Why would a soccer coach say "She doesn't need foot skills, she's a defender."?

Question

Recently I approached my U14 daughter's soccer coach to get a recommendation for a technical trainer/foot skills training in preparation for high school tryouts. His reply left me speechless and questioning the 'development' program within the club.

His responce was "She doesn't need foot skills. She's a defender." At U14, I would think it is too early to pigeon hole someone into a single position (center back). Especially since she came to this team having previously played right striker, center striker, right mid, right defender, and left defender. (Unfortunately, her previous team collapsed forcing the move). At our current practice sessions, only the strikers get foot skills technical training while the defenders work on passing, passing and more passing, with the occasional corner kicks and long distance (ie, lob the ball to the left or right channel/corner) kicks. Really disappointed by the lack of technical training.

So, back to the initial question: What would motivate a coach to take this stance? Particularly since I was looking to have her do this outside of team practice? Why wouldn't any coach want a player sharpening their technical skill set?

? · Accepted Answer

Obviously the coach doesn't know what he's talking about. Every player should work on all aspects of the game, ball skills, heading, passing, tackling and shooting. Defenders are not there just to boot the ball up the field.
I would get your daughter some outside coaching, it seems she`s not getting it from her coach.
Good Luck and I hope your daughter enjoys the greatest sport on earth.

Anonymous · Answer

I think the coach is completely wrong. Every soccer player, even including goal keepers, need foot skills. They are a crucial part to a player's improvement and abilities on the field. It is not too early to specialize in regards to position, but in no way shape or form does that translate into "defenders do not need to work on and improve foot skills and the forwards should just shoot all practice." Every player needs to work on every single part of their game and if your daughter's coach is not going to provide proper instruction for her development as a player I would seek training else where. I am not saying to switch clubs necessarily, but find a trainer she can work with privately. But then again you might want to consider switching clubs because the coach is not doing what you pay him to do forcing you to pay double if you seek outside help. Good luck to your daughter and tell her to practice EVERY aspect of her game.

Why would a soccer coach say "She doesn't need foot skills, she's a defender."?

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