What is the OP Eagles U8 Juniors Program?
The OP Eagles U8 Juniors program is designed for youth soccer players that are 7 and 8 years old (born between August 1, 2001 and July 31, 2002).The entire emphasis of the U8 Juniors is to introduce youth to the game of soccer in a fun, nurturing environment. U8 Juniors players are taught the skills and an appreciation of the "beautiful game" and are encouraged to utilize and experiment with these skills in both practice and game situations. The U8 Juniors consist of skill training sessions with our highly respected youth staff. The U8 Juniors members will also participate in game situations against players their age from other clubs. Again, there is no emphasis on winning in these games, but more of a chance to utilize with confidence the foot skills learned throughout the training sessions.
What are the goals of the U8 OP Juniors?
The goal of the program is to expose young players to the game of soccer in a stress-free environment. The program will also emphasize skill development in a non- competitive environment that encourages players to flourish while focusing on skill development. Emphasis is on quality and long-term benefits rather than short-term gain, within an age-appropriate development process.
Will my child play games or just do a lot of soccer drills?
All U8 Juniors players will compete in 6 to 8 regulation games against teams from around the Columbus area. They will also spend two nights a week training with the OP Eagles staff to continue to work on their soccer skills.
Isn’t “select” soccer way too competitive for children this age?
The OP Eagles U8 Juniors is part of the Ohio Premier Eagles Soccer Club, but it also functions separately from the clubs select soccer program. The U8 Juniors do not pick or select its players. Enrollment is open to any child that meets the age requirements and wants to learn soccer the right way and of course have fun while they are doing it! ALL games are played in an environment that rewards usage of a player’s skill much more then outcome of the game. No child will be put in a situation that he/she is not prepared for.
Isn’t this a major commitment?
The OP Eagles U8 Juniors requires a commitment of about 3 to 4 hours per week. There will be two – 1-hour training sessions and 1 game a week during the season. This is very comparable, and in many cases, less than other youth sports or recreational soccer.
Why has the OP Eagles Juniors been so successful?
The OP Eagles U8 Juniors program provides the highest quality youth focused training in the area lead by some of the area’s premier youth trainers. Many players join our Juniors program from word of mouth referrals from parents of current or past players. Many parents see the skill level of our players and want their children to receive the same quality training to help their children become more skilled. Finally, they see how much fun each of the players has while learning and at the same time still respecting the staff. Likewise, they see how much the staff respects and cares for each individual player.
