Michael Ager

I am a coach with the Colorado Rapids Youth Academy, currenlty working with 2007G girls and 2006 Boys, both compeotte teams. I am comforatble working wiht any age, level or gender.

I am a calm yet passionate coach who believes in patience and practice makes perfect. I always motivate and congratulate my players and nothing makes me a happier coach than seeing improvement in my players.

I always see smiles and hear laughter when I am coaching which is extremely important to me. The players should be always enjoying themselves as people always learn better when they are having fun!

Have played soccer for 19 years predominately all in England. Played in a more ‘recreational’ setting in England but if you have ever played or watched soccer in England you will know that no game is played with that mentality but instead is much more intense. Played for several teams and have won awards within these teams; Penalty shootout winner, mvp, and promotion, as well as making 2 semifinals in Five- A-Side tournaments.

I like to include my player's ideas and opinions in my sessions in order to have them feel involved and have some control over their practice. For younger players (roughly between 6-10) I try not to worry too much about physical fitness. I want them to have the ball at their feet as much as possible as this is the best way for kids to learn and develop crucial skills.

Older kids (roughly 11+) I think cardio is important so I will incorporate this into my sessions. This can be just as important as players skill as they need to be able to play at a high level for the whole game. It is no good having endless talent if you are only able to run for half of the game.

A session plan can drastically vary depending on the age and ability of the player. A basic training plan can follow in this order;

Warm up (cardio and stretching)
Session discussion
Drill game- start with this to have a starting point on the player's ability of the sessions focus.
1-4 different drills focusing on the sessions plan, the number of drills and the intensity will change depending on age and ability.
4. Drill game- This will be a point based game designed to show improvement from the day's session.
Warm down
Session overview

Session plans will change depending on the length of the session.