So this is the Federation's answer to improving youth soccer. Thoughts?
http://the18.com/soccer-news/us-soccer-bio-banding-explained
http://the18.com/soccer-news/us-soccer-bio-banding-explained
We can debate how they should address things, but they need to address all aspects of the system, and that'd include figuring out the "elite" part of it---it isn't good for U.S. Soccer a whole to be missing World Cups, Olympics, etc. that it has no business missing.99StationAG said:
Is it that difficult to identify players who need to play up?
Seems U.S. Soccer has better things to spend money and time on. Thousands of talented kids that never get the opportunity to play at higher levels because they can't afford it, and we're spending more time and money focusing on the "elite."
Quote:
Emerging evidence suggests that bio-banding, as an adjunct to age group competition, can benefit both early and late maturing players in academy soccer.
.......
Although the process of bio-banding has the potential to contribute positively to the experiences and development of young athletes, it is important to recognize that it is not a panacea and that it should operate as part of a multifaceted and holistic program of development. Bio-banding is one of many tools that can be used to better understand and promote the development and well-being of young athletes. It is not a substitute for age group training or competitions; rather, bio-banding is an adjunct activity that has the potential to challenge the athlete in a unique manner and to create a more diverse and developmentally appropriate learning environment. In line with this reasoning, a more effective athlete development program might include the provision of both age group and bio-banded activities, which offer athletes a more diverse, multifaceted, and developmentally sensitive learning stimulus. A "hybrid approach" (82) might involve monthly or bimonthly bio-banded competitions as part of the existing game program.
Sooner Born said:
Maybe we do and we just don't know it.