where he was a four year starter.  During his time in goal for the Bears, the team won the conference championship in 1992 going undefeated, and Mike was a three time All- Conference player.

The professional soccer world awaited Mike after college. He embarked on his professional playing career in the NPSL, CISL, USISL. He started with the Atlanta Magic during the 1994-1995 season – the same year the Magic won the League Championship and Potier was named the Finals MVP.  He was a First Round Draft Pick for the Washington Warthogs (1995) and went on to play with the 1995-1996 League Champion Cleveland Crunch and later with the Kansas City Attack.

potier-sc00e4b91c-1Mike’s coaching career is just as remarkable spanning the high school, club, collegiate and professional level. With 17 years of high school and club coaching experience, he coached several State Champion teams. As Head Coach at Mount De Sales High School for the Boys Varsity team from 1993-1995, the team won two State Championships;  as an Assistant Coach/GK Coach for Satellite High School Girls Varsity team from 2001-2006, the team was a two time State Champ.  Mike has had success as a Head Coach at many clubs and in many age groups in Florida including: Satellite Beach Lightning U17 Boys in 1997-2000, Indialantic Force U18 Girls 2000-06, and SCUSC U18 Girls 2006-10. He is currently the Goalkeeper Director for Space Coast United Soccer Club as well as the Head Coach for the U15 Girls NPL/Elite Team.

 

As a collegiate and professional coach, Mike served as the Pre-Season GK Coach with the NY/NJ Metrostars (now NY Redbulls MLS), an Assistant Coach/GK Coach University of New Haven Women’s Team (Div II), an Assistant Coach/GK Coach at Mercer University (Div I) Men’s Team, and was a former trainer for the U-19 Women’s National Team Goalkeeper.

mike-potier-soccer-camp-director_newA long time fixture at No. 1 Soccer Camps, Mike Potier brings his wealth of playing and coaching experience to No. 1 Soccer Campers each summer. Thousands of goalkeepers and field players have benefitted from his instruction, experience and firsthand knowledge of the game.

This summer Mike Potier is a Regional Director at five No. 1 Soccer Camps sites:  University of Dallas, Schreiner University, Vero Beach, Claremont McKenna College and Pacific University. For more information on these camps, click the above links or contact RD Mike Potier directly at mikepotier@no1soccercamps.com.

The Human Wall Brad Friedel Embodies No.1 Soccer Camps Philosophy

“Eat well, have discipline and work hard”: Goalkeeping legend Brad Friedel’s perfectly disciplined will and refusal to give up result in a record breaking career

By No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Greg Andrulis

While coaching the Columbus Crew, I had the distinct pleasure of coaching and working daily with arguably the best goalkeeper ever from the United States – Brad Friedel. Brad was nicknamed “The Human Wall” after his incredible performance in the 2002 World Cup. Brad Friedel is the current record holder for most consecutive appearances in the Premiership with over 310 consecutive games. This is an incredible testament to his stamina despite being 40 years old! The secret to his success?  “There is no secret,” he says. “Just eat well, have discipline and work hard.”

Sounds simple, but these words of wisdom clearly work for Friedel. His resume speaks for itself:

  • All-American and National Champion while at UCLA
  • Played professionally with Newcastle FC, Liverpool, Galatasaray S.K, Columbus Crew, Blackburn Rovers, Aston Villa, and his current team Tottenham
  • Over 80 appearances with The US National Team and played at Three FIFA World Cup tournaments. Dr. Joseph Machnik, the founder of the No. 1 Soccer Camps, was his goalkeeper coach for many of those games.

Brad has achieved just about every conceivable award and recognition possible as a player. He is an incredible person and an incredible athlete. What I found most remarkable when working with Brad was his intensity of purpose and his incredible mental toughness. Exceptional athletes like Brad can best be summed up in the Vince Lombardi quote: “Mental toughness is many things and rather difficult to explain. Its qualities are sacrifice and self denial. Also most importantly, it is combined with a perfectly disciplined will that refuses to give in. It’s a state of mind-you could call it character in action.”

In our last Mental Toughness blog post, we discussed the need to overcome and push on. We discussed why the No 1 Soccer Camps utilizes “pressure training” in order to challenge yourself and reach the next level and the need to practice with a purpose. Brad Friedel was able to show a group of our campers just what it took to truly be the top goalkeeper in the United States a few years back during a No. 1 Soccer Camp in Wisconsin.

Brad was on for Thursday night’s pressure training session – in fact he volunteered to do every demonstration as he was working to stay sharp for an upcoming National Team Camp. Brad was unbelievable; he completed a group of twenty intense individual exercises lasting forty seconds each – a remarkable achievement. No one could compete or keep pace with him.

When we took a water break and moved the campers behind the goal for some final demonstrations, Brad insisted he be allowed to continue, even though fatigue was a reality. After additional exercises in a full size goal and NEVER allowing a single goal, the camp erupted in applause – and reverence – for what we all had just witnessed. He refused against all odds to be scored upon. He trained as if every shot was critical; he trained as if the World Cup trophy was on the line. Practice makes permanent, and Brad showed all of us that night at No. 1 Soccer Camps what it truly takes to be Number 1. But he wasn’t done.

As the campers were excused from the field to shower and get ready for our evening lecture, Brad approached me and asked if I could stay out with him for a little while to work on some crosses and distribution. Incredible! After almost 90 minutes of intense physical and mental training, Brad Friedel wanted more. After another hour of supreme technical work, he could finally call it a night.

