Q&A with Bethesda’s U-8 Boys Program coaches

Bethesda Soccer Club recently sat down for a Q&A session with coach Eric Tin, one of the Program Directors of the U8 Bethesda Soccer Club’s Youth Development Program.

Why is the U8 Boys Program so important?
Coach Tin: This age group is where the boys build their identity and personality toward the game. It sets the basis for the boys technical skill.

Why do you like coaching the U8’s so much and how long have you been coaching?
Coach Tin: Seeing pure love of the game. The kids play soccer because they love it. They just want to run and have fun. This is my 3rd year taking over as Age Group Coordinator. Since I took over this program we have grown the program from two teams to seven teams. The community has really loved the professional training we have brought to their sons.

What are the ages of the boys that you coach?
Coach Tin: I currently coach the U8’s and the U18’s at Bethesda. It gives me more perspective as a coach to see how important the U8 program is to Bethesda Soccer.

What is a typical training session?
Coach Tin: A typical training session is very structured and follows USSF age appropriate guidelines. All of the age groups for Bethesda Soccer have a similar structure. The session is 90 minutes and focuses on juggling, individual technique, group tactics, and then a game.

How long have you coached?
Coach Tin: This is my 11th year coaching. During my tenure I have coached every age group from U8 through U18. I have my USSF A License, USSF National Youth License, NSCAA Regional Goalkeeping License, most recently I had the chance to work with Bordeaux FC’s Pierrot Labat in the Total Football Method.

What special tools do you and the U8 coaches use to keep their interest- if any?
Coach Tin: We try to incorporate current interests that the kids have in the activities and discussions during my sessions. It keeps them motivated and willing to learn. I also use a player of week certificate, it really gets the kids working hard during training.

What do you hope the kids get out of your training sessions?
Coach Tin: I want the kids to develop a strong technical background and continue to grow their love of the game.