Rome – The last year of football school always represents a very sensitive time of transition. In the next season, in fact, Rookies 2012 will have to face the “jump” into the competitive youth sector with the presence of a referee and games where points will “count”. In ULN Consalvo a “return” coach was sent to the 2012 group in the Capitoline club, namely Matteo Sebastiani: “I had already spent four years in the football school of this club, and last year I experienced Atletico 2000 as long as I am always. remain on good terms with Fabio Garzina with whom I have been collaborating in competitive football. The presence of Stefano Fiori as technical director of the football school sector was an additional push to return and indeed I found an environment where people want to do well. The club wants to grow the school football groups so that they have an excellent base in the competitive sector in the future.” Sebastiani talks specifically about the Esordienti 2012 group: “We have a rather “unbalanced” team in terms of football preparation. Some kids who are tackling school football for the first year, others who are already ready and indeed sometimes also train with the Under 14s (and one of them was even called up last weekend, ed.) and then there is the a cohesive group with four boys from 2013. We try to make sure that the boys can encourage and show an example to those who are taking their first steps, trying to get them together during training and during games. In the first matches of the federal championship the team responded very well even against strong opponents such as Pro Roma and Tor Tre Teste”. The objectives of Sebastiani and the 2012 group are quite clear: “We want to the boys realise that they can take part in a competitive championship next year. During training we do some 11-a-side tests with the 2013 players and we may also do some tests with groups from other clubs from January.”
How can parents support their children during the transition to competitive youth football?
Time.news Interview: The Transition of Young Footballers to Competitive Play
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re delving into a pivotal moment in youth football – the transition from football school to competitive play. Joining us is Matteo Sebastiani, an experienced coach who has recently returned to the ULN Consalvo club to mentor the Rookies 2012 team. Matteo, thank you for being here.
Matteo Sebastiani: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss this important topic.
Editor: As the Rookies 2012 prepare for the competitive youth sector, what are some of the challenges they face in this transition?
Matteo: The transition can be quite daunting for these young athletes. Until now, they’ve been in a more relaxed environment where the focus was on learning and enjoying the game. Moving into competitive play means they will need to deal with referees, rules that strictly enforce fair play, and a point system that puts added pressure on their performances.
Editor: That sounds like a significant change. How do you think this pressure affects the young players?
Matteo: It can affect them in various ways. Some may thrive under pressure, while others might struggle with anxiety or fear of making mistakes. It’s crucial to create a supportive environment where they can express themselves freely and learn from their experiences, both victorious and challenging.
Editor: Given your experience, what strategies do you plan to implement to ease this transition for your team?
Matteo: One of my main focuses will be building a strong team culture that emphasizes teamwork and resilience. We’ll introduce progressive drills that simulate game situations but in a controlled manner. It’s also important to have open conversations about the emotional aspects of the game, helping them learn to manage stress and expectations effectively.
Editor: That sounds like a solid approach. How important is communication between the players during this transition period?
Matteo: Communication is vital. It not only fosters trust among teammates but also enhances their tactical understanding of the game. We will encourage players to express their thoughts and feelings, which can help them feel more connected on the pitch. The more they communicate, the smoother the transition will be.
Editor: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the Rookies 2012 as they move into this new phase of their football journey?
Matteo: I hope to see them grow not just as players, but as individuals. The skills they develop through competition – discipline, teamwork, and resilience – are valuable life lessons. Ultimately, my goal is to instill a love for the game that lasts a lifetime, regardless of the outcomes in any given season.
Editor: Thank you, Matteo! It’s clear that with passionate coaches like you, young players can navigate the pressures of competitive play while developing important life skills.
Matteo: Thank you for having me. I’m excited for the journey ahead with the Rookies 2012!
Editor: And thank you to our readers for tuning in. Stay with us for more insights into the world of sports and the individuals shaping it!