Brad has incredible mental toughness and an incredible desire to reach the next level. His current record of over 300 straight appearances in the English Premier League shows that he surely has achieved that and more.   Brad showed us all what it takes to be Number 1 – “a perfectly disciplined will that refuses to give in.”

Greg Andrulis is a Regional Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Urbana UniversitySalisbury School, and Western Connecticut locations. He is also the Head Coach of the men’s team at George Mason University and a former Coach for MLS Columbus Crew. For more information on Coach Andrulis or his No. 1 Soccer Camps sites, click on above location links or here.

 

Mental Toughness: What Is It And How Do I Get It?

In this week’s post, No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director Greg Andrulis address the importance of mental toughness, pressure training, and how practice makes permanent in training sessions.

What is mental toughness for a goalkeeper or a striker? At No. 1 Soccer Camps we have long held the belief that mental toughness has a fitness component, but just as important, a psychological component. For over 38 years we have held a session the last night of every camp called “Pressure Training”. Pressure training is presented as a way to challenge yourself, to physically and mentally push yourself beyond areas that you never thought possible. The results of our pressure training sessions leaves players with feelings of euphoria and a new found confidence associated with success.

The coaches support our players efforts and demand more from them than they ever thought was possible. Can we take the skills that we worked on all week and now execute those skills under pressure?  How can we help you achieve the next level?The component that is often overlooked but stressed in our pressure training session is the need to practice with perfection – even when you think you are exhausted. Can you make the great save in the 89th minute when you’re tired? Is it the same save you made in the first minute when you were fresh? Can you find your feet and make an incredible 1v1 move in the 79th minute and finish a brilliant goal the same as you could in the 3rd minute of the game? How mentally tough are you? How have you prepared for that moment?

Mental toughness is many things. It is sacrifice, it is self-denial, it is dedication, and it is overcoming battles from within. Many athletes and coaches equate mental toughness with achieving extraordinary physical feats. An Olympic distance runner is quoted as saying “a lot of people run a race to see who is the fastest. I run the race to see who has the most guts, who can punish himself the most.”

In order to play at the highest level, physical fitness is incredibly important. However, there are a lot of very fit players out there. What will separate you from all others has been taught at the No. 1 Soccer Camps and has been demanded by our staff coaches for over 38 years – mental toughness. Mental toughness is what you get from playing and striving for perfection EVERY time you step on the pitch. Players will play the way they practice, and that is why it’s important to strive for perfection in training. During our “pressure training sessions” not only do we push you incredible hard from the physical component, but you are challenged from the psychological component as well. Practice does not make perfect, PRACTICE MAKES PERMANENT.

In order to truly be No. 1 and to be the player you want to be, you need a level of mental toughness, and No. 1 Soccer Camps’ training and methods can help you achieve it.

In next week’s post, I will share with you a story of a past No.1 participant who has gone on to achieve great things and truly become a No. 1 player. This player demanded a level of Mental Toughness from himself that is truly remarkable.

Greg Andrulis is a Regional Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Urbana UniversitySalisbury School, and Western Connecticut locations. He is also the Head Coach of the men’s team at George Mason University and a former Coach for MLS Columbus Crew. For more information on Coach Andrulis or his No. 1 Soccer Camps sites, click on above location links or here. 

Off The Pitch with JJ Lacorte

Four Year No. 1 Soccer Vero Beach Camper JJ LaCorte discusses his experiences with No. 1 Soccer Camps

No. 1 Soccer Camp at Vero Beach directed by Mike Potier has influenced me so much to be a great soccer player. Four years ago was when I first started the No.1 Camps, I was a mediocre player at the time, but that all changed. After every year I attended the No.1 Camps, I have excelled in making huge accomplishments such as going on an international trip to Costa Rica with ODP. Other things I have achieved are becoming a three time ODP participant at the state and regional level, being invited to a prodigious soccer academy school in Minnesota, and making honorable mention for the 2013 soccer season.
No. 1 Soccer Camps has one on one experience with coaches and players which is incredibly important for me to feel comfortable and improve. Every camper’s bond with everyone at the camp lasts for a lifetime. Learning different skills with every session is amazing because your remember it all! The most fascinating part is that it’s easily the most interesting and fun camp to attend anywhere I’ve ever been. No. 1 Soccer Camps have changed me as a player, pushing me to strive for greatness, and I recommend this camp to absolutely everyone.
 JJ LaCorte is a four year Camper at No. 1 Soccer Camps Vero Beach location. For more information or to register for our Vero Beach site, Click Here.

No.1 Soccer Camps Espa Program: Providing The Path For The Serious Soccer Player

ESPA at No. 1 Soccer Camps provides a unique individual path for the serious soccer player. With the expertise of World Class Coaches Ruud Dokter and Hugo Perez, Coach Visser evaluates and identifies a route to fulfill your college and professional ambitions.

Throughout his 32 year career, Coach Visser has advised/counseled and guided thousands of student athletes in college, US Under 20 National Team and ODP. Among the players he has been able to help develop and guide are Landon Donovan as his Regional ODP Coach at U14 and Asst Coach US U20 Coach/ former US National Team and AJAX member John O’Brien.
Pictured here with his son Brian, Coach Visser developed a game plan with his son which is a good example of an individual roadmap excelling brian-visser-2014-01-27-09-04-25_newacademically and athletically. Brian, captain of San Jose Earthquakes U18 Academy, graduated early from Vintage High School with honors a semester early in December 2011.
Brian enrolled at the University of San Francisco in the Spring of 2012 enabling him to ease the transition to College, academically, athletically and socially. Starting the Fall of 2001 with 20 college credits, Brian was able to have a successful Freshman Fall Campaign culminating in a WCC All Freshmen Selection.
Taking intersession and Summer school courses, Brian was able to receivea Bachelors Degree with Honors within three years graduating December 2013. In his Junior year, he sustained a season ending knee injury which accelerated the process of applying for internships. Although Brian is not playing as a professional player in MLS, his roadmap enabled him to start an internship with the MLS Competition Dept in New York in January of 2014.
For more information on how ESPA at No. 1 Soccer Camps California Maritime Academy  location can help you achieve your athletic and academic goals, click here to visit our ESPA page.

