Top Ten Things We Are Watching !!! 

1.  Speed/Athleticism -  Speed, flexibility, balance and strength are key. Quick feet on the short steps, long strides on the sprints and jogs stand out. 

2.  Aggression -- NEVER be afraid to mix it up, bump bodies, go up for headers in crowds.  Go hard to every ball.  In one-on-one challenges, win two thirds, or more, of tackles.  But aggression is always controlled-- keep your hands down and do not foul with out of control movements. 

3.  Cover Ground without the Ball -- Run the whole field, all the time.

4.  Fitness --High work rate, the whole field, all the time.

5.  Game Smart --Take up good positions, know how to find beneficial space, play with your head up.  Play back or square when appropriate. Know how to support.  Recover from your mistakes and be able to let them go.

6.  Carry the Ball for Distance --"Dance with the ball."  By that I mean you should have ways to hold the ball, carry it around opponents, and cover ground with it. You may lose it on the dribble, but you almost always advance the ball advantageously. 

7.  Always in a Good Body Position to Receive --Know how to open up to the field. Have good body shape on getting the ball. 

8.  Can Shield the Ball --Know how to use your body to protect the ball.

9.  Pass the ball with Authority on the ground--Know how to deliver a rolling ball properly paced. 

10.  Coachable –You "get it", “understand it” and “incorporate it”.  

Do You Really Want It ????