Using Research to Inform a Technical-Centered Curriculum for U9–U12 Youth Soccer Players
Dr. Ajit Korgaokar and Dr. Stuart Currie
Nordic Football Science Conference 2025
This manuscript is based on the presentation “Using Research to Inform a Technical-Centered Curriculum for U9–U12 Youth Soccer Players,” delivered at the Nordic Football Science Conference (2025) by Dr. Ajit Korgaokar and Dr. Stuart Currie. It offers an evidence-based approach to designing curricula for U9–U12 players, combining empirical research with applied coaching strategies. Using the Play-Practice-Play (PPP) model, ecological dynamics theory, and recent studies in talent identification and skill development, the work highlights the importance of technical skill development in representative, game-like environments. The presentation informs a developmentally suitable, technically focused curriculum framework to encourage immediate player engagement and long-term, sustainable performance growth.
The Play-Practice-Play Model
The U.S. Soccer Federation’s (2018) PPP model is a game-based framework consisting of three sequential phases: Play 1, Practice, and Play 2.
Play 1 involves intentional free play that mirrors real-game scenarios, enhancing motivation and engagement.
Practice entails structured yet developmentally appropriate training activities targeting specific technical skills while preserving enjoyment.
Play 2 reintroduces uninterrupted gameplay to promote application, creativity, and problem-solving.
This model aligns with ecological dynamics principles, including perception–action coupling, representative learning design, and nonlinear pedagogy (Otte et al., 2020).
Talent Identification and Development
Longitudinal analyses show that technical skills, such as first touch, dribbling, passing, and shooting, are the strongest predictors of professional success, outperforming anthropometric and physical measures (Williams et al., 2020). Recruiters consistently prioritize technical ability, tactical decision-making, and psychological traits (like coachability and positive attitude) as essential in talent scouting (Larkin & O’Connor, 2017). In-game assessments (such as TACSIS) are especially useful for evaluating adaptability and decision-making in competitive settings.
Practice Methodologies
Both isolated practice and small-sided games (SSGs) serve distinct roles in developing technical skills. Isolated practice aids in skill refinement but is most effective when combined with variation and game relevance (Bridge & Gearing, 2024). SSGs (e.g., 2v2 to 4v4) increase technical actions, with modifications to pitch size, number of players, and task constraints affecting skill development (Clemente & Sarmento, 2020). Evidence shows that SSG-based programs surpass running-based routines in enhancing technical performance.
Curriculum Design Implications
An evidence-based, technical-centered curriculum for U9–U12 players should:
- Embed PPP phases to maintain contextual relevance and engagement.
- Prioritize technical skill acquisition through representative, game-like settings.
- Balance opposed and unopposed practice formats, adapted to player age, skill, and fatigue.
- Use varied SSG configurations to enhance both technical execution and tactical awareness.
Conclusion
By grounding curriculum design in empirical findings on skill predictors, training formats, and ecological learning theory, coaches can implement developmentally aligned programs that foster immediate technical growth and long-term success in soccer.
Provenance and Publication Statement
The content here was developed from the presentation “Using Research to Inform a Technical-Centered Curriculum for U9–U12 Youth Soccer Players,” delivered at the Nordic Football Science Conference (2025) by Dr. Ajit Korgaokar and Dr. Stuart Currie. Dr. Josh Greer drafted this manuscript in collaboration with the presenting authors. Although the Nordic Football Science Conference was the venue for the presentation, the published proceedings are not affiliated with or officially endorsed by the conference. This document is shared through The Sport and Exercise Report as a non-peer-reviewed scholarly contribution to the field.
Reference Usage Statement
The references listed were drawn from the literature cited in the original presentation, Using Research to Inform a Technical-Centered Curriculum for U9–U12 Youth Soccer Players, delivered at the Nordic Football Science Conference (2025). While all references informed the development of the presentation, some may not be directly cited or discussed within the present manuscript.
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