GrassRoots Program Details
The 2024 year will start a new approach to Ocean United Grassroots as we evolve the program to reflect the modernization of the game. Our primary focus for grassroots will be anchored in three principles:
- Learning the game supported by the skills and principles taught and promoted within the Club
- A trainer-led development program that is anchored on progress* (*players will progress at different speeds)
- Most importantly, developing trust & having fun.
We offer three seasons. Spring will be focused on players learning the skills (strong focus on individual ball work) in a small format. The Spring season will run 8 weeks starting in April. In addition to training we will be introducing in program tournaments with an opportunity to play other neighboring towns. There will be a break in Summer. Fall is the season to put what we’ve learned to practice and apply those skills and concepts to games and tournaments.
Season Breakdown
- Spring April - June
- Summer - BREAK
- Fall August - October
- Winter December - Feb
Each Season will be 6-8 weeks in length.
Trainers
A trainer-led development program that is anchored on progress* (*players will progress at different speeds).
DOC will manage the curriculum and adhere to club values and principles.
2-4 Senior Trainers
4-8 Junior Trainers
Targeting an 8:1 Player to Trainer ratio
Focus on Small Sided Games (3v3 and 4v4)
This allows for maximum participation during game time. It is easy for a player to get lost in mass games, this in turn does little for the child’s development both in terms of love for the game and technical & tactical part of the game. We want to encourage a sense of purpose and belonging on the field that only small sided games can give at this age. Multiple touches and repetitions of scenarios will aid in a child’s development and they will adopt these qualities through this type of game play.
Dynamic movement is encouraged and our 3v3 and 4v4 methodology provides the conditions to learn basic technical skills of dribbling, passing, receiving and shooting as well as basic triangle and diamond shapes.
Uniforms
Equipment
Age appropriate shin guards are required
Rubber/plastic cleats are recommended
Team shirt and pinny will be provided by the program
NO JEWELRY IS PERMITTED AT GAMES OR PRACTICES.
COVID Protocols
OTUSA Grassroots program adheres to all Return to Play Guidelines and policies outlined by New Jersey Youth Soccer Association. Those policies are listed here and are subject to change:
https://www.njyouthsoccer.com/Default.aspx?tabid=889491
Other housekeeping items for balance of the year.
Fall and Winter weekly structure will be communicated toward the end of the spring season.
And finally, a successful for Grassroots program should result in; An experience that engages players, staff, families, and partners as proud stakeholders of Ocean United Soccer Club.
Players love coming to practices and games
Parents can see the value of the program and trust we are delivering a premier program.
The Club’s pledge to you; We will maintain a consistent & reliable communication process with parents & players. Our goal is a wide-open dialogue and expect you to hold us accountable should you feel we aren’t meeting our pledge.
We are excited to bring a new approach to the grassroots program and our journey to reflect the modern game starts with Grassroots.