Soccer is known as the Simple Game; there are only 17 laws of the game. This number includes guidelines regarding field dimensions, markings, and the ball. The latitude that such generality provides truly invites a creative imagination. The game is fluid; tactical schemes and the possibilities for individual inventiveness are wide open. Soccer is the democratic game. No other team sport provides such opportunities for the individual to shine.
This freedom that exists for soccer players is unique; no other team sport makes allowances for – indeed encourages – the individual to demonstrate his creativity within the team environment. Defenders can score at any time; no player is limited to a particular section of the field, but rather is allowed the freedom to use his own intellect and ability to make his mark on the game.
As a result, it is essential that all young players learn the tools of attacking and defending. The movement towards small-sided games (3v3/4v4) has been helpful in this regard. With fewer numbers, players are forced to solve problems based not on a specific positional role, but rather on where they are on the field vis-a-vis their teammates and opponents.
So why on Saturday mornings do you see young “defenders” run up to the midfield line and stop as if they’re afraid of entering a forbidden zone (the attacking half)? I sometimes think that a rigid focus on positions may be the biggest single impediment to the development of young soccer players. “Johnny, you’re a right defender; under no circumstance do you cross midfield – and stay on the right side!!”
What if Johnny had the ball and wanted to dribble forward? He won’t because he’ll take his instructions literally. Instead he’ll simply get to the midfield line and kick the ball – probably to the other team. But what if Johnny were allowed some freedom to be creative and make his own decisions? I highly doubt that Dani Alves’ youth coach told him to stay in his own half. Check out this video of the Barcelona defender scoring a terrific goal.