Junior Academy Philosophy

The Beach FC Junior Academy philosophy for success is based upon the following:

  • Environment that is fun and instills a love of the game (intrinsic motivation).
  • Environment that encourages risk-taking and creativity both in practice and in games.
  • Environment that places individual players, not teams, central to all decision-making regarding training and competition.
  • Environment where young players are exposed to a game that emphasizes skill development over team development.
  • Development predicated on playing possession soccer, which requires highly technical skills.
  • Development of complete soccer players that understand the game and all positions, possess technical skill, and work hard.
  • Maximizing development by placing together the best and/or most committed players.
  • Ensuring flexibility in game format so that learning takes precedence over game management and administration.
  • Coaching through age appropriate demonstrations and activities versus drills to train technique as well as decision-making.
  • Focusing on teaching correct technique – dribbling, ball control, passing, shooting, juggling, etc.
  • Utilizing guided discovery teaching methods versus the command style, giving the game back to the kids and enhancing their problem solving abilities.
  • Coaching through positive, constructive, brief, specific feedback.
  • Utilizing Directors of Youth Development that govern all training for the U6-U10 Junior Academy, set seasonal and program curriculums, and oversee all player development in these vital ages. Ensuring a consistent long term development plan.
  • Qualified, licensed, experienced staff coaches using a long term development plan and curriculum.
  • Success is determined by learning and fun – not by scores and standings.
  • Recruiting families that look at the big picture, and will not leave the club as their kids improve. Finding the right fit.

Junior Academy Parent Code of Conduct

Soccer is a sport which belongs to the players. While soccer is exciting for parents and spectators, parent and spectator excitement and enthusiasm must be both positive and controlled. Uncontrolled or abusive parental behavior is not accepted at Virginia Beach Travel Soccer, Inc. (Beach FC). The following standards of conduct outline a philosophy that is paramount to the game of soccer:

  • To arrange to get my child to training and games on time.
  • To contact the coach or respective Director prior to any absence (or late arrival) if my child must miss a training session or game (or must arrive late).
  • To be supportive of my child and fellow Junior Academy players.
  • To leave the coaching to the coaches. To cheer, but to not direct my child or any Junior Academy players in any way. Parental coaching during practice or games will NOT be tolerated, and will jeopardize the child's further participation in the Junior Academy program.
  • To promptly pay all fees when due. To contact the Club prior to the payment deadline if I am unable to make a payment on time.
  • To never bring alcohol, tobacco products (including smokeless tobacco), illegal drugs, pets, or firearms to any Beach FC Junior Academy practice or game, at home or away. To always remember I am responsible for the conduct of all visitors I bring to any practice or game.
  • To KEEP THE GAME IN ITS PROPER PERSPECTIVE. If my child's performance produces strong emotions within me, I will suppress them. I will keep my goals and needs separate from my child's. I will focus on my child's long term development over short term results or winning.

Anyone who violates this Agreement and Code of Conduct is subject to immediate dismissal from any game or practice and disciplinary action up to and including being expelled from Beach FC.

Junior Academy Player Code of Conduct

Children play soccer to have fun, to learn and develop a passion for the game as well as to improve their skills. Players have a responsibility to the Club and Coaches that they represent. Players must maintain a high level of sportsmanship and fair play, and above all, have FUN! Following are some guidelines to help all players have more fun playing the game.

  • To play to the best of my ability, have a positive attitude, and encourage others to do the same.
  • To give my best effort all of the time.
  • To exhibit good sportsmanship and teamwork.
  • To respect all coaches, teammates, opponents, and spectators.
  • To play within the laws of the game and the spirit of the game.
  • To practice independently at home to improve individual ball skills.
  • To watch soccer independently in order to learn by observation.
  • To attend practices and games regularly and arrive on time.
  • To notify the coach or respective Director prior to any absence or late arrivals.
  • To bring proper equipment to each practice, including water, shin guards, and a pumped up properly sized soccer ball.
  • To dress appropriately with proper athletic attire and footwear.
  • To learn the benefits of nutritious eating habits, particularly before and after athletic participation.
  • To have FUN!