Out Of Your Mind Breakaways

By Mike Idland, No.1 Soccer Camps

Teaching breakaways and getting good at breakaways can sometimes be at odds with each other. Often, untrained goalkeepers go flying into breakaways with their hair on fire.They attack the situation wildly and with lots of conviction. But with no technique, they are dead in the water. Alternatively, trained goalkeepers, now armed with a full arsenal of weapons with which to combat breakaways, often lack that conviction, that fierce approach that they once had, because they are now lost in thought and indecision in the face of the live breakaway.The challenge is to give the goalkeepers sophistication while preserving their primal instincts.

When we begin our breakaway sessions at the No.1 Goalkeeper Camp, we often say, “This is the most complex topic of the week. We have loads of information to get through, so let’s stay focused.” And that’s no lie.
There is so much that goes into making the breakaway save for the goalkeeper in terms of analyzing the type of breakaway he or she is faced with, choosing the appropriate response to that type of breakaway, executing the extremely difficult technique of sliding and forming a long barrier when appropriate, and – perhaps above all – summoning the courage and conviction to take control and make a save. It is, indeed, a tall order for a young goalkeeper.  It can be equally challenging to teach. The experienced staff of Goalkeeper Directors at No.1 each like to present the session in their own way.
Mike Potier’s field layout often has young goalkeepers’ angles coned out to train the line the goalkeepers take when closing the striker down.  And you’ll hear him yelling “Tiger, Tiger, Tiger, Swan!” (Ok, I guess you have to be there.) Joe Machnik famously teaches part of the session in a circle that reminds me of a gladiator arena. I like to run through the technical progressions with all of the goalkeepers spread out and faced toward me as we mirror the movements down to the ground and into the ball, a set up that can look like a kung fu lesson with Bruce Lee. These elaborate and imaginative setups allow each of us to communicate the extensive information to the goalkeepers effectively. After all, we have to give them all of the necessary weapons to go into battle.
Once the goalkeeper is equipped with information for each type of breakaway (those in the goalkeeper’s favor, those in the striker’s favor, the 50/50 breakaway, and the breakaway slightly in the striker’s favor) and the various techniques for which each type calls, the goalkeeper is now under pressure to do something about it! As a goalkeeper coach, I feel as if I can almost hear the thought gears grinding in their heads: “Should I slide in?… Should I stand up?… Was that touch big enough to attack?… Hands first or long barrier?…” And so on. They often freeze or play in slow motion as they try to execute the appropriate technique with painstaking precision.  And the ball still ends up in the back of the net.  Well, the untrained goalkeeper doesn’t know a long barrier from a traffic barrier – he just goes and gets the ball! So, this is the challenge to the coach: How do I get this goalkeeper to “just go get the ball” again now that I’ve crowded his mind with all of these techniques?
One of my all time favorite books for coaching goalkeepers isn’t even a soccer book at all.  In fact, it is a tennis book! W. Timothy Gallwey’s seminal sports psychology book The Inner Game of Tennis articulates the delicate process of training to allow the mind to make decisions unconsciously on the field of competition.  The principle works brilliantly at times with goalkeepers. The idea is to put the goalkeeper’s conscious attention on only one focus point. The rest, surprisingly, will work itself out with unconscious adjustments if given enough repetitions. In the case of breakaways, I like to try putting the goalkeeper’s attention on the striker’s feet and ask him to focus closely on each time the foot makes contact with the ball as the striker advances on the dribble and prepares to finish. After a few repetitions, the goalkeeper’s problems start ironing themselves out. His timing improves as he hones in on each touch the striker takes.  His technique becomes smoother and more streamlined as his attention is no longer on the minute technical details but rather the “big picture” of the breakaway. It’s amazing what can happen when we just get our brain out of the way!
It takes a seasoned goalkeeper coach to recognize the phases of the position that require a hands off approach.  Breakaways are a unique challenge to teach because in order to cover the information – to give the goalkeepers the “weapons” for the fight – the goalkeeper coach has to be very hands on. The trick is for the coach to take a step back and let the goalkeeper work out the nuances of making breakaway saves more autonomously.  The coach’s role, then, becomes more of a guide, one who points the goalkeeper in a direction and encourages him or her to get there with that fiery natural confidence, with conviction, and with technique.
Mike Idland is a Goal Keeper Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Lebanon Valley College Location and a former No. 1 camper. Coach Idland played collegiately at at Suny Cortland and attended his first No. 1 Camp in 1992 as a camper. He returned as a staff coach in 2000 and went on to become a Regional Director in 2004. Idland will be the Goalkeeper Director at No. 1 Soccer Camps Lebanon Valley College location from July 27-31st. Click here for more information. 

Off The Pitch With Jordan Nendza

No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach Jordan Nendza was a four year starter at Lebanon Valley College. In her senior year she was named to NSCAA Division III Women’s All-Mid-Atlantic team as well as All Conference Second Team,  as well as MVP and Team Captain for LVC.  She will be receiving her Doctorate in Physical therapy in May and coaching at  No. 1 Soccer Camps’ Lebanon Valley College location in Annville, PA in July. We sat down with Jordan and asked her a few questions about her experiences as a player and coach.

