What is the ’Starmakers Skills Training’ (SST) program? SST is a program for new 4/5/6/7/8 year old players that is fun-filled and builds player confidence with exercises and games that are short, varied and lively. Players participate in a structured program that encourages quick success in acquiring new skills. SST is aimed at developing a “complete player” with balanced skills by following a graduated learning program. Exercises are designed for success, to boost player confidence and provide a framework for learning basic technical skills. Challenging exercises and fun-filled games are given priority.
When is the SST program offered? And what is the time commitment?
"SST takes place once a week over a
10 week (8 Weeks Guaranteed) season in the fall and spring.Each weekly session is an hour long (6 – 7pm), and includes a warm-up, specific skill activities, fun games, and 2 scrimmages.Players are grouped into teams according to age and/or special preference.Each week, the teams move from an activity on one station, to the next activity on another station, until they've been to all 6 activities.On each station is one or more instructors who demonstrate the activities and skills to the players, providing a positive, caring and fun environment in which the players gain confidence with the soccer ball as well as learning soccer skills. "
How is SST different from MOD soccer? SST is based on the premise that non-competitive, skill-based training is fundamental to early player development. SST creates an environment where young players have ‘touches on the ball’ for as much as 70% of the time spent in training opposed to game situations, where a player’s contact with the ball may be very brief.
What makes the SST program so popular? Fun at what you are good at, good at what is fun. The SST teaching method is intended to promote the learning of fundamental soccer techniques while taking into account the age and ability level of the young player. Basic skills mastered early can increase the player’s confidence and desire to continue playing. A focus on fundamentals like balance, agility, and control are just a part of the uniform, systematic and progressive introduction of the soccer skills that is the basis of the program. Young soccer players can be part of a program where they learn individual skills in a team environment without the pressure of performing in competitive game situations.
