Junior Premier Camps for ages 9 to 13

The Junior Premier Camp is designed for the serious younger travel player. The camp runs from 9:00-3:30 daily. A player must currently be rostered on a travel team to attend.

Junior Premier players are in the transition stages in soccer. The player’s cognitive ability and physical maturity have reached the point where they are capable of executing most of the skills essential to playing the game of soccer. Technical skill with the ball is the foundation of the strong player and this is the age that a serious player must develop and hone these skills. It is important that players are correctly instructed on proper technique and that poor habits are eliminated, before those habits become too ingrained. The goal is to execute proper technique under pressure and with speed.

It is also the time to speed up decision-making and reaction time within the game. Junior Premier players are taught small group tactics and the essentials of team play. They will learn the principles of attack and defense in 1v1, 2v2, 3v3 and 4v4 situations. Soccer is a team sport, but a player must be confident in their individual abilities and knowledge of the game to be a successful team player.

We stipulate that all players attending the Junior Premier camp are currently rostered on a travel team. While this is a fairly broad standard, it is important that each candidate take the time to consider if this camp is best suited to his or her needs. This is a demanding program and requires a committed player, who is able to work for quality at a high work rate. The Neighborhood Day Camp program also provides excellent training and is an attractive alternative for players who want a less demanding alternative.

Individual Technical Skills:

• Fast Footwork, Passing, Shooting, Heading & Receiving under Pressure
• Combination Plays, Creativity with the Ball
• Tactical and Team Play:

Principles of Attack:

• 1v1 Attack, Support, Off-Ball Movement

Principles of Defense:

• Pressure, Cover, Balance

Reading the Field:

• Vision and Anticipation

Positional Play:

• Individual Tactical Responsibilities

In addition, players are taught the psychological elements of the game including match preparation, practice habits and specific game situations, such as dealing with a physical opponent or playing when behind. This camp also teaches conditioning, nutrition, avoiding injuries and other physiological factors to improve performance.