No. 1: How long have you been playing soccer?
Nendza: I have played since the age of 4. I am now 24. 20 years!
No. 1: How often do you train?
Nendza: When I was in college we trained every day during the season and then sporadically throughout the off season – maybe 2 times per week.
No. 1: As a collegiate player, how would you prepare for a big game?
Nendza: I think a lot of my preparation was mental.  I always picked a technical skill that I would try to be perfect at during the game.  I also did a lot of player scouting and would be prepared for the match ups that my team-mates and I would be responsible for.
No. 1: What is your greatness moment as a player?
Nendza: Qualifying for the NCAA tournament my senior year in college.  We were the first team in Women’s Soccer history at LVC to make it to playoffs, and Messiah is in our conference, who always places in the NCAA tournament, so it’s more difficult for us to get in.
No. 1: As a player, do you have any pregame rituals?
Nendza: I would eat a snack bag full of M&M’s about 2 hours before every game and save the yellow ones for a team-mate.  I never ate the yellow ones. I also had a specific way of putting on all my gear and putting my hair up. Always started with the right foot, and did one layer at a time.  My hair I’d only use one of my hair ties until we pulled off our warm ups and put on our jerseys, then I’d add my second hair tie right before stepping onto the field.
No. 1: What was your favorite place you have played?
Nendza: I think being able to travel out to Ohio for the NCAA tournament my senior year in college was probably the coolest place I have ever played.
No. 1: What was the biggest game you ever played in?
Nendza: In high school I was in a state finals game that was played in the Hershey Stadium and broadcasted on Comcast’s PA station.  I was a sophomore that got pulled up for playoffs that season and the coach had used me occasionally through leagues and districts, but threw me in within the first 15 minutes of the state finals game and didn’t take me out the rest of the game.  I actually ended up scoring an own goal that game and we lost, but it was definitely the biggest game I’ve ever been in.
No. 1: What is your greatness moment as a coach?
Nendza: I think my greatest moment as a coach was watching my U8 team play against a team much better than them in a tournament last year.  They were getting beat 6 or 7-0 and every single one of them kept their heads up, continued to make calm good decisions as to whether to pass, dribble or shoot, and they all came off the field at the end of the game telling me how much fun they had, regardless of the score.  I think it’s really important to love your sport, not just love to win.
Staff Coach Nendza will be at No. 1 Soccer Camps Lebanon Valley Location July 27 – 31. For more information about the the LVC site and No. 1 Soccer Camps, click here. 

Off The Pitch With Wes Sever

Wes Sever was a four year starter at George Mason University and a current No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach from Belleair, Florida. Wes finished up his senior season at GMU last fall where he tied for the team lead with five goals and had four goals in the first three games of the season – three of which were game-winning goals.  His final goal of this collegiate career came against William & Mary in the first round of the NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship. Wes answered a few questions about life as a D1 Striker, winning your conference championship and playing in the NCAA tournament.

Q: As a former US Soccer Academy Player and a successful Division 1 player and striker, how important is it to spend time by yourself in front of the goal, getting comfortable with your shot?
Sever: As a striker, it is your job to score goals. With any skill the more practice and repetition you have, the better you will be at it and the more comfortable and confident you will be. As a striker, it is also important to be able to score all types of goals. Therefore you should spend time working on different situations over and over and over again. A lot of times you may not get the time you need in practice with your team, so it’s important to find time to do this on your own

Q: What was your experience like winning your conference championship and playing in the NCAA Tournament?

Sever:  Winning the Conference Championship and Playing in the NCAA tournament has been the highlight of my soccer career thus far. To play against quality teams and get results after years of preparation and tough training sessions, there is no greater feeling – especially to share those moments with your teammates and coaches. Winning Championships and being nationally ranked forms bonds with your teammates that will last forever.  It was also very exciting to travel all over the country, see new places, and do it with my closest friends while playing the sport I love.

Wes Sever is a Staff Coach at No. 1 Soccer Camps Salisbury and Vero Beach locations.

Two New Academy Programs In California Announced For 2014

No. 1 Soccer Camps announced two new Academy Programs for the 2014 season at California Maritime Academy under the direction of Regional Director Erik Visser.
Dr.Joseph Machnik, Founder and President of the No.1 Soccer Camps, discussed the new site:
“No. 1 Soccer Camps has been providing innovative and unique soccer instruction since our founding in 1977. As we have evolved over the years, we are proud to have been at the forefront of many important Soccer Camp initiatives. We are pleased to announce a new No.1 Soccer Camps program that will kick off this summer in the San Francisco Bay area. This program will complement our already successful College Prep and Aspiring Pro Player Programs which are geared towards the more advanced players.
No.1 Soccer Camps Elite Soccer Performance Academy and No.1 Soccer Camps Elite Coaches Academy will provide an incredible No.1 Soccer Camps experience. This effort will encompass some of the finest national and international soccer minds to provide our players and coaches the opportunity to challenge themselves at the highest level, and to truly become No. 1.”

