The Rotary Club of Uptown Cubao (RCUC) Football Grassroots Training program is a developmental initiative aimed at nurturing and developing young soccer players at the grassroots level – especially targeting kids from our adopted barangays and schools, as well as children of our fellow Rotarians. We are initially targeting age groups of 12-14 years, both boys and girls.
Our primary goal is to introduce these kids to the sport of football (also known as soccer) and provide them with the fundamental skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to progress in the sport.
Key elements of RCUC’s football grassroots training program include:
- Skill Development: These programs focus on teaching young players the basic skills of football, such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending. Coaches work on developing a player’s technical abilities from a young age.
- Fun and Enjoyment: Emphasis is placed on creating a positive and enjoyable environment for young players. The goal is to instill a love for the game and keep them engaged and motivated to continue playing.
- Age-Appropriate Training: Training sessions will be tailored to the age and skill level of the participants. Younger children receive age-appropriate coaching that takes into account their physical and cognitive development.
- Small-Sided Games: Small-sided games, such as 3v3, 5v5 matches and 7v7, will be used to promote active participation and allow players more opportunities to touch the ball and make decisions on the field.
- Coaching and Education: Trained coaches led by Coach Frank Muescan, Head of Academy Coaching in the Azkals Development Team and an AFC “A” Licensed Coach and volunteers will facilitate the training sessions. They may also provide educational components, teaching players about teamwork, sportsmanship, and the rules of the game.
- Player Progression: The Grassroots program will give an opportunity for talented players to advance to more competitive levels of play, such as youth club teams or school programs.
- Inclusivity: The Grassroots program is open to children of all skill levels, gender, backgrounds, and abilities, promoting inclusivity and diversity in the sport.
- Safety and Well-being: Ensuring the safety and well-being of young participants is a top priority. Coaches are trained in ensuring safety are observed at all times.
- Parent and Community Involvement: The Grassroots program will involve parents and the local community, encouraging support and engagement in youth football.
- Adoption by other Rotary Clubs: RCUC will be inviting other Rotary Clubs of District 3780 (and Rotary Clubs of other Districts) to adopt the same Grassroots program blueprint. This will allow them to run their own Football grassroots training program targeting their own adopted barangays, adopted schools and children of Rotary members.
We envision to hold several inter-Club tournaments and participate in select football tournaments to hone the skills of our trainees. This also include a District Rotary Cup in the near future.
RCUC hopes to make this football grassroots training program play a crucial role in the development of future soccer talent and contribute to the growth of the sport at the local and national levels.
We aim to provide opportunities for kids in our adopted schools and communities to experience world class football training program and provide a foundation for young players to learn and enjoy the game while fostering important life skills and values.