Any changes in schedule or cancellations will be decided and communicated by Carrollton Boosters. We will, when available, remind any changes at the end of class periods.

COACHING PHILOSOPHY

Our approach to toddler sports programming is centered on "love of the game". At this developmental stage, curating positive associations with new experiences is one of the core fundamental pillars for future participation and success in any discipline. Given that each individual participating in this program will come with their own level of exposure, experience and interest in soccer and participation in group sport/movement, we aim to provide a curriculum that includes static (repeating) elements to encourage comfort and confidence via routines while also using a "building block" methodology of introducing new skills, drills and games to aid in the individual development of each participate and provide preparation for future "league" play participation (see Carrollton U6 Soccer on neighboring fields)

WHAT TO WEAR/BRING

On your first day of class you will receive a jersey (either green or purple) and a pair of "soccer socks".

• We do ask that you have your child wear their jersey to class each week
• Socks/Shin Guards/ Cleats are NOT required but are encouraged
• Your child should bring their own soccer ball each week
• Ideally, participants will bring a Size 3 soccer ball with either their name or a distinguishing symbol marked on their ball (their are only so many types of size 3 balls, expect that someone else has your type!
• Water (we will take 3-4 "water breaks" each class session)
• Weather protection (sunscreen/jackets/bug spray) as needed

SKILLS ONLY OR WILL THERE BE GAMES?

In short- yes! The program will eventually include "game play" activities in the final (4)-(5) classes of each session!

However, that does mean we will see the first weeks of the program focus on establishing a routine (stretching, movements, basic skill development). We will also focus most of our technical training on a relationship with the ball as doing so will best aid in the development of any player, regardless of experience/skill level! Because game play fundamentally only allows for one ball in play, it is our belief that we hold off on games until each participate has spent a few weeks developing skills and confidence with the ball at their feet!

WHAT CAN YOU DO AS A PARENT?

Our young participants won't be the only people experincing a "first" during theis program! We have put together a few points we think are important!

• Your primary job is the care, well being and health of your child.
• At this age, we do expect that every participant have an adult point of contact on the field. We do understand how sometimes schedules don't allow for a parent to always be present and that is ok, but we do expect that each player has someone who is responsible for them on site at all times!
• For the most part, let the coaches lead! However, there will be times when your intervention is appropriate. Restroom breaks, injuries or, if your child needs a little TLC, always feel like you can step in!
• We will learn more about each player as the program progresses, but, with (4) classes of (30) participants each saturday in the U4 Soccer program AND the countless camps, PE Classes, After-School Sports, , Baseball Basics and Birthday Parties our staff lead on a weekly basis, we won't know each child as intimately as that child's guardian! So, if your child needs extra assitance and we haven't been able to meet their needs, feel free to either director your child to come to you or usher your child off the playing space, and provide whatever they need to get back in the action!
• Feel free to get comfortable while watching! Bring chairs, blankets, etc; but, please be mindful of our field and playing space and set-up in an area that is away from the action!
• On game days (later in the session) we will ask that parents you are able to, flank the boundry lines of the field to help keep the ball "in-bounds"

WHO IS "COACHING" THIS CLASS?

A fair question. A slightly complicated answer. Good news for you is that your child is receiving instruction from professionals who have extensive experience in youth sports programming, specifically, toddler sports programming!

Here is the skinny on program management/leadership:

• This is a Carrollton Boosters Program
• You registered with Carrollton Boosters, have received and will continue to receive all communication/updates/weather alerts from Carrollton Boosters
• The New Orleans Jesters have a partnership with Carrollton Boosters to provide instruction, officials and resources to aid all of Carrollton Boosters Soccer programming.
• The New Orleans Jesters have been in a partnership with us, Junction Place Sports/now Junction Place Sportsplex, to provide coaches and curriculum for U4 Soccer.