No.1 Soccer Camps Elite Soccer Performance Academy

The goal of the Elite Soccer Performance Academy is to provide an exceptional soccer environment where serious soccer players will be exposed to the highest level of instruction in anticipation of playing at the highest level. Directed by Erik Visser, former US Under 20 National Team Assistant and Univeristy of San Francisco Head Men’s/Women’s Coach. World Class Guest Coaches such as Ruud Dokter, (High Performance Director of Ireland, UEFA Pro Instructor and former Dutch National Youth Teams and Head Women’s Coach) and Hugo Perez, former US National Team Great and current Youth Head Coach provide the serious soccer player with incredible insights into what it takes to play at the highest level.
The No.1 Soccer Camps Elite Soccer Performance Academy is available for teams or individuals looking to be challenged in a highly competitive soccer environment, while being assessed by top professional and collegiate coaches. Our goal is to improve individual play through demanding field sessions and insightful seminars about playing at the highest level. Goalkeepers and field players will be exposed to an intensive training environment for those who are serious about fulfilling their potential. Due to the uniqueness of this specialty program enrollment will be limited. For more information on No.1 Soccer Camps Elite Soccer Performance Academy,click here.

No.1 Soccer Camps Elite Soccer Performance Coaches Academy

This two day coach’s clinic is an unique opportunity to learn from and work with some of the brightest coaching minds in the field today. World Class coaches will run an interactive and incredibly informative weekend of high level soccer instruction. In addition to the on field sessions, extensive informative lectures and presentations will compliment the Coaches Academy. For additional information on No. 1 Soccer Camps Elite Soccer Performance Coaches Academy, click here.

No. 1 Soccer Camps at California Maritime Academy

The California Maritime Academy is a unique campus located on a scenic waterfront campus in Vallejo, 30 miles northeast of San Francisco. The campus is easily accessible from Oakland, San Francisco, Sacramento and the Sonoma and Napa Valley areas. The Cal Maritime Academy facility is an outstanding No. 1 site with state of the art turf fields, modern dorms andamenities. The dorms are supervised by our experienced staff and provide for 24 hour security and supervision. There is an indoor Olympic size swimming pool that is used daily for recovery and regeneration.
No.1 Soccer Camps at California Maritime Academy is under the direction of Regional Director Erik Visser. During a 35 year career in the US, Coach Visser has gained unique experiences and insights at all levels of soccer domestically and internationally as a player, coach, administrator, and Camp Director.
Coach Visser is a long time resident of the Bay Area having coached and played at the University of San Francisco. Coach Visser guided USF to four NCAA Tournament appearances (2004, ’05, ’06 and ’08) and three WCC Championships (2004, ’05 and ’08) in his 13-year coaching tenure. He was also named the WCC’s Coach of the Year on three occasions (2004, ’05, ’08) and received National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Regional Coach of the Year honors in 2004.
In addition to experience at the Collegiate level, Coach Visser, served US Soccer as the top Assistant of the US Soccer U20 National Team ( 1999-2001) which finished 13th at the 2001 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina. The team included current US National Team players such as Landon Donovan, Damarcus Beasley, Good Onyewu and Brad Davis.  Visser currently serves US Soccer as a scout for the Academy.
Having consulted a number of MLS and USL Pro Teams and a graduate of the famous AJAX Youth Academy, Visser has a strong network domestically and internationally. He currently serves MLS as a PME Professional Match Evaluator and directs College Showcases overseas. Visser holds a US Soccer ‘A’ License, a US Soccer Fitness License and a NSCAA Director of Coaching Diploma.
Special Guest Coaches
Ruud Doktor: Recently appointed by The Football Association of Ireland as its High Performance Director. Ruud Doktor has wide ranging international experience most recently with the KNVB, the Dutch Football Association, where he has fulfilled a large variety of senior coaching positions at the U-21, U-18, U-17, U-16,and U-15 level as well as the Senior Women’s Team. Ruud Doktor is a well respected UEFA- Pro Course Instructor and has built up a wealth of experience in delivering the world famous Dutch model of player development. As part of his responsibilities with the Irish FA, Coach Doktor, oversees the women’s senior and underage programs, Emerging Talent Program, Coach Education and player development programs, as well as all non-senior team Programs.
Hugo Perez:  Coach Perez is a well known coach and player with deep roots in the San Francisco Bay area, and an incredibly distinguished career. During his fourteen-year career, he played professionally in the United States, France, Sweden, Saudi Arabia and his native El Salvador. Although born in El Salvador, he gained his U.S. citizenship as a youth and earned 73 caps, scoring sixteen goals, with the U.S. national team between 1984 and 1994. He was a member of the U.S. team at the both the 1984 Summer Olympics and the 1994 FIFA World Cup. He was the 1991 U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year and was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2008. Pérez was a member of the American squad that competed at the 1983 FIFA World Youth Championship and 1984 Summer Olympics. He also helped the USA qualify for the 1988 Summer Olympics and the 1990 FIFA World Cup. He was named U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year in 1991. As a coach Hugo has been successful at every level, including the club, collegiate and National Team level.
Come join America’s Top Camp program for goalkeepers and field players playing on both sides of the ball and become part of the No.1 Soccer Camps family of over 78,000 satisfied and improved players who have made their mark on soccer fields across the country. For more information or to register for No. 1 Soccer Camps at California Maritime Academy, click here.

Ask Our Coaches: Getting Recruited

Question: I’m a 14 year old player who is beginning to get college recruiting materials in the mail. I’m also getting pressure from some coaches to change club teams to a higher profile team, but I like my teammates and have many friends on my current team. Is it going to hurt me in the recruiting process if I stay with my current club team? I have also attended the No. 1 Camps for the past 2 summers. -Molly A. From Westchester New York

Regional Director Christine Huber: Hi Molly! If you are looking to switch to a team of a higher caliber, ask yourself a few questions: do you like the coach, your future teammates, and the club as a whole? How many tournaments and showcases does the team typically attend? If the team is better than your current team, how much playing time will you realistically get? You could join a better team that travels more, but if you do not get much playing time, how will college coaches be able to judge your playing abilities if you are on the bench?  Lastly, how involved is the club’s head coach in the college soccer community? Does she/he have strong connections in the soccer world?
As far as recruiting process, I believe the soccer world is a very small one, and this can work to your advantage – coaches talk and share information because they can not be at every tournament and game. To get noticed by the college of your choice, I suggest three things:
1) Go to tournaments throughout the winter and spring. Due to their own seasons, most college coaches are not able to attend a lot of high school games, but they are able to get to winter and spring showcases and tournaments.
2) Do your homework. Research and identify the schools that are a good athletic and academic fit. Make sure the school offers your major (if you have one) and is a place you have a real interest in attending. From this, compile a list of your top schools.
3) Email the head coaches. Introduce yourself with a brief bio, your intended graduation year, and a list of the upcoming tournaments and showcases in which you will be playing. When the tournament gets closer, email them again with your schedule along with your jersey number so they can easily locate you if they are attending.
No matter if you stay with your current team or switch clubs, keep working hard and developing your game every time you step on the pitch. Congratulations on being recruited and good luck. We look forward to seeing you this summer at camp again!
Christine Huber is a Regional Director of No. 1 Soccer Camps and Camp Director at No.1 Soccer Camps Blue Ridge, Northfield, Brewster and Pomfret locations.  Christine was a high school All American soccer player, a two sport athlete at the University of New Haven where she was inducted to the school’s Hall of Fame, and has gone onto coach at the youth, high school, and collegiate level. 

Off The Pitch With Ti Sarokon

Christina ‘Ti’ Sarokon is a No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach at our Lebanon Valley College location. As a player, Ti was was selected to the National titeam pool in 2008 and just completed her sophomore season playing in goal for St. Bonaventure University. No. 1 recently asked Ti a few questions about her playing experiences from club through college. 

Q: How long have you been playing soccer?

A: I’ve played since I was 8 years old, so 10 years now.

Q: How do you prepare for a big game?

A: I usually prep for a big game by arriving to the locker room early, getting all my gear on, and then listening to my favorite music.
Q: What is your greatness moment as a player?
A: My greatest moment as a player was hearing my name called to attend the U-14 US National pool camp at Region 1 camp. I was only 13 years old and so very proud – it’s probably my favorite memory.
Q: Do you have any pregame rituals?
A: I always make sure to have my hair braided specially by one of my teammates/best friend Steph. Every time she braids my hair, we’ve won! (Knock on wood!)
Q: What was your favorite place you have played?
A: My favorite place that I’ve played is probably in Costa Rica. I traveled there with a Region 1 team in 2009. The atmosphere was great!

Q: What was the biggest game you ever played in? A: The biggest game I’ve ever played in was probably with my club team. We were in the finals to win the Regional tournament in West Virginia. It meant a lot to us, but we ended up coming in 2nd place.

In addition to being a No. 1 Soccer Camps Staff Coach, Ti plays for St. Bonaventure University, is a US Youth Soccer Region 1 Girls ODP Program New York West ODP Staff, has her USSF ‘D’ License and was in the 2008 US National Team Player Pool. Ti will be coaching at the Lebanon Valley College location this summer July 27th – 31st.

Ask Our Coaches: College Prep

Question: Coach, you have experience playing and coaching players at the highest levels. What can a player expect when they attend a College Prep week at the No.1 Soccer Camps?  – Adam M. Chattanooga TN.

 

Regional Director Chad Liddle: Thank you for your question regarding the College Prep section for No.1 Soccer Camps.  Our camp site has more international campers than most sites and most of these campers are in the college prep program which adds to the training experience.  In addition, we do a great deal of college recruiting guidance, speed and agility testing, and we use the Soccer Academy’s indoor turf / performance center to train with cutting edge equipment.  Campers will get on vertimaxes, work with TRX, Vipr, and we are looking to add video training analysis. For more specifics on No. 1 Soccer Camps College Prep Program, Click Here.

Each No. 1 Soccer Camps College Prep site is uniquely specialized to best utilize the staff and experience they have. If you have a specific site in mind to attend, I would recommend that you contact that director for more specific information regarding there program. We have College Prep Programs at the following No. 1 Soccer Camp Sites for 2014. Click for dates: University of DallasVero BeachSalisburyClaremontDarlington, and West Conn.

 
Coach Chad Liddle is No.1 Soccer Camps Regional Director at the Darlington School location in Rome, GA.

From No. 1 Camper To Staff Coach

Emily Andrulis attended No. 1 Soccer Camps during her high school years and later transitioned to a staff coach at our Salisbury site. We asked Emily how her No.1 Soccer Camps experience prepared her for a stand a out senior year season and beyond. Her response: 
Emily: The summer before going into my senior year of high school I attended the No. 1 striker and goalkeeper camp at Salisbury University. Going to this camp was one of the best decisions I made to help me improve as a soccer player.
I was surrounded by knowledgeable coaches and staff as well as skilled campers that helped me better my game. The difference between this camp and other soccer camps is No. 1 ‘s specific concentration on the game of a striker. We did specific drills that helped improve my foot skills in areas of the field that mattered, focused on the technique of my shot, and gave me confidence as a player. The staff always encouraged me to push myself to points I didn’t think possible. As a result, my senior year I was named First Team All Berkshire League, First Team All State, as well as a participant in the 2013 Senior Bowl and led my team to the Semi Finals in our state tournament.
The following summer I transitioned from a camper to a No. 1 Soccer Camp Staff Coach. Being a member of the staff was just as satisfying and rewarding as being a camper. I was able to take the skills I learned and teach them to a new batch of future soccer stars. Attending and now working at the No. 1 Soccer camps has been an amazing experience that I hope to continue for as long as I am able. I am currently a freshman at Simmons College and a member of the soccer team, and I know my experiences at No.1 have made me the player (and coach) I am today.

Soccer Post Named Official No.1 Retailer

No.1 Soccer Camps are pleased to announce a partnership with Soccer Post. Soccer Post is the largest chain of soccer specialty retail stores in the United States with locations in 14 states. Since 1979 Soccer Post has become Americas’ Soccer Store.
Dr.Joesph Machnik the founder and president of the No.1 Soccer Camps had this to say about this exciting partnership: “We are excited to announce this strategic partnership between the No.1 Soccer Camps and America’s Soccer Store- Soccer Post. This partnership will allow our loyal camp families the opportunity to purchase No.1 Soccer gear as well as soccer specific gear such as adidas products directly from our camp store located on our website, and run by Soccer Post. Soccer Post, the largest chain of Soccer Stores in the country offers locations that are geographically connected in the states that the No.1 Soccer Camps operate affording additional opportunities for accessibility and cross marketing . Like the No. 1 Soccer Camps, Soccer Post is a recognized industry leader and we are excited to join forces with them.”

Off The Pitch With Eddie De Souza

No. 1 Soccer Camps sits down with our College Prep Director Eddie De Souza and talks about his coaching philosophy, influences and style of play.

No. 1: What is your goal each week at camp when working with young American soccer players?
 
Coach Eddie: The American players have two characteristics that attract me as a coach: mind set and dedication. Those two qualities motivate me as an Educator. My goal is always to instigate passion and love for this game. My priority is to teach confidence – it will bring freedom and consequentially unpredictability to the game. Players are the ones making decisions on the field; they are playing the game. To become better, repetition is necessary, technical aspects need to be performed over and over. In addition, I like to add pressure to almost every session; the game is about solving problems under pressure. Finally, I am a true believer that the more you play this game, the better you will become and of course incorporating the basics: passion, dedication, confidence and talent helps players achieve this.
No. 1: As a former professional player and coach from Brazil, who were some of the Brazilian greats who influenced your coaching philosophy?
Coach Eddie: Tele Santana (former Brazilian National team player -World Cup 1982 in Spain and 1986 in Mexico – and coach at Sao Paulo football Club) has been my biggest influence. His ability to read the game and his style of football is the one I most admire. Santana was one of the first coaches in Brazil to “print” the Brazilian methodology: 1. ball on the ground; 2. minimize touches; 3. diagonal penetrations and passes constantly switching the point of attack; and finally 4. “freedom and creativity” especially in the final third. I grew up watching Zico, Socrates, Falcao, Eder, Junior, Leandro, and Cerezo.
Luis Felipe Scolari (current National team coach and World Cup winner 2002), I would say is my second choice, especially for his way of motivating, engaging and helping his players buy into “ the family”. I too believe it is crucial for a team to respect the coach and admire each other for their strengths. Scolari is from my state back in Brazil. He was a head coach at Gremio Football Club which was the first team I played for at the U-17. I had a chance to meet him and hear his speeches about football several times when I was a player and later when I became a coach. He definitely has a combination of being aggressive and at the same time kind and soft with the players that makes him so respected.
Coach Eddie De Souza is No. 1 Soccer Camps College Prep Director at our Salisbury and West Conn sites and is Striker Director at our Urbana location.  In addition, Eddie also coaches ODP in Virginia and is Assistant Coach at Longwood College. 

Joe Machnik: No.1 Soccer Camps Driving Force

If you have ever wondered about the roots of No. 1 Soccer Camps, you need to start with Dr. Joe Machnik. Few people in American soccer history have had such a diverse and distinguished career. Even fewer have impacted the American soccer scene in such an indelible way. From his humble beginnings in Brooklyn, to becoming a World Cup and Professional coach, Dr. Joe has helped transform the American soccer landscape in a profound and meaningful way.

Joe Machnik’s No.1 Soccer Camps, the first national camp of its kind when it debuted in 1977, was initially designed for the instruction and training of goalkeepers. Here Machnik developed a methodology and pedagogical style for the training of goalkeepers which is universally recognized and used today. His technical and tactical training sessions for goalkeepers are considered to be standard. He has authored two books and three videotapes that continue to perpetuate the Machnik Method.

No.1 Soccer Camps graduates include the likes of MLS stars, Jon Busch, Kevin Hartman, Nick Rimando, Matt Reis and Joe Cannon, as well as Hercules Gomez, a member of the US National Team. Hercules Gomez, is the first player to have won both the MLS Cup and Mexico’s Primera División championships. In addition, staff coaches Dave Dir and Greg Andrulis became Head Coaches of the Dallas Burn and Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer. No.1 Soccer Camps boast a camper/staff alumni list reading like a Who’s Who in American Soccer.

Joe Machnik began his soccer playing career at New York’s Brooklyn Technical High School and continued at the Brooklyn Campus of Long Island University where he was an All-American Goalkeeper in 1962, playing for Gary Rosenthal’s Blackbirds. Machnik later served as Graduate Assistant Coach at LIU (1964-1965) and was named Head Coach for the 1966 season. At age 23 Machnik’s coaching debut into the NCAA Championship Final is believed to be an achievement, which has yet to be matched. While coaching his Alma Mater LIU from 1966-1968, Machnik’s teams appeared in the 1966 NCAA Championship Game (losing to San Francisco 5-2) and 1967 Semi-finals.

In 1969, Machnik moved to the University of New Haven and began a 30-year affiliation with UNH serving as men’s soccer and ice hockey coach, Director of Athletics, and later as Women’s Soccer Coach, while also serving as Assistant Professor in the School of Business, Department of Sport Management. Machnik received a Ph.D. from the University of Utah in 1973.

Machnik played junior and senior soccer for the New York Ukrainians where he was a member of the 1965 US Open Cup Championship Team. Machnik was a regular member of US Soccer Coaching School’s Staff and annual presenter at NSCAA Conventions. In the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL,) Machnik was appointed Referee-in-Chief, a position he served for five (5) years and officiated hundreds of indoor games until he was named Commissioner of the American Indoor Soccer Association (AISA), which later became the NPSL and forerunner of today’s MISL.

Joe Machnik served as Assistant Coach to John Kowalski for the first ever Futsal World Championship, a team made up of future outdoor World Cup Stars, such as US Soccer Technical Director Tab Ramos and Peter Vermes, currently the Head Coach of MLS Cup Champions Sporting Kansas City. This team took 3rd place and a FIFA Bronze Medal. Machnik later served as Assistant Coach to Bob Gansler during the qualifying phase of World Cup ’90 and as Goalkeeper Coach for the 1990 World Cup team in Italy. Although coaching continued to be Machnik’s prime involvement, he also continued to referee and achieved National Referee status in both US Soccer and NISOA officiating the NCAA National Championship Game of 1988 (Indiana vs. Howard). Dr. Joe currently serves as a FIFA match commissioner.

Dr. Machnik was hired by Major League Soccer (MLS) in 1996 as Vice President of Game Operations and served as Assistant to the Deputy Commissioner for On-Field Competition for MLS and Director of Officiating Services for Soccer United Marketing (SUM), its parent company. This January, Machnik was appointed Director of Officials for NPSL.

Machnik has been named to the Long Island University and University of New Haven’s Athletic Halls of Fame and to the Connecticut and New England Soccer Halls of Fame, as well as, to the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Oneonta through NISOA. He has also been named to the list of “Distinguished Alumni” by Long Island University.

In addition to his continuous involvement in the growth and operation of No.1 Soccer Camps, Machnik runs Global Soccer Partnerships, works as the Northeast Conference Coodinator for Womens soccer officials. Dr. Joe is a featured analysis on the Fox Soccer Channel.

Joe Machnik resides in South Carolina with wife Barbara, their two daughters, Colette and Janine and their families. Dr. Joe enjoys fishing, auto racing (although he is no longer an active driver), playing with his grandchildren, Olivia and Ryder, and figuring out the complexities of his sport, which has been called the world’s most simple game.

Ask Our Coaches: Choosing A Soccer Camp

Question: I play soccer to challenge myself. I want to become the number one soccer player on my team. Why should I attend the No.1 Soccer Camp? -John L, East Hartford CT

Answer from No. 1 Soccer Camps Regional Director, Coach Mike Potier: Hello John and thank you for contacting No.1 Soccer Camps. We at No.1 Soccer Camps understand that there are many camps to choose from and sometimes it can be difficult navigating through it all. Your desire to challenge yourself and become the best player on your team are both great goals.

After 22 years in the camp industry there are two areas I believe that are important to start with, history and reputation. For 38 years No.1 Soccer Camps has provided top soccer training across the country for over 78,000 players with campers going on to play at all levels of the game.

The duration of a summer soccer camp is relatively short. In order to choose the right camp and develop as a player, the camp should offer certain key elements. Quality instruction, personal attention, maximum repetition during each session, and a detailed evaluation process that will not only identify your strengths and weaknesses, but also provide direction so you can continue your progress long after the camp is over.

Each year No.1 Soccer Camps receives hundreds of applications for staff employment from coaches across the country. Each Camp Director goes over every application carefully to select only the best and those with the quality and experience necessary to be No.1 Staff Coaches. Many of these are recommendations from current staff members with years of No.1 experience themselves. Those selected not only possess the coaching experience we demand ,but also the ability to demonstrate the skills at a high level and break down the topics for each session.

No.1 Soccer Camps has an incredibly low 8:1 camper to coach ratio. We create a training environment dedicated to small groups. This gives the coach the ability to focus on each player’s individual technical work as well as the group as a whole for game related situations. Whether you are a goalkeeper or field player we will provide you with the opportunity to have the repetition needed to improve each particular skill. This is something you will not find at other camps with one coach and 20 or more people in a group.

Finally, it’s very important that the player receives as much information as possible and then leaves camp understanding what areas need to be developed to be successful and what they can do at home to make that happen. There is no doubt that the No.1 Soccer Camp 75 Point written evaluation is the most extensive in the camp industry. The detail of the evaluation is another reason we work in small groups. This also allows the coach to get to know each players abilities and in turn write a detailed individual evaluation about specific information concerning the camper’s personal game. This evaluation also includes a personal development plan that will proved direction and training exercises for the player once they leave camp. This attention to detail is something impossible to do in a larger group which is why you will see other camp evaluations that are one sheet of paper and a few numbers.

No.1 Soccer Camps provides all the tools necessary to become a better player in all four aspects of the game: Technical, Tactical, Psychological, and Physical. We will challenge you in an organized and fun environment and give you the confidence necessary to continue to get better.

Be part of the No.1 family….we look forward to seeing you.

Regional Director Potier will be at the following locations in 2014: Vero Beach Sports Village – Vero Beach, FL, Schreiner University – San Antonio, TX, University of Dallas – Irving, TX, Claremont McKenna College – Claremont, CA, and Pacific University – Forest Grove, OR