| One of the most intense yet rewarding soccer | | | | order to provide good opportunities for passing. |
| positions is that of the midfielders. They are required | | | | Especially when trying to move the ball outside of |
| to be constantly on the move, providing open | | | | their half of the field, midfielders will have many |
| opportunities for both the defense and offense to | | | | players from the other team trying to steal the ball |
| strategically move the ball around the field. When | | | | back, so they can have another chance to score. |
| coaching soccer for kids, there are some important | | | | Third, they need to be good visionaries for their |
| tips to keep in mind. | | | | team. Midfielders are the most influential when |
| First, midfielders must be aware that it is their | | | | creating strategic passing plays and envisioning |
| responsibility to be involved with both offensive and | | | | potential scenarios even three passes before they |
| defensive plays, which requires a lot of running on | | | | occur. This means they need to help communicate |
| their part. Since soccer is such a fast paced game, | | | | with other teammates where to move and how to |
| midfielders must quickly get back to assist the | | | | prepare for the next pass. Coaches may even desire |
| defense with blocking any open shots on net by the | | | | to create passing plays based on a number system, |
| other team. Additionally, they need to be available so | | | | for example. |
| the defense has a channel through which to pass the | | | | Finally, it is key that midfielders have a quick |
| ball back up field. Once the ball is transitioned back | | | | recovery rate during game time. Since these players |
| from the midfielders to the offense, their new | | | | will probably be subbing fairly quickly, it is vital that |
| assignment is to help create effective passing plays | | | | they are able to move on and off the field to keep |
| that will lead to scoring opportunities for their team. | | | | energy levels at a maximum. Working as a team |
| Secondly, midfielders need to be quick on their feet | | | | instead of individual players, midfielders can be the |
| and have excellent soccer tactics. These skills will help | | | | glue that holds everything together. |
| them to maneuver quickly around the competition in | | | | |