Q: What will the opposing team coaches look for in a player?
A: The SYL ODP will use the USSF components of coaching soccer in identifying players:
• Technique
• Tactics
• Fitness
• Psychology
Technique: A player’s individual technique on the ball and how it is applied to the demands of the game will be our focus, i.e., passing on the ground or passing in the air.
Tactics: Each player will be evaluated on how they carry out their individual and team tactics during the course of the game. More specifically how they adapt when defending, attacking, time, score and adjustments made throughout the game.
Fitness: Each player will be evaluated by their speed/agility, strength/power, recovery and overall game fitness.
Psychology: Each player will be observed on their positive attitude on and off the field.
The SYL ODP Program is looking for players that possess a combination of these components and can apply them to the demands of the game.
Q: What will the opposing team coaches look for in a Goalkeeper?
A: The goalkeeping position is unique and requires a different evaluation system. The areas in which the goalkeeper will be evaluated are:
• Shot-Stopping (defending their goal)
• Dealing with crosses (defending the 18-yard box)
• Connection with the backline (defending the space behind the defense)
• Distribution (Throwing, rolling, and feet)
• Organization/Communication skills (including set pieces)
The SYL ODP Program is looking for goalkeepers that possess a combination of these components and can apply them to the demands of the game.
Q: Can I be on both the State ODP Team and SYL ODP Team, and what is the difference?
A: Yes. Both programs offer equal opportunities for players to be identified. The difference is that the identification for SYL Regional ODP teams is based on your league play within the SYL. The SYL Scouting System consists of all of the coaches within the club system who will identify opposing team players at every game.
If you are the type of player that does not respond well to the state open tryout system or does not play well with unfamiliar players, the SYL system will work in your favor by helping you to be identified in your natural environment. The SYL Scouting System will evaluate players over the course of a season, and as a result the players do not have to be concerned about the weight of their selection being placed on only one performance.
Just as other national teams throughout the world utilize the club system to distinguish players, we recognize that the club system is the most important means to identify players.
Q: What if the ODP Select Camps are during high school soccer?
A: Depending on where you live, there may be a conflict with your high school season as these can take place in the fall, winter, or spring. Prior to the start of the high school season, you should have your parents notify your high school coach and athletic director in writing that you have been selected for the Super Y-League ODP Select Camp (this is a sanctioned program of the United States Olympic Committee and the United States Soccer Federation). The ODP Select Camp takes place over the last half of the week and through the weekend so that players have only a minimal time away from high school activities.
