Author: wesheldo
Company: Shawnee Mission Schools

Components considered for selection of players for 
Olathe Northwest Ravens Soccer Program

There are many components that can go into making an “elite” soccer player and different positions call for different requirements in players’ abilities.  However, these are some of the essential player attributes the coaches will assess when selecting the various teams for the Ravens Soccer Program.  

1.	TOUCH ON THE BALL
Does the player have control over the ball with both feet?  Can he/she make the ball do what he/she wants while in possession?  Does the player look comfortable with the ball under pressure?

2.	BALANCE
Is the player in control of his/her body?  Is the player able to change direction in a controlled manner with the ball?

3.	TECHNICAL SPEED
How fast does the player control the ball and play it?  Does the player have the ability to use good skill quickly?

4.	COACHABILITY
Can the player carry out a directive from the coach?  While many young players are tactically weak, a good player will be coachable and have the ability to develop good habits.

5.	WORK-RATE
Is the player willing to push himself/herself to the limits?  Does the player attack and defend?

6.	AWARENESS
Does the player see good opportunities to pass/dribble/shoot?  Does the player have the vision of what’s happening on the field or does he/she make the game difficult?

7.	REACTION TO FAILURE
How does the player respond to a bad call or a mistake?  Does failure result in a drop in performance?

8.	LEADERSHIP QUALITIES
Does the player communicate to others?  Does he/she demand the ball?  Will they take charge when the game is on the line?

9.	PHYSICAL SPEED
Is the player fast?  Does the player have enough speed to be effective without being exploited by his/her opponents?

10.	SIZE & STRENGTH
Is the player physically able to play with bigger opponents?  Is the player’s size the reason for his/her success?
May 06