Why does MCSA Play Small sided Soccer

We are frequently asked why we play "Split" teams at U5 through U8 and why our fields and numbers of players are what they are.

The MCSA adjusted "How we Play" during the mid '90's based on US Soccer's strong recommendations to move all youth games in the US to a "Small Sided" structure.

Some of the reason to play small sides

• Allows young players more touches on the ball
• Reduce filed size allows young players to be more physically efficient
• Smaller teams allows for more indivdual teaching time with coaches 
• Players have to be more involved
• More opportunities to score

Small sided environment is developmentally appropriate environment for young players. It is fun above all. Young children do learn better in smaller groups.  

While we have modified USSF guidelines some to fit our local program the attached document is the basis for how we organize and play using the dual field method described in this document.

US Soccer's Small sided Game Program click Here

See additional Coaching resources from US Youth Soccer here: Us Youth Soccer Coaching Resources