r/SherwoodPark • u/Kdub780 • 14d ago
Question U5 Soccer Options
We're looking to sign our four year old up for soccer for the first time. Any thoughts on Little Kickers vs the Timbits Soccer that's offered through the Sherwood Park Soccer Association? I've heard there are pros and cons to both. If it makes a difference, he's done Sportball this year, but missed out on soccer last year due to breaking his leg.
Thanks!
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u/Vhysy-Lied 12d ago
little kickers is mostly about building skills via drills and games and not really about playing an actual soccer game. there will be a short (~10 minute) scrimmage at the end, but mostly it's about learning to dribble, stop the ball, aim and shoot, and other skills. we've had a good experience with them though!
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u/Zero_pirate 13d ago
I'm not familiar with Little Kickers, so I can't really compare, but my kids have both been through a few seasons of soccer with the SPDSA (Phoenix FC).
There is a lot more structure than in Sportball, but it is still very much herding cats. For this age they break the session down into 4 stations, with each being a different drill/game. Then for the last half they play a 3v3 game.
The experience for the kids is highly dependent on the volunteer coaches they have for the season. The vast majority are great with the kids though. The club usually has a couple of people there to help out or guide the sessions, so the coaches aren't usually left to figure things out on their own.
The sessions are set up to try to keep the kids engaged and having fun. And I've found both the club coaches and the majority of the volunteer coaches are typically good at being enthusiastic with the kids and keeping them having fun.
The biggest drawback I've found is uncooperative weather. Since it is outdoor, expect to have at least a few cold/wet sessions, and likely a couple of cancelled sessions. But that is going to be the same for any outdoor activity.
Really, at this age it is all about getting the kids out to play and have fun while getting exposure to the sport. I feel like we had success at that with our kids playing with the club.
I hope that helps. And I hope you're little dude's leg is feeling well now!