To achieve this goal, Newport News FC has developed a club development model that will assure that our players improve each and every season. The model is based on building thinking and tactical awareness of our players through a progressive stimulation of their perceptive and intellectual capacities. In short, at each level of development we focus on building the foundation of future soccer success.

Our program beings with our Developmental Academy Program where 7, 8 and 9 year old players are taught the fundamental balls and the total soccer decision making system made popular by the Dutch. As players progress to the U10-U12 Development stage, staff coaches are responsible to focus on building each player’s individual skill levels, with emphasis on improving 1v1 play and understanding of small sided tactics. At the U13-U14 age level, players are expected to become masters of the soccer ball and will be introduced to the concepts of full sided play (11 v 11). As players reach U15, we will expect them to be superior ball handlers, passers and shooters of the ball additionally we expect them to be creative and intelligent decision makers on the field. At this stage the players, will be exposed to the advanced tactical concepts that will be necessary to play at the high school and college level. In short, each developmental stage offers different challenges and opportunities for players and each player must dedicate themselves to improving from season to season.

I am confident that with this development model as a guide and our ability to bring even more playing opportunities to our players like our new indoor soccer league, the quality of our teams and our players will continue to improve and Newport News FC will win even more Championships.

See you on the field.

Al Cousineau
Director of Coaching
Newport News FC