Street Soccer
Soccer is the undisputed # 1 game in the world and the primary way kids around the world developed their ball skills was through "street soccer". World-class players came out of this environment. Most pro players did not see a coach or join a club until the age of 12.
Today soccer is overly adult controlled and influenced moreover it is difficult for youngsters to have a pick-up game since the streets have too many cars, and parents are reluctant, with good cause, to let their child go blocks away from home to play in a game on his or her own.
Street soccer is a way for Warriors FC to give the game back to the players in the community. Once a week, the club will aim to have organized spontaneity. The club will provide the fields and supervision. Adults will be on site for safety and general supervision, but otherwise it is all up to the players to organize the games.
The adults should NOT coach, cheer, criticize, referee or in any other way involve themselves in the game.
The coaches are on site NOT to coach, but to supervise, be on hand for any serious injuries and any severe discipline problems. Additionally the coaches are there to provide the game equipment and to let the players know when each game segment starts and stops.
Street soccer provides the possibility of mixing playing levels, genders and age groups. Mostly it is a chance for players to play the game for the FUN of the game. Street soccer brings together children, parents, coaches and volunteers to a soccer celebration, regardless of ethnic or cultural backgrounds. Soccer is the common language and the soccer ground is an arena for social inclusion.
Referees are not needed, since these rules are meant to teach self-responsibility and fair play, with the implied agenda of improving the player’s competences in non-violent communication and conflict resolution.
Here is a possible set up for street soccer:
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10 minute match depending upon total number of players
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3 matches in an hour …give sufficient time between matches for water and to get to the next field for the next match
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3 vs. 3 without goalkeepers (